Recreation

The campfire ban across the Superior National Forest was lifted Aug. 24, 2026, as cooler temperatures reduce wildfire risk. Parts of the Boundary Waters remain closed due to wildfires.

Drew Brockett of Piragis Northwoods Co. in Ely said it was a huge relief to have Fernberg corridor entry points open. But outfitters are still feeling the impact of continued closures.

For Minnesota youths, leaders in charge of combating invasive species in lakes said the work can be a career training game changer.

Warm water temperatures across the state go along with an increasing number of fish mortality events, where a large number of fish die at once.

The Superior National Forest announced the July 31, 2026, openings as Phase 3 of its reopening of the BWCAW, as well as the opening of recreation sites in the western forest.

Campfires are now allowed in designated fire rings at Superior National Forest campgrounds, but not at backcountry sites, after updates to fire restrictions July 29, 2026.

The reopened area is about 39% of the wilderness area and follows a partial reopening for day use on July 27, 2026. All other entry points remain closed due to wildfires.

Public comment on the draft is open July 10-Aug. 10, 2026. The county is also hosting informational meetings.

Late cancellations and no‑shows continue to climb, according to the U.S. Forest Service. In 2025, nearly 40% of January reservations were never used.

Recreators will be able to buy licenses and validate harvests in a new licensing app. You'll still be able to make purchases in person and carry paper copies, if you prefer.