Timber Bay Lodge & Houseboats

Timber Bay Lodge & Houseboats offers the only full-service marina on Birch Lake, located at the southwest end of the lake near Babbitt. This access point is ideal for paddlers and boaters looking to explore the 20-mile-long lake and its surrounding Superior National Forest. **No permits are required for parking, docking, or camping on Birch Lake.** The facility provides boat ramps, dock space, and strong cell coverage from major carriers plus WiFi throughout the property.

For paddlers, this location serves as an excellent gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA). Canoeists can paddle up the Kawishiwi River, which enters the lake on the northeast corner, to access the BWCA. Alternatively, small boats can reach the base of the Stony River's rapids. With 85% of surrounding shoreline on undeveloped national forest land, Birch Lake offers extensive paddling and exploring opportunities among forested shores and rocky islands.

The lodge provides comprehensive amenities including canoe and kayak rentals, fishing boats, pontoon rentals, and on-site fishing guides. A nearby campground (Birch Lake Campground) offers reservable campsites within 10 miles. Located just 15 minutes from Ely, Minnesota, this access point is well-positioned for multi-day paddling trips into the BWCA or relaxed exploration of Birch Lake itself.