Is there any cheap to free camping near entry 16? Where would be the best place to rent and pick up my permit if we are going in 16?

There’s the Lake Jeanette or Fenske Lake campgrounds both on the Echo Trail. Cheap but not free. Jeanette is just west of EP 16, Fenske is back down the trail towards Ely a little farther. I believe both are run by the Forest Service.

Tony

Lake Jeanette or Fenske Lake campgrounds are both nice. An Ely outfitter would be your best bet for a permit pickup and outfitting. There would be an added charge for canoe transport.

Meander Lake
2 backcountry sites.
First-come, first-served.
No fees.

eroom: "Meander Lake
2 backcountry sites.
First-come, first-served.
No fees."

Forgot to add the link.
Meander Lake, Camping

Yeah, when we went in on EP16 last we were still renting a canoe so we picked it up in Ely with our permit the night before, then drove to the Fenske Lake campground and spent the night. It worked really well, and Fenske is pretty nice for a frontcountry campground.

Richwon4: " Where would be the best place to rent and pick up my permit if we are going in 16? "

Look at Anderson's Outfitters near the west end of the Echo Trail. They should be able to set you up with all your needs.

TuscaroraBorealis: "

Richwon4: " Where would be the best place to rent and pick up my permit if we are going in 16? "

Look at Anderson's Outfitters near the west end of the Echo Trail. They should be able to set you up with all your needs. "

Agree. They also have an inexpensive motel across the road. Very nice and comfortable.

If you are okay with not camping the night before you go in, Big Lake Wilderness Lodge is only 6.5 miles away from EP 16. They offer a bunk house for $25/night/person and they have canoe rentals. This is what my group and I do every year the night before our entry. Chuck, the owner, is also considered an "outfitter" so you can pick up your permit with him.

Check it out here: https://www.biglakelodge.com/