Must-Have Camping Supplies: Top 5 Camping Stoves for Wilderness Trips In Ely, MN 

If you're planning a wilderness trip to Ely, Minnesota, you know that having the right camping supplies can make or break your outdoor experience. 

Whether you’re preparing meals for a group or just yourself, choosing a stove that’s reliable, portable, and efficient is essential. Ely’s rugged landscape, pristine lakes, and dense forests offer a perfect setting for outdoor adventures but also demand practical and dependable camping gear. 

In this blog, we will explore the world of camping stoves, focusing on some top-notch options that will keep you well-fed and happy during your northern Minnesota adventures.

JetBoil - Genesis Basecamp System

First up on the camping supplies list is the JetBoil Genesis Basecamp System, a game-changer for group camping trips. This bad boy is like the Swiss Army knife of camp kitchens – versatile, efficient, and surprisingly compact.

Pros:

• The dual burner system allows for simultaneous cooking

• Impressive 10,000 BTU output per burner

• Includes a 5-liter FluxPot for boiling water or cooking larger meals

• Nests together for easy packing and portability

Cons:

• Heavier than some ultralight options

• Might be overkill for solo travelers

The Genesis Basecamp System shines when you're setting up a more permanent camp or traveling with a group. Imagine whipping up a pot of steaming wild rice soup while simultaneously grilling some freshly caught walleye; that's the kind of culinary magic this system enables.

JetBoil - Genesis Two Burner Stove

If you like the idea of the Basecamp System but want something a bit more streamlined, the JetBoil Genesis Two Burner Stove might be your perfect match. It's like the Basecamp's nimbler sibling.

Pros:

• Compact folding design

• Still offers dual-burner cooking

• Compatible with JetBoil's Luna Satellite Burner for even more cooking options

• Great simmer control for more nuanced cooking

Cons:

• Doesn't include a pot like the Basecamp System

• Slightly less powerful than some other two-burner stoves

This stove is ideal for the Ely campers who demand versatility without sacrificing too much pack space. It's perfect for those mornings when you want to brew coffee and flip pancakes simultaneously, fueling up before a day of paddling and portaging. 

Pocket Rocket 2 Deluxe

The Pocket Rocket 2 Deluxe is another fantastic addition to your camping gear. It’s an ultra-lightweight stove that packs a punch, making it a favorite for backpackers.

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight, perfect for solo hikers.

• Boils water in just over 3 minutes.

• Easy to set up and use.

Cons:

• Limited cooking capabilities; best for boiling water and basic meals.

• Requires a separate pot.

For those quick stops by the lake or impromptu coffee breaks, the Pocket Rocket 2 Deluxe is your go-to. Its compact design ensures you won’t be weighed down while still enjoying a hot meal or drink.

MSR WindPro II

Finally, let’s talk about the MSR WindPro II. This stove is known for its versatility and performance in all conditions, making it a solid choice for the unpredictable weather of the Boundary Waters.

Pros:

• Can be used with a variety of cookware.

• Excellent wind performance.

• Lightweight and easy to pack.

Cons:

• Slightly bulkier than some ultralight options.

• It requires more fuel than smaller stoves.

With the WindPro II, you can confidently cook a range of meals, from hearty soups to gourmet dinners, no matter how windy it gets. It’s a fantastic companion for any camping adventure, ensuring you have the tools to enjoy your time in the wilderness.

MSR - WindBurner Personal Stove System

Last but certainly not least, we have the MSR WindBurner Personal Stove System. This compact powerhouse is a favorite among solo travelers and ultralight enthusiasts.

Pros:

• Incredibly fuel-efficient

• Performs well in windy conditions 

• Integrated pot and burner for quick setup and breakdown

• Lightweight and packable

Cons:

• Limited to boiling water and simple meals

• Not suitable for group cooking

The WindBurner truly shines in Ely's backcountry. Its wind-resistant design allows you to enjoy a hot meal or drink even when the weather isn't cooperating. Moreover, its efficiency means you can pack less fuel, lightening your load for those challenging portages.

Which Camping Stove is Right for You?

Selecting a specific camping stove model depends on your individual needs. For group trips or longer stays, the JetBoil Genesis Basecamp System offers unparalleled versatility. For pairs or small groups wanting flexibility, the JetBoil Genesis Two Burner Stove provides a great balance of features and portability. Moreover, the MSR WindBurner Personal Stove System is hard to beat for solo travelers.

Remember, the best stove is the one that fits your cooking style, group size, and the specific challenges of your trip. No matter which you choose, these high-quality options will help ensure that your culinary experiences in Ely are just as memorable as the stunning wilderness around you.

As you sit by your campfire, watching the northern lights dance across the sky, you'll be glad you put some thought into your camp kitchen setup. After all, there's nothing quite like a hot, satisfying meal to cap off a day of adventure in Minnesota's Northwoods.