Unlike the average vacationer’s resort, Veterans on the Lake has a unique historic background for why it was founded. In 1982, Disabled Veterans Recreation, Inc. was organized by a group of northeastern Minnesota citizens passionate about finding adequate recreational resources for veterans. Originally the Disabled Veterans Recreation, Inc., Veterans on the Lake was started for the sole purpose of creating a recreational facility for disabled veterans to enjoy vacations. As a non-profit facility, this recreational location was designed to and currently serves the needs of disabled veterans, able bodied veterans, active duty military, their families, and friends.

Let’s start with a proper introduction. We’re the Ott family – Gene, Jane, Nick (son) and Danielle, (daughter in law) and we acquired the property in 2000. Originally from Northeast Iowa, we had been scout leaders and Boundary Waters Minnesota camping enthusiasts for several years when the opportunity arose to make a lifestyle change that simply delighted us. Since that time, we have built an outfitting service that, we believe, is one of the best in the area. In addition to outfitting services, we have authentic log cabins, right on Fall Lake for non-campers to experience great fishing and conveniently explore the Ely area. Our cabins and lodge (with bunkhouse) have an amazing history. The cabins were originally built and located up on Pipestone Bay on Basswood Lake. When Congress declared “The Wilderness Act of 1964, all buildings needed to be either moved or burnt to the ground, restoring the natural wilderness. Shortly after, each log was labeled, deconstructed, floated up through Newton Lake to Fall Lake and put back together, like a complex jigsaw puzzle. Can you imagine the planning and the work to accomplish this? We’re honored by every guest that chooses Packsack and promise to make every effort to build a wilderness experience that best matches your wishes.