BWCA Campsite #1022

- Lake No. 1, MN

For Minnesota's dedicated outdoor enthusiasts, the mention of a numbered campsite within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) immediately signals a commitment to true, unadulterated wilderness camping. BWCA Campsite #1022 is no exception, representing a highly desirable island location on the stunning Perent Lake. Unlike the drive-up convenience of a car campground, this is a destination only accessible by watercraft and requires a federally-issued permit, making it a truly exclusive experience reserved for those willing to paddle and portage.

Campsite #1022 is situated on a small island in the northeast bay of Perent Lake. This geographical detail is key, as island campsites are often the most sought-after locations in the BWCAW, offering superior protection from winds and bugs, and breathtaking 360-degree water views. This specific site is known for its privacy and its uniquely deep, forested cover, ensuring a distinct Northwoods ambiance. It is a testament to the fact that not all BWCA campsites are created equal, and securing a gem like #1022 can significantly enhance a wilderness trip.

It must be understood that this is not a traditional 'campground' with a host or amenities beyond the absolute basics. It is a designated wilderness campsite, part of a vast network managed by the U.S. Forest Service to provide a primitive, pack-in/pack-out experience. This is precisely the allure for local Minnesotans: a chance to disconnect completely and immerse oneself in the silent, pristine forests and waters that define our state’s northern wilderness. Trips targeting this campsite typically begin at the nearby Lake One entry point, making it an excellent goal for a short to medium-length canoe excursion.

BWCA Campsite #1022 is located on Perent Lake, deep within the Superior National Forest and the protected Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The address provided, Lake No. 1, MN, USA, is a general reference to the area of the Lake One Entry Point (#30), which is the most common starting point for a journey to Perent Lake. It is crucial for local users to understand that getting to this campsite involves a multi-day paddling and portaging effort, not just a simple drive.

The journey begins near Ely, Minnesota. Travelers must drive the Fernberg Road to the Lake One Entry Point parking lot. From there, groups must launch their canoes and follow a route through the chain of lakes. This route can involve several portages, though Perent Lake itself is a large body of water providing excellent internal paddling. Since the site is on an island, its final accessibility is entirely dependent on water travel. The location, deep enough within the wilderness to feel remote but still accessible from a popular entry point, makes it a prime target for both experienced paddlers and determined first-timers from the Twin Cities or other parts of Minnesota. Successfully reaching this island camp is a rewarding achievement that signals the start of a true Northwoods retreat.

As a designated wilderness campsite within the federally protected BWCAW, the services are intentionally limited to preserve the area’s primitive nature. Campers must adhere strictly to Leave No Trace principles, which includes packing out all trash and waste, other than human waste which is managed via the provided facility.

• Vault Latrine: A rudimentary outdoor toilet (latrine) is provided, typically located a short walk from the main campsite area to ensure sanitation.
• Fire Grate: A permanent, steel fire grate is installed at the designated cooking and gathering area for safe, contained fires (local regulations and fire bans must always be observed).
• Tent Pads: Campsite #1022 has been documented to have three distinct tent pads, providing relatively flat, cleared areas for pitching tents.
• Canoe Landings: The site is equipped with two canoe landing areas on either side of the island—a rougher, western landing, and a much better, smoother eastern landing, offering options based on wind direction.
• Water Source: Water must be sourced directly from Perent Lake and must be boiled, filtered, or chemically treated for purification before consumption.
• Permit Requirement: All overnight stays require an official BWCAW Quota Permit secured in advance through Recreation.gov for the May 1 – September 30 season.

Campsite #1022 is distinguished by several specific features that make it a highly desirable location among the many options on Perent Lake.

• Island Location: The site is on an island, which inherently offers greater privacy and natural defense against biting insects, thanks to increased exposure to lake breezes.
• Dual Canoe Landings: The unique feature of two landing spots—one on the east side and one on the west—allows paddlers to choose the landing sheltered from prevailing winds, making arrivals and departures safer and easier.
• Forested Cover and Privacy: The site is heavily forested, providing ample shade and windbreak. The fire grate area is set back in the middle of the island, ensuring a deep-woods feel even on an island.
• Good Group Accommodation: With three tent pads, the site can comfortably accommodate the maximum allowed group size of nine people, offering separate, level sleeping areas.
• Perent Lake Position: Situated in the northeast bay, the location offers a balance between access to the main body of Perent Lake and the feeling of a secluded bay.
• Sturdy Furnishings: Reports indicate the fire grate area is well-equipped with large, natural log seating, creating a functional and comfortable kitchen/gathering space.

A specific BWCA campsite does not have a direct contact line, but all administrative inquiries, route planning, and permit information are handled by the managing authority and the local Ranger District.

Address: Lake One Entry Point Area (Accessible near Ely, MN 55731, USA)

BWCA Permit Reservations: Recreation.gov (Online Portal)

Kawishiwi Ranger District Phone: (218) 365-7600 (For general information and current conditions)

Please note: Campsite #1022 itself cannot be reserved; only the Entry Point quota permit is reserved. Campsites within the BWCAW are claimed on a first-come, first-served basis upon arrival.

BWCA Campsite #1022 on Perent Lake is an ideal wilderness destination for Minnesota residents because it embodies the quintessential, multi-day paddling trip that is central to our state’s outdoor heritage. It offers a tangible goal deep within the BWCAW that is challenging enough to be rewarding but remains a manageable journey from a popular, well-known entry point. For Minnesotans, navigating the permit system and claiming a site like this is a rite of passage.

This site’s island setting is a major draw, providing the classic, postcard-perfect wilderness solitude that local residents seek to escape urban life. It serves as an excellent base camp for exploring the surrounding waters of Perent Lake, known for its fishing and scenic beauty. The limited amenities reinforce the "Leave No Trace" values that many locals hold dear, ensuring that this pristine environment remains protected. In short, reserving an Entry Point 30 permit and paddling to claim the coveted Campsite #1022 offers a deeply authentic, rewarding, and uniquely Minnesotan wilderness experience that is well worth the effort and planning required. It's a true slice of our backyard wilderness, waiting to be explored.

BWCA Campsite #1022

Lake No. 1, MN, USA