BWCA Campsite #2063 on South Lake: Access to the Border Route Trail

Introduction / Overview: The Junction Point of Paddle and Trail

For Minnesota residents seeking a truly remote and dual-purpose wilderness experience—one that combines the solitude of paddling with the challenge of serious backcountry hiking—BWCA Campsite #2063 on South Lake is a noteworthy destination. Located in the far eastern reaches of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), this site is identified by the U.S. Forest Service as one of the designated primitive overnight locations. It is positioned to serve as a critical link for those traversing both water and land routes.

Unlike many campsites that cater exclusively to paddlers, Campsite #2063 is unique because it provides direct access to the demanding South Lake Trail, which in turn connects to the much longer Border Route Trail (BRT). This feature makes it highly relevant for local outdoor enthusiasts who engage in long-distance hiking or a combination of canoeing and trekking. The campsite itself is characterized by its rustic, primitive nature—it is not a developed campground. While reviews indicate a beautiful, open view of South Lake from the fire grate, they also caution visitors to expect challenging terrain, including blowdown and uneven ground, common characteristics of true, protected wilderness in the Superior National Forest. This site is for the experienced, self-sufficient group that values scenic beauty and strategic location above all-inclusive amenities.

Location and Accessibility: Gateway to the High Ridge

Campsite #2063 is situated at the very eastern end of South Lake, which forms a portion of the international boundary between Minnesota and Canada. The administrative location is within the bounds of East Cook, MN 55604, USA, falling under the jurisdiction of the Gunflint Ranger District of the Superior National Forest. Reaching this site is a commitment and requires a significant backcountry journey.

Paddling Access: The most common entry for this area is via Entry Point #58 (South Lake), which typically involves a multi-mile paddle and two portages starting from Gunflint Lake. South Lake itself is a large body of water, and strong winds can quickly make paddling challenging, requiring respect and caution. The campsite is positioned close to the portage leading to Rat Lake, often serving as a convenient overnight stop near the end of the day's travel.

Hiking Access: What truly sets this site apart is its connection to land routes. Campsite #2063 is directly connected to the South Lake Trail, which immediately ascends a high, 350-foot ridge. Following this trail for approximately 0.4 miles leads to the intersection with the renowned Border Route Trail (BRT). This strategic location makes the campsite an invaluable basecamp for local hikers traversing the long-distance BRT, or for canoeists wishing to take a break from paddling to explore the ridgeline vistas.

Services Offered (Standard BWCA Primitive Camping)

As a designated BWCA campsite, #2063 offers only the essential, low-impact facilities mandated by the wilderness area to minimize human presence. Visitors must carry in all necessary gear, including food, water treatment systems, and safety equipment. The philosophy here is extreme self-reliance.

Official Fire Grate: A single, established steel fire ring is provided for the safe containment of fires for cooking and warmth. Foraging for dead and downed firewood is permitted only for use in this grate.
Wilderness Latrine: A pit toilet (often referred to as a ‘biffy’ or ‘thunderbox’) is available, located a safe distance from the central camp area and the shoreline to maintain water quality and sanitation.
Designated Tenting Areas: User reports indicate room for approximately "a couple mid-sized tents" or potentially three pads, though some are noted as being rough. Groups must be prepared for some ground leveling issues and the presence of exposed roots and rocks.
Canoe Landing: The canoe landing is generally reported as "fairly good" but like all primitive BWCA landings, it is unimproved and will require care to load and unload gear, especially during low water or windy conditions.
Prohibited Amenities: There is no running water, electricity, trash disposal (all trash must be packed out), maintained docks, or developed picnic tables.

Features / Highlights (Border Lake Views and Trail Access)

The appeal of Campsite #2063 is not in its luxury, but in its unparalleled position and the experiences it unlocks. It offers a classic, rugged Northwoods camping atmosphere with exceptional views and access to unique regional trails.

Stunning Waterfront Fire Grate: A major highlight noted by visitors is the location of the fire grate, situated right on the water’s edge. It provides a beautiful, open, and expansive view across South Lake, perfect for evening meals and watching sunsets.
Direct Access to Hiking Trails: The campsite is the direct entrance point for the South Lake Trail, which connects to the iconic Border Route Trail. This is ideal for those who want to incorporate a strenuous day hike with panoramic ridge views into their canoe trip.
Proximity to the International Border: As a border lake campsite, visitors are right on the edge of the United States, offering a sense of history and the unique experience of paddling adjacent to Canada’s Quetico Provincial Park.
Wildlife Viewing: The remote location near the high ridge and dense forest ensures excellent opportunities for viewing local wildlife, including moose, various birds of prey, and the ever-present loons.
"Big Sky" Views: Due to potential forest openings from past wind events ("blowdown") or the natural topography, the site may offer more open views of the sky than others, enhancing photography and stargazing opportunities in the certified Dark Sky Sanctuary.

Contact Information

Campsite #2063 is regulated and maintained by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Superior National Forest. All necessary permits and current condition reports are managed through the Gunflint Ranger District.

U.S. Forest Service - Gunflint Ranger District (Local Authority):
Phone: (218) 387-1750 (Contact for local weather, fire bans, and current trail conditions, especially the BRT)
Permit Reservations: 1-877-444-6777 (For Quota Permit booking via Recreation.gov)
Address: East Cook, MN 55604, USA (General administrative area for this remote section of the Superior National Forest)

Permit Requirements: An overnight Quota Permit for Entry Point #58 (South Lake) is mandatory for visitors entering the BWCAW between May 1 and September 30. Permits must be secured in advance.

Conclusion: Why this Place is Suitable for Locals

BWCA Campsite #2063 is an excellent choice for local Minnesotans who have already experienced the more accessible parts of the Boundary Waters and are ready for a multi-faceted adventure. Its value is dual: it serves as a secluded overnight paddle-in site, offering spectacular water views, and simultaneously functions as an essential trailhead to the challenging Border Route Trail system. This convergence of deep-woods canoeing and ridge-line hiking offers a truly rewarding experience.

For Minnesota's experienced outdoor community, this campsite is a true test of preparedness and a gateway to the region’s most spectacular, least-traveled wilderness areas. It demands respect for its rugged nature—groups must be equipped to deal with uneven tenting ground and potential impacts from past blowdown—but in return, it provides unmatched solitude, strategic access for ambitious trips, and the iconic, quiet beauty of a fire by the water's edge on a clear, dark-sky night.