BWCA Campsite #694: Your Wilderness Basecamp on Moon Lake near East Cook, MN

For Minnesota residents seeking the ultimate expression of the North Woods spirit, a journey into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is a time-honored tradition. Deep within this million-acre sanctuary of interconnected lakes and pristine forests lies BWCA Campsite #694, a designated backcountry retreat on the tranquil waters of Moon Lake. This site is not a conventional campground; it is a true wilderness experience, requiring self-sufficiency, paddling skills, and a commitment to preserving the area's wild character.

Moon Lake, a smaller body of water situated within the vast expanse of the Superior National Forest, provides a welcome respite for paddlers. Campsite #694 is the westernmost of the three campsites officially designated on this lake, strategically located on a point that offers a distinct perspective and a degree of separation from the other sites. While the address of East Cook, MN 55604, USA, refers to the general region of the wilderness, the site itself is reached only by water and portage, often via the popular Gunflint Trail entry points.

The allure of Campsite #694 for local users lies in its commitment to minimal intrusion. It offers the basic, essential features—a fire grate and a latrine—to adhere to Leave No Trace principles, but no more. This bare-bones approach ensures that the environment remains largely untouched, allowing visitors to truly immerse themselves in the deep quiet and natural beauty that the BWCAW is famous for. For those who view camping as an opportunity for challenge and total solitude, this campsite is an excellent choice.

The overall user rating for campsites on Moon Lake is often described as average to below-average due to the challenges of the terrain and the proximity to the edge of the wilderness, which can sometimes mean higher day-use traffic. However, Campsite #694, being on a point, offers specific advantages that make it a compelling destination for experienced BWCAW explorers planning a route that includes Moon Lake.

Location and Accessibility: A Paddle Journey to Moon Lake

BWCA Campsite #694 is a remote, paddle-in/portage-in campsite nestled on Moon Lake in the Gunflint Ranger District of the Superior National Forest. The official address provided (East Cook, MN 55604, USA) is for the general geographic area; there is no road access directly to the campsite. The journey is an integral part of the experience.

Moon Lake is generally accessed via one of three main entry points, which all necessitate significant paddling and portaging:

The Clearwater Lake Entry Point (#62) is a common path, involving a portage of approximately one mile (or 320 rods) to Deer Lake, then a shorter 20-rod portage into Moon Lake.
The East Bearskin Lake access point requires a 103-rod portage to reach Moon Lake from the south.
The Flour Lake route involves a 65-rod portage, connecting from the west.

Because Moon Lake has multiple entry routes and is relatively close to the edge of the BWCAW, visitors should expect to see some canoe traffic. However, Campsite #694's position on a point on the western side of the lake provides a good viewpoint and helps maintain a sense of privacy from other campers. All overnight users must obtain a mandatory Quota Permit for their specific entry point and date from Recreation.gov well in advance of their trip.

Key Accessibility Note: The primary modes of transport are non-motorized canoe, kayak, and portage. Visitors must be physically prepared to carry all gear, food, and water filtration equipment across rugged, undeveloped trails.

Services Offered at BWCA Campsite #694

The services at BWCA Campsite #694 are deliberately limited, adhering strictly to wilderness regulations designed to minimize environmental impact and preserve the primitive character of the area. Campers must arrive prepared to be entirely self-reliant for the duration of their stay.

The established, essential facilities at Campsite #694 include:

Steel Fire Grate: A permanent, metal grate designated for campfires. All fires must be contained within this grate, and wood gathering is restricted to dead and downed materials only.
Designated Wilderness Latrine: An open-air, pit-style toilet (often called a 'biffy'). User reports indicate the latrine at this site is located up a “fairly long hill,” which should be a consideration for trip planning.
Established Tent Pads: Multiple, cleared, and maintained areas for pitching tents. Reviews suggest the site has at least four tent pads, including some near the shoreline that are considered "very useable," offering flexibility for groups or multi-tent setups.
Natural Canoe Landing: The designated spot for pulling up canoes and kayaks. This area is described as a "rock pile" or a "heap of boulders and rocks," meaning the landing may be challenging and require care when loading and unloading gear.

There are no trash collection services, potable water sources, electricity, or modern conveniences. The philosophy is to "Pack it in, Pack it out"—including all trash and food waste—to maintain the wilderness integrity for future generations of Minnesotans.

Features and Highlights of Campsite #694

Despite being a basic wilderness site, Campsite #694 is celebrated for specific features that make it a standout choice for those paddling Moon Lake.

Point Location and Views: Situated on a point on the western side of the lake, the campsite provides an open, eastward-facing view of Moon Lake, allowing campers to capture the morning light and enjoy expansive water views.
Shoreline Camping Access: The presence of multiple tent pads near the shoreline is a highly desirable feature in the BWCAW, offering quick access to the water and the ambiance of a lakeside camp.
Close Fire Grate Proximity to Water: The fire grate is noted as being "close to the lake," which is ideal for cooking and enjoying a warm fire with the water as a beautiful backdrop.
Capacity for Larger Groups: With a documented "at least four tent pads," this site offers above-average capacity for accommodating a larger group or multiple smaller tents, making it suitable for family trips.
Solitude Potential: Being the westernmost site and located on a small, less-trafficked lake within the larger BWCAW system, it holds better potential for quiet and deep solitude compared to campsites on major, high-volume lakes.

Contact Information

Campsite #694 is a designated location within the federally managed Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Direct contact or a street address for the campsite is not available. All formal inquiries, reservations, and official contacts must be directed to the governing agency.

Address: East Cook, MN 55604, USA (Superior National Forest/BWCAW Region)

Permit Reservations: An overnight Quota Permit is required for all visitors between May 1st and September 30th and must be reserved through Recreation.gov.

Phone: For information regarding permits, conditions, and entry into the Moon Lake area (typically managed by the Gunflint District):

Gunflint Ranger District Office Phone: (218) 387-1750

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

BWCA Campsite #694 on Moon Lake is an essential destination for Minnesota locals seeking to fulfill the quintessential Boundary Waters experience. It represents a significant step beyond car camping, offering a challenge that rewards visitors with unmatched quiet and spectacular natural surroundings. The campsite’s features, particularly its point location with excellent views and sufficient tenting area, make it highly functional for groups committed to a multi-day paddle-and-portage trip.

For Minnesotans, the BWCAW is a source of regional pride and a symbol of conservation. Utilizing a site like #694 means participating directly in that tradition—testing one's self-reliance, connecting with the history of the voyageurs, and experiencing the untouched boreal forest. It is a necessary pilgrimage for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a profound sense of peace and a deeper connection to the wild heart of the state.