BWCA Campsite #712

- East Cook, MN 55604

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) holds a special place in the heart of every Minnesota adventurer. It represents a commitment to genuine solitude, self-reliance, and a deep appreciation for the landscape carved by glaciers. Among the vast network of over 2,000 designated campsites, **BWCA Campsite #712** on Crocodile Lake has garnered positive recognition from local travelers for its superior blend of comfort and convenience, making it an excellent choice for groups, families, and those seeking a comfortable basecamp experience.

Campsite #712 is nestled in the eastern sector of the BWCAW, an area characterized by the rugged beauty of the Gunflint Trail region. Unlike sites with challenging, rocky landings, this location is celebrated for its ease of access and spacious layout, a significant advantage, particularly when traveling with a larger party or less experienced paddlers. It provides a highly functional space that allows a group to spread out and establish a comfortable, long-term camp without undue crowding.

The experience at this campsite, like all others in the BWCAW, is strictly primitive and requires visitors to adhere to the federal wilderness regulations, emphasizing the core principles of Leave No Trace. Guests must obtain an official quota permit for overnight use during the busy season (May 1st through September 30th). This deliberate management strategy, which includes the group limit of nine people and four watercraft, ensures that the wilderness quality of Crocodile Lake and the surrounding areas remains protected for all Minnesotans to enjoy for generations to come. Campsite #712’s generous size is uniquely suited to comfortably accommodating groups up to this maximum size.

BWCA Campsite #712 is located on the south shore of **Crocodile Lake**, situated on a prominent point near the western end of the lake. This region is part of the extensive **Superior National Forest**, with the official general address listed as **East Cook, MN 55604, USA**. Access is typically gained via the Gunflint Trail, a scenic byway that leads into the northeastern edge of the wilderness area.

The most common way to reach Crocodile Lake is through BWCA Entry Point 64, located on East Bearskin Lake. This route involves paddling across East Bearskin Lake and then completing a portage into Crocodile Lake. The portage is a manageable start to any trip, leading into a scenic, smaller lake system known for its tranquility, especially when compared to the massive border lakes nearby.

The campsite's defining feature in terms of accessibility is its canoe landing. Traveler reports consistently describe it as "much better than average for the BWCA" and an "easy landing." This is a critical factor for local users, as a good landing minimizes the strain of loading and unloading gear, particularly on windy days or after a long day of paddling. The site's location on a point also makes it easily identifiable from the water, reducing the time spent searching for a place to set up camp and allowing more time to enjoy the scenery.

As a designated BWCAW campsite, Site #712 provides the essential, foundational infrastructure necessary for responsible primitive camping, focusing on minimizing environmental impact while maximizing visitor safety and comfort.

• Official Fire Grate: A permanent, heavy-duty fire grate is provided for cooking and campfires. All fires must be kept within this structure, using only dead and downed wood gathered from the forest floor. The fire grate area at this site is noted for being set back slightly in a nice, open space within the woods, which provides protection from lake winds and a cozy atmosphere.

• Wilderness Latrine ('Biffy'): The campsite is equipped with a Forest Service-maintained pit toilet, strategically placed far from the main camp area and the shoreline. Visitors are strictly required to use this facility for all human waste and must pack out all non-natural materials, including any non-toilet paper wipes.

• Ample Tent Pads: The site is highly praised for having at least **three decent, level tent pads**. Reviewers note the ground is level and comfortable for sleeping, with plenty of space to sprawl out gear. This high capacity for quality sleeping areas makes it ideal for the maximum group size of nine people.

• Canoe Landing and Storage: The excellent landing allows for safe and simple disembarking. The point itself provides ample room for properly storing canoes out of the water, protecting them from unexpected wind and waves while in camp.

Self-sufficiency is paramount. Drinking water must be sourced from the lake and purified (boiled, filtered, or chemically treated), and all food and scented items must be securely stored by hanging them out of reach of bears and other wildlife, ideally 200 feet away from the tents.

Campsite #712 stands out on Crocodile Lake due to several unique features that contribute to a comfortable and highly enjoyable wilderness stay.

• Exceptional Canoe Landing: This is arguably the top feature. The quality of the landing is highly rated, providing stress-free arrival and departure, which is a major benefit for multi-day trips and portaging.

• Spacious Camp Area: The main camp area around the fire grate is described as having "a good amount of space to sprawl out." This large, open, and level ground is excellent for setting up a dining fly, kitchen, and relaxing area, easily accommodating the maximum group size allowed in the BWCAW.

• Great Fishing and Rock Point Access: A major highlight is the "great fishing rock that juts out on the East side of the landing." This natural rock outcropping provides a comfortable, scenic platform for casting lines directly from the shore or simply lounging to enjoy views of the lake.

• Comfortable Hammock Opportunities: The site offers good options for hanging hammocks, enhancing relaxation. Combined with the level tent pads, this variety of resting areas increases the site's overall comfort rating for extended stays.

• Built-in Counter/Table: One review noted a down tree had been naturally converted into a convenient "table in camp." Such improvised, durable features are highly prized in the BWCAW, adding a touch of rustic utility to the camp kitchen area.

BWCA Campsite #712 is a remote wilderness location with no direct public utilities or services. All official communications, trip planning, and permit details are managed by the U.S. Forest Service.

**Address (General Wilderness Region):** BWCA Campsite #712, East Cook, MN 55604, USA

**Permit and Information Contact (Superior National Forest/Gunflint Ranger District):**

For current conditions, entry point rules, and permit reservations during the quota season (May 1–September 30), Minnesotans should use the national reservation system or contact a local outfitter on the Gunflint Trail for planning assistance.

**Emergency Only:** For all life-threatening emergencies within the wilderness, immediate satellite communication (if available) to local authorities is the only recourse, as there is no cellular service.

For Minnesota residents looking to introduce family or friends to the unparalleled beauty of the Boundary Waters, or for seasoned veterans seeking a comfortable base to explore the Gunflint Trail area, BWCA Campsite #712 on Crocodile Lake is an exceptional choice. It alleviates two of the most common challenges of BWCA travel: the difficulty of canoe landings and the lack of space for larger groups.

Its easy-access landing provides a stress-free start and finish, while its spacious, level tent pads and secluded fire area make for a highly comfortable, multi-day basecamp. The excellent fishing rock adds a fantastic recreational element, offering the chance to catch dinner without leaving the site. Campsite #712's blend of functional features and quiet, natural setting ensures a memorable and relatively relaxed immersion into Minnesota’s iconic wilderness, proving that even a primitive campsite can offer superior comfort for a true Northwoods adventure.

BWCA Campsite #712

East Cook, MN 55604, USA