BWCA Campsite #713

- East Cook, MN 55604

For many Minnesotans, the designation "BWCA Campsite" is synonymous with the pinnacle of true wilderness adventure. Campsite #713, located deep within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW)—a protected part of the Superior National Forest—is not just a place to pitch a tent; it is a hard-earned destination that promises an authentic and memorable Northwoods experience. Unlike drive-up campgrounds, this site is accessible only by canoe and portage, requiring both physical effort and a well-planned itinerary.

BWCA Campsite #713 has achieved a reputation among local paddlers, often being highly rated and sought after due to its exceptional features. It is a designated, single-party site, meaning it offers a guaranteed level of privacy for your group once secured. Visitors must adhere to the strict rules of the BWCAW, including a required entry permit (especially during the quota season of May 1 to September 30), limited group size (maximum nine people and four watercraft), and strict Leave No Trace ethics. This site embodies the freedom and solitude of over one million acres of preserved boreal forest and interconnected waterways.

The following details are drawn from public information and trip reports by local paddlers, providing an honest and fact-based view of what to expect at this popular wilderness retreat on Gaskin Lake.

Campsite #713 is situated on the pristine waters of Gaskin Lake, a major body of water known for its clear depths and stunning views. While the given general address is East Cook, MN 55604, USA, this is a starting point for the nearest administrative and outfitting services. The campsite itself is deep inside the BWCAW and cannot be reached by road.

Access to Campsite #713 on Gaskin Lake typically begins at one of the eastern BWCA Entry Points, such as Entry Point #47 (Lizz and Swamp Lakes) or Entry Point #48 (Meeds Lake), which are accessed via the Gunflint Trail (County Road 12) from Grand Marais. A trip to this site involves paddling across multiple lakes and traversing a series of portages—short land trails where canoes and gear must be carried between lakes. The total journey time will depend entirely on the chosen entry point and the group's paddling and portaging speed.

The site itself is often described as having a smooth, rock ledge landing, sometimes featuring timber or natural stone stairs that lead up to the campsite area. The elevation of the site is a key factor in its appeal, offering commanding views of the lake. Visitors must be prepared for a genuine wilderness experience, with no roadside access, no staff on site, and complete reliance on map and compass for navigation.

The services at BWCA Campsite #713 are intentionally primitive, focusing on minimizing human impact as mandated by its Federal Wilderness designation. The site offers basic, essential infrastructure designed to concentrate use and protect the surrounding environment.

• Designated Fire Grate: A permanent, steel fire grate is provided for campfires and cooking, serving as the official center of the campsite.

• Wilderness Latrine: A pit toilet—often referred to as a "biffy"—is located well back from the main camp and shoreline. This is a basic, open-air facility for human waste only.

• Tent Pads/Areas: The site reportedly features multiple cleared and relatively level areas or 'tent pads' suitable for various-sized tents. Some reports suggest up to three or more good tent locations.

• Designated Shoreline Access: A natural rock landing or smooth shoreline area is typically established for safely loading and unloading watercraft.

Critical limitations that define the services and require self-reliance include:

• No Potable Water: All drinking and cooking water must be filtered, boiled, or chemically treated from the lake water source.

• No Trash or Recycling: Strict "Pack It In, Pack It Out" rule. All waste, including micro-trash and fish remains, must be carried out of the wilderness.

• No Motors or Mechanized Equipment: Gaskin Lake and its surrounding chain are paddle-only, prohibiting motors, sailboards, and portage wheels (except on a few designated routes not applicable here).

• Firewood is Scarce: Only dead and downed wood may be collected, and due to high traffic, campers should be prepared to paddle or walk well away from the site to find adequate fuel.

Campsite #713 on Gaskin Lake is exceptionally well-regarded among BWCA veterans, earning its reputation through several standout features:

• Outstanding Western Exposure: The site is famous for its panoramic, unobstructed western views over Gaskin Lake, providing one of the most spectacular sunset viewing spots in the area—a highlight mentioned in multiple user reviews.

• Superior Landing and Waterfront: The site often features a beautiful, smooth rock ledge or shelf leading to the water, which is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, fishing from shore, and safely landing canoes, even in windy conditions.

• Excellent Capacity for Groups: User reports indicate this is a large, sprawling site with room for three to five tents and ample sitting room around the fire grate, making it suitable for a full group of up to nine people.

• Natural Wind Barrier: Due to its elevated and often point-like location, the site is frequently breezy, a crucial benefit for keeping summer insects manageable.

• Proximity to Travel Routes: Gaskin Lake is situated on a popular, yet remote, canoe chain, offering convenient access to other picturesque lakes like Winchell, Meeds, and Horseshoe, ideal for multi-day loop trips.

• Luxurious Latrine (Reported): A recurring, slightly tongue-in-cheek highlight in customer reviews is the condition of the wilderness latrine, sometimes noted as being "super nice" or having a "lid on the throne," a minor but welcome luxury in the deep wilderness.

A trip to BWCA Campsite #713 requires securing a Quota Permit in advance through the official reservation system. Permit pickup and local guidance are managed by the nearest U.S. Forest Service Ranger District or an authorized outfitter in the East Cook/Gunflint Trail area.

General Address (Permit Issuing Area): East Cook, MN 55604, USA

Recommended Ranger District Contact (East Side BWCAW):

Tofte Ranger Station

Address: 7355 West Hwy 61, Tofte, MN 55615

Phone: (218) 663-8060

It is essential to contact the issuing station before your trip for the most up-to-date information on entry point conditions, fire restrictions, and permit details.

BWCA Campsite #713 is the ideal destination for Minnesota locals who seek the quintessential Boundary Waters experience. It requires a commitment to wilderness travel—paddling and portaging—but rewards that effort with a site of truly exceptional quality. For residents, this site is a benchmark of natural beauty, offering the unparalleled solitude, clean water, and starry skies that the BWCAW is famous for. The highly rated features, such as the multiple tent pads and world-class sunset views, make the multi-day paddle in worthwhile. This is not car camping; it is a profound immersion into Minnesota’s most celebrated wilderness area. It is a place where locals can disconnect entirely, embracing the state's heritage of canoeing and enjoying a landscape that remains unchanged, demanding skill, respect, and a deep appreciation for the wild.

BWCA Campsite #713

East Cook, MN 55604, USA