BWCA Campsite #824

- Tofte Township, MN 55604

Welcome, fellow Minnesotans, to an in-depth guide to one of the most sought-after experiences in the North Star State: true wilderness camping in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). This article focuses on a specific destination within this million-acre federally protected area: BWCA Campsite #824 on Kelly Lake. Located deep within the Superior National Forest, this location offers an authentic, unplugged adventure that defines the spirit of Minnesota’s Northwoods. As local users, we understand the allure of escaping the bustle of city life for the serene beauty of the wilderness, and Campsite #824 provides just that opportunity.

The BWCAW is not your typical campground; it is a pristine area managed to retain its primitive character. Campsites are designated, but they offer only fundamental, rustic amenities, ensuring a low-impact, traditional wilderness experience. Campsite #824 is one of only five designated spots on Kelly Lake, a jewel along the Temperance River canoeing route. It is an ideal stop for multi-day trips and a perfect base for exploring the surrounding lakes.

Kelly Lake itself is a scenic, canoe-friendly body of water, essentially a wider section of the Temperance River. Its elevation sits at 1,747 feet, part of the ancient, glacially carved landscape that defines the region. The lake is known for its quiet solitude, though it serves as a connector in popular canoe routes, leading to lakes like Jack and Peterson. Whether you are a seasoned paddler or planning your first BWCA trip, understanding the specifics of your chosen campsite is crucial, and Campsite #824 presents an excellent balance of accessibility within the wilderness context and a superior camping locale.

Location and Accessibility

BWCA Campsite #824 is officially located in Tofte Township, MN 55604, USA, placing it within the Tofte Ranger District of the Superior National Forest, in Cook County. However, reaching the site requires a wilderness journey, as it is only accessible by water and portage.

The nearest and most common entry point to access Kelly Lake is Entry Point #39, Baker Lake. This entry point is managed by the Tofte Ranger Station. From the Baker Lake Entry Point, paddlers enter Baker Lake, portage a short 12 rods into Peterson Lake, and then paddle across Peterson Lake to enter Kelly Lake via the Temperance River channel. Kelly Lake is situated southwest of Jack Lake and north of Peterson Lake. Campsite #824 itself is distinctively located on a long, curved point that is situated roughly northeast of the portage leading to Burnt Lake. Its position on the point gives it a favorable location with potential for excellent views and lake access.

Access to the initial Entry Point #39, Baker Lake, generally involves driving off Highway 61 in Tofte, taking the Sawbill Trail for about 17 miles, and then navigating National Forest roads (The Grade/Nat. Forest 170 and then Forest Route 1272) to the public landing. All travelers must have a valid BWCAW permit for their entire group, which must specify the entry date and Entry Point #39. During the quota season (May 1 - September 30), overnight permits must be reserved through Recreation.gov and picked up at a designated issuing station, such as the Tofte Ranger Station or a local outfitter.

Services Offered

As a designated wilderness campsite within the BWCAW, Campsite #824 adheres to the strict "Leave No Trace" principles. The services and amenities provided are basic but essential for safe and responsible wilderness use.

• Designated Fire Grate: Each BWCA campsite includes a metal fire grate, which is the only place wood fires are permitted. This is essential for cooking and warmth, adhering to safety regulations.

• Wilderness Latrine: A rustic, centralized latrine (an outdoor composting toilet) is provided at a discreet distance from the main camp and water’s edge for proper sanitation.

• Canoe Landing Access: The campsite features a viable canoe landing area, often described by users as a decent "beach" or a rock/shoreline area suitable for easy loading and unloading of canoes and gear.

• First-Come, First-Served Use: Like all BWCA campsites, Campsite #824 is not reservable individually. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis once your group has entered the wilderness on your permitted date and entry point.

• Established Tent Pads: The site includes designated, cleared areas, or "tent pads," for setting up shelters to minimize ground impact and provide a flatter surface for sleeping. Reports indicate Campsite #824 offers three such tent pads, with two being particularly desirable and flat.

Features / Highlights

Campsite #824 is recognized among local paddlers for several distinct advantages, making it one of the more sought-after spots on Kelly Lake.

• Prime Point Location: Being situated on a curved point provides the site with excellent natural drainage and superior air circulation, which can help keep biting insects at bay during the summer months.

• Panoramic Lake Views: The elevated position and point location offer expansive views across Kelly Lake, especially towards the north and northwest, providing spectacular opportunities for sunrise and sunset viewing.

• Excellent Canoe Landing: User reports highlight an "excellent beach for boat landings," making the arrival and departure much easier compared to rockier or mucky shorelines found at other BWCA sites.

• Privacy and Wind/Sun Protection: The fire grate area is strategically placed to offer a great view of the lake while still providing good wind and sun protection from surrounding trees—a combination described as "best of both worlds" by visitors.

• Proximity to Historical Sites: The lake is close to the portage to Jack Lake, which is known to have a short trail leading to the historic Jack Lake Mine, offering a fascinating short day-trip option from the campsite.

• Fishing Opportunities: Kelly Lake and the surrounding lakes, including Jack and Peterson, offer opportunities for fishing, with species like Northern Pike, Smallmouth Bass, and Walleye present in the general area, providing a chance for a fresh shore lunch.

Contact Information

Since Campsite #824 is a remote wilderness location, all necessary contact and administrative matters are handled through the managing body and its regional office.

Administrative Address:

BWCA Campsite #824 (Kelly Lake, Tofte Ranger District)

Superior National Forest (Administered by)

Tofte Township, MN 55604, USA (General Area)

Local Ranger Station (For Permits and Information):

Tofte Ranger District, Superior National Forest

7355 West Highway 61

Tofte, MN 55615

Phone (Tofte Ranger District Office):

(218) 663-8060

Permits:

Overnight Quota Permits (May 1 - Sept 30) must be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov.

It is important to note that the physical address listed for Tofte Township is for general location purposes only. This site is far from any road and services, requiring a mandatory paddle and portage journey to reach it. Always contact the Tofte Ranger District for the most current information regarding permits, fire restrictions, and trail conditions before your trip.

Conclusion: Why this place is Suitable for Locals

For residents of Minnesota, Campsite #824 on Kelly Lake represents an accessible opportunity for an authentic, world-class wilderness experience right in our own backyard. The BWCAW is an iconic part of our state’s heritage, and locations along the Temperance River system, accessed via Entry Point #39, are particularly attractive for several reasons.

Firstly, the route to Kelly Lake via Baker and Peterson Lakes is manageable, offering a fantastic entry point for both experienced adventurers and those new to the challenges of canoe camping and portaging. The relatively short initial portage (12 rods) is less intimidating than those required for more remote entry points, yet the destination quickly immerses you in the solitude of the deep wilderness. Campsite #824 specifically enhances this experience. Its widely praised point location and excellent landing spot minimize the hassle of setting up camp, allowing more time for the real purpose of the trip: connecting with nature, fishing, paddling, and enjoying the solitude.

Secondly, embracing the BWCA is part of a collective Minnesota identity—a commitment to preserving and enjoying the natural world. Choosing a designated spot like Campsite #824 allows you to partake in this tradition responsibly, using the established fire grate and latrine to minimize human impact. It’s a chance to unplug entirely, relying on skills and teamwork in a spectacular setting defined by pristine water, boreal forest, and the call of the loon. From enjoying a camp meal over an open fire to simply watching the northern stars from a secluded point on Kelly Lake, Campsite #824 offers a uniquely Minnesotan adventure that is physically, mentally, and spiritually rewarding. It is not just a campsite; it’s a temporary home in a landscape that tells the story of our state’s ancient wilderness.

BWCA Campsite #824

Tofte Township, MN 55604, USA