BWCA Campsite #844

- Schroeder Township, MN 55604

For residents of Minnesota, the call of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is the call of home—an unmatched opportunity to disconnect from the noise of modern life and reconnect with the unspoiled Northwoods landscape. Among the many designated sites, BWCA Campsite #844 on Alton Lake provides a serene and well-situated base camp, particularly appealing to those who prefer the quiet, less-traveled corners of a popular lake.

Alton Lake is known for its size, beauty, and ease of access via the Sawbill Lake Entry Point (EP 38). However, due to its accessibility, the lake can see substantial canoe traffic. Campsite #844, located strategically on the southern end of the lake, offers a welcome respite. It is tucked away from the main thoroughfare and is noted for its "quiet location." This geographical advantage allows local users to enjoy the convenience of a major entry route while experiencing the sought-after tranquility of a more remote site.

Based on visitor feedback, Campsite #844 is a reliable choice for small-to-medium groups, offering a good balance of capacity and comfort. It is described as having "three tent pads, and they all seemed reasonably good," providing flexibility for setting up camp. The fire grate is thoughtfully positioned—tucked into the woods to offer some wind protection while still affording "good views" of the lake. The canoe landing is considered "OK," indicating an adequate, if not perfectly manicured, spot to beach or secure watercraft.

Choosing this campsite means prioritizing a peaceful atmosphere and excellent access to one of the BWCA’s key internal portage routes—the trail to Wonder Lake. It's a pragmatic choice for the seasoned Minnesota paddler who understands the value of a quality campsite as a launchpad for further wilderness exploration.

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BWCA Campsite #844 is officially situated on the south end of Alton Lake, deep within the federally protected Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, under the jurisdiction of Schroeder Township, MN 55604, USA. The site is a key destination for those entering the BWCA from the eastern side of the wilderness area.

Accessibility to Campsite #844 is achieved through the highly frequented Sawbill Lake Entry Point (EP 38), which is typically supported by local outfitters along the Sawbill Trail.

• Primary Paddling Route: The journey begins with a paddle across Sawbill Lake and a very short, easy portage (approximately 30 rods) into Alton Lake. Alton Lake itself is a large body of water, meaning the final paddle to the southern end where Campsite #844 resides will cover a significant distance, particularly if facing strong headwinds.

• Strategic Positioning: The campsite is located on the south shore of Alton Lake, positioned just west of the peninsula that leads to the Wonder Lake portage. This location makes it an excellent choice for groups planning day trips or onward travel to more remote lakes like Wonder or Beth. Its position slightly back in a quieter bay contributes to its reputation as a "quiet location."

• Canoe Landing: The canoe landing is described simply as "OK," suggesting it is serviceable without being exceptionally easy or difficult. It’s important to note that the immediate shoreline access around the main camp area is somewhat "limited," which enhances the feeling of seclusion but requires careful management of gear and watercraft.

This south-end positioning means the site sees less incidental traffic than the campsites closer to the busy Sawbill portage, appealing directly to the local user seeking deeper isolation without sacrificing relatively easy entry.

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In keeping with the regulations and philosophy of the BWCAW, Campsite #844 is equipped with standard, minimum-impact wilderness facilities provided by the U.S. Forest Service. All visitors must adhere to strict Leave No Trace principles, which includes packing out all trash and minimizing their environmental footprint.

The essential facilities provided for the use and convenience of campers at Campsite #844 include:

• Official Fire Grate: A single, permanently mounted steel fire grate is provided for all cooking and campfire needs. This grate is noted to be "tucked in woods far enough back from lake to reduce wind," offering a more comfortable cooking experience.

• Wilderness Latrine: A vault or pit latrine, situated a short, maintained distance from the lake and the main camp area, ensures proper sanitation and protects the water quality of Alton Lake. One notable feature mentioned is a convenient "rock that can be used as a foot stool or a location to place your reading material" near the latrine.

• Designated Tent Pads: The site is well-suited for multiple tents, with reports confirming "Three tent pads and they all seemed reasonably good." This capacity makes it a versatile option for various group sizes up to the BWCA maximum of nine people.

• Untreated Water Source: Alton Lake is the designated water source. As with all BWCA camping, the lake water must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption to ensure safety.

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Campsite #844 stands out due to its thoughtful layout, comfortable capacity, and location which strikes a fine balance between accessibility and tranquility on one of the BWCA’s largest and most beautiful lakes.

• Quiet Southern Location: Its position on the southern end of the lake, set back near the Wonder Lake portage, contributes to a notably "quiet location," making it ideal for those seeking a deeper sense of solitude away from the busier routes crossing the northern half of Alton Lake.

• Excellent Base Camp for Day Trips: Campsite #844 is immediately adjacent to the portage leading to Wonder Lake. This strategic placement allows for easy day trips to explore the smaller, more secluded water bodies in the area, or quick access to the longer portage connecting to Beth Lake.

• Comfortable Tent Capacity: With a verified three or more usable tent pads, the campsite is well-equipped to host a large party comfortably, allowing for proper dispersion of tents to minimize impact and maximize personal space.

• Sheltered Fire Grate Area: The fire grate's position is an appreciated detail, being "tucked in woods" to shelter it from wind, an important consideration on a large, open lake like Alton, yet still offering pleasant views toward the water.

• Good Fishing Access: Alton Lake is renowned for its clarity and excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. Camping on the south end provides immediate access to the lake's deeper, less pressured waters.

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BWCA Campsite #844 is an undeveloped wilderness site within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and therefore does not have direct, site-specific contact information. All administrative inquiries, permits, and regulations are managed by the U.S. Forest Service.

Managing Ranger District: Tofte Ranger District (Superior National Forest)

Address (for Tofte Ranger District): 7355 West Hwy 61, Tofte, MN 55615, USA

Phone (for Tofte Ranger District - for general inquiries): (218) 663-8060

Permit Reservations: Mandatory overnight permits for the Sawbill Lake Entry Point (EP 38) during the quota season (May 1st to September 30th) must be secured through the official online federal system (Recreation.gov).

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Campsite #844 is an excellent fit for Minnesotans who value smart trip planning and a tranquil experience. It solves a common BWCA dilemma: how to enter the wilderness efficiently from a major access point while quickly achieving a sense of seclusion. Its location on the southern fringe of Alton Lake, coupled with its "quiet location" reputation, means you bypass much of the entry-point traffic, securing a peaceful spot without undertaking a grueling day's paddle.

For those seeking an extended base camp, the site’s reliable amenities—three good tent pads and a sheltered fire area—provide the necessary comfort. Furthermore, its proximity to the Wonder Lake portage makes it a prime strategic location for ambitious day trips, allowing local users to explore the area's geological and fishing treasures. It is a site that caters to both the seasoned adventurer and the family unit, promising a deeply satisfying, quiet, and well-organized wilderness experience that exemplifies the best of Minnesota's natural heritage. This campsite is a hidden gem on a well-known lake, waiting for the discerning camper.

BWCA Campsite #844

Schroeder Township, MN 55604, USA