BWCA Campsite #849

- Schroeder Township, MN 55604

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) holds a special place in the hearts of Minnesotans, representing the pinnacle of Northwoods solitude and natural beauty. Among the designated stopping points in this vast area, BWCA Campsite #849 on Alton Lake offers a uniquely rewarding experience for those who appreciate both seclusion and a commanding view. This campsite is the first one encountered when paddling south along the eastern shoreline of Alton Lake, shortly after completing the portage from Sawbill Lake.

Unlike some of the more bustling island or peninsula sites, Campsite #849 is known for being slightly set back and elevated, providing a genuine sense of being "tucked away" from the main paddling route. For local users, the appeal of this site lies in its balance—it’s easily accessible from one of the most popular entry points (Sawbill Lake), yet its physical characteristics and location on the lake's eastern edge grant it a quiet, less exposed feel. The surrounding area in Schroeder Township is known for its rugged Superior National Forest landscape, and this site delivers that classic, deep-wilderness ambiance.

Feedback from experienced campers highlights the site’s key features: an elevated setting that provides a "nice overlook for lake Alton," and a location that is "secluded from being seen from the lake." These attributes make it highly desirable for groups of any size seeking a true escape where the sights and sounds of the forest take precedence. While the landing presents a physical challenge, the rewards—including an often-present breeze that helps to keep the biting insects at bay—are well worth the effort for prepared Minnesota adventurers.

Choosing Campsite #849 means opting for a strategic, private base camp on a large, beautiful, and deep lake known for excellent fishing. It's a spot that speaks to the heart of the BWCA experience: work for your reward, and the reward is unparalleled wilderness peace.

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BWCA Campsite #849 is located on the east shoreline of Alton Lake, which is a highly accessible water body within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The campsite falls within the administrative boundaries of Schroeder Township, MN 55604, USA, near the popular entry corridor managed by the Tofte Ranger District of the Superior National Forest.

For local campers, the critical point of access is the Sawbill Lake Entry Point (EP 38). The journey to Campsite #849 is straightforward, making it an excellent target for the first night of a trip, especially one starting in the afternoon, or for groups traveling with less experienced paddlers.

• Primary Access Route: Begin at the Sawbill Lake Entry Point, paddle across Sawbill Lake, and complete the short, very easy portage (approximately 30 rods) that connects Sawbill to Alton Lake. This portage is famed as one of the easiest in the entire BWCAW, often being on an old railroad grade.

• Campsite Position: Campsite #849 is the first designated campsite south of the Sawbill Lake portage along the eastern shoreline of Alton Lake. Its proximity to the portage makes it a quickly attainable site after entering the wilderness.

• Overlook Position: The site is situated on a slightly elevated ridge or rise above the water, which provides its unique overlook and contributes to its secluded feel, as confirmed by user reviews stating it is "secluded from being seen from the lake."

• Canoe Landing Challenge: It is crucial for local users to note the consensus on the landing. It is described as "rocky and steep," requiring paddlers to "prepare to get in the water to unload" their gear and canoes. This challenge should be factored into the trip planning, especially for those with heavy packs or physical limitations.

The lake itself is large, but its proximity to the Sawbill Trail access road makes it a gateway to numerous other BWCA lakes, including Kelso, Beth, and Wonder, positioning Campsite #849 perfectly for day-tripping excursions.

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As a fully designated campsite within the pristine Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Campsite #849 provides only the minimal, mandated amenities required by the U.S. Forest Service to support low-impact camping and preserve the natural state of the area. Visitors are expected to adhere strictly to Leave No Trace principles.

The essential wilderness facilities available at Campsite #849 include:

• Designated Fire Grate: A single, official fire grate is provided for all cooking and campfires. Users must always contain their fire within this grate and ensure fires are completely extinguished before leaving the site or retiring for the night.

• Wilderness Latrine: An established pit latrine is situated away from the main camping area, typically found a short walk into the woods and distanced from the lake shore to maintain water quality and sanitation.

• Tent Pads: The site offers a sprawling area with multiple established tent pads, with reports indicating space for a maximum group size, such as four or more tents. The best pads may be found "way back in the woods" by following the paths.

• Natural Water Source: Alton Lake serves as the sole source of water. All water must be treated (filtered, boiled, or chemically purified) before drinking or using for cooking.

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Campsite #849's distinct features are what make it a preferred spot for knowledgeable local campers looking to avoid the noise and crowds of more exposed sites.

• Exceptional Seclusion and Privacy: The site's position, set high on an overlook and shielded from direct view of Alton Lake’s main paddling channel, offers a superior level of privacy and solitude that is often difficult to find on a heavily traveled lake corridor.

• Natural Bug Abatement: User reviews consistently mention that the elevated location provides a "nice breeze to keep the bugs down." For Minnesotans familiar with the intensity of summer insects, this feature alone is a significant highlight, greatly enhancing the overall camping experience.

• Strategic Base Camp Potential: Being the first campsite south of the easy Sawbill portage, it provides a perfect, easily reachable, and secluded base for day trips deep into Alton Lake or quick access to the adjacent lake systems, maximizing exploration time and minimizing travel fatigue.

• Ample Space: The site is described as a "large sprawling campsite," with multiple tent pads, allowing for a comfortable setup for the maximum group size allowed in the BWCAW (nine people), without feeling cramped.

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BWCA Campsite #849 is a remote, undesignated entity within the wilderness boundary and does not have direct public contact information. All management, regulations, and permit inquiries are handled 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: All overnight permits for the Sawbill Lake Entry Point (EP 38) are mandatory during the quota season (May 1st to September 30th) and must be reserved through the official online system (Recreation.gov) well in advance.

Recommended Local Contact: For up-to-date conditions, gear outfitting, and localized information, contact an authorized outfitter located near the Sawbill Trail.

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BWCA Campsite #849 on Alton Lake is an ideal choice for Minnesota residents—especially those who have a few BWCA trips under their belts and are looking for a highly rewarding location with a touch of challenge. It is close enough to the Sawbill entry point for a smooth entry and exit, yet its unique elevated position provides the deep-wilderness feel and privacy that experienced campers desire.

The dual nature of the site—easy entry but a difficult landing—caters to the prepared, physically capable camper, who understands that the best rewards in the BWCA often require a bit of effort. The rocky and steep landing is a minor inconvenience that is quickly forgotten once settled into the secluded, airy overlook where the ever-present breeze offers natural relief from the insects.

For those seeking to maximize their time fishing the famed waters of Alton Lake or using it as a central hub for day paddles to Kelso or Beth Lake, Campsite #849 offers the necessary space and tactical location. It is a genuine, no-frills wilderness site—a perfect base camp for any Minnesotan ready to embrace the quiet challenge and stunning beauty of the Boundary Waters.

BWCA Campsite #849

Schroeder Township, MN 55604, USA