BWCA Campsite #866

- Schroeder Township, MN 55604

For Minnesota's dedicated paddlers and wilderness enthusiasts, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is more than a destination—it's a birthright. Within this million-acre sanctuary lies BWCA Campsite #866 on Alton Lake, a location that perfectly balances accessibility with the quiet solitude of the deep Northwoods. Situated far enough from the heavily trafficked entry points to discourage casual day-trippers but close enough to serve as an excellent first- or second-night base camp, Campsite #866 offers the quintessential BWCA experience.

This site is particularly valued by local users who are familiar with the area's geography and the demands of wilderness travel. Alton Lake itself is a popular, deep, and clear body of water, well-known for its excellent smallmouth bass, walleye, and northern pike fishing opportunities. Campsite #866 is one of the designated sites on this lake, providing an officially sanctioned and ecologically managed place to set up a true wilderness home.

What draws experienced Minnesota campers to this particular spot are its specific, positive attributes. It is noted for having a "nice landing" which is crucial after a day of paddling, and a particularly well-designed fire grate area with natural seating, enhancing the communal experience of cooking and relaxing by the fire. While many campsites are exposed to the elements, this site is strategically positioned on the western shoreline of Alton Lake, a location that offers both scenic views and a degree of protection.

In the vastness of the BWCAW, securing a quality campsite can be the difference between a great trip and a challenging one. Campsite #866 provides that assurance of quality, making it a reliable and sought-after stop for those beginning or continuing their journey into the heart of Minnesota's most revered wilderness. It is a place where the stress of urban life is replaced by the sounds of the forest and the lapping of water against the shoreline.

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BWCA Campsite #866 is definitively located on the western shoreline of Alton Lake, a significant and accessible lake within the BWCAW. Although the administrative address is listed as Schroeder Township, MN 55604, USA, this provides the general jurisdictional context of the nearest full-service area. For the canoeist, the practical access is via the Sawbill Lake Entry Point (EP 38), one of the most popular starting points in the Superior National Forest.

Alton Lake is reached by paddling across Sawbill Lake and completing the short, well-maintained portage connecting the two. Campsite #866 is one of the designated wilderness sites established on Alton Lake, specifically noted as the fourth campsite south of the Kelso Lake portage on the west side of the lake.

Key Accessibility Details for Local Users:

• Primary Access: Entry Point 38 – Sawbill Lake, located at the end of the Sawbill Trail (County Highway 2), which branches off Highway 61 near the North Shore community of Tofte.

• Travel Route: The trip involves a paddle across Sawbill Lake, a short portage into Alton Lake, and then a moderate paddle on Alton Lake to reach the western shore where the campsite is located.

• Proximity to Neighbors: It is important to note that Campsite #868 is only about 400 feet away to the northeast. While offering wilderness solitude, campers should be mindful of their neighbors and maintain quiet hours and respect for the proximity of the other site.

• Navigational Requirement: As with all BWCA sites, precise location requires official maps (such as Fisher F-5 or McKenzie #20) and wilderness navigation skills, as no signage is posted from the water.

Its placement on Alton Lake allows for easy day trips to surrounding areas like Kelso, Beth, or even the long portage to Zenith Lake, offering a flexible itinerary for multi-day trips.

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The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a Congressionally designated wilderness, meaning all services are minimal and designed to preserve the area's primitive character. Campsite #866 adheres to these strict rules, offering the mandatory, low-impact facilities required by the U.S. Forest Service. Campers are expected to practice stringent "Leave No Trace" principles.

The standard wilderness facilities provided at Campsite #866 include:

• Designated Fire Grate: A single, mandatory metal fire grate is installed at the main cooking/gathering area. Fires must be contained within this grate at all times, and campers must adhere to all Forest Service fire safety regulations and any current restrictions.

• Wilderness Pit Latrine: An established, open-air pit latrine is located a short distance away from the main camp area and water source. This primitive facility is designed for waste disposal to maintain the cleanliness and health of the site.

• Tent Pads: The site features multiple designated tent pads, with reports indicating at least four available spots. While some pads may be slightly sloped, offering a more challenging setup than other sites, they provide the necessary cleared space for pitching tents.

• Natural Water Source: Alton Lake serves as the water source. All water from the lake must be filtered, boiled, or chemically treated before consumption, as potable water is not provided.

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Campsite #866 is a popular site on Alton Lake, praised by those familiar with the area for its balance of comfort and a classic wilderness feel. Its specific characteristics make it a desirable choice for Minnesota adventurers:

• Solid Canoe Landing: The site is noted for a "nice landing" with "easy access to the lake." This is a significant advantage in the BWCA, where many landings can be rocky, steep, or difficult. This feature simplifies the critical tasks of loading and unloading gear, especially in adverse weather conditions.

• Excellent Fire Grate Area: The main gathering space is enhanced by the fire grate and "good seating" including large, immovable boulders that serve as natural chairs or gear rests. The design allows for a comfortable, communal experience around the fire, which is a centerpiece of any wilderness trip.

• Good Lake Views: The kitchen area provides decent views of Alton Lake, allowing campers to enjoy the scenery, monitor lake conditions, and watch for passing wildlife while cooking or relaxing.

• Potential for Hammocking: The forested nature of the site on the western shore, which includes nice pines, is suitable for hanging hammocks, providing additional comfortable resting spots off the ground.

• Fishing Hub: Alton Lake itself is known for a good fishery, particularly smallmouth bass, walleye, and northern pike. Camping at #866 positions local anglers perfectly to take advantage of the lake's productive waters.

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BWCA Campsite #866 is a remote, undesignated entity within the wilderness boundary. Direct contact is not available. Management and all official correspondence are directed through the U.S. Forest Service office responsible for the area.

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 EP 38 – Sawbill Lake are mandatory from May 1st to September 30th and must be reserved in advance through the national online system (Recreation.gov).

For logistical and localized information, including current conditions and gear outfitting, local users should communicate with one of the authorized outfitting businesses located near the Sawbill Lake entry point.

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For Minnesota residents, Campsite #866 on Alton Lake represents a prime example of the accessible, high-reward wilderness adventure the BWCAW is famous for. It's an excellent choice for a second-night stay or a comfortable layover day camp, particularly for those entering via the nearby Sawbill Entry Point.

Its suitability for local users comes down to a few key factors: its reliable infrastructure (solid landing, good fire grate), its location on a large, well-known fishing lake, and the balanced level of remoteness. It is far enough from the first-day rush of the entry point to provide a deep sense of solitude, yet still conveniently located for a trip that typically spans 3-5 days.

The challenge of a slightly sloped tent pad for some of the spots adds a manageable, classic BWCA element, which experienced local campers often appreciate as part of the authentic wilderness challenge. Ultimately, Campsite #866 offers a comfortable, scenic, and practical staging ground for exploring the broader Alton, Kelso, and Zenith Lake system, delivering a true taste of the Northwoods wilderness that Minnesotans cherish.

BWCA Campsite #866

Schroeder Township, MN 55604, USA