BWCA Campsite #883 on Gordon Lake: Quiet Wilderness Camping for Minnesotans

Introduction / Overview

For dedicated Minnesota paddlers and wilderness enthusiasts, the mere mention of a BWCA Campsite number—in this case, Campsite #883—signals a specific, remote experience within the vast, protected Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Located on the shores of Gordon Lake in the Superior National Forest, this site offers a traditional, paddle-in/paddle-out camping experience far removed from the sounds of civilization. Gordon Lake is often utilized as a thoroughfare for those traveling deeper into the wilderness, which paradoxically means its two campsites, including #883, often see less long-term occupation, providing a higher chance for solitude.

BWCA Campsite #883 is situated toward the northern end of Gordon Lake and is designated for wilderness camping only. It is intended for groups of up to nine people and four watercraft, requiring all visitors to strictly adhere to the rigorous 'Leave No Trace' principles that govern this federally protected area. Unlike developed campgrounds, this site provides only the most basic, essential infrastructure designed to concentrate use and prevent environmental damage, forcing campers to be completely self-sufficient. Securing a Quota Permit for an entry point that leads to Gordon Lake is mandatory for all overnight stays between May 1st and September 30th, emphasizing the planned, managed nature of BWCAW recreation.

Location and Accessibility

The general geographic area for BWCA Campsite #883 is listed as: Gordon Lake, West Cook, MN 55604, USA. This address represents the nearest general location along the famous Gunflint Trail, the primary corridor used to access the eastern entry points of the BWCAW.

Accessing Gordon Lake and Campsite #883 is a backcountry endeavor requiring dedication and portaging. Paddlers typically access the area via one of the popular entry points near the Gunflint Trail, such as Entry Point #47 (Lizz and Swamp Lakes) or Entry Point #48 (Meeds Lake). From either entry point, the route involves a series of paddles and portages to travel deep enough into the wilderness to reach Gordon Lake. For instance, coming from the Meeds Lake entry point requires navigating the 320-rod (one-mile) portage, a significant challenge that immediately introduces the rugged nature of this trip.

Gordon Lake itself is positioned along a canoe route that connects several other water bodies, including Unload Lake via a portage straight across from Campsite #883. The campsite’s specific location on the northern shore means that while the landing is noted as being somewhat rocky and rough, the water is shallow with reasonable footing, which is a common trade-off for a remote, naturally situated site.

Services Offered

In keeping with the BWCAW's strict wilderness designation, Campsite #883 is a minimalist site, focusing on environmental preservation over visitor convenience. The "services" provided are exclusively those mandated by the Forest Service to contain human impact.

Wilderness Latrine: A rudimentary, open-air pit toilet (commonly referred to as a thunderbox) is provided a short, discreet distance from the main camp area for sanitary human waste disposal.
Steel Fire Grate: A permanent, elevated steel fire grate is the only legal place to build a fire for cooking or warmth. Campers must collect only small, dead and downed wood from the forest floor, away from the immediate campsite.
Tent Pads: The site features established, hardened areas for setting up tents. Campsite #883 is known to have at least two designated tent pads to minimize disturbance to the surrounding root systems and vegetation.
Pristine Water Access: The lake water is the primary source of all water for drinking, cooking, and washing. Crucially, all water must be treated (filtered, chemically purified, or boiled) before consumption. Washing and bathing must be done at least 200 feet from the water’s edge.
No Refuse Service: There is no trash collection. All materials brought into the wilderness, including all food scraps, wrappers, and non-burnable items, must be packed out by the visitors.

Features / Highlights

Campsite #883 on Gordon Lake is a highly valued location within the wilderness for those seeking a true Northwoods experience, often praised for its quiet and strategic location.

High Probability of Solitude: Because Gordon Lake is often a travel lake for groups heading to deeper waters, its campsites frequently have openings, providing a greater likelihood of having the lake's quiet beauty all to oneself.
Scenic Lake Views: The site provides a nice view southward down the west shoreline of Gordon Lake, offering excellent vistas for enjoying morning coffee or evening sunsets.
Proximity to Travel Routes: For those planning a multi-day route, the site is perfectly situated for either an early arrival stop or a last-night camp before paddling out. Its direct, straight-across access to the Unload Lake portage makes it a convenient launching point for further exploration.
Potential Wildlife Sightings: Gordon Lake and the surrounding forests are prime habitat for Northwoods wildlife, including moose, deer, and various bird species. The relative lack of human traffic increases the opportunity for wildlife encounters (noting a nearby campsite was known to have a resident moose, a good indicator of local activity).
Natural Setting: The kitchen area is well-defined, and while the tent pads may require strategic placement due to some rocks and roots, the natural, rugged setting is exactly what wilderness purists seek.

Contact Information

As a remote, federally managed wilderness site, direct contact information for Campsite #883 is non-existent. All trip planning, permit procurement, and regulatory inquiries must be directed to the overseeing government body or an authorized permit issuer. The site is located in the eastern BWCAW, managed by the Gunflint Ranger District of the Superior National Forest.

Address (General Area):

Gordon Lake, West Cook, MN 55604, USA (General Geographic Area)

Gunflint Ranger District (Primary Managing Office):

2020 W. Highway 61

Grand Marais, MN 55604

Phone:

For information regarding BWCA rules, regulations, or to discuss permits, please contact the US Forest Service at: (218) 387-1750 (Gunflint Ranger District)

Permits must be reserved online via Recreation.gov well in advance, particularly for peak summer dates.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Campsite #883 on Gordon Lake offers a uniquely rewarding experience for local Minnesotans. For those who value the challenge and peace of a true wilderness trip, this site encapsulates the essence of the BWCAW without the heavy traffic sometimes found on the larger, more popular lakes. Its distance from the entry points ensures that only dedicated, prepared groups will make the trek, preserving the pristine quality of the experience. It serves as an ideal base camp for a family or small group looking to explore a quiet corner of the BWCA, perfect for a several-day stopover before pushing onward or heading home.

As a destination requiring a Quota Permit and multi-lake travel, it speaks directly to the experienced local canoeist who understands the necessary planning, outfitting, and respect for the wilderness ethic. Staying at Campsite #883 is not merely camping; it is participating in a longstanding Minnesota tradition of Voyageur travel, allowing locals to reconnect with the profound, undisturbed beauty of their own state's treasured Northwoods.