BWCA Campsite #895

- West Cook, MN 55604

The call of the North Woods is strong for every Minnesotan, and for those seeking the ultimate escape into pristine wilderness, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is the undisputed destination. Within this million-acre sanctuary of interconnected lakes and boreal forests lies a network of over 2,000 designated campsites, each offering a unique experience. Today, we focus on a highly-rated spot that exemplifies the best of the BWCA: Campsite #895.

Campsite #895 is not your typical drive-up campground. It is a premium, designated wilderness campsite that adheres to the strict 'Leave No Trace' principles governing the BWCAW, part of the Superior National Forest. This location promises the authentic, rugged experience that has made the Boundary Waters a national treasure, while still providing the essentials needed for a comfortable and memorable stay. It represents a true local gem, offering Minnesotans an unparalleled opportunity to unplug, reconnect with nature, and explore the region's incredible water-based recreation.

For the local adventurer, securing a permit for a BWCA campsite is the first step toward a transformative trip. Campsite #895 is often praised by those who are lucky enough to claim it, celebrated for its superb setting and functional layout. It is a slice of pure, unadulterated Minnesota landscape, patiently waiting for those willing to paddle and portage their way in.

BWCA Campsite #895 is located deep within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, officially using the address West Cook, MN 55604, USA for administrative purposes related to the Superior National Forest and permit issuance. It is important to note that this address serves as a general geographic area—Campsite #895 is a remote, boat-in/canoe-in only location, not accessible by conventional vehicle.

The accessibility of this campsite is part of its allure. To reach it, visitors must secure an overnight quota permit for a specific BWCA entry point, then navigate a series of lakes and portages via canoe or kayak. The specific entry point needed to access the lake where Campsite #895 is located would be detailed on a full-coverage BWCA map, which is an essential piece of equipment for planning and navigation. The journey to the site itself is an integral part of the adventure, requiring planning, physical effort, and proficiency in wilderness travel, including paddling and portaging equipment and supplies across land trails between water bodies. The remoteness ensures quiet solitude, far removed from the noise and light pollution of city life.

Given its location within the vast Superior National Forest, local outfitters in gateway towns like Ely, Grand Marais, and Tofte are indispensable resources. They provide gear rental, expert route consultation, and optional shuttle services to and from various entry points, making the start and end of your wilderness trip significantly easier. For Minnesota residents planning a trip to this area, connecting with a local outfitter is highly recommended for up-to-date information on entry conditions and specific route details to Campsite #895.

As a designated campsite within a federally protected wilderness area, the services at Campsite #895 are intentionally minimal and primitive, adhering to the mission of maintaining a pristine environment. All campers must follow the strict 'Leave No Trace' principles. The core "services" provided are foundational to wilderness camping:

• Designated Fire Grate: A permanent, metal fire grate is provided for cooking and campfires, helping to contain fire damage and minimize impact on the surrounding area.
• Primitive Latrine: All designated BWCA campsites feature a small, open-air latrine (often a 'throne' style toilet box) set a short, designated distance away from the main camp and water sources to maintain sanitation.
• Flat Tent Pads: The site is known for having multiple flat areas specifically cleared for setting up tents, as mentioned in user reviews, helping to preserve the forest floor elsewhere.
• Bear Safety Protocol Area: While no physical storage is provided, the location is part of a designated wilderness where all food, trash, and scented items must be hung from a tree or stored in an approved bear-resistant container (BRC) at least 200 feet from tents, a key wilderness service for camper safety.
• Access to Clean Water: The lake itself provides water, which must be treated (filtered, boiled, or chemically purified) before consumption, a necessary safety protocol in all BWCA travel.

User reviews and the nature of the BWCA suggest that Campsite #895 offers several standout features that make it a favorite among visitors:

• Large Sloped Rock Landing: A key feature noted by a customer is the "Big sloped rock landing." This is a highly desirable asset in the BWCA, providing a safe, clean, and stable area to easily pull canoes up out of the water, load/unload gear, and serves as an excellent spot for sunbathing or relaxing by the water's edge.
• Exceptional View: The customer review also highlighted a "Great view," suggesting the campsite is strategically positioned to offer a panoramic or particularly striking vista of the lake and surrounding landscape, often making for stunning sunrises or sunsets.
• Ample, Flat Tent Sights: The description of "Lots of flat tent sights" is a significant highlight, ensuring that groups can comfortably set up multiple tents on level, pre-used ground, which enhances sleeping comfort and adherence to wilderness principles.
• Prime Fishing Location: The mention of "Trolling for Lakers" (Lake Trout) strongly indicates that the site is located on a deep-water lake known for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for this sought-after species. Its rock landing may even provide good shore-fishing access.
• Solitude and Immersion: Like all BWCA campsites, its most significant highlight is the total immersion in a designated wilderness, offering unparalleled quiet, solitude, and opportunities for viewing wildlife like moose, bald eagles, and loons.

As a designated campsite within the BWCAW, there is no direct public phone line or mailbox for Campsite #895 itself. All administration, reservations, and information for the area are managed by the U.S. Forest Service.

Primary Administrative Contact (Superior National Forest - Gunflint Ranger District, closest general area to many BWCA entry points):

Address: 2020 W. Highway 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA (For permit issuance/inquiries related to the eastern BWCA region)

Phone: (218) 387-1750 (For general BWCA permit and regulation inquiries)

Please note that reservations for BWCA permits are made through the national reservation system and should be done well in advance, especially for popular summer months.

For Minnesotans, BWCA Campsite #895, and the wilderness area it belongs to, is more than just a destination—it is a cornerstone of our state's identity and a priceless natural resource right in our backyard. This specific campsite, lauded for its functional layout, superior rock landing, excellent views, and prime Lake Trout fishing, represents a high-value experience within the vast BWCA.

The suitability for locals lies in its unique blend of challenge and reward. It offers a necessary escape from the pace of modern life, requiring only simple tools—a canoe, a paddle, a map, and grit—to unlock an extraordinary personal adventure. This is a place where Minnesota's youth can learn resilience, where families can forge unforgettable memories far from screens, and where seasoned adventurers can find the solitude they crave. Because the BWCA is nationally recognized and permits are competitive, having the geographical advantage as a local often makes the logistics of last-minute preparation, gear rental, and travel to a distant entry point more manageable than for out-of-state travelers.

Choosing Campsite #895 means choosing a premium spot for your wilderness basecamp—a place to enjoy magnificent sunrises over the lake, the quiet ripple of water on the rocks, and the deep satisfaction of catching dinner right from the canoe. It is a genuine, demanding, and utterly rewarding Minnesota adventure, perfectly suited to the local spirit of exploration and appreciation for the great outdoors. Plan your permit reservation, pack your bags light, and discover the true wild heart of Minnesota at Campsite #895.

BWCA Campsite #895

West Cook, MN 55604, USA