BWCA Campsite #917

- Tofte Township, MN 55604

Introduction / Overview

For dedicated Minnesotan outdoor enthusiasts, the call of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is undeniable. BWCA Campsite #917 represents a deeply sought-after piece of that wilderness—a designated primitive site nestled on the shores of the expansive Sawbill Lake. This location is not just a place to pitch a tent; it is a true base camp for an authentic canoe-country adventure, offering the solitude and raw beauty that the BWCAW is famous for. Campsite #917 is part of the extensive network of over 2,000 primitive sites within the million-acre wilderness, strictly managed by the U.S. Forest Service to preserve its unspoiled character.

The location on Sawbill Lake, specifically noted for being situated near the lake's northwest bay, provides a favorable position for a base camp. Sawbill Lake is often the launching point for trips into the wilderness, utilizing BWCA Entry Point 38. The site is intended for self-reliant groups ready to embrace the fundamental challenges of wilderness travel, including paddling, portaging, and adhering to the Leave No Trace ethic. A trip to #917 is a definitive way to disconnect from the modern hustle and immerse oneself in Minnesota's ancient boreal forest. It demands respect for the environment and rewards visitors with unforgettable starry nights, silence broken only by the natural world, and a sense of profound peace. Every detail, from securing the quota permit to filtering drinking water, is part of a rewarding ritual for those who cherish the state's protected wild lands.

Location and Accessibility

Campsite #917 is located in the Superior National Forest and falls under the management of the Tofte Ranger District. It is situated in the upper reaches of the North Shore region, accessible from Minnesota Highway 61 via a well-known forest road.

Administrative Address:

Tofte Township, MN 55604, USA

The geographical access point for this site is Sawbill Lake, reached by driving north approximately 25 miles from Tofte, Minnesota, along the Sawbill Trail (County Road 2).

• BWCA Entry Point 38: This site is accessed through BWCA Entry Point 38 (Sawbill Lake). All overnight visitors must have a reserved, dated Quota Permit for this specific entry point.
• Canoe-Only Access: As an interior BWCAW site, #917 is a paddle-in destination. There are no roads, and motor use is highly restricted on Sawbill Lake, making the canoe the required mode of transportation.
• Route Planning: Once at the EP 38 landing, visitors must paddle north on Sawbill Lake to locate the site, which is generally found in the vicinity of the lake's northwest bay. Accurate maps (available from local outfitters or the Forest Service) are essential for navigation.
• First-Come, First-Served: Although the permit allows entry to Sawbill Lake, the campsite itself operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Groups must be prepared with a list of backup campsites on Sawbill or connected lakes in case #917 is occupied.

Services Offered

The services at BWCA Campsite #917 are intentionally minimal, designed to minimize human impact and maximize the wilderness experience in accordance with federal regulations:

• Designated Tent Pads: Cleared areas are provided for pitching tents. This concentration of use helps protect the forest floor and sensitive vegetation from trampling and overuse.
• Primitive Latrine: A centrally located 'thunderbox' (pit toilet) is maintained for sanitation. This is the only approved location for human waste disposal, ensuring compliance with health and environmental standards.
• Steel Fire Grate: A single, non-portable fire ring is installed. All campfires for cooking or warmth must be kept within this grate. Due to potential forest fire danger in the dry Minnesota summers, always check with the Tofte Ranger District for current fire restrictions.
• Lakeside Water Access: The lake provides a source of water, but it must be properly treated (filtered, chemically purified, or boiled) before consumption. No treated, potable water is available at the site.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out: No waste disposal or trash services are provided. All garbage, including food waste, packaging, and micro-trash, must be meticulously packed out and removed from the wilderness area.

Features / Highlights

Campsite #917 offers specific natural features and opportunities highly valued by BWCAW visitors:

• Strategic Location: Situated on a prominent feature near the northwest bay of Sawbill Lake, the site likely provides a strong visual presence on the water, potentially offering panoramic lake views or a sheltered, well-protected camping area.
• Gateway to Wilderness Loops: Its location on Sawbill Lake means it serves as an excellent starting point for multiple canoeing routes into lakes like Alton and the Kelso River, allowing for varied day trips or longer loop expeditions deeper into the wilderness.
• Rich Birding and Wildlife: The relative seclusion of the site increases the likelihood of encountering the region’s iconic wildlife, from fishing osprey and diving loons to the tracks of timber wolves or black bears.
• Excellent Paddling Conditions: The large, clear waters of Sawbill Lake are ideal for both seasoned and novice paddlers, offering plenty of space to explore, fish, and enjoy the silence of the wilderness.
• Clear Night Sky Views: Far removed from any light pollution from Tofte or the North Shore, this site offers unparalleled opportunities for viewing the Northern Lights and the Milky Way on clear nights.

Contact Information

For securing essential permits, current trip conditions, and required regulations, contact the managing U.S. Forest Service office:

Tofte Ranger District Address:

7355 West Hwy 61, Tofte, MN 55615

Tofte Ranger District Phone:

(218) 663-7280 (Please consult the official Superior National Forest website for the most accurate and current operational hours, particularly during peak season.)

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

BWCA Campsite #917 is an essential piece of the Minnesota wilderness, offering a uniquely profound recreational opportunity. It is highly suitable for local Minnesotans because they often possess the intrinsic skills—the knowledge of packing light for portages, the cold-water safety awareness, and the deep respect for the state's stringent conservation laws—that make a BWCAW trip successful. Furthermore, the route to Sawbill Lake via the Sawbill Trail is a familiar and manageable drive for many in the region, providing easy access to necessary outfitting and the permit-issuing station near the entry point. A journey to Campsite #917 is a chance for locals to reclaim their connection to the legendary Northwoods, embracing the self-sufficiency required to thrive in this majestic, protected area. It offers a genuine Minnesota experience—challenging, tranquil, and entirely unforgettable—right in their backyard.

BWCA Campsite #917

Tofte Township, MN 55604, USA