BWCA Campsite #925

- Tofte Township, MN 55604

For Minnesotans and dedicated wilderness enthusiasts, BWCA Campsite #925 offers a deeply rewarding, secluded, and authentic paddling experience. Located on the picturesque Burnt Lake, this primitive, paddle-in campsite is a key stop for those traveling the popular canoe routes of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), managed by the Superior National Forest. The site is officially designated and maintained to the strict standards of the Wilderness Act, meaning it provides minimal, necessary facilities while demanding maximum commitment to self-reliance and the fundamental principles of Leave No Trace.

Campsite #925 is identified by local paddlers and on official maps as being situated on a prominent point that juts into Burnt Lake, specifically noted as being "on the point almost due east of the Smoke Lake portage." This strategic location grants the site exceptional views, natural windbreaks to deter insects, and an often-desirable rocky shoreline. It is located within the Tofte Ranger District, making it a viable destination for trips launched from the Sawbill Trail area. Burnt Lake itself is a moderately trafficked body of water, positioned along a common loop that links the Sawbill Lake and Baker Lake entry points. This means the campsite is a perfect blend of accessibility for the experienced paddler and a profound sense of isolation once camp is established.

As with all BWCA camping, securing a spot at #925 is on a first-come, first-served basis once you enter the wilderness with your required permit. Planning is crucial, as is preparing for a challenging trip that involves paddling, navigating, and portaging. The site’s reputation for having a great location often makes it highly sought after, especially during the peak summer months.

BWCA Campsite #925 is found on Burnt Lake.

General Area Address: Tofte Township, MN 55604, USA

This wilderness destination is located in the Tofte Ranger District of the Superior National Forest in Cook County, Minnesota. The site’s remote nature means it has no direct physical address and is accessible only by watercraft (canoe or kayak) via one of the designated BWCAW entry points.

The most common access routes involve launching from Entry Point 38 (Sawbill Lake) or Entry Point 39 (Baker Lake), both reached by driving up the Sawbill Trail from Highway 61 near the town of Tofte. From the Sawbill Entry Point, reaching Burnt Lake involves a series of paddles and portages, including the portage into Smoke Lake and then a short paddle across Smoke Lake to the portage leading into Burnt Lake. Once on Burnt Lake, Campsite #925 is located on a point near the Smoke Lake portage area.

The entire journey is part of the experience, requiring robust outdoor skills. There are no roads or motor access points near the campsite. Navigation relies entirely on detailed BWCA maps and a compass, emphasizing the primitive and self-reliant nature of camping in this designated wilderness area. The Tofte area provides the final touchpoint for supplies, outfitting, and permit pickup before entering the forest, making it the practical starting point for this adventure.

Campsite #925, like all BWCA sites, adheres to the principle of primitive wilderness camping. The "services" provided are strictly those required by federal regulation to concentrate impact and protect the environment. They are intentionally minimal to preserve the site's wild character.

• Designated Fire Grate: A permanent, steel fire grate is provided for all cooking and campfires. This is the only legal location for building a fire, helping to prevent wildfires and contain cooking debris. Visitors must adhere to all current fire restrictions.
• Wilderness Latrine: Each designated site includes an outhouse structure, typically referred to as a "thunderbox," located a distance away from the main camp and water to manage human waste hygienically and safely within the wilderness setting.
• Level Tent Pads: The site features multiple pre-cleared, relatively level areas designed for pitching tents. Using these established pads is crucial for minimizing damage to the sensitive vegetation surrounding the site.
• Canoe Landing Area: The point location provides an established, though natural, spot for landing and launching canoes. Depending on the exact rock formation, this may be a smooth rock slab or a small, rocky beach, allowing for efficient loading and unloading.

It is crucial for visitors to understand that this is true wilderness camping: no potable water is provided (all lake water must be filtered or boiled), there is no garbage disposal (all waste must be packed out), and no electricity or cell service is available.

Campsite #925 is often praised in paddling forums and trip reports for its superior positioning and overall comfort, especially for a point site.

• Prominent Point Location: Being on a point offers excellent 360-degree views of Burnt Lake and the surrounding boreal forest. This position typically provides a better breeze, which is invaluable during insect season, and panoramic vistas for sunsets and sunrises.
• Ideal for Fishing: The deep water often found right off a point makes this campsite a superb location for fishing from shore, with Burnt Lake being known for Northern Pike and Walleye.
• Good Access to Route Junction: The site is strategically located near the portage to Smoke Lake and not far from the portage leading north to Flame Lake, making it an excellent basecamp for layover days or for groups exploring the wider "Fire Lakes" loop.
• Rocky Shoreline: The granite shoreline characteristic of this area often features smooth, sloping rock faces near the point. These rocks are highly functional for sitting, sunbathing, drying gear, and safely drawing water.
• Multiple Tent Options: Campsites on points often offer varied terrain, providing a selection of potential tent pads, allowing groups to spread out and find a comfortable, secure spot for their wilderness shelter.

As a designated wilderness campsite, #925 does not have direct contact information. All trip planning, rules, and permits are handled by the administering National Forest office.

Permit Reservations: 1-877-444-6777 (Recreation.gov)

Tofte Ranger District Office (Administering Station):

Address: Tofte, MN 55615 (Contact for the district office; this is the general service area.)

Phone: (218) 663-8060 (Superior National Forest - Tofte District)

It is highly recommended that Minnesota residents utilize local outfitters in the Tofte/Sawbill Trail area. These professionals can issue permits, provide detailed route consultation, and supply necessary rental gear, ensuring all regulations are met for this deep-wilderness excursion.

BWCA Campsite #925 is perfectly tailored for the Minnesota local seeking a high-quality, authentic wilderness immersion. It is challenging enough to satisfy the need for adventure, yet it is located on a well-known loop, giving a measure of security to those familiar with the North Shore/Sawbill Trail access points. For the resident who views the Boundary Waters not just as a destination but as a birthright, this campsite provides the essential experience: a stunning, private point location where the only sounds are the wind and the wildlife.

The combination of a beautiful, well-defined campsite structure (designated tent pads and fire grate) with the raw, untamed nature of Burnt Lake's surroundings makes #925 an ideal spot for locals to reset, test their outdoor skills, and reconnect with the unspoiled heart of the Superior National Forest. It is a classic BWCA getaway, accessible from the familiar Tofte gateway, offering profound solitude just a demanding paddle and portage away from the busy world. Choosing #925 is choosing a deep dive into the iconic lake-and-pine environment that defines Minnesota’s true North.

BWCA Campsite #925

Tofte Township, MN 55604, USA