BWCA Campsite #941

- West Cook, MN 55604

For Minnesotans, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is more than just a place; it's a rite of passage. It demands preparedness, respect for nature, and a willingness to embrace the quiet challenge of a canoe-and-portage adventure. Within this expansive wilderness, certain campsites stand out for their size, location, and amenity level, making them highly prized among local paddlers. **BWCA Campsite #941** on the expansive Brule Lake is one such coveted location, especially favored for those traveling in larger groups or simply looking for a comfortable basecamp with exceptional views.

Located strategically on a point of a large island, this campsite offers a blend of accessibility from a major entry point and the natural defenses of an island site, often providing a welcome breeze to keep the inevitable summer insects at bay. For residents of Minnesota planning a memorable trip into the Northwoods, understanding the specific features of a well-rated site like #941 can make all the difference in crafting the perfect wilderness itinerary.

Introduction / Overview

Campsite #941 is a designated, developed campsite located on the eastern point of one of the large islands on **Brule Lake** in the eastern portion of the BWCAW, within the Superior National Forest. Brule Lake is known for its size, numerous islands, and reputation as a gateway to several deeper wilderness lakes, making it a popular starting point for trips of varying length and ambition.

Rated highly by experienced campers, Campsite #941 is often described as a **"great group site"** due to its substantial size and multiple flat areas. Its location on an island point is key to its appeal, offering panoramic lake views and good exposure to breezes. This site is subject to the BWCA's regulations, requiring a mandatory overnight quota permit (available through a reservation system) during the peak season (May 1 – September 30). While it is heavily used due to its quality and convenience, its established layout is designed to handle visitor impact while preserving the wilderness character.

Location and Accessibility

Campsite #941's general administrative address is given as **West Cook, MN 55604, USA**. However, as a wilderness destination, physical access is entirely by watercraft via a specific BWCA entry point.

The site is accessed through **BWCA Entry Point #41 – Brule Lake**. This entry point is located along the Gunflint Trail corridor and is managed by the Tofte Ranger Station. The entry point is categorized as "Overnight Paddle Only," with a moderate daily quota of permits (typically 7 per day), making it a popular option.

Accessibility highlights for Campsite #941:

• Proximity to Entry: Campsite #941 is situated on the island nearly one mile due north of the Entry Point 41 landing. This makes it an ideal spot for groups who want a high-quality site but wish to minimize paddling on their entry and exit days, or use it as a comfortable base camp for day trips deeper into the Brule Lake chain.

• Landing: The landing is noted to be at the base of a mini-ledge on boulders. The water is often described as shallow and clear near the shore, making for a manageable, though rocky, canoe approach.

• Travel Route: The journey from the entry point is a straightforward paddle across a portion of Brule Lake, with no portages required to reach the campsite, which is a significant draw for many groups.

Services Offered (Standard BWCA Wilderness)

As a designated site within a Federally Designated Wilderness, Campsite #941 adheres to the strict "Leave No Trace" principles. It provides essential, low-impact facilities intended to concentrate visitor use and protect the environment. There are no services such as running water, electricity, or garbage disposal.

• Fire Grate: A permanent, steel fire grate is provided at the main cooking area. This must be used for all fires, and only dead and downed wood found on the ground may be utilized for fuel (subject to fire restrictions).

• Wilderness Latrine: A rustic pit latrine (often referred to as a "thunderbox") is located a short, secluded walk away from the main camp area and water's edge, mandatory for human waste disposal.

• Designated Tent Pads: The site features multiple flat, established areas designed to accommodate tents. User reports indicate at least four clearly locatable tent pads, making it excellent for larger groups of up to nine people (the legal maximum group size).

• Shore Access: Multiple access points to the Brule Lake shoreline for water collection (which must be filtered/purified) and swimming.

Features / Highlights

Campsite #941's popularity is built on a collection of features that make a wilderness stay both comfortable and memorable for local groups.

• Multiple Tent Locations: With at least four good tent pads and other flat areas, the site is perfectly suited for larger parties (up to the BWCA maximum of 9 people and 4 canoes), allowing the group to spread out comfortably.

• Island Location: Being on an island point offers excellent protection from mainland-based wildlife and provides superior natural ventilation, which is critical for minimizing mosquito and black fly exposure during peak season.

• Excellent Kitchen Area: The fire grate area is a standout feature, noted for its spaciousness and the presence of natural **"rock counters"** behind the grate. This makes food preparation and communal gathering significantly easier than at many other sites.

• Scenic Views and Stargazing: The point location provides fine views of Brule Lake and, being in the dark sky environment of the BWCA, offers tremendous opportunities for clear **stargazing** at night.

• Good Fishing Access: The surrounding waters of Brule Lake are known to hold various species, and the site's point provides great access for **shore fishing** right from camp.

Contact Information

Direct contact with a specific wilderness campsite is not possible. All trip planning, reservations, and compliance with regulations must be handled through the official government agencies.

Address (Administrative Area):

West Cook, MN 55604, USA

BWCAW Permit Reservations:

All permits are handled through the federal online system.

Phone: 1-877-444-6777 (Recreation.gov Call Center)

Local Ranger Station (for current conditions and trip information):

Tofte Ranger District (Superior National Forest)

Address and specific phone number must be verified on the U.S. Forest Service website for the most up-to-date information before travel.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

BWCA Campsite #941 on Brule Lake is perfectly suited for Minnesota locals, especially those who value **efficiency and comfort** on their wilderness trips. Its proximity to Entry Point 41 means less time paddling on major travel days, which is a massive advantage for groups with limited time or first-time wilderness explorers. The key features—multiple tent pads, a spacious kitchen with rock counters, and the consistent breeze of an island point—collectively make the day-to-day routine of camping significantly more enjoyable. For Minnesotans, who often organize these trips for families, friends, or annual gatherings, Site #941 offers a highly functional and beautiful basecamp. It minimizes the labor of setting up and maximizes the quality time spent fishing, paddling, or simply enjoying the unparalleled quietude of the Northwoods, making it a reliable choice for a quintessential, high-quality BWCA experience without venturing too deep into multi-day portage country.

BWCA Campsite #941

West Cook, MN 55604, USA