BWCA Campsite #997

- Lake No. 1, MN

Introduction / Overview: Experience True Minnesota Wilderness at BWCA Campsite #997

For Minnesotans seeking an unparalleled connection with the natural world, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is the gold standard, and designated stops like BWCA Campsite #997 offer a coveted, secluded escape. Nestled deep within the Superior National Forest, the BWCA is an internationally recognized area of over one million acres, defined by its pristine lakes, dense boreal forests, and historic canoe routes. Unlike typical drive-up campgrounds, Campsite #997 provides a genuine wilderness experience. It is one of over 2,000 designated campsites across the BWCA system, managed by the U.S. Forest Service to preserve the area's primitive character.

This particular site, while identified by its unique number, represents the essence of BWCA camping: a minimalist, leave-no-trace philosophy where the focus is entirely on the beauty and solitude of nature. Users here are expected to be self-sufficient, relying on their own skills and gear for shelter, food, and safety. This is the place for local adventurers who want to disconnect entirely from the hustle of urban life and reconnect with Minnesota’s rugged, northern heartland. The experience is not just a vacation; it is an immersion into a landscape shaped by glaciers and preserved for its silence and majesty. Planning a trip to Campsite #997 is the first step toward a true, authentic Minnesota outdoor adventure, requiring a mandatory entry permit to protect the integrity of this fragile ecosystem.

Location and Accessibility: Deep in the Lake Country

BWCA Campsite #997 is situated in a remote area, officially listed near Lake No. 1, MN, USA. It is critical for local users to understand that "Lake No. 1" often refers to "Lake One," a major entry point into the eastern side of the BWCA, which is accessible via the Fernberg Road from the nearby town of Ely, Minnesota. However, being a designated campsite, Campsite #997 is *not* a roadside stop.

Access to this campsite is strictly by paddle-in only. After obtaining the necessary quota permit for your chosen entry point (likely near Lake One, but a specific map check is essential), visitors must launch their canoe or kayak and paddle across open water, navigate through smaller channels, and perform portages—carrying all gear and watercraft overland between lakes—to reach the designated location. This remote nature is what makes the BWCA so special and protected. From major Minnesota hubs, the starting point (like Ely) is typically a significant drive:

The drive to the general entry point area (e.g., near Ely, MN) is approximately:

From the Twin Cities (Minneapolis-St. Paul): A drive of approximately 4 to 5 hours.

From Duluth: A drive of approximately 2 to 3 hours.

Once at the entry point, the true journey begins, with travel time to Campsite #997 depending entirely on the specific route, paddling speed, and number of portages required. The campsite is one of the designated spots intended to be found using navigational skills and a detailed map, reinforcing the wilderness immersion.

Services Offered: Essential, Minimalist Wilderness Standards

As part of the National Wilderness Preservation System, BWCA Campsite #997 adheres to strict 'Leave No Trace' principles. The "services" provided are intentionally limited to preserve the wilderness character, offering only the basic necessities for a safe and responsible stay. Visitors are responsible for all other needs, including food, water treatment, and waste management (packed out trash).

Wilderness Latrine: Each designated campsite is equipped with a wilderness latrine (often a pit toilet) located a short distance from the main camp area to maintain sanitary standards.

Steel Fire Grate: A permanent, government-issued steel fire grate is provided for cooking and campfires. Campfires are only allowed within these grates, and only dead and down wood found on the ground may be used.

Designated Tent Pad/Area: The campsite has a few cleared, relatively flat areas for pitching tents, designed to concentrate impact and protect surrounding vegetation.

Canoe/Watercraft Landing: An accessible, often rock- or soil-based shoreline area suitable for safely docking and securing watercraft.

Note: There is no running water, electricity, Wi-Fi, garbage service, or flush toilets at Campsite #997 or any other BWCA wilderness site. All water must be filtered or boiled before drinking, and all trash must be packed out.

Features / Highlights: Solitude and Natural Beauty

The primary features of Campsite #997 are its isolation and the surrounding natural splendor of the Minnesota wilderness.

Total Seclusion: Enjoy an experience free from neighboring groups, vehicle noise, and artificial light. BWCA regulations limit group size to nine people and four watercraft, ensuring minimal impact and maximum solitude.

Excellent Stargazing: Located in a region with extremely low light pollution, the site offers spectacular views of the night sky, perfect for observing constellations and the Northern Lights.

Pristine Water Access: Direct access to Lake No. 1 (or its adjacent waterway) provides opportunities for swimming (away from the campsite and latrine), world-class fishing (Walleye, Northern Pike, Bass), and quiet paddling.

Abundant Wildlife Viewing: The area is home to iconic Minnesota wildlife, including Moose, Black Bears, Bald Eagles, and the State Bird, the Common Loon. Responsible food storage is mandatory to protect yourself and the bears.

Undeveloped Shoreline: The shoreline is preserved in its natural state, consisting of granite, bedrock, and native vegetation, offering picturesque views and a rugged atmosphere.

Contact Information: Planning Your BWCA Trip

Since BWCA Campsite #997 is a remote, undesignated entity within a federally managed wilderness area, there is no direct public address or phone number for the campsite itself. All reservations, permits, and official inquiries must be directed to the governing body, the U.S. Forest Service, and its local ranger stations in Minnesota.

Address: Lake No. 1, MN, USA (The official address is the general area of the entry point, typically in the Superior National Forest.)

Permit Reservation and General Inquiries Contact:

Phone: Visitors must contact the specific Ranger District managing the entry point (e.g., Kawishiwi Ranger District in Ely or Tofte Ranger District) or the official BWCA reservation system for permits.

To acquire the necessary permit for entry, reservations must be made online through the official U.S. government recreation website.

Conclusion: Why BWCA Campsite #997 is Suitable for Local Minnesotans

BWCA Campsite #997, and the entire Boundary Waters system, is more than just a camping spot for Minnesotans—it is a cultural touchstone and a vital part of the state's identity. For residents of Minnesota, this campsite offers the ultimate opportunity to escape the everyday and reconnect with the unspoiled nature that defines the North Star State.

This location is uniquely suited for locals because it tests and rewards the self-reliance and outdoor spirit that is a hallmark of Minnesota life. It demands respect for the wilderness, knowledge of local weather and wildlife, and proficiency in low-impact camping techniques—skills often honed over a lifetime of enjoying Minnesota's parks and lakes. The required journey, involving paddling and portaging, immediately filters out casual tourists, ensuring that the peaceful, secluded nature of the site is preserved for those who truly appreciate it.

Choosing Campsite #997 means embracing an authentic, challenging, and deeply rewarding adventure. It’s an opportunity to create lasting memories under the vast, unpolluted skies, listening to the calls of the loons, all within a few hours' drive of your Minnesota home. Secure your permit and start planning your wilderness paddle today to experience the pinnacle of Minnesota outdoor recreation.

BWCA Campsite #997

Lake No. 1, MN, USA