Superior National Forest Campsite #746: A True Wilderness Experience on John Lake, MN

The Superior National Forest (SNF) in Minnesota is a vast expanse of boreal wilderness, with the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) as its crown jewel. Unlike front-country campgrounds you drive right into, a designated BWCA site like Superior National Forest Campsite #746 represents the highest degree of immersion in nature. This isn't a quick weekend camping trip for the casual visitor; this is an established, permitted site for the committed paddler and wilderness seeker from Minnesota and beyond. Campsite #746 is located on the shores of John Lake, a stunning body of water near the border with Canada and a crucial link in the chain of lakes that make up the Royal River route. For the local user, securing a spot like #746 means successfully navigating the permit system and embracing the challenge of a true 'pack-in, pack-out' experience, resulting in unmatched solitude and natural beauty.

Understanding this specific location requires shifting perspective from car camping to canoe camping. It exists within the framework of the BWCAW, meaning access is strictly regulated, non-motorized (beyond a few permitted exceptions on access lakes), and committed to preserving a pristine wilderness state. This article serves as an essential guide for Minnesotans planning their next deep-woods adventure, detailing the specific features and logistical information for this highly sought-after destination.

Introduction / Overview

Superior National Forest Campsite #746 is one of three officially designated wilderness campsites on John Lake. John Lake itself is a relatively small, picturesque lake—approximately 191 acres—with a significant role in the local canoe route system. It is situated within the Gunflint Ranger District of the Superior National Forest, deep in Cook County, Minnesota. The site number, #746, is the official designation used by the U.S. Forest Service to manage the limited impact camping within the BWCAW. This site is particularly valued by local paddlers due to its location, offering excellent fishing opportunities, notably for Walleye and Smallmouth Bass, as it lies directly along the flow of the Crocodile River into the Royal River system. The campsite is only accessible by watercraft—canoe or kayak—and requires a valid BWCA quota permit (specifically, Entry Point 69 - John Lake, or Entry Point 70 - North Fowl Lake, with subsequent travel). Visitors should anticipate a mandatory commitment to the 'Leave No Trace' principles that define camping in the BWCA.

Location and Accessibility

Campsite #746 is located on John Lake in the far northeastern corner of Minnesota. Its general administrative location is East Cook, MN 55606, USA. However, simply using this zip code will not lead you to the site. The actual location is deep within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, necessitating water-based travel.

Access requires first driving the scenic Gunflint Trail (County Road 12) to a permitted entry point. The most direct paddling access route often involves launching a canoe or kayak from McFarland Lake (Entry Point 69 or 70), paddling across McFarland Lake, portaging into Little John Lake, and then portaging or paddling the short channel into John Lake. Campsite #746 is one of the first sites encountered once arriving on John Lake via the Little John portage, situated just around the corner from the rapids/channel where the water flows in. Its position is strategic but also sees constant canoe traffic passing by as groups continue deeper into the wilderness. The site offers relatively easy access to the Border Route Trail, which runs along the ridge above the lake. No motorized travel is permitted to the site, meaning all gear and supplies must be carried in by paddle and portage.

Services Offered

As a designated wilderness campsite within the BWCAW, Campsite #746 adheres to strict regulations designed to maintain the wilderness character. Services are intentionally minimal, focused solely on low-impact necessities.

Designated Tent Pads: The site is equipped with cleared, level areas (tent pads) sufficient for at least two to three tents, helping to minimize soil and vegetation damage.
Wilderness Latrine: A simple, open-air pit latrine (often referred to as a 'throne' or 'biffy') is provided, usually a short distance from the main campsite area, to ensure proper human waste disposal.
Steel Fire Grate: A permanent, heavy-duty steel fire grate is provided for cooking and containing campfires, which are strictly regulated by fire restrictions during dry periods.
Water Source: No potable water is supplied. Water must be drawn from John Lake and chemically treated, filtered, or boiled before consumption.
No Garbage Disposal: This is a strict 'Pack It Out' location. All garbage, including food scraps and micro-trash, must be carried out of the wilderness.

Features / Highlights

Campsite #746 and its surroundings offer distinct highlights that make it a prized destination for local BWCA enthusiasts.

Excellent Fishing Base: The lake itself, and the site's proximity to the flowing water where the Crocodile River enters, makes it a prime location for casting a line. John Lake is known for producing Walleye and Smallmouth Bass.
Proximity to the Border Route Trail: The site offers relatively easy access to the ridge rising above John Lake, which is traversed by the rugged Border Route Trail (BRT), allowing for day hikes or a launch into a longer backpacking trip.
Stunning Northwoods Views: The site is typically surrounded by towering pines, offering a classic Minnesota wilderness aesthetic and spectacular views across the water.
Secluded Wilderness Experience: Unlike developed campgrounds, this site offers profound peace and quiet, with the only neighbors being other small canoeing groups—a truly unparalleled opportunity for solitude.
Gateway Location: Being near the start of the Royal River route, the site serves as a perfect first or second night's camp, allowing groups to stage before pushing further north into the more remote lakes or down the river.

Contact Information

All BWCA campsites, including #746, are managed by the U.S. Forest Service through the Superior National Forest's local Ranger Districts. The provided address is for administrative use only, as the physical site is only reachable by paddle.

Administrative Address (Superior National Forest/Gunflint Ranger District): East Cook, MN 55606, USA

Phone (Gunflint Ranger District Office - Primary Contact for BWCA Permits and Information): The general Superior National Forest contact number is often listed as (218) 387-3039 (Hovland/Grand Marais Area), which is the most reliable resource for local conditions and permit questions.

Permits: All overnight stays require a reserved BWCA Quota Permit, obtained through the official

Recreation.gov

website, selecting the appropriate entry point (e.g., Entry Point 69 - John Lake).

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Minnesota locals, Superior National Forest Campsite #746 is the epitome of the quintessential Northwoods adventure. It is an opportunity to engage directly with the environment that defines the state's identity—the vast, pristine, and challenging BWCAW. This site is particularly suitable for the experienced local paddler because it offers a highly-rated, designated stopping point on one of the classic canoe routes, eliminating the uncertainty of finding a suitable spot in a dense area. It serves as an accessible first camp for those launching from McFarland Lake, allowing groups to secure a beautiful lakeside spot before committing to a longer trek. It offers the best of BWCA camping: a reliable steel fire grate, a minimal latrine, stunning views, and a sense of isolation that can only be found miles from the nearest road. Choosing Campsite #746 is choosing a commitment to the Minnesota wilderness ethic, providing a deeply rewarding experience that few other places can match.