BWCA Campsite #1990

For Minnesotans yearning for the quintessential wilderness experience, BWCA Campsite #1990 offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature on a deeply personal level. Located within the iconic Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) near Ely, this campsite is a highly sought-after destination for those who cherish solitude, pristine natural beauty, and the challenge of a true canoe country adventure. It’s a place where the sounds of civilization are replaced by the gentle lapping of water, the rustle of leaves, and the evocative call of the loon, inviting you to slow down and truly absorb the wild heart of Minnesota.

BWCA Campsite #1990 is one of over 2,000 designated campsites scattered throughout the vast 1.1 million-acre Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, which lies within the Superior National Forest in northeastern Minnesota. The BWCAW is a federally protected wilderness area, renowned globally for its intricate network of interconnected lakes, rivers, and portage trails, making it a paddler's paradise. Unlike developed campgrounds, BWCA campsites are primitive, offering minimal amenities to preserve the wilderness character. Each site is marked by a U.S. Forest Service fire grate and a wilderness latrine, adhering strictly to "Leave No Trace" principles.

Campsite #1990, like all BWCA sites, is accessible only by paddle and portage, requiring visitors to carry their canoes and gear between lakes. This challenging access ensures a level of seclusion that is increasingly rare in today’s world. The appeal of this particular site often lies in its specific location on a "beautiful lake," as noted by a past visitor, suggesting excellent views and potentially great fishing or swimming opportunities. Planning a trip to BWCA Campsite #1990 involves obtaining a quota permit, highlighting its popularity and the U.S. Forest Service's commitment to managing visitor impact and preserving the wilderness for future generations of Minnesotans and beyond.

BWCA Campsite #1990 is situated within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), with its general access point near Ely, MN 55731, USA. The BWCAW itself spans over a million acres along the Minnesota-Ontario border, part of the larger Superior National Forest.

Accessibility to any BWCA campsite, including #1990, is strictly by non-motorized watercraft and foot. There are numerous designated entry points (such as Lake One, Moose Lake, Fall Lake, or Snowbank Lake near Ely) that serve as starting points for trips into the wilderness. To reach Campsite #1990, visitors must embark on a journey that involves paddling across multiple lakes and undertaking portages – carrying canoes and gear over land between waterways. The specific lake where Campsite #1990 is located would determine the most efficient entry point and the length and difficulty of the paddling and portaging route. Visitors are strongly advised to consult detailed BWCA maps (such as Fisher or McKenzie maps) or use digital mapping tools designed for the BWCA to accurately plan their route to this specific campsite. These maps will show the precise location of Campsite #1990 on its respective lake, as well as the portage trails connecting it to various entry points. Since cellular service is virtually non-existent within the BWCAW, thorough pre-trip planning and navigation skills are paramount.

BWCA Campsite #1990, like all designated campsites within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, offers a truly primitive and self-sufficient camping experience. The services provided are minimalist, designed to maintain the integrity of the wilderness and encourage "Leave No Trace" ethics.

• Designated Tent Pads: A relatively flat, cleared area suitable for pitching tents, minimizing impact on the surrounding vegetation.
• Steel Fire Grate: A permanent, elevated metal grate provided for containing campfires and for cooking over an open flame. Firewood must be collected from dead and downed wood, well away from the campsite and shorelines.
• Wilderness Latrine: A basic, open-air pit toilet, typically located a short distance away from the main campsite area, designed for human waste disposal. It is crucial that no trash, including toilet paper, is placed in the latrine.
• No Potable Water: There is no source of treated drinking water. All water must be sourced directly from the lake or streams and thoroughly treated (boiled, filtered, or chemically purified) before consumption.
• No Trash Receptacles: Visitors are required to pack out everything they pack in, including all garbage and food scraps. "Leave No Trace" principles dictate that nothing should be left behind.
• No Electricity or Hookups: This is an entirely off-grid experience; no modern electrical conveniences are available. Campers should plan for light, charging, and cooking without external power sources.
• No Showers or Facilities: There are no showers, flush toilets, or other developed facilities. Personal hygiene and dishwashing must occur at least 200 feet from any water source, using biodegradable soaps if desired, and filtering wastewater through the soil.
• Bear-Resistant Food Storage: While specific bear boxes are not at every site, proper food storage is mandatory. Food and scented items must be hung from a tree, placed in a bear-resistant container, or otherwise protected from wildlife.

BWCA Campsite #1990, as a part of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, boasts an array of features and highlights that draw visitors seeking a profound connection with nature.

• Pristine Lake Environment: A key highlight, as described by a past visitor, is its location on a "beautiful lake." This typically means crystal-clear waters, opportunities for swimming, and stunning reflections of the surrounding forest and sky.
• Exceptional Paddling: Being in the BWCAW, the primary mode of travel to and from the campsite involves canoeing or kayaking across interconnected lakes, offering an immersive paddling experience with challenging but rewarding portages.
• Superb Fishing Opportunities: The lakes of the Boundary Waters are renowned for their excellent fishing, including species like walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and lake trout. Campsite #1990's lakeside location suggests prime access to these fishing grounds.
• Unparalleled Solitude: As a designated wilderness area, motorized vehicles are largely restricted, ensuring a quiet and peaceful environment far from the noise of civilization. This fosters a deep sense of tranquility and an opportunity for introspection.
• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: The remote setting provides excellent opportunities to observe native Minnesota wildlife, including moose, deer, beaver, various waterfowl (especially loons), and a wide array of bird species.
• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night skies over the BWCAW are spectacular, offering breathtaking views of the Milky Way and constellations, and sometimes even the aurora borealis.
• Leave No Trace Ethos: The entire BWCAW operates on strict "Leave No Trace" principles, encouraging visitors to minimize their impact, ensuring the wilderness remains pristine for future generations. This appeals to environmentally conscious campers.
• Unique Geology: The landscape is shaped by ancient glacial activity, featuring exposed Precambrian bedrock, granite cliffs, and diverse forest types, creating a rugged and picturesque backdrop.
• Sense of Accomplishment: The journey to and from a BWCA campsite often involves significant physical effort through paddling and portaging, leaving visitors with a strong sense of accomplishment and a deeper appreciation for their surroundings.

As BWCA Campsite #1990 is a specific, primitive site within the vast Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, there isn't a direct phone number or dedicated contact for the individual campsite itself. Management and information for all BWCAW campsites fall under the purview of the U.S. Forest Service, specifically the Superior National Forest.

Address: Ely, MN 55731, USA (This address refers to the general area of access for many eastern BWCAW entry points.)

For inquiries regarding BWCAW permits, regulations, and general conditions, you should contact the U.S. Forest Service or the official permit reservation system:

U.S. Forest Service - Superior National Forest Headquarters: 218-626-4300

Local Ranger Districts near Ely (e.g., Kawishiwi Ranger District) may also provide specific information, though a general number is often sufficient.

BWCAW Permit Reservations: All overnight permits for the BWCAW from May 1st through September 30th must be reserved in advance through

www.recreation.gov

It is highly recommended to contact an outfitter in Ely, MN, as they are a valuable resource for trip planning, gear rental, and up-to-date information on routes and conditions within the BWCAW. They can guide you on the best entry points and routes to potentially access the lake where Campsite #1990 is located.

BWCA Campsite #1990 is perfectly suited for Minnesotans seeking an authentic, challenging, and deeply rewarding outdoor experience. For residents of the North Star State, the Boundary Waters isn't just a destination; it's a cherished part of their natural heritage, a testament to Minnesota's commitment to preserving wild spaces. This particular campsite, situated on a "beautiful lake," offers the quintessential BWCA experience—combining the physical engagement of paddling and portaging with the profound peace of a truly wild setting.

Locals often appreciate the BWCA's "primitive" nature, which forces a complete disconnect from urban conveniences and fosters a stronger connection to the natural world. This level of immersion is difficult to find elsewhere and appeals to Minnesotans who value self-sufficiency and the simple joys of outdoor living. The rigorous physical demands of a BWCA trip, from paddling long distances to navigating challenging portages, are often embraced as a fulfilling adventure, building resilience and creating lasting memories.

Furthermore, the unparalleled opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and stargazing are significant draws for locals. Minnesota's identity is deeply intertwined with its lakes and forests, and the BWCA represents the pinnacle of this natural abundance. The chance to catch walleye for dinner, watch a moose from a distance, or witness the Northern Lights dance across a truly dark sky are experiences that resonate profoundly with Minnesotans.

While permits are required and can be competitive, especially for prime entry points, locals often have the flexibility to plan trips during less busy seasons or on weekdays, increasing their chances of securing a coveted spot like Campsite #1990. The knowledge that they are contributing to the preservation of a national treasure through their visit also adds to the appeal. For Minnesotans, a trip to BWCA Campsite #1990 is more than just camping; it's an annual pilgrimage for some, a rite of passage for others, and always a profound reminder of the extraordinary wilderness that defines their state.

BWCA Campsite #1990

Ely, MN 55731, USA