BWCA Campsite #1997

For those of us in Minnesota who live for the tranquility and unspoiled beauty of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), discovering a truly exceptional campsite is like finding a hidden gem. BWCA Campsite #1997, located deep within this cherished wilderness near Ely, MN, is one such gem. This isn't a conventional campground; it's a testament to the raw, unadulterated essence of Minnesota's natural landscape. For Minnesotans who embrace the paddle and portage to find true peace, this campsite offers an experience that resonates deeply with our outdoor spirit.

The BWCAW is a million-acre mosaic of lakes, forests, and rivers, accessible only by paddle and portage, making it a unique national treasure. Campsite #1997 is a part of this vast wilderness, promising an escape from the clamor of daily life and an immersion into pure nature. It's a place where the sounds are of loons calling across the water, the rustle of leaves, and the gentle lapping of waves against the shore. The very act of reaching such a secluded site becomes part of the adventure, solidifying the sense of accomplishment and deepening the appreciation for the untouched beauty that surrounds you.

The reputation of Campsite #1997, even if known primarily through word-of-mouth among seasoned BWCA enthusiasts, speaks volumes. When a review simply states it's "One of my top 3 favorite campsites in the Boundary Waters!", it highlights a site that offers something truly special – perhaps exceptional views, unique features, or a profound sense of solitude. These are the qualities that Minnesotans, with our ingrained love for our lakes and forests, seek in a wilderness camping experience. This campsite represents an opportunity to create indelible memories, whether through unparalleled fishing, quiet reflection, or simply enjoying the company of loved ones in one of the most pristine environments on Earth.

BWCA Campsite #1997 is located within the vast Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, with its nearest primary outfitting town being Ely, MN 55731, USA. It's crucial for local Minnesotans planning a trip to understand that this is a remote, wilderness campsite, meaning it is exclusively accessible by canoe or kayak, typically involving a combination of paddling across lakes and portaging over land between them.

The specific lake or chain of lakes where Campsite #1997 resides within the BWCAW would dictate its exact access route. Generally, to reach a campsite deep within the BWCA, you must first secure a permit for a designated entry point (e.g., Fall Lake, Moose Lake, Lake One, or other points in the Ely area). From your chosen entry point, you would then embark on a multi-day journey, navigating through interconnected waterways, carrying your canoe and gear over portage trails. The length and difficulty of the paddle and portage depend on the entry point chosen and the specific route to reach the campsite.

The wilderness location of Campsite #1997 inherently means it is far removed from roads, motorboats (in most BWCA areas), and significant human development. This remoteness is a core part of its appeal, offering a genuine sense of solitude and immersion in nature. Outfitters in Ely are invaluable resources for detailed route planning, maps, and advice on navigating to specific campsites within the BWCA. While the journey to Campsite #1997 may require effort, the reward is an unparalleled wilderness experience in one of Minnesota's most treasured natural landscapes.

BWCA Campsite #1997, like all designated campsites within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, provides only essential, rustic services designed to minimize human impact and maintain the wilderness character. Campers must be prepared to be entirely self-sufficient. Based on the standard amenities for BWCA campsites, you can expect the following:

• Designated Tent Pads: The site will have cleared and relatively level areas specifically for pitching tents. The number and quality of these pads can vary by site, but they are designed to minimize disturbance to the surrounding vegetation.
• Steel Fire Grate: A permanent metal fire grate is provided for building campfires and for cooking. All fires must be contained within this grate. Campers must adhere to all fire restrictions, which can include bans during periods of high fire danger.
• Wilderness Latrine: A basic, often open-air, pit toilet (also known as a privy) is provided to help concentrate human waste and protect water quality. These are typically rudimentary facilities.
• Bear-Resistant Food Storage: While not every site has a physical bear box, all BWCA campsites require proper food storage to protect against bears. This means utilizing techniques like a bear hang (suspending food packs from a tree branch) or bringing a bear-resistant food container. Campers should be prepared with the necessary equipment (rope, carabiners, or a canister).
• Canoe Landing Area: The site will have a suitable shoreline area for landing canoes or kayaks. The quality of the landing can vary from sandy to rocky, but it will be designated for access.
• No Potable Water: There is no source of treated drinking water. All water must be collected from the lake and then filtered, boiled, or chemically treated to make it safe for consumption.
• No Electricity or Hookups: As a true wilderness site, there are no electrical hookups, potable water spigots, showers (beyond lake bathing at least 150 feet from shore), or garbage disposal services. All trash, including food scraps, must be packed out of the wilderness.
• No Cellular Service: Campers should expect to be entirely off-grid, with no cellular phone reception.

BWCA Campsite #1997, despite its minimal amenities, likely offers several compelling features and highlights that contribute to its high regard among Boundary Waters enthusiasts. The "top 3 favorite" designation from a reviewer suggests qualities that go beyond basic provisions:

• Exceptional Seclusion and Tranquility: The primary highlight of any BWCA site, especially one highly rated, is the profound sense of privacy and quietude. Being deep within the wilderness, far from motorboats and crowds, allows for a truly peaceful experience.
• Pristine Natural Beauty: The site likely boasts stunning natural surroundings, possibly with old-growth pines, rugged rock formations, or clear water. The aesthetic appeal is a major draw for wilderness campers.
• Prime Location on a Desirable Lake: Its position on a specific lake within the BWCA (though not explicitly named in the provided info, it is accessible from Ely, implying a lake within that extensive network) suggests it offers excellent access to good paddling routes and potentially rich fishing grounds.
• Ideal Layout/Aesthetics: Highly favored campsites often have a superior layout that includes well-positioned tent pads offering good drainage, comfortable sitting areas around the fire grate, and perhaps a scenic vantage point for views.
• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: The deep wilderness setting increases the chances of encountering diverse wildlife, from moose and deer to various bird species, including the iconic loon.
• Dark Skies for Stargazing: Far removed from light pollution, the night skies over Campsite #1997 would likely be incredibly dark, offering spectacular opportunities for stargazing and potentially viewing the Northern Lights.
• Access to Excellent Fishing: The BWCA is renowned for its fishing, and a top-rated campsite often provides easy access to productive fishing areas for species like walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass.
• Sense of Accomplishment: Reaching a remote site like #1997, after paddling and portaging, instills a deep sense of accomplishment, making the stay even more rewarding.

For reservations and information regarding BWCA Campsite #1997, it's essential to understand that all campsites within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness are part of a federally managed permit system. You cannot simply arrive and occupy the site; a permit is required.

Address: Ely, MN 55731, USA (This general address indicates its proximity to common entry points; the campsite itself is located within the wilderness, accessible only by canoe/portage.)

Reservation System: All overnight permits for the BWCAW during the quota season (typically May 1st to September 30th) are exclusively managed through the Recreation.gov website. You must first secure an entry permit for a specific BWCAW entry point (e.g., one near Ely, such as Fall Lake #24, Moose Lake #25, or other relevant points) on a particular date. Once you have entered the wilderness with a valid permit, campsites like #1997 are then occupied on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations for permits open annually, usually in late January or early February for the entire season, and popular entry points and dates can book up very quickly.

Park/Forest Service Contact Information: For general inquiries about the BWCAW, wilderness regulations, trip planning, or current conditions (like fire bans or water levels), you should contact the U.S. Forest Service office for the Kawishiwi Ranger District in Ely, which oversees this part of the BWCAW.

Kawishiwi Ranger District (Superior National Forest)
1393 Hwy 169 E
Ely, MN 55731

Phone: (218) 365-7600 (This is the general ranger station phone number for information, not for direct campsite booking. For Recreation.gov booking assistance, the number is typically (877) 444-6777.)

It is highly recommended to plan your BWCA trip well in advance, consult official BWCAW maps, and familiarize yourself with all park regulations regarding group size limits (9 people, 4 watercraft), Leave No Trace principles, and food storage before your departure. Local outfitters in Ely are also excellent resources for detailed route planning and gear rental.

For us Minnesotans, BWCA Campsite #1997 represents the epitome of a wilderness escape, perfectly suited to our state's deep-rooted connection to its natural landscapes. Its suitability for locals lies in its ability to offer an authentic and deeply personal wilderness experience right here in our own backyard. Unlike more developed camping options, a site like #1997 demands a commitment to the journey – the paddling and portaging are not just means to an end, but integral parts of the adventure that many of us embrace as a cherished Minnesota tradition.

The promise of profound solitude and untouched beauty, as hinted by its reputation as a "top 3 favorite," resonates strongly with local desires for genuine escape. We understand that limited amenities are a small price to pay for unparalleled privacy, pristine water, and the chance to truly disconnect from the digital world. This campsite offers the unique opportunity to witness the iconic Minnesota wilderness in its purest form, fostering a deeper appreciation for the loons, the ancient pines, and the vast, star-filled night skies.

Camping at BWCA Campsite #1997 is more than just an overnight stay; it's an immersive cultural experience that speaks to the heart of what it means to be a Minnesotan who cherishes the outdoors. It's a place where memories are forged through shared effort and natural beauty, providing a timeless retreat that invigorates the spirit and strengthens our connection to the incredible wild spaces that define our state. For anyone seeking a truly unforgettable wilderness adventure right here in Minnesota, Campsite #1997 stands as an exceptional choice.

BWCA Campsite #1997

Ely, MN 55731, USA