BWCA Campsite #2002

For those of us in Minnesota who truly understand and appreciate the profound solitude of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), Campsite #2002 on Ottertrack Lake offers an authentic and deeply immersive experience. This isn't a conventional campground with paved roads and modern amenities; instead, it's a testament to the raw, unspoiled beauty of our state's iconic wilderness. For Minnesotans drawn to the call of the wild, the BWCAW is a sacred space, and a site like #2002 provides the perfect base for an unforgettable journey into its heart.

Located deep within the BWCAW, near Fall Lake Township and accessible from entry points outside Ely, MN, Campsite #2002 embodies the core principles of wilderness camping: self-reliance, respect for nature, and a profound connection to the environment. It's a place where the sound of loons echoing across the water replaces traffic noise, and the vast, star-filled night sky becomes your ceiling. This campsite is designed for those willing to paddle and portage to earn their tranquility, promising rewards far greater than any convenience found in developed areas.

Campsite #2002 on Ottertrack Lake is known among Boundary Waters enthusiasts for its unique characteristics. While it may present some natural challenges, such as rocky or rooty tent pads, these are often seen as part of the authentic wilderness experience. The appeal of a BWCA campsite lies in its ability to offer genuine seclusion, direct access to exceptional fishing, and stunning natural vistas – features that Site #2002 consistently delivers. It’s an invitation to experience Minnesota's most treasured wilderness as it's meant to be: wild, beautiful, and deeply rejuvenating.

BWCA Campsite #2002 is located on Ottertrack Lake, a part of the expansive Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness near Fall Lake Township, MN 55731, USA. It's crucial for local Minnesotans planning a trip to understand that this is a true wilderness campsite, meaning it is only accessible by canoe or kayak, typically involving paddling and portaging from a designated BWCAW entry point. You cannot drive directly to this campsite.

The primary access points for Ottertrack Lake, and thus for Campsite #2002, are usually through entry points near Ely, such as Entry Point 24 (Fall Lake) or Entry Point 25 (Moose Lake). From these entry points, paddlers would embark on a journey that involves navigating interconnected lakes and portaging canoes and gear over land between them. This multi-lake, portage-dependent access ensures the deep wilderness character and seclusion of sites like #2002. For example, from Fall Lake, a common route involves portaging into Newton Lake and then possibly into Basswood Lake before reaching the chain of lakes that lead to Ottertrack.

The journey itself is an integral part of the BWCAW experience. Campers should be prepared for various water conditions and the physical demands of portaging. While precise distances to Campsite #2002 from specific entry points can vary based on chosen routes, outfitters in Ely can provide detailed maps and guidance on the most efficient and scenic ways to reach Ottertrack Lake. The campsite's exact location on Ottertrack ensures remarkable lake views, particularly noted for sunsets over the Canadian cliffs, providing a breathtaking reward for the effort involved in reaching this secluded haven.

BWCA Campsite #2002 offers the quintessential amenities found at designated wilderness campsites within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. These services are deliberately kept rustic to preserve the wilderness character and promote a low-impact camping experience. Campers should always be prepared for self-sufficiency. Here are the typical services you can expect:

• Designated Tent Pads: The site typically features multiple cleared areas suitable for pitching tents. Reviews suggest that while there are sufficient pads (up to 4), some might be "rooty or rocky," requiring careful tent placement or extra padding.
• Steel Fire Grate: A permanent steel fire grate is provided for campfires and cooking. Campers must only build fires within this grate and adhere to all fire restrictions, which can include bans during dry periods.
• Wilderness Latrine: A designated outdoor pit toilet, often referred to as a "latrine" or "privy," is provided to concentrate human waste and protect water quality. These are typically basic, unadorned facilities.
• Bear Hang/Bear Box Opportunities: While a specific bear box might not be guaranteed at every BWCA campsite, it's a common practice (and often a requirement) to properly store all food and scented items in a bear-resistant manner. Reviews for Site #2002 mention "Good trees for bear hang," indicating suitable spots for suspending food packs.
• Canoe/Boat Landing: The site includes a landing area for canoes or kayaks. Reviews describe it as an "excellent and simple" landing, which is highly valuable for ease of arrival and departure in a paddle-in wilderness.
• No Potable Water: There is no source of treated drinking water. All water for consumption must be filtered, boiled, or chemically treated from the lake.
• No Electricity or Hookups: As a true wilderness site, there are no electrical hookups, showers (beyond lake bathing at least 150 feet from shore), or garbage services. All trash must be packed out.

BWCA Campsite #2002 offers several distinctive features and highlights that contribute to its appeal for a deep wilderness experience. These characteristics are often what seasoned BWCA enthusiasts seek out:

• Stunning Sunset Views: A significant highlight is the opportunity for "great location for sunsets over the Canadian cliffs," providing a breathtaking backdrop for evening relaxation. The kitchen area is also noted to have a "nice view."
• Excellent Seating Area: Reviews mention a "great seating area" and "good sitting logs" around the fire grate, enhancing comfort during campfire activities and meals.
• Good Airflow: The site is noted to have a "nice western breeze," which can be a significant advantage in keeping insects at bay, especially during peak bug season.
• Proximity to Quality Fishing: Ottertrack Lake and its connecting waters are known for good fishing. The site offers convenient access to areas where Ottertrack meets Knife Lake, which are often productive fishing spots for species like northern pike and walleye.
• Wildlife Sightings: Being in a remote wilderness area, campers at Site #2002 have a higher chance of observing wildlife, with one review even noting a "very large snapping turtle" in the small bay and "huge northern" (pike).
• Ample Tent Capacity: With up to four tent pads, the site can comfortably accommodate a group, allowing for a shared wilderness experience. While some pads may be rooty or rocky, their presence is beneficial.
• Seclusion and Privacy: The inherent nature of BWCA campsites, being spaced far apart and accessible only by water, ensures a high degree of privacy and a genuine sense of being alone in the wilderness.
• Hammock Opportunities: A specific "very nice spot for hanging a hammock" is noted in reviews, adding a comfortable and popular relaxation option.

For reservations and information regarding BWCA Campsite #2002, it is crucial 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: Fall Lake Township, MN 55731, USA (This general address indicates its proximity to an entry point area; the campsite itself is within the wilderness on Ottertrack Lake.)

Reservation System: All overnight permits for the BWCAW are exclusively managed through the Recreation.gov website. To reserve BWCA Campsite #2002 (or any other BWCA campsite), you must first secure an entry permit for a specific entry point (e.g., Fall Lake Entry Point #24 or Moose Lake Entry Point #25) on a particular date. Campsites are then occupied on a first-come, first-served basis once you are inside the wilderness. However, you can indicate your intended route and desired campsites during the planning phase. It is highly recommended to reserve permits well in advance, as they are limited, especially during peak season (May 1st - September 30th), with reservations typically opening in late January or early February for the entire season.

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 manages 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.)

Always consult official BWCAW maps (like Fisher Maps or McKenzie Maps) for precise campsite locations and portage details, and check for any alerts or special regulations before your trip.

For us Minnesotans, BWCA Campsite #2002 on Ottertrack Lake represents the pinnacle of wilderness camping, aligning perfectly with our deep appreciation for unspoiled nature and authentic outdoor challenges. Its suitability for locals stems from its embodiment of the true Boundary Waters experience, which many of us cherish as a fundamental part of our state's identity. This isn't a drive-up spot; it demands preparation, paddling, and portaging, a process that seasoned Minnesota adventurers embrace as part of the journey's reward. The effort to reach Site #2002 means that once you're there, you're truly isolated, surrounded only by the sounds of the forest and lake, a solitude that is increasingly rare and highly prized.

The campsite's features, like its multiple tent pads and excellent landing, make it practical for group trips, whether with family or friends, enabling shared adventures in the wilderness. The mention of "good trees for bear hang" highlights the site's readiness for responsible wilderness practices, something deeply ingrained in the Minnesota outdoor ethos. And, of course, the unparalleled fishing opportunities on Ottertrack Lake, combined with the breathtaking sunset views over the Canadian cliffs, solidify its appeal for those who seek both active recreation and serene beauty.

In essence, BWCA Campsite #2002 offers Minnesotans a chance to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the wild heart of our state. It's a place where resilience is built, memories are forged, and the incredible natural heritage of the Boundary Waters is experienced firsthand. For anyone seeking a genuine wilderness escape, a challenge, and an unforgettable communion with nature right here in Minnesota, Campsite #2002 is an outstanding choice that promises to fulfill the deepest desires of the adventurous spirit.

BWCA Campsite #2002

Fall Lake Township, MN 55731, USA