BWCA Campsite #65

For Minnesotans who answer the call of the wild with paddle in hand, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is more than just a destination; it's a cherished natural heritage. BWCA Campsite #65, located on the tranquil waters of Lynx Lake, offers a quintessential BWCA experience. This isn't a simple car-camping spot; it's a deep dive into an expansive, motor-free wilderness where the only sounds are those of nature – the whisper of the wind through ancient pines, the splash of a paddle, and the haunting call of a loon. For local outdoor enthusiasts, this campsite represents a pristine escape, a chance to truly disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the raw, untamed beauty of Minnesota's Northwoods. The journey to Lynx Lake and Campsite #65 is an adventure in itself, promising solitude, challenge, and an unforgettable immersion into one of America's most beloved wilderness areas.

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a vast, million-acre expanse of interconnected lakes, rivers, and forests, protected from motorized vehicles and significant development. Camping within the BWCAW is a hallmark Minnesota experience, demanding self-sufficiency, respect for the environment, and a willingness to embrace the journey. While the provided address of "Crane Lake, MN" points to a vital gateway community and outfitting hub, BWCA Campsite #65 on Lynx Lake is situated deep within the wilderness, requiring access solely by paddle and portage. Lynx Lake itself is known for its clear waters and relatively quiet atmosphere, even with other campers in the area, making it an ideal setting for a peaceful retreat. The effort required to reach a site like #65 enhances the sense of accomplishment and ensures a highly secluded and impactful visit, offering ample opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and quiet contemplation.

BWCA Campsite #65 is located on Lynx Lake, deep within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) of the Superior National Forest. While the provided address is Crane Lake, MN 55725, USA, it is crucial to understand that this campsite is not directly on Crane Lake and is not accessible by road. Crane Lake serves as one of the many gateway communities and entry points into the BWCAW. However, access to Lynx Lake, and therefore Campsite #65, typically involves specific entry points and a series of paddle and portage segments.

A common route to Lynx Lake involves entering through the Nina Moose Lake entry point (Entry Point #16 or #14, depending on the specific starting point), or potentially via entry points accessible from the Echo Trail. From these entry points, visitors embark on a multi-day journey involving paddling across lakes and navigating portages (carrying canoes and gear over land between lakes). For instance, a route might involve paddling Nina Moose River, portaging into Nina Moose Lake, then continuing through a series of smaller lakes and portages (such as Little Shell Lake from Shell Lake, which then connects to Lynx Lake via a simple beaver dam pull-over).

The exact route and number of portages to BWCA Campsite #65 on Lynx Lake will depend on the chosen entry point and the specific itinerary. It is imperative to have detailed maps of the BWCAW (such as Fisher or McKenzie maps), a compass, and strong navigation skills. Due to the remote nature of the BWCAW, permits are required for all overnight trips from May 1st to September 30th. These quota permits must be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov and specify the entry point and entry date. Outfitters in gateway communities (like Ely or Crane Lake) can provide shuttles to entry points, outfitting services, and invaluable advice on current conditions and recommended routes to Lynx Lake. The journey to Lynx Lake is an integral part of the adventure, immersing you in the wilderness even before you reach your campsite.

BWCA Campsite #65, like all designated campsites within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, offers essential, yet primitive, services designed to uphold the wilderness character and "Leave No Trace" principles. These amenities are intentionally minimal to preserve the untouched nature of the area.

• Designated Tent Pads: Each campsite provides cleared and relatively flat areas suitable for pitching tents. These are intended to minimize impact on the surrounding vegetation and offer stable ground for shelters. Campsite #65 is noted to have a large rock with an overlook, offering potential tent locations at multiple levels.
• Steel Fire Grate: A permanent steel fire grate is provided at each designated campsite. This allows for safe and contained campfires, a cherished part of the wilderness experience. Visitors are permitted to gather only dead and downed wood from the forest floor for fuel. Burning trash is strictly prohibited.
• Wilderness Latrine: A designated wilderness latrine (typically a simple pit toilet) is provided a short distance from the main camping area. These facilities are crucial for proper human waste disposal and maintaining sanitation within the wilderness. Campers must bring their own toilet paper and pack out all personal waste items.
• Bear-Resistant Food Storage (Natural Methods): While not always a physical "pole" like in some frontcountry campgrounds, campers are strictly required to secure their food and scented items from bears and other animals. This is typically achieved by hanging food bags from a sturdy tree limb (at least 12 feet off the ground and 6 feet from the tree trunk) or by using bear-resistant containers.
• Access to Natural Water: The campsite is located on the shore of Lynx Lake, providing direct access to water for cooking, cleaning, and drinking. However, all water drawn from the lake must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption, as there is no potable water source.
• No Modern Amenities: It is important for visitors to understand that there are no modern conveniences such as electricity, running water, showers, flush toilets, picnic tables (beyond natural logs or rocks for seating), or trash disposal services. All trash, including food scraps, must be packed out of the wilderness.

BWCA Campsite #65 on Lynx Lake offers a truly memorable wilderness experience, with several features and highlights that make it a highly sought-after destination for paddlers and campers.

• Stunning Elevated Views: A key highlight of Campsite #65 is its elevated position, described as being "on top of a large rock with a beautiful overlook of the lake." This provides "super views of the lake" and "incredible vistas," creating a picturesque setting for your stay.
• Good Swimming Access: The campsite offers "swimming under the site with a large rock to north for jumping," providing a refreshing way to cool off in the clear waters of Lynx Lake.
• Prime Fishing Opportunities: Lynx Lake is known for its deep, clean, and clear water, and is reported to have a "good population of pike and walleye." Visitors have noted "good smallmouth fishing off the point by landing," making it an excellent spot for anglers.
• Spaciousness and Multiple Tent Spots: Despite its rustic nature, the campsite features "tent spots at multiple levels" and ample space, allowing groups to comfortably spread out.
• Wind Protection: While high up, it appears the site offers some protection, with a review noting it would be "a 5 with more big trees there," suggesting that despite its rocky, open fire pit area, it can offer some shelter, though potentially making it more prone to bugs.
• Access to Nearby Trails/Portages: The site offers opportunities for further exploration, with a "trail to the south" that "gets you all the way to Agawato lake," allowing for day trips and more extensive hiking. The portage into Little Shell is also visible from the site.
• Wildlife Encounters: As with any BWCA campsite, the remote setting increases the chances of observing local wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Dark Skies for Stargazing: Far from urban light pollution, Lynx Lake offers exceptionally dark skies, ideal for stargazing and, if conditions are right, potentially viewing the Aurora Borealis.

As a designated backcountry campsite within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, BWCA Campsite #65 does not have a conventional street address or a direct phone number for reservations in the way a commercial campground would. It is a specific, numbered location identified within the park's permit system.

Address: Lynx Lake, Crane Lake, MN 55725, USA (This indicates the general gateway region. The campsite itself is deep within the BWCAW and only accessible by watercraft and portage from designated entry points, such as those near Ely or Crane Lake.)

For all inquiries regarding permits, regulations, and comprehensive trip planning for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, it is essential to contact the U.S. Forest Service Ranger District responsible for your chosen entry point or utilize the official permit reservation system.

Primary Contact for BWCAW Permits and Information (for entry points typically used to access Lynx Lake, such as the Nina Moose entry points):

Forest Service, Kawishiwi Ranger District (Superior National Forest)

Address: 1393 Hwy 169, Ely, MN 55731

Phone: (218) 365-7600 (It is highly recommended to call for the most current information, especially regarding conditions and entry point access.)

Permit reservations for overnight paddle trips into the BWCAW (May 1st to September 30th) are mandatory and must be made through Recreation.gov. It is crucial to reserve permits well in advance, as quota permits are limited per entry point per day.

Local outfitters in gateway communities like Ely or Crane Lake can also provide invaluable assistance with trip planning, gear rentals, water shuttles to entry points, and permit issuance.

For Minnesotans, BWCA Campsite #65 on Lynx Lake offers a quintessential and deeply rewarding wilderness experience that embodies the spirit of the Northwoods. Its location deep within the Boundary Waters, accessible only by paddle and portage, naturally appeals to those seeking profound solitude and a genuine escape from the clamor of everyday life. This campsite is ideally suited for local adventurers who prioritize self-reliance, are comfortable with primitive camping, and cherish the direct, unfiltered connection with nature that only a protected wilderness can provide.

The campsite's unique features, including its elevated position with breathtaking views over Lynx Lake, excellent swimming access, and prime fishing opportunities, make it a highly desirable destination. While the journey requires preparation and effort, the reward is an unparalleled sense of peace and accomplishment. For those living in Minnesota, BWCA Campsite #65 provides an accessible, yet deeply adventurous, path to disconnect from technology and daily routines, and to fully immerse oneself in the state's wild heritage. It’s a place where lifelong memories are forged through direct engagement with nature, offering a profound and lasting connection to the land and waters that define this remarkable region.

BWCA Campsite #65

Lynx Lake, Crane Lake, MN 55725, USA