BWCA campsite 734

For Minnesotans who dream of escaping into the purest form of wilderness, BWCA Campsite #734 on Pine Lake offers an exceptional opportunity within the celebrated Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Unlike conventional campgrounds, this is a designated, primitive campsite designed for canoeists and kayakers, providing an authentic, unplugged experience deep within one of North America's most protected wild spaces. Described simply but powerfully by a real customer as a "Beautiful Campsite!", #734 stands out as a favored spot for those seeking solitude, stunning natural beauty, and a quintessential Boundary Waters adventure.

Located in the vast Superior National Forest, accessible from the Grand Marais area, Campsite #734 is part of a sprawling network of over 2,000 designated sites. It's a destination for individuals and groups ready to embrace self-reliance, navigate by paddle and portage, and truly immerse themselves in a landscape where the rhythm of nature dictates the day. This campsite, specifically noted for its ample space and excellent fishing opportunities, promises a memorable retreat from the modern world, offering a chance to reconnect with the wild heart of Minnesota.

BWCA Campsite #734 is situated on Pine Lake, within the expansive Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), near Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA. This location places it in the eastern segment of the BWCAW, an area primarily accessed via the iconic Gunflint Trail, which originates in Grand Marais. Pine Lake itself is a significant body of water within the wilderness, known for its scenic beauty and connection to various canoe routes.

Access to BWCA Campsite #734 is exclusively by water and portage; there are no roads leading directly to the site. To reach it, visitors must secure a quota permit for a specific BWCAW entry point, especially for overnight trips between May 1 and September 30. For Campsite #734 on Pine Lake, a common entry point would be #68 - Pine Lake. This entry point is accessible via the Arrowhead Trail (County Road 16) from Hovland, Minnesota, which is a short distance from Grand Marais. From the entry point, the journey involves paddling across waterways and potentially carrying canoes and gear over designated portage trails to reach the campsite.

User reviews for Campsite #734 provide valuable insights into its accessibility. The "best canoe landing is just east of the rock" at the site, though some describe the landing as "rocky shallow" or requiring going "in sideways to the rocks," especially with wind. Despite these considerations, it is generally considered to have "easy access canoe landing" by some, indicating a range of experiences based on water levels and conditions. The journey to the campsite is an integral part of the adventure, offering breathtaking scenery and a true immersion into the wilderness before even setting up camp. Detailed route planning with appropriate maps is crucial for navigating to this remote and beautiful location.

As a primitive wilderness campsite within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, BWCA Campsite #734 offers very basic amenities, strictly adhering to the "Leave No Trace" principles. The focus is on preserving the pristine environment and requiring campers to be self-sufficient.

• Designated Campsite: BWCA Campsite #734 is an officially marked site within the wilderness, providing a legal and established location for overnight camping. Camping is permitted only at these designated sites.

• Wilderness Latrine: Each designated campsite is equipped with a wilderness latrine, typically an open-air pit toilet, designed for proper human waste management to minimize environmental impact. Reviews mention the "toilet is about 100 yards straight uphill from tent pads" or "about 50 yards straight uphill," indicating its secluded placement.

• Steel Fire Grate: A steel fire grate is provided at the campsite, allowing for controlled campfires. Campers must always check for current fire restrictions and bans, as these can be implemented at any time. Only dead and downed wood found on the forest floor should be used as fuel. One review notes the "fire is out in the open so if you get a lot of wind it might require a windbreak," while others say there's a "Great view of the lake from the fire grate."

• Tent Pads/Areas: The site is described as "large" and having "lots of room" with "plenty of tent spots" or "multiple tent pads." Some are "sheltered by trees," while others note "only a couple real good tent pads - the rest are all sloped a bit." This indicates ample, albeit varied, space for setting up tents.

• Canoe Landing: There is a designated canoe landing. Descriptions vary, with some calling it "easy access" and "perfect," while others note it can be "rocky shallow" or "not terrible" but "not great" if the water level is high or windy, suggesting some challenges.

• No Potable Water: There is no source of potable water at the campsite. All drinking, cooking, and washing water must be brought in or filtered/treated from Pine Lake.

• No Electricity/Hookups: As a true wilderness area, no electrical hookups or modern conveniences are available. Campers must be prepared to operate without electricity.

• No Trash Disposal: All waste, including food scraps and personal hygiene items, must be packed out of the wilderness. There are no trash cans or disposal services at the campsite.

• No Showers/Developed Restrooms: Beyond the basic latrine, there are no showers or conventional restrooms. Campers are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles for hygiene.

• Permit System: Access to this campsite requires a specific BWCAW quota permit for overnight stays (May 1 - September 30), obtained via Recreation.gov.

• "Beautiful Campsite!": This direct quote from a user review immediately highlights the aesthetic appeal of Campsite #734, indicating a visually pleasing natural setting.

• Spacious and Accommodating: Described as a "Large campsite with lots of room" and "enough room for several canoes and tents," it's ideal for the BWCA maximum group size of nine, with "plenty of tent spots that are pretty sheltered."

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Reviews repeatedly emphasize great fishing, noting "Caught small-mouth bass from campsite," "Walleyes and small-mouth caught on south side of lake directly across from site and on south side of island." Pine Lake itself is known for "abundant fishing opportunities for Walleye, Northern Pike and Smallmouth Bass."

• Great Lake Views: Many users note a "Great view of the lake from the fire grate" and "Outstanding view of the lake and southern shore," making for scenic mornings and evenings.

• Sheltered Tent Pads: Multiple reviews mention "sheltered tent pads" or "lots of sheltered tent pads" protected by trees, offering comfortable sleeping areas even in varying weather conditions.

• Hammock-Friendly: The campsite offers "a nice area to hang hammocks up just inside the site," with one group having "five slung at one time," indicating plenty of suitable trees for relaxation.

• Secluded Wilderness Feel: Despite being on a larger lake (Pine Lake), the site provides "more privacy" due to the lake's size and relatively less boat traffic compared to some areas. It maintains a strong sense of being deep in the wilderness.

• Proximity to Johnson Falls and Border Route Trail: Pine Lake offers "Access to Johnson Falls and the Border Route Trail," allowing for exciting day trips or extended hiking adventures from the campsite.

• Plenty of Firewood: One review specifically mentions "plenty of wood" in the "middle of a cedar stand," which is a practical benefit for campfires.

Address: Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA (This is a general area address. BWCA campsites are specific GPS points within the wilderness, not physical mailing addresses.)

Phone: There is no direct phone number for BWCA Campsite #734 itself.

For information regarding BWCAW permits, regulations, route planning, or any other general inquiries related to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, the primary contacts are:

• Superior National Forest - Gunflint Ranger District: Located in Grand Marais, this is the managing office for the eastern portion of the BWCAW, including areas accessed via the Gunflint Trail and the region around Pine Lake. They can provide the most current information on conditions, fire restrictions, and permit details.

  Gunflint Ranger District Phone: (218) 387-1750

• Recreation.gov: All overnight permits for the BWCAW (May 1 - September 30) must be reserved and managed through Recreation.gov. This is the official and essential portal for securing your access to the wilderness.

  Recreation.gov National Call Center: 1-877-444-6777 (Operating hours vary by season; check their website for current times.)

• Local Outfitters in Grand Marais or along the Gunflint Trail: Numerous businesses in this region specialize in outfitting BWCA trips. They offer canoe and gear rentals, food packing services, shuttle options, and invaluable, up-to-date, on-the-ground advice for navigating the wilderness and understanding specific campsite conditions. They are often the best resource for detailed trip planning and gear needs.

For Minnesotans, BWCA Campsite #734 on Pine Lake offers an exceptionally suitable and highly desirable wilderness experience that deeply resonates with their state's identity. As residents of the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," Minnesotans have an inherent connection to water and a profound appreciation for pristine natural environments. The BWCAW, with its vast interconnected waterways, provides an unparalleled opportunity to engage with this heritage, offering a world-class wilderness right in their "backyard." This proximity, especially from the Grand Marais area, makes it an accessible yet profoundly adventurous escape.

Campsite #734, described as a "Beautiful Campsite!" and a "Great site for a larger group" with "plenty of tent spots," is particularly well-suited for local groups, families, or friends planning a wilderness trip. Its ample space means that even larger parties can comfortably set up camp without feeling cramped, a significant advantage in the BWCA. The "sheltered tent pads" offer practical comfort, ensuring a more restful night's sleep regardless of weather conditions.

The renowned fishing opportunities, with smallmouth bass and walleyes readily caught from or near the campsite, make it a dream destination for local anglers. This directly aligns with one of Minnesota's most popular outdoor pastimes. Furthermore, the "Outstanding view of the lake" from the fire grate area provides a quintessential Boundary Waters aesthetic, fostering moments of peaceful reflection and memorable sunsets. The ability to hang multiple hammocks speaks to the site's comfortable and relaxing atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after a day of paddling.

Beyond the specific features, the overall experience of journeying into the BWCAW—navigating by paddle and portage, disconnecting from technology, and immersing oneself in pure nature—offers a unique form of rejuvenation that many Minnesotans seek. It's a chance to build resilience, strengthen bonds with fellow adventurers, and create lasting memories in an environment that remains wild and true. For Minnesotans, BWCA Campsite #734 isn't just a place to camp; it's an invitation to live out the spirit of their state's natural beauty and embark on an unforgettable adventure that truly feels like home.

BWCA campsite 734

Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA