BWCA Campsite #849

Minnesota, known for its pristine lakes and vast natural beauty, offers unparalleled opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Among the many hidden gems within the state is the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), a million-acre mosaic of lakes and forests. For those seeking an authentic wilderness experience, BWCA Campsite #849 stands out as a prime destination on Alton Lake, promising solitude, breathtaking views, and a true escape into nature.

This detailed guide is designed for local Minnesotans looking to discover more about this exceptional backcountry campsite. We'll explore its unique characteristics, what you can expect during your stay, and why it's a perfectly suited spot for a memorable wilderness adventure.

BWCA Campsite #849 is a designated wilderness campsite located within the legendary Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a protected area renowned for its serene lakes, ancient forests, and abundant wildlife. Unlike traditional campgrounds with amenities, BWCA campsites offer a primitive camping experience, emphasizing self-reliance and immersion in nature. Campsite #849, specifically situated on Alton Lake, is known for its picturesque setting and a degree of seclusion that many wilderness seekers covet. It's an ideal spot for canoe campers, providing a raw and unfiltered connection to Minnesota's iconic wilderness.

As a key component of the BWCAW, Campsite #849 adheres to the "Leave No Trace" principles, ensuring its pristine condition is maintained for future generations. Visitors are expected to pack out everything they pack in, minimize their impact, and respect the natural environment. This commitment to preservation contributes to the unique and unspoiled character of the area, making every visit a truly special encounter with the wild.

BWCA Campsite #849 is nestled in Schroeder Township, MN 55604, USA, deep within the Superior National Forest. Its specific location is on Alton Lake, a beautiful body of water known for its clear waters and surrounding pine forests. Access to this campsite, like all BWCA sites, is primarily by canoe. The Boundary Waters operates under a permit system, particularly for overnight and motorized day trips between May 1 and September 30. Visitors must secure a quota permit through Recreation.gov, which specifies their entry point and date. This system helps manage visitor numbers and preserves the wilderness character of the area.

The journey to Campsite #849 typically involves paddling and potentially portaging, depending on your chosen entry point into the BWCA. While the exact route will vary, a common approach might involve entry points that lead into Alton Lake or connected waterways. It's essential to plan your route carefully, considering portage lengths and water conditions. The access to the campsite itself, as noted by a past visitor, has a "rocky and steep" landing, which may require campers to get into the water to unload their canoes. This is a common characteristic of many BWCA landings, adding to the rugged authenticity of the wilderness experience. While challenging, this kind of access contributes to the campsite's secluded feel, making it less visible from the main lake and enhancing its private atmosphere.

As a wilderness campsite within the BWCA, the "services" provided are primarily natural and rustic, emphasizing self-sufficiency. You won't find modern amenities like running water, electricity, or developed restrooms. Instead, the focus is on a traditional camping experience. However, there are fundamental provisions that are part of every designated BWCA campsite:

• Designated Fire Grate: Each campsite is equipped with a steel fire grate for cooking and campfires, allowing visitors to safely enjoy a quintessential camping activity.
• Latrine: A basic wilderness latrine (often a pit toilet) is provided a short distance from the main camping area, promoting proper waste disposal and maintaining sanitation.
• Tent Pads: While not always perfectly flat or manicured, campsites typically have designated areas or "tent pads" where campers can pitch their tents, aiming to minimize impact on the surrounding vegetation.
• Access to Fresh Water: Campers can filter or treat water directly from Alton Lake for drinking and cooking purposes. It's crucial to bring appropriate water purification methods.
• Seclusion: One of the most valued "services" of BWCA Campsite #849 is its inherent seclusion, offering a quiet and undisturbed natural environment, as highlighted by a previous visitor who appreciated its tucked-away location from the main lake traffic.

Preparation is key for a BWCA trip, as campers are responsible for all their supplies, including food, water purification, shelter, and safety equipment. Outfitters in nearby towns like Ely or Grand Marais can provide rental gear, maps, and expert advice for planning your trip.

BWCA Campsite #849 distinguishes itself with several notable features that enhance the wilderness camping experience:

• Stunning Lake Overlook: A significant highlight mentioned by a past visitor is the campsite's position on a "nice overlook for Lake Alton." This elevated vantage point likely offers expansive and picturesque views of the lake, perfect for enjoying sunrises, sunsets, or simply observing the natural beauty of the Boundary Waters.
• Enhanced Seclusion: The campsite's "secluded from being seen from the lake" characteristic is a major draw. This provides a heightened sense of privacy and intimacy with nature, allowing campers to truly disconnect from the outside world and enjoy uninterrupted tranquility.
• Natural Bug Repellent (Breeze): A unique and welcome feature, especially in Minnesota's summer months, is the "nice breeze to keep the bugs down" due to its location. This natural ventilation can significantly improve comfort, making evenings and mornings more enjoyable.
• Rocky, Steep Landing: While challenging, the "rocky and steep" landing adds to the campsite's rugged character and helps maintain its secluded nature by deterring casual visitors. It's a testament to the authentic wilderness experience offered.
• Suitability for Groups: The campsite was noted as being suitable for a group of four, suggesting it offers adequate space for multiple tents and a comfortable group setup without feeling cramped.
• Opportunity for Wildlife Viewing: Like all BWCA campsites, #849 offers ample opportunities to observe Minnesota's diverse wildlife, including various bird species, moose, deer, and potentially even bears (requiring proper food storage practices).
• Star Gazing: Far from city lights, the BWCA offers incredible opportunities for star gazing, and an overlook site like #849 would provide an exceptional unobstructed view of the night sky.

These features combine to create a compelling and memorable camping experience for those who appreciate raw, untamed nature.

As a designated wilderness campsite, BWCA Campsite #849 does not have a direct phone number or a visitor center on-site. Its management falls under the U.S. Forest Service, specifically the Superior National Forest, which oversees the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

For permit reservations, general information about the BWCA, regulations, and trip planning, you should refer to the official sources:

Permits & Reservations:

All overnight and motorized day use permits for the BWCAW from May 1 to September 30 are issued through Recreation.gov. You can access their website or call their reservation line.

• Website: Recreation.gov (search for "Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness")

General Information & Administration:

For more detailed information about the Superior National Forest and the BWCAW, including regulations, alerts, and visitor guidelines, contact the U.S. Forest Service:

• Address (Superior National Forest Headquarters):

  Superior National Forest
  8901 Grand Avenue Place
  Duluth, MN 55808, USA

• Phone: While a general public inquiry line is available for the Superior National Forest, it's best to consult their official website for the most up-to-date contact information for specific ranger districts or general inquiries related to the BWCA.

Remember that direct contact with the campsite itself is not possible due to its wilderness nature. All planning and inquiries must go through the appropriate administrative channels or local outfitters who specialize in BWCA trips.

For Minnesotans seeking an authentic wilderness adventure, BWCA Campsite #849 on Alton Lake presents an ideal opportunity to reconnect with nature and experience the state's renowned natural heritage. This campsite embodies the quintessential Boundary Waters experience, offering a blend of challenge, tranquility, and breathtaking beauty that resonates deeply with those who appreciate the outdoors.

The seclusion of Campsite #849, tucked away from the main lake, provides a level of privacy that is increasingly rare in popular outdoor destinations. This allows locals to fully immerse themselves in the peace and quiet of the wilderness, escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life. The natural breeze, a welcome feature, helps mitigate common concerns about insects, enhancing comfort during your stay.

The rugged access, while requiring some effort, is part of the allure. It ensures that those who visit are truly committed to the wilderness experience, fostering a sense of accomplishment and a deeper appreciation for the unspoiled environment. For families or groups of friends, the campsite's capacity, as evidenced by its suitability for a group of four, means you can share this incredible experience with your chosen companions, creating lasting memories.

Furthermore, supporting and visiting the BWCA helps sustain this invaluable natural resource for future generations. By engaging in responsible wilderness practices and adhering to the "Leave No Trace" principles, Minnesotans can actively contribute to the preservation of this iconic landscape. BWCA Campsite #849 is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a gateway to an unforgettable journey into the heart of Minnesota's wild, offering a chance to challenge yourself, find solitude, and marvel at the raw beauty of the North Woods, all within a reasonable distance for local residents.

BWCA Campsite #849

Schroeder Township, MN 55604, USA