BWCA Campsite #859

For Minnesotans who genuinely seek the profound quiet and untouched beauty of our state's wilderness, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) offers experiences that are simply unparalleled. Within this vast, protected mosaic of interconnected lakes and dense forests, BWCA Campsite #859 on the serene Wine Lake stands out as a consistently highly-rated destination. This is not a typical drive-in campground; it’s an immersive wilderness site, designed for those who embrace the journey by paddle and portage, and who crave deep solitude amidst breathtaking natural surroundings.

The BWCAW is a federally designated wilderness area, meticulously managed by the U.S. Forest Service to preserve its primitive character. This means that campsites like #859 provide only the most essential, rustic amenities, fostering a true "Leave No Trace" camping experience. For us locals, the BWCA is more than just a place to visit; it’s a vital part of Minnesota’s identity, offering a cherished opportunity to unplug from the digital world, challenge ourselves physically, and immerse in one of the world's most unique and tranquil lake-land wildernesses. Here, the only sounds you'll hear are the lapping of waves, the calls of loons, and the wind rustling through towering pines.

Campsite #859 on Wine Lake has garnered an impressive reputation among paddlers, often described as an "Outstanding site" and "Easily the best site on the lake." Its features, such as a "nice landing," "marvelous rock near the water for relaxing and fishing," and a "grove of gigantic white pines" offering ample shade and hammock options, make it exceptionally desirable. It boasts a "multi-tiered fire grate and kitchen area that could seat a crowd comfortably," demonstrating its capacity for groups while still providing a sense of seclusion. Its location on Wine Lake, which is praised as a "stunning, secluded lake," further solidifies its appeal for those seeking a truly memorable and comfortable backcountry experience in Minnesota's canoe country.

Location and Accessibility

BWCA Campsite #859 is located on Wine Lake, a beautiful and secluded lake nestled within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The general address, West Cook, MN 55604, USA, broadly places it within the western side of the BWCA, which is part of the larger Superior National Forest region in northeastern Minnesota. It is crucial for local users to understand that, like all designated BWCA campsites, #859 is a wilderness site, accessible exclusively by paddle and portage; there are no roads leading directly to it.

To reach Campsite #859 on Wine Lake, visitors typically embark from a designated BWCA entry point. Based on public information, a common entry point to access Wine Lake is Entry Point #38 (Sawbill Lake) or potentially Entry Point #51 (Missing Link Lake). The choice of entry point will dictate the specific paddling and portaging route required.

The journey to Wine Lake and Campsite #859 involves navigating a series of interconnected lakes and undertaking several portages. While some routes into this area may have relatively straightforward portages, the overall travel to Wine Lake contributes to its secluded nature. Reviewers note that the site is "relatively high off the water for an island site" and "Well into the trees and easy to miss from the water," suggesting a hidden gem quality that adds to its privacy once reached.

The campsite itself boasts a "nice landing," making the arrival by canoe relatively easy. Once on Wine Lake, campers will use detailed BWCA maps (such as those from McKenzie Maps or Fisher Maps) to locate Campsite #859, which is situated on the west side of an island. The paddle-in nature of Campsite #859 ensures a deep wilderness experience, far removed from vehicular noise and modern infrastructure. Its accessibility, while requiring effort and proper planning, is precisely what makes it a cherished destination for those seeking profound solitude and a genuine outdoor adventure in Minnesota's canoe country.

Services Offered

BWCA Campsite #859, like all designated campsites within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, offers a minimalist yet essential set of services designed to support a low-impact, self-reliant camping experience. The guiding principle of the BWCA is to preserve its pristine wilderness character, and visitors are expected to rigorously adhere to "Leave No Trace" ethics.

• Designated Campsite: Campsite #859 is an officially marked and maintained campsite by the U.S. Forest Service. This ensures that camping activities are concentrated in specific, durable locations, which is vital for minimizing overall human impact on the fragile wilderness ecosystem.

• Wilderness Latrine: Each designated BWCA campsite is equipped with a wilderness latrine, often referred to as a "thunderbox." These are primitive, usually open-air pit toilets designed solely for the disposal of human waste. It is absolutely crucial that visitors pack out all other personal waste (e.g., toilet paper, hygiene products, food scraps, trash) as these facilities are not designed to be garbage receptacles.

• Steel Fire Grate: A permanent steel fire grate is provided at the campsite. This allows for safe and contained campfires when fire restrictions are not in effect. Campers are permitted to collect only dead and downed wood that can be broken by hand for firewood. Using a camp stove for cooking is always encouraged as a more environmentally friendly alternative, especially during dry periods or when fire bans are enacted.

• Ample Tent Pads/Cleared Areas: Reviewers praise this site for having "Plenty of space" and "Many hammock options, including a grove of gigantic white pines." While no specific number is given, it's clear there are numerous functional and generally flat areas suitable for pitching tents, accommodating various group sizes comfortably.

• Excellent Canoe Landing: A significant service feature highlighted is the "Nice landing," which is crucial for easy and safe arrival and departure by canoe.

• Multi-tiered Fire Grate and Kitchen Area: The description of a "Multi-tiered fire grate and kitchen area that could seat a crowd comfortably" suggests a thoughtfully designed space for cooking and gathering, even if "a bit back from the water."

• Natural Seating: The presence of a "bench by the firegrate that is flat and has a back rest" and "Several flat rocks surround the firegrate providing a convenient table" enhances the comfort of this rustic site, blending practical amenities with the natural environment.

It is critical for visitors to understand what services are NOT provided at BWCA Campsite #859:

• No Potable Water: There are no spigots or sources of treated drinking water. All drinking water must be filtered, purified, or boiled from Wine Lake, or carried in by the group.

• No Electricity or Hookups: The BWCA is a non-motorized and primitive wilderness area. There are no electrical outlets, Wi-Fi, or cell service. Visitors should be prepared to be fully self-sufficient and off-grid.

• No Trash Receptacles: The BWCA operates on a strict "pack it in, pack it out" policy. All garbage, including food scraps, packaging, and anything else brought into the wilderness, must be carried out by the group, leaving no trace behind.

• No Developed Showers or Modern Restrooms: Beyond the primitive latrine, there are no modern restroom or shower facilities.

• No Traditional Picnic Tables: While natural seating elements are present, standard picnic tables made of treated lumber are not typically found at these primitive sites.

Features / Highlights

• Outstanding Overall Site Quality: Campsite #859 is consistently rated as "Outstanding" and "Easily the best site on the lake," indicating a superior camping experience compared to many other BWCA sites. This high praise is a strong indicator of its desirability.

• Secluded and Stunning Lake Setting: Located on Wine Lake, described as a "stunning, secluded lake," the campsite offers a profound sense of peace and privacy. Its position "Well into the trees and easy to miss from the water" further enhances this feeling of hidden discovery.

• Magnificent White Pines: A notable feature is the "grove of gigantic white pines." These provide "ample shade and cover," excellent options for "hammock hanging," and contribute significantly to the aesthetic beauty and classic Northwoods atmosphere of the site.

• Excellent Canoe Landing: The "nice landing" ensures easy and convenient access from the water, which is a practical benefit for any canoe trip, especially when dealing with gear.

• Unique Rock Formations for Relaxation and Fishing: The "marvelous rock near the water for relaxing and fishing" offers a unique and comfortable spot to enjoy the lake views, fish directly from shore, or simply unwind by the water's edge. While one user didn't catch fish, the presence of the rock for fishing is a distinct feature.

• Spacious and Comfortable Fire/Kitchen Area: The "multi-tiered fire grate and kitchen area that could seat a crowd comfortably" highlights its capacity for larger groups, ensuring a social and functional central hub for cooking and gathering, protected from wind.

• Good Wind Protection: Being "Well into the trees" and having a fire grate "protected by rocks" suggests good shelter from wind, which can significantly enhance comfort during cooler or breezy weather.

• Fishing Opportunities: While specific success varies, Wine Lake, like many BWCA lakes, offers potential for various fish species, providing a recreational activity for those who enjoy angling in a wild setting.

• Wildlife Observation and Stargazing: The deep wilderness location increases the chances of observing diverse wildlife and provides exceptionally dark skies for unparalleled stargazing, offering a true connection with the natural world.

Contact Information

For all official information regarding the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), including permit reservations, regulations, and general trip planning, it is essential to contact the USDA Forest Service or utilize the official government website for permit booking.

Address: West Cook, MN 55604, USA (This address broadly denotes the geographic region of the BWCAW; direct access to Campsite #859 on Wine Lake is by canoe via specific entry points and paddling/portaging).

As BWCA Campsite #859 is a remote wilderness campsite, there is no direct phone number or specific address for the campsite itself. All inquiries, particularly concerning permits and regulations, should be directed to the Superior National Forest, which manages the BWCA.

Superior National Forest Headquarters:

Phone: (218) 626-4300

Website: fs.usda.gov/superior

Permits for overnight trips into the BWCAW are required year-round. During the quota season (May 1 to September 30), permits must be reserved in advance through recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to book permits as early as possible, as popular entry points and dates fill up very quickly. Self-issued permits are available at entry point kiosks for the off-quota season (October 1 to April 30) and for day-use non-motorized trips year-round.

Additionally, numerous authorized outfitters in towns bordering the BWCA (such as Ely or Grand Marais) can provide invaluable assistance with trip planning, gear rental, and permit acquisition. They often have the most up-to-date information on lake conditions, portages, and campsite availability for specific routes leading to Wine Lake. Consulting a local outfitter is highly advisable for detailed route advice and current wilderness conditions.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Minnesotans, BWCA Campsite #859 on Wine Lake offers an exceptionally suitable and highly rewarding wilderness experience. Its consistent praise from other paddlers points to a quality of camping that aligns perfectly with what many locals seek in a Boundary Waters trip.

The site's attributes, such as its "nice landing," "plenty of space," "multi-tiered fire grate and kitchen area," and the inviting "marvelous rock near the water," combine to create a comfortable and functional basecamp. This level of amenity, while still primitive, enhances the overall experience, allowing groups to comfortably enjoy their time without the added stress of a cramped or poorly laid-out site. For Minnesotans who appreciate both the ruggedness of the wilderness and practical comfort, Campsite #859 strikes an excellent balance.

Furthermore, the presence of "gigantic white pines" and the generally secluded nature of Wine Lake provide that classic Northwoods aesthetic and profound quiet that draws so many locals to the BWCA. It’s a chance to truly disconnect, immerse in the serene beauty of the forest and lake, and create lasting memories without the distractions of a more populated area. Whether seeking a basecamp for fishing, a comfortable spot for a family trip, or simply a peaceful retreat, Campsite #859 on Wine Lake stands out as an ideal choice for any Minnesotan ready for an authentic and highly enjoyable Boundary Waters adventure.

BWCA Campsite #859

West Cook, MN 55604, USA