BWCA Campsite #895

For Minnesotans seeking an extraordinary and truly immersive wilderness experience, BWCA Campsite #895 stands out as a premier destination within the legendary Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). This isn't just a place to set up a tent; it's a highly-regarded, remote sanctuary that promises profound solitude, breathtaking natural beauty, and the authentic sounds of the Northwoods. The BWCAW, a federally protected wilderness spanning over a million acres in northeastern Minnesota, is globally renowned for its pristine interconnected lakes, ancient forests, and historic portage routes. Campsite #895 is one of over 2,000 designated sites, and it has garnered enthusiastic reviews from those who have visited, with one customer exclaiming, "We loved this camp site. Big sloped rock landing. Great view. Lots of flat tent sights. Trolling for Lakers." This feedback highlights the site's exceptional features, making it an ideal choice for adventurers ready to disconnect from the digital world and embrace the challenges and rewards of backcountry canoe camping. Imagine waking to a serene lake view, spending your days paddling across clear waters, and your evenings under an unparalleled canopy of stars, truly experiencing the wild heart of Minnesota.

BWCA Campsite #895 is located on Brule Lake, within the vast expanse of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Its general address is listed as West Cook, MN 55604, USA. This address serves as a geographical reference point within the larger Superior National Forest, which encompasses the BWCAW. However, it's crucial for prospective visitors to understand that Campsite #895 is a remote wilderness site and, as such, is not accessible by road. Access is exclusively by canoe or kayak, involving a journey of paddling across lakes and portaging (carrying canoes and gear over land) between waterways from a designated BWCA entry point.

The primary entry point for reaching Brule Lake is Entry Point #41 (Brule Lake). This entry point is typically accessed via the Caribou Trail (County Road 4), which branches off Highway 61, east of Lutsen. From Entry Point #41, paddlers will embark on a significant journey across Brule Lake to reach the eastern end of its North Bay, where Campsite #895 is situated. Brule Lake is one of the largest lakes in the BWCA, characterized by its numerous bays, islands, and rugged, forested shorelines. Its size can make it susceptible to wind, so paddlers should be prepared for potentially challenging conditions.

The remote nature of Campsite #895 ensures a truly immersive wilderness experience, far removed from the sounds and lights of civilization. Navigation within the BWCA relies heavily on detailed official BWCA maps, which are essential for locating specific campsites and planning your route. The journey to the campsite is an integral part of the adventure, offering breathtaking views of Minnesota's iconic Northwoods landscape and fostering a profound sense of accomplishment upon arrival at this secluded and highly-rated site.

As a designated, primitive campsite within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, BWCA Campsite #895 offers fundamental services designed to support wilderness camping while rigorously adhering to the "Leave No Trace" principles that are paramount in the BWCAW. The focus is on preserving the pristine environment for all visitors.

• Designated Tent Pads: The campsite provides multiple cleared and relatively flat areas specifically designated for pitching tents. A customer review explicitly mentions "Lots of flat tent sights," indicating ample space and suitable ground for various tent sizes, which is a significant convenience in a wilderness setting.
• Fire Grate: A sturdy, permanent metal fire grate is installed at the campsite. This allows for safe and contained campfires for cooking and warmth, provided that no fire bans or restrictions are currently in effect. Visitors are responsible for collecting only dead and downed wood and ensuring all fires are completely extinguished before leaving.
• Latrine: A basic, primitive outdoor latrine (often referred to as a pit toilet or "thunderbox") is located a short distance away from the main camping area. These facilities are critical for hygienic human waste management in a wilderness environment. Users are expected to pack out all toilet paper and personal hygiene products.
• Access to Natural Water Source: Campsite #895 is situated on the shoreline of Brule Lake, providing direct access to water. However, it is absolutely essential that all water collected from the lake is filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption to remove any potential bacteria, viruses, or other contaminants. Potable water is not available directly at the campsite.
• Canoe Landing: The campsite features a suitable natural area along the shoreline for safely landing canoes and securing them when not in use. A customer review highlights a "Big sloped rock landing," indicating a solid and distinctive access point to the lake.

The features and highlights of BWCA Campsite #895 are what truly set it apart as a highly desirable destination for a quintessential Minnesota wilderness adventure. These attributes contribute significantly to an unforgettable experience.

• Exceptional Lake Views: A key highlight, as noted by a reviewer, is the "Great view" from the campsite. Its location likely provides expansive vistas of Brule Lake, offering picturesque sunrises, sunsets, and overall scenic beauty directly from your camp.
• Optimal Tent Placement: The presence of "Lots of flat tent sights" is a significant advantage, providing comfort and flexibility for setting up multiple tents or larger shelters, which can be a rarity in some wilderness campsites.
• Convenient Canoe Landing: The description of a "Big sloped rock landing" suggests a functional and potentially unique access point to the lake for loading and unloading canoes, making arrivals and departures smoother.
• Excellent Lake Trout Fishing: One of the standout features highlighted by a customer is "Trolling for Lakers." Brule Lake is known for its fishing opportunities, and the mention of "Lakers" (Lake Trout) indicates this campsite is a prime spot for targeting this prized cold-water species. This is a significant draw for anglers.
• Secluded Wilderness Setting: As a remote, paddle-in site within the BWCAW, Campsite #895 offers profound solitude and tranquility, far removed from the sounds and distractions of motorized traffic and developed areas. This allows for a deep immersion in nature.
• Unparalleled Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night skies above Campsite #895 are exceptionally dark, offering breathtaking views of stars, constellations, and the Milky Way in unparalleled clarity, creating truly memorable evenings.
• Access to Extensive Canoe Routes: From Brule Lake, paddlers can access numerous portages that connect to other lakes within the BWCA, allowing for diverse trip planning, day excursions, and the exploration of a vast network of waterways.

As a remote wilderness campsite, BWCA Campsite #895 does not have a direct phone number or a traditional mailing address for individual inquiries. Management and reservation for all campsites within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness fall under the authority of the Superior National Forest and the U.S. Forest Service.

For general inquiries, permit information, and assistance with trip planning related to the area encompassing Brule Lake (which is primarily overseen by the Tofte Ranger District), you can contact:

Tofte Ranger District

Address: 7355 W Highway 61, Tofte, MN 55615, USA (This is the Ranger District office, not the campsite itself)

Phone: (218) 663-8060 (Tofte Ranger District Office - for permit questions, regulations, and trip planning assistance)

Permits for entry into the BWCAW are required for all overnight trips and certain day use during the quota season (May 1 - September 30). These permits must be obtained in advance through Recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to reserve permits well in advance, especially for popular entry points leading to Brule Lake, as they are limited and in high demand. Local outfitters in the Grand Marais, Tofte, or Ely areas are invaluable resources for detailed route planning, gear rental, and understanding current wilderness conditions and specific regulations for your trip to Campsite #895.

For Minnesotans, BWCA Campsite #895 on Brule Lake represents a highly desirable and accessible gateway to their state's cherished wilderness heritage. The glowing review—"We loved this camp site. Big sloped rock landing. Great view. Lots of flat tent sights. Trolling for Lakers"—perfectly encapsulates why this site is so suitable for locals. It offers comfort and convenience within a truly wild setting, striking a balance that appeals to both seasoned wilderness enthusiasts and those looking for a memorable, yet manageable, backcountry adventure. The opportunity for excellent "Laker" fishing is a significant draw, aligning with Minnesota's strong fishing culture. The journey by canoe and portage is a classic Minnesota experience, fostering self-reliance and a deeper appreciation for the untouched environment. Minnesotans value the BWCA for its pristine condition and the profound sense of peace and rejuvenation it offers, far from the stresses of urban life. Campsite #895, with its beautiful views and practical amenities, provides an ideal base for exploring Brule Lake and beyond, creating enduring memories and reinforcing the strong bond between locals and their extraordinary wild spaces.

BWCA Campsite #895

West Cook, MN 55604, USA