BWCA Campsite #927

The call of the wild is a powerful one, and for many Minnesotans, it leads directly to the unparalleled beauty of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Nestled within this vast expanse of pristine lakes and ancient forests lies BWCA Campsite #927, offering a true immersion into nature for those seeking an unforgettable outdoor experience. This isn't your typical drive-up campground; it's a wilderness gem that rewards those willing to paddle and portage a little deeper into the heart of Minnesota's natural splendor. Designed for the adventurous spirit, Campsite #927 provides a secluded and authentic backcountry experience, allowing visitors to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with the serene rhythms of the wilderness.

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is renowned for its million acres of lakes, rivers, and forests, providing an unparalleled opportunity for paddle-in camping. Campsite #927, like all designated campsites within the BWCAW, is part of a meticulously managed wilderness system designed to preserve its wild character while allowing responsible public access. Visitors to this site will find themselves truly off the grid, with no electricity, running water, or modern amenities, embracing the raw beauty of the Northwoods. This commitment to a primitive experience ensures the preservation of the area's ecological integrity and provides a truly immersive natural escape.

BWCA Campsite #927 is located within the expansive Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, specifically addressable as Tofte Township, MN 55604, USA. However, understanding its precise location requires a bit more detail for the intrepid explorer. This campsite is found on Kelly Lake, a part of the intricate network of waterways within the BWCAW. Accessing Campsite #927 is an adventure in itself, typically involving a combination of paddling and portaging. It is not a roadside campground you can simply drive up to.

To reach Campsite #927, visitors generally begin their journey from an entry point into the Boundary Waters. Common entry points for this area would be those leading into the Kawishiwi Ranger District or nearby regions, such as Entry Point 39 (Baker Lake) or other access points that allow for routes into Kelly Lake. The journey to the campsite involves navigating lakes and streams by canoe or kayak, often with portages – overland trails where canoes and gear are carried between bodies of water. For Campsite #927 on Kelly Lake, there may be specific portages required depending on your chosen entry point and route. For example, some routes may involve a portage to Morgan Lake before reaching Kelly Lake. This remote access is precisely what contributes to the unique wilderness experience, ensuring a level of solitude often sought by outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors should plan their route carefully, accounting for paddling distances, portage lengths, and their group's physical capabilities. Outfitters in nearby towns like Ely or Grand Marais can provide detailed maps, route planning assistance, and all necessary gear for a successful trip to this type of wilderness campsite.

As a designated campsite within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, BWCA Campsite #927 offers a minimalist, true wilderness camping experience. The services provided are designed to support low-impact camping and preserve the natural environment.

• Steel Fire Grate: Each designated campsite in the BWCAW is equipped with a steel fire grate, providing a safe and contained area for campfires. It's important to note that fire restrictions can be implemented during dry conditions, so always check current regulations before your trip.
• Wilderness Latrine: A designated wilderness latrine (often a pit latrine) is provided at each campsite for human waste disposal, helping to maintain sanitation and prevent contamination of the surrounding area. Visitors are expected to use these facilities properly and pack out all personal hygiene items.
• Tent Pads (Variable): While not universally present in a perfectly manicured sense, most designated campsites will have areas that are more suitable for pitching tents, often with flatter ground and less vegetation. Reports for Campsite #927 indicate "several good spots for tents" though some areas may be "rocky" or "uneven."
• Access to Water (Untreated): The campsite is located on Kelly Lake, providing direct access to water. However, all water from the lake must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption, as it is untreated wilderness water.

BWCA Campsite #927, situated on the picturesque Kelly Lake, offers several features that make it a compelling destination for a wilderness adventure.

• Secluded Wilderness Setting: One of the primary highlights is the profound sense of solitude and immersion in nature. Unlike developed campgrounds, this site offers an escape from crowds and an opportunity to experience the quiet beauty of the BWCAW.
• Paddling and Portaging Opportunities: The journey to and from the campsite, involving paddling across pristine lakes and challenging portages, is a significant part of the experience. It allows for exploration of the interconnected waterways of the Boundary Waters.
• Fishing Opportunities: Kelly Lake, and the surrounding lakes in the BWCAW, offer excellent fishing. Visitors have reported catching pike and walleye near the campsite, especially below any nearby rapids.
• Wildlife Viewing: The Boundary Waters are home to diverse wildlife, including moose, black bears, wolves, eagles, and various bird species. The remote nature of Campsite #927 increases the chances of spotting these animals in their natural habitat.
• Scenic Views: While specific details on views from Campsite #927 are limited, general reports of BWCA campsites on Kelly Lake suggest pleasant surroundings. Reviews for this site mention a "nice kitchen area" and a "rocky landing" that can be good for fishing. Some users have found "good tent pads with privacy."
• Proximity to Rapids: Campsite #927 is noted to be "just to the east of the small set of rapids," which can be a highlight for both scenic appeal and potential fishing spots.
• Hammocking Opportunities: While some users noted challenges, there are usually opportunities for hanging hammocks, enhancing relaxation at the campsite.

For specific inquiries regarding BWCA Campsite #927 or general Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness information, direct contact with the U.S. Forest Service or authorized outfitters is recommended. Campsites within the BWCAW do not have direct phone numbers or reception.

Address for the managing district:

Kawishiwi Ranger District

1393 Highway 169 ELY MN 55731

Phone Number for general inquiries (Kawishiwi Ranger District): 218-365-7600

Permits for the BWCAW are required for all overnight and day use motor visitors from May 1 to September 30 and can be reserved through Recreation.gov. Self-issued permits are required for all visitors from October 1 to April 30. It is crucial to obtain a permit prior to your trip and adhere to all BWCAW regulations. For detailed planning and outfitting services, contacting local outfitters in towns like Ely or Grand Marais, which serve as gateways to the Boundary Waters, is highly recommended. These outfitters can provide essential gear, food, maps, and expert advice tailored to your trip, including specific routes to sites like Campsite #927.

For Minnesotans, BWCA Campsite #927 on Kelly Lake represents the quintessential Northwoods escape, a prime example of why the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a cherished local treasure. This isn't just a camping spot; it's an opportunity to fully embrace the state's natural heritage and experience a profound connection with the wild. Locals often seek out the BWCAW for its unparalleled solitude and pristine environment, and Campsite #927 delivers on both counts.

The accessibility, while requiring a commitment to paddle and portage, is part of its allure for those familiar with Minnesota's outdoor culture. It offers a tangible reward for the effort, leading to a deeper appreciation of the quiet lakes, towering pines, and abundant wildlife. For many Minnesotans, the skills required for a BWCA trip – canoeing, navigation, and leave-no-trace camping – are deeply ingrained or eagerly learned, making a trip to Campsite #927 a natural progression in their outdoor pursuits. It's a place where families can create lasting memories, friends can bond over shared challenges, and individuals can find peace in the undisturbed wilderness.

Moreover, the proximity to gateway communities in Northern Minnesota means local outfitters are readily available to assist with gear, permits, and route planning, simplifying the logistics of a wilderness trip. This local support network makes the seemingly daunting task of venturing into the BWCAW much more approachable for residents. Whether it’s the thrill of reeling in a walleye from a pristine lake, the quiet satisfaction of paddling across glassy waters at dawn, or the simple joy of a crackling campfire under a blanket of stars, Campsite #927 offers the authentic Minnesota wilderness experience that locals know and love. It's a testament to the state's commitment to preserving its wild spaces and an open invitation for its residents to explore the untamed beauty right in their backyard.

BWCA Campsite #927

Tofte Township, MN 55604, USA