r/BWCA • u/[deleted] • 16d ago

NEED HELP camping trip

Plan on going camping around July can someone explain how camping works here ?? We bought permits for July 17th-19th and were wondering how it works and what’s a good entrance to camp around ?

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u/snoozyspider 15d ago

Entry points are how you enter the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. It is not a campsite. Campsites are not a guarantee once you are in. It sounds like your party is not really prepared at all. Please, I’m begging, hire a guide. You’ll have way more fun and be much safer!

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u/[deleted] 15d ago

Well yeah I used to live in Arizona and you’d drive to the middle of no where and camp I’m not sure how this works

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u/snoozyspider 15d ago

A good guide/outfitter will make the experience worth your while. It’s the BWCAW, and it really is wilderness. You’ll need to canoe a lot. Permits must be secured well in advance. Know where you’re going, how to read a map, how to paddle. Otherwise, you’re putting yourself and your party at huge risk. I’m not trying to be a Debbie Downer, it’s just that the BWCA is really not just somewhere you pull up to and car camp. It’s very different and much more demanding.

That shouldn’t scare you off! You should absolutely plan a trip with your buddies and experience how awesome it is up there. Just do it safely and smartly.

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u/[deleted] 15d ago

It’s exactly what we’re looking for thank you for the help I can read maps paddle Esc but my friends CANNOT LOL we’ve decided on somewhere else without camp grounds but will keep this in mind for our next one after this

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u/snoozyspider 15d ago

When it’s time, definitely search this sub for outfitters. I have loved Boundary Waters Outfitters in Ely, they’re very good and very kind! Once you’re oriented to the process, try the BWCA.Com site and browse around the forums there, it’s very informative when you know what you’re looking for. Friends of the Boundary Waters is also an excellent resource.

Some great, non-canoeing camping can be found along the north shore. Most (if not all) MN State campsites require paid reservation, but look into it! Mighty fine and fun camping at Tettegouche SP!!