BWCA Campsite #1151

Introduction / Overview: Your Destination on Wood Lake

BWCA Campsite #1151 is not a drive-in facility with paved roads and hookups; it is a meticulously preserved, designated wilderness campsite that epitomizes the challenge and reward of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) experience. Located deep within the Superior National Forest, this specific site offers Minnesotans an authentic, paddle-in retreat. Campsite #1151 is situated on the scenic shores of Wood Lake, a sizeable body of water that also serves as the location for BWCA Entry Point #26.

Wood Lake is known for being a gateway, providing a beautiful introduction to the BWCA wilderness for those starting their journey, though it is often noted for being a busy lake due to its entry point status. Campsite #1151, however, is strategically located on a distinctive point, providing both expansive views and a degree of seclusion that is highly valued by paddlers. This site adheres to the strict 'Leave No Trace' principles governing the entire wilderness area, meaning visitors must be entirely self-sufficient, prepared to carry all their gear, treat their own drinking water, and pack out all refuse. Its position makes it an excellent overnight stay for groups pushing north toward more secluded lakes like Hula and the vast Basswood Lake, offering a final taste of accessible comfort before venturing deeper into the canoe routes.

Location and Accessibility: Entry Point #26 near Ely

Campsite #1151 is officially located on Wood Lake and is accessed via BWCA Entry Point #26 (Wood Lake). Wood Lake lies in the vicinity of Fall Lake Township, MN 55731, USA, placing it geographically in the popular Ely area of the Superior National Forest. This region is a major hub for canoe travel, utilizing the nearby Fernberg Road (County Road 18) for vehicle access to the Entry Point parking lot.

Access to the campsite requires a full wilderness journey:

Vehicle Travel: Driving to the Entry Point #26 parking lot, located off the Fernberg Trail system near Ely.Permitting: Presenting the mandatory, reserved Overnight Paddle Only permit for Entry Point #26 (Wood Lake). This permit must be obtained in advance from Recreation.gov for the specific entry date.Paddling: The journey to Campsite #1151 involves paddling across Wood Lake. It is located roughly after passing a mid-lake narrows and is highly visible on a prominent point made of bare rock. It is a moderate paddle from the entry point landing, usually passed after stopping at an earlier site or used as a launch point for further travel.

The site is also strategically positioned for onward travel, sitting just a short paddle away from the portage into Hula Lake, the next step on the route toward the massive Basswood Lake. This makes #1151 a valuable first- or last-night campsite on a typical out-and-back route from Entry Point #26.

Services Offered (Wilderness Essentials)

As a designated wilderness campsite, #1151 offers the standard, minimal, non-motorized facilities required by the US Forest Service for camping within the BWCAW. True comfort comes from self-sufficiency and preparation.

Camping: Dedicated, signed area for one group (limited to nine people, four tents). The site features at least three tent pads, one of which is often described as spacious.Fire Grate: A permanent, heavy-duty steel fire grate is provided for cooking and warmth. This is the only legal place to build a fire.Latrine: A designated wilderness latrine (pit toilet) is available along a short, easily followed path away from the main camp, ensuring sanitation and environmental protection.Canoe Landing: Uniquely, the site reportedly features two different canoe landings, a major convenience for two- or three-canoe groups, with one noted for being a smooth, protected spot perfect for swimming.Water: No potable water is provided. All water must be drawn from Wood Lake and chemically treated, boiled, or filtered before consumption.Firewood: None provided. Campers must gather only dead and downed wood from the surrounding forest floor for fires.Food Storage: The site's trees offer options for hanging food packs (bear bags), a crucial task for safety, though proper hanging locations should be sought 200 feet from the tents.Leave No Trace: Campers must abide by all BWCA regulations, including packing out all trash and waste.

Features / Highlights (A Point of Distinction)

Campsite #1151 is highly regarded by those familiar with the Wood Lake area for its desirable features, which elevate it above some other basic sites.

Prime Location: Situated on a prominent, rocky point that juts into Wood Lake, offering excellent air flow (a benefit against bugs) and expansive, commanding views of the water.Stargazing Spot: The large, bare rock point provides a fantastic, open area for evening activities, including relaxing, cooking, and stargazing—a highlight in the BWCA’s famously dark night skies.Multiple Tent Options: With at least three distinct, relatively flat tent pads, the site can comfortably accommodate a medium-sized group of paddlers.Loons and Eagles: The site is known to be in an area with high wildlife activity, including the nesting or hunting grounds of loons and bald eagles, offering incredible viewing opportunities.Access to Hula Lake: Its proximity to the Hula Lake portage makes it a perfect staging or recovery site for those venturing onto the main routes toward Basswood Lake and beyond.Swimming Access: The smaller, bay-like landing is often described as having a smooth, swimming-friendly shore, ideal for cooling off after a long day of paddling.Elevated Views: A small hill or rise just behind the campsite offers wide, elevated views of Wood Lake for a unique perspective.

Contact Information

For inquiries regarding permits, regulations, and general information about camping at BWCA Campsite #1151 (Wood Lake Entry Point #26), contact the relevant US Forest Service office.

Address (General Area): Fall Lake Township, MN 55731, USA

Kawishiwi Ranger Station (Closest Ranger Station): (218) 365-7600

Permit Reservation Line (Recreation.gov): 1-877-444-6777

What is Worth Choosing Campsite #1151

Choosing BWCA Campsite #1151 is choosing one of the most desirable locations on a gateway lake, combining ease of access (relative to the deep BWCA) with the rewards of a truly scenic spot. For Minnesota paddlers, this campsite is worth the effort because it offers a high-quality, point-based site with great amenities (multiple landings, several tent pads) without requiring an arduous portage or a deep-wilderness trek. It serves as an excellent site for first-time BWCA users, as it is relatively close to the entry point and the support services of Ely, yet still provides the authentic, silent-sports experience. Its prominence on the rock point, the multiple landing options, and the superb lake views ensure a memorable and comfortable overnight stay for groups of up to nine people. It’s a perfect launching pad for a multi-day journey or a satisfying destination for a short, immersive escape into the Boundary Waters.