Wilderness Camping in the BWCAW & Quetico

A True Backcountry Experience Starts Here

Camping in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) or Canada’s Quetico Provincial Park is an experience you’ll never forget — whether it’s your first trip or your fiftieth.

Unlike a state park or resort, wilderness camping brings a raw and rewarding “back-to-basics” flavor. You carry in what you need, and the comforts of home are what you pack with you. But that doesn’t mean you have to go without.

Your Outfitting Partner: Spirit of the Wilderness

We make sure you’re well-equipped, well-fed, and well-prepared for your adventure. Whether you’re going minimalist or want a few extra comforts, we’ve got you covered.

Quality Gear You Can Count On

• Clean, dry, bug-free tents, sleeping bags, and pads
• Top-notch cooking gear, utensils, matches, TP, dining tarp, and packs
• All equipment is well-maintained and ready for the trail

 Meals You’ll Actually Look Forward To

• Trail-tested, hearty food that guests say is better than what they eat at home
• Choose meals ahead of time from our menu
• Review and make any final changes when you arrive at our Ely base

Clothing Guidance

You don’t need much — just the right gear. We’ll send you a seasonal clothing checklist so you know exactly what to bring and what to leave behind.

BWCA Campsites

Campsites in the BWCAW are designated and maintained by the U.S. Forest Service. Here’s what you can expect:

• First-come, first-served campsites
• Max 9 people per site
• Each site includes:
  • A fire grate built into bedrock
  • 2–4 tent pads (level, cleared areas)
  • A pit toilet located along a nearby trail

Not all sites are created equal — but our staff will review your route with you and point out the best camping options along your path.

Quetico Campsites (Canada)

The Quetico experience is more rugged and primitive. Campsites are not designated — and there are no fire grates or latrines.

Here’s what you’ll need to know:

• Bring your own fire grate and a small trowel for waste disposal
• Camp anywhere, but choose a flat, durable surface
• Use Fisher or McKenzie maps to identify well-used and recommended sites

Leave No Trace = A Better Trip for Everyone

The beauty of the BWCA and Quetico depends on responsible campers. Please follow Leave No Trace principles:

• Pack it in, pack it out
• Camp at durable sites
• Minimize campfire impact
• Dispose of waste properly
• Respect wildlife and fellow paddlers

We recommend visiting the Techie Camper website for helpful guides on gear, packing tips, and wilderness ethics.

We’re Here to Help You Every Step of the Way

Spirit of the Wilderness is more than just an outfitter — we’re your planning partner. We can assist with:

• Route planning
• Permit reservations and issuance
• Minnesota fishing licenses
• Complete or partial outfitting packages
• Canoe rentals (Kevlar, aluminum, solo, tandem)
• Bunkhouse stays before/after your trip
• Transportation to/from your entry point
• Hot showers, live bait, fishing tackle
• Last-minute gear or thoughtful northwoods gifts

Let us help make your Ely-based canoe camping trip safe, memorable, and comfortable — without losing the spirit of true wilderness travel.