Lake One & Number Chain - Image 1
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Lake One and Number Chain

4.8
Β·28 reviewsΒ·, United States

Gateway to the BWCAW, offering serene paddling, diverse campsites, and stunning natural beauty. Perfect for canoe adventures.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning (6 AM)

Secure best campsites

CrowdLow
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Lake One & Number Chain - Image 1

Lake One and Number Chain

Best Time

Early morning (6 AM)

Secure best campsites

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Gateway to the BWCAW, offering serene paddling, diverse campsites, and stunning natural beauty. Perfect for canoe adventures.

4.8
(28 reviews)

"The Lake One entry point is very nice with plenty of parking and a good place to unload."

Vertical photo
TIP

πŸ›Ά Early Morning Paddle

Launch by 6 AM to claim the best campsites and enjoy the calmest waters.

πŸ•οΈ Explore Beyond

Venture further into less-trafficked lakes for a more secluded camping experience.

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Quick Facts

Rating

4.8 Β· 28 reviews

Type

Natural Feature

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake One Entry Point

Lake One Entry Point

Lake One

Spacious parking and easy gear unloading make this a great starting point for your adventure.

Reddit
Island Campsite

Island Campsite

Lake One (47.921124, -91.492839)

Enjoy unparalleled views from this private island campsite – a truly unique spot.

Reddit
Hegman Pictographs

Hegman Pictographs

Near Lake One

An accessible and intriguing trip to see ancient rock art, though it doesn't take a full day.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Early Bird Gets the Best Campsite

Hit the water by 6:00 AM to snag prime campsites, especially on Lake One. Many spots are overused, so getting an early start is key for a peaceful experience and to explore farther into the wilderness. Reddit

Embrace the Canoe Life

This area is perfect for canoeing and portaging adventures. Plan for a full day on the water, from sunrise to sunset, to truly experience the beauty and tranquility of the lakes. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early morning (6 AM)
Why
Secure best campsites
Crowd
Low
When
Mid-September
Why
Fewer crowds, crisp air
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Good day trip options Ely side?

I have to head up for a friend's birthday on Sunday and I figured I'd take my partner out on the water for their first time. Anyone have any preferred routes or loops? I figure we'll put in around 10AM, and don't mind paddling until sunset.

πŸ›Ά Early Morning Paddle

Launch by 6 AM to claim the best campsites and enjoy the calmest waters. Reddit

πŸ•οΈ Explore Beyond

Venture further into less-trafficked lakes for a more secluded camping experience. Reddit

reddit.com

Mid-June Ely, MN Trip Recs Appreciated

We’re planning a week long, mid-June trip to Ely this year and looking for recommendations for activities and restaurants and shops. The plan is to drive up from our home in Minneapolis. We’re staying in a rental for the entire time so no camping in the Boundary Waters for us…

reddit.com

Can somebody teach me how to Boundary Water?

Hello. My boyfriend and I are new to the state, and I want to go up to the Boundary Waters over the Fourth of July I've camped before, and it's not like it's white water rafting, but I'm a bit confused about what we need to do to prepare. Would we need a permit or a…

🏞️ Scenic Channel Paddle

Enjoy the beautiful scenery on the paddle through the channel to Lake One. Reddit

πŸŠβ€β™€οΈ Mid-September Dip

Even in September, a quick swim is possible and refreshing! Reddit

reddit.com

Any campgrounds open near Ely?

I am planning a trip to Ely in Jan. I have a hot tent set up and am bringing a dog. I would like to be able to camp near Ely somewhere easily accessible to my car so I can explore the area a bit before heading into the BWCA, but all the campgrounds I found are closed (no…

Tips

from all over the internet

πŸ›Ά Early Morning Paddle

Launch by 6 AM to claim the best campsites and enjoy the calmest waters. Reddit

πŸ•οΈ Explore Beyond

Venture further into less-trafficked lakes for a more secluded camping experience. Reddit

🏞️ Scenic Channel Paddle

Enjoy the beautiful scenery on the paddle through the channel to Lake One. Reddit

πŸŠβ€β™€οΈ Mid-September Dip

Even in September, a quick swim is possible and refreshing! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(28 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Lake One for its beautiful, calming scenery and excellent entry point facilities. The island campsite is a standout feature, offering a unique experience. However, some campers note that many sites are overused, suggesting a need to explore further for more secluded spots. Mid-September offers a pleasant, less crowded experience.

"Lots of great campsites for the novice camper, with plenty of options for the more advanced. My advice: hit the water by 6:00 AM."

Mark Rickertsen

"Beautiful area!! Very calming, and you can sometimes hear the animals!"

Tyler Day

"A few nice campsites. Many overused. Wish people would move farther in to other lakes."

Dennis S

What People Like

Beautiful, calming scenery
Great entry point
Unique island campsite

What People Dislike

Overused campsites

Frequently Asked Questions

πŸš‡ πŸ—ΊοΈ Getting There

The Lake One entry point is a popular access point for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). It typically involves driving to the Superior National Forest area. Specific directions will depend on your starting location, but it's often accessed via roads leading into the wilderness entry points. Reddit

Yes, the Lake One entry point offers plenty of parking, making it convenient for unloading canoes and gear. Reddit

Canoeing is the primary and most recommended mode of transport on Lake One and the surrounding BWCAW. It allows for quiet exploration and access to remote campsites. Reddit

Yes, Kawishiwi Lodge is located on Lake One and is a popular place to stay the night before entering the BWCAW. Reddit

No, Lake One is part of the BWCAW, which is a wilderness area accessible primarily by watercraft. You cannot drive directly to campsites; they are reached by canoe. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, you will need a BWCAW permit to enter and camp within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, including Lake One. Permits are required for overnight stays and day use during peak season. Reddit

BWCAW permits can be reserved through the Recreation.gov website. It's highly recommended to book well in advance, especially for popular entry points like Lake One, as they can fill up quickly. Reddit

The Lake One entry point itself doesn't have specific operating hours as it's a public access point. However, BWCAW regulations regarding entry and camping apply, and it's best to plan your arrival during daylight hours. Reddit

While there isn't a specific fee for the entry point itself beyond the BWCAW permit, you may encounter fees for parking if you are leaving your vehicle for an extended period. Reddit

It is highly unlikely to secure a BWCAW permit on arrival, especially for popular entry points like Lake One. Permits should be reserved in advance online. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Lake One offers a variety of campsites, from those suitable for novice campers to more advanced locations. Some are well-established, while others are more primitive. It's advised to explore further in for less crowded spots. Reddit

Yes, Lake One has campsites that are suitable for novice campers, offering a good introduction to wilderness camping. Reddit

Expect beautiful, calming scenery with pristine waters, lush forests, and opportunities to hear wildlife. The paddle through the channel is particularly scenic. Reddit

There is a highly recommended campsite on its own island on Lake One, offering exceptional views and a sense of seclusion. Reddit

Activities include canoeing, portaging, camping, swimming, and wildlife viewing. It's a prime destination for multi-day canoe trips. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, Lake One is within the BWCAW, a designated wilderness area. There are no restaurants or dining facilities. You must bring all your own food and be prepared to cook it at your campsite. Reddit

Pack lightweight, non-perishable food items that are easy to prepare. Think dehydrated meals, trail mix, jerky, oatmeal, and pasta. Remember to pack out all food scraps and packaging. Reddit

Campfires are generally allowed in designated fire rings at established campsites, but always check current fire restrictions with the Forest Service before your trip. Reddit

You can purchase food and camping supplies in towns near the entry points, such as Ely, Minnesota. It's advisable to stock up before reaching the wilderness access points. Reddit

Proper food storage is crucial to protect your food from wildlife. Use bear-resistant containers or hang your food properly away from your tent. Reddit

πŸ“Έ πŸ“Έ Photography

Capture stunning sunrise and sunset views over the lake, the scenic channel paddle, unique island campsites, and the natural beauty of the BWCAW. Reddit

Early mornings and late evenings offer the best light for photography, with golden hour providing beautiful, soft illumination. Reddit

Drones are prohibited within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Please adhere to these regulations to preserve the wilderness experience. Reddit

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing landscapes and wildlife. Waterproof cases or bags are essential for protecting your gear near the water. Reddit

The island campsite with its panoramic views and the Hegman Pictographs are notable photographic subjects. Reddit

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Lake One and Number Chain (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide