BWCA Permit Information

Getting a permit is a critical step in planning your BWCA canoe trip!

Highlights:

• Permits can be obtained by individual groups or through a BWCA outfitter.
• The cost and procedure is the same, no matter who gets the permit.
• A permit costs $16 per adult and $8 per youth for your entire time in the BWCA.
• There is a $10 processing fee per group.
• A permit is valid for up to 9 people.
• You need to select an entry point and specific date you want to enter the BWCA.
• Each entry point has a limited number of permits each day.
• To get your own permit you can go to www.recreation.gov to create an account and fill out the forms.
• If you’d prefer to have an outfitter get your permit, simply call and we will get it for you.
• Your permit can be picked up at the lodge or outfitter base that reserved your permit or at a Forest Service Ranger Station.

Recreation.gov BWCA Permits

Why Permits?

The Boundary Water Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) is a federally designated wilderness preserve. Joined by Quetico Provincial Park, the BWCA has 2.3 million acres and 1600 lakes; this non-motorized wilderness is accessed only by canoe. On the U.S. side alone, there are 2,200 designated campsites available for permit holders. The U.S. Forest Service regulates the number of people who enter the BWCA by issuing permits. There are designated entry points for the BWCA, each entry point has a designated amount of permits offered per day. These permits must be purchased in advance to guarantee your trip into the BWCA.