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Before you go
Quota season: May 1 – September 30
Overnight paddle permits are quota-limited per entry point during the summer season. Your permit is tied to a specific numbered entry point and entry date — you cannot enter at a different point or on a different date than your reservation.
Reserve through Recreation.gov
All quota permits are reserved through Recreation.gov. Reservations open well ahead of the season and popular entry points sell out for peak summer weekends, so have several trips in mind and book as early as you can. A permit fee and a per-trip reservation fee apply — check Recreation.gov for current prices.
Day use is simpler
Day paddlers generally self-issue a free day-use permit at the entry point kiosk instead of holding a quota reservation. Overnight motor permits follow a separate quota on the lakes where motors are allowed.
Group size and watercraft limits
Wilderness rules limit groups to nine people and four watercraft traveling together. Larger parties must split into separate groups with separate permits and camp apart.
Outside quota season
From October 1 through April 30, overnight permits are self-issued at entry point kiosks and Forest Service offices — no reservation needed, but the same wilderness rules apply.
Check closures before you go
Wildfire and storm damage can close entry points, portages and campsites with little notice. Check the Superior National Forest alerts page in the days before your trip and again the morning you leave.
Official sources
- Reserve a BWCAW permit on Recreation.gov
- Superior National Forest entry point list and conditions
- Official BWCAW Trip Planning Guide (PDF)
We link out for fees and reservation dates rather than copying them, so you always see the current official numbers.