How busy has it been on the lakes, and how hard is it to get the campsite you are targeting? I'm going to a lake in two weeks hoping to get a site on a lake with only three campsites. I've heard it has been busy. Just trying to plan accordingly.

Just get on the water early and go. No one is able to predict the likelihood of open campsites. Do some research in the 'Maps & Entry Points' section of this website, search for the lake (or lakes) on your route and check out the campsites. Have an idea of what you're looking for and have as many options as possible. You'll be fine. Good luck with your trip.

I went in on a Monday in the numbers chain and had no problem getting a campsite

I was on the Lady Chain and had no problem getting a site. As a matter of fact I saw very few people. None on the portages other than the one group going on a day trip to Alton from Sawbill. The Sawbill landing and parking lot was all a buzz though.

It really depends on what area you are going. What is your entry point? How many portages are you taking before you camp? How early in the day are you starting out?

I think you'll also find in 2 weeks with school back in session there will be a pretty significant decrease in visitors!

Papinator: "I think you'll also find in 2 weeks with school back in session there will be a pretty significant decrease in visitors!"

That is what we thought last September. It turned out to be an AARP convention in the BW. Had a great time though.

More permits are coming available after Labor Day so that may be a hopeful sign.

I hope you get to go on your trip!
We were on the border lakes, Gunflint and points east, first 2 weeks of August. It seems kind of random re: campsite availability. Some lakes I thought would be full (s/as East and West Pike) weren't. Rose Lake was often FULL, and people were searching. First time ever we had a flashlight shown into our site after dark while in the sack -- they weren't disrespectful, I'm sure just desperately looking for a site, after nightfall. Uncharacteristic for us, we often skipped stopping for lunch and just snacked, in the spirit of getting to a site early afternoon to maximize our chances. That would be my advice, look as early as possible, and have a back-up plan. We landed a 5-star site on a lake with only 3 sites, which I attribute mostly to just good luck :) !