BWCA Campsite #1566

Welcome to BWCA Campsite #1566, a distinct and highly sought-after wilderness campsite located within the unparalleled beauty of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), near Ely, Minnesota. For Minnesotans and outdoor enthusiasts across the nation, the BWCAW represents the epitome of a true wilderness experience – a vast landscape of interconnected lakes, rivers, and portages, where human impact is minimized, and nature reigns supreme. This article is designed to provide a comprehensive and engaging overview of BWCA Campsite #1566, offering insights into what makes this particular site a desirable destination for those undertaking a canoe or kayak trip into this protected wilderness area. We will delve into its specific features, the unique nature of BWCA camping, essential regulations, and how to plan a successful and responsible adventure.

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a federally protected wilderness area, a part of the National Wilderness Preservation System, covering over a million acres of the Superior National Forest. It's a place where motorized travel is largely restricted, and visitors immerse themselves in the landscape through paddling and portaging, echoing the journeys of the Voyageurs. Campsites within the BWCAW are rustic, designated sites, each identified by a unique number. BWCA Campsite #1566 is not a traditional campground with paved roads and amenities; rather, it is a primitive site accessible only by watercraft and portaging, offering an unparalleled sense of solitude and connection with the natural world. Understanding these fundamental aspects is crucial for anyone planning a trip, as the experience is vastly different from car camping. This overview aims to equip prospective campers with the knowledge needed to appreciate and prepare for the unique adventure that awaits at BWCA Campsite #1566.

BWCA Campsite #1566 is situated on Basswood Lake, a prominent and popular body of water within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, with its nearest gateway community being Ely, MN 55731, USA. It's crucial to understand that "accessibility" in the BWCAW context means reaching a site by paddling and portaging, not by car. To access Campsite #1566, visitors must first obtain a wilderness permit for a specific entry point that leads into Basswood Lake or an adjacent chain of lakes that connects to Basswood via portages.

Basswood Lake itself is one of the larger and more frequently traveled lakes in the BWCAW, meaning that while the campsite offers a wilderness experience, you may encounter other paddlers on the lake, especially during peak season. Common entry points that provide access to Basswood Lake include those accessed via the Fernberg Road (e.g., Moose Lake Entry Point #25, Fall Lake Entry Point #24), or other more remote entry points depending on your planned route. The specific portages and paddling distances to reach Campsite #1566 will vary significantly based on your chosen entry point and route. It is highly recommended that visitors consult detailed BWCA maps (such as those from McKenzie Maps or Fisher Maps) and utilize online planning tools to plot their precise route to Campsite #1566. Outfitters in Ely and other gateway towns are invaluable resources for planning routes, obtaining permits, and renting equipment, offering local expertise that greatly enhances trip accessibility and safety within this vast wilderness. While the address "Ely, MN" signifies the general region for permits and outfitters, the campsite itself is deep within the roadless wilderness, requiring a true paddle-and-portage journey to experience its secluded charm.

BWCA Campsite #1566, like all designated campsites within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, offers a specific set of basic, rustic services mandated by the U.S. Forest Service to preserve the wilderness character. It is vital to remember that these are not developed campgrounds with modern conveniences. Instead, services are designed to minimize human impact and facilitate a Leave No Trace ethic. Here's what you can expect:

• Designated Campsite: The site is officially marked with the number #1566 and includes a steel fire grate and a wilderness latrine. Camping is only permitted at these designated sites.
• Steel Fire Grate: A permanent steel fire grate is provided for campfires. All fires must be contained within this grate. Campers are responsible for gathering their own dead and downed firewood. Fire bans may be in effect during dry periods, requiring the use of a camp stove.
• Wilderness Latrine: Each site is equipped with a rustic, open-air wilderness latrine (often a "thunderbox" or simple privy) for human waste disposal. No toilet paper or other refuse should be left in the latrine; all trash, including hygiene products, must be packed out.
• Tent Pads/Areas: Campsite #1566 is noted for being "huge" with "plenty of potential tent space," and can accommodate multiple tents, with reviews suggesting "Max Tent Pads: 4" or even "9" depending on interpretation, indicating ample flat ground for sleeping.
• Access to Natural Water Source: As it's on Basswood Lake, the lake serves as the primary water source. All water from the lake must be filtered, boiled, or chemically treated before consumption, as no potable water spigots are available.
• Bear Safety: While not a "service" in the traditional sense, the BWCAW enforces strict bear-aware policies. Campers must properly store all food, scented items, and trash away from bears, either by using bear-resistant containers or by hanging food packs from sturdy trees.
• No Trash Services: The BWCAW operates on a strict "pack it in, pack it out" policy. All trash, including food scraps, must be carried out of the wilderness by the campers.

BWCA Campsite #1566 on Basswood Lake offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a desirable choice for wilderness campers. Based on visitor reviews and the nature of the BWCAW, here are some of its notable attributes:

• Spacious and Versatile Site: A significant highlight is its sheer size. Reviews consistently describe it as a "great, huge site" with "what feels like an acre of potential tent space" and "tons of space." This makes it suitable for larger groups (within the BWCA group size limit of 9 people and 4 watercraft) or those who simply appreciate extra room.
• Abundant Hammock Options: For hammock campers, the site is a dream, with "dozens of sturdy trees for hammocks" and "plenty of big trees for hammocks." This provides comfortable sleeping alternatives and additional relaxation spots.
• Lakefront Access with Views: The campsite offers "a nice view of the lake" and is described as having a "Great fire spot right by the lake," with the site sitting up higher for "great view." While some describe a "rocky landing" or "shitty landing spots," there's also mention of a "clear landing" and an option to "land boat in bay behind the site & it is a bit better," indicating workable water access.
• Seclusion (Relative to Traffic): While Basswood Lake can experience "plenty of boats" and "a lot of boat traffic," reviews note that other sites are "far enough away to retain some sense of privacy." This offers a balance of accessibility and a feeling of solitude.
• Good for Base Camping: Its large size and good features make it "Great for a base camp for day tripping," allowing groups to explore the surrounding area of Basswood Lake from a comfortable and spacious hub.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Campers have reported seeing "several turtles (who were spying on us), and saw an otter swim by," adding to the wilderness immersion.
• Good Bear Bag Site: One review specifically praises it as a "great bear bag site," indicating suitable trees for proper food hanging, which is crucial in bear country.
• Potential for Shore Fishing: One reviewer mentioned "Caught fish from shore," suggesting opportunities for angling directly from the campsite.

As BWCA Campsite #1566 is a primitive backcountry site within a federally protected wilderness area, there is no direct phone number or specific address for the campsite itself, as it is not a staffed facility. The provided address "Ely, MN 55731, USA" refers to the primary gateway town for many BWCA trips and the location of several outfitters and ranger stations where permits are issued.

For all inquiries regarding BWCA Campsite #1566, including specific route planning, current conditions, permit requirements, and wilderness regulations, it is essential to contact the official managing authorities or a local outfitter who specializes in BWCA trips. These resources provide the most accurate and up-to-date information:

Superior National Forest Headquarters (U.S. Forest Service, which manages the BWCAW):

Phone: (218) 626-4300

Mobile Phone: +1 218-626-4300 (This number typically connects to the main office, which can direct you to permit specialists or ranger districts.)

Alternatively, highly recommended resources for planning your trip and obtaining permits include:

• Recreation.gov: This is the official online platform for reserving BWCA wilderness permits. All quota permits (May 1 - Sept 30) must be reserved here.
• Local BWCA Outfitters in Ely, MN: Outfitters provide invaluable services, including permit assistance, route planning, canoe and gear rental, and detailed local knowledge. Examples include Voyageur Canoe Outfitters, Piragis Northwoods Company, and others who can be found through a quick online search for "Ely BWCA outfitters."
• Superior National Forest Website: The official U.S. Forest Service website for the Superior National Forest (fs.usda.gov/superior) provides comprehensive information on BWCA rules, regulations, and safety.

It is crucial to secure your permit well in advance, as quota permits for popular entry points and dates can be highly competitive. Always check the latest regulations regarding group size, fire restrictions, and Leave No Trace principles before embarking on your trip.

BWCA Campsite #1566 on Basswood Lake is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals in the Minnesota region, particularly for those who are seasoned wilderness campers or aspiring to immerse themselves deeply in a true backcountry experience. For Minnesotans who cherish solitude, the challenge of self-sufficiency, and the unparalleled beauty of a pristine, paddle-only wilderness, this campsite offers a prime opportunity. Its location on Basswood Lake, a well-known and beautiful body of water, means it's accessible through various entry points, allowing for diverse trip planning options, from shorter overnights to extended expeditions.

The site's impressive size and versatility, including abundant tent space and numerous hammock-hanging options, make it ideal for larger groups (within BWCA limits) or for smaller parties seeking extra room to spread out. This comfort in a wilderness setting is a significant advantage. While Basswood Lake does see boat traffic, the campsite's natural screening helps maintain a sense of privacy. The presence of a dedicated fire grate and wilderness latrine, coupled with the critical "pack it in, pack it out" ethos, ensures that visitors can enjoy the wilderness responsibly, leaving it pristine for future generations—a value deeply ingrained in many Minnesotans. For those ready to disconnect, embrace the sounds of nature, and challenge themselves with a paddle and portage adventure, BWCA Campsite #1566 offers an unforgettable and truly authentic Minnesota wilderness experience.

BWCA Campsite #1566

Ely, MN 55731, USA