BWCA Campsite #1583

For Minnesotans and avid outdoor enthusiasts throughout the state, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) represents the pinnacle of natural beauty and an unparalleled opportunity for wilderness immersion. This vast, roadless wilderness in northeastern Minnesota, managed by the U.S. Forest Service, offers a unique environment for those seeking to unplug and connect with nature on a deeper level. Among its thousands of designated campsites, BWCA Campsite #1583 stands out as a highly-rated and desirable destination for backcountry adventurers. It’s not a drive-up campground with amenities; rather, it’s a rustic, designated site deep within the wilderness, accessible only by paddle and portage, offering a truly authentic and secluded camping experience.

The BWCAW is globally recognized for its pristine lakes, ancient forests, and abundant wildlife, making it an ideal destination for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife observation. A trip to a BWCAW campsite, like #1583, requires self-reliance, adherence to Leave No Trace principles, and a willingness to embrace the quiet solitude of the wild. Here, the absence of modern distractions allows for a profound connection with the natural world. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of BWCA Campsite #1583, detailing its specific location within this magnificent wilderness, how it can be accessed, the essential services and features one can expect in this remote setting, and why its reputation makes it a highly suitable and sought-after choice for local Minnesotans yearning for a true wilderness escape.

BWCA Campsite #1583 is uniquely positioned on an island on Clove Lake, within the vast expanse of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Clove Lake is part of the extensive network of lakes accessible from Entry Point 57 - Magnetic Lake, located in the northeastern part of the BWCAW, relatively close to the Canadian border. While the provided address of "Ely, MN 55731, USA" broadly indicates its gateway town, it's crucial to understand that there is no direct road access to the campsite itself. The wilderness nature of the BWCAW means all travel to campsites is done via non-motorized watercraft (canoes or kayaks) and portaging between lakes.

Accessing BWCA Campsite #1583 typically begins from the town of Grand Marais, Minnesota, which serves as a primary outfitting hub for the eastern BWCAW entry points. From Grand Marais, visitors would travel along the Gunflint Trail (County Road 12) to reach Entry Point 57 - Magnetic Lake. Outfitters along the Gunflint Trail, such as Tuscarora Lodge and Canoe Outfitters or Gunflint Lodge Outfitters, can provide essential services like canoe rentals, gear outfitting, and detailed maps. From Entry Point 57, the journey to Campsite #1583 involves paddling across Magnetic Lake and navigating a series of lakes and portages to reach Clove Lake. The exact route would be determined with a detailed wilderness map, often provided by outfitters, ensuring accurate navigation to the specific island site.

Planning is paramount for a BWCAW trip. All overnight and motorized day trips from May 1 to September 30 require a quota permit, which must be reserved well in advance through Recreation.gov. Self-issued permits are available year-round for non-motorized day use and for all overnight visits from October 1 to April 30. It's essential to enter at the specific entry point and on the exact date indicated on the permit. This system is crucial for managing visitor numbers, preserving the wilderness's solitude, and protecting its fragile ecosystems. Local outfitters along the Gunflint Trail are invaluable resources for up-to-date information on routes, conditions, and best practices for minimizing impact, ensuring a safe and rewarding journey to a secluded gem like Campsite #1583.

As a designated wilderness campsite within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, BWCA Campsite #1583 provides essential, minimalist services designed to sustain primitive camping while rigorously adhering to environmental preservation. These services reflect the Leave No Trace principles fundamental to all activities within the BWCAW:

• Designated Fire Grate: Like all official BWCAW campsites, #1583 is equipped with a steel fire grate for cooking and warmth. Campfires are permitted only within these grates, and campers must exclusively use dead and downed wood found on the ground, gathered away from the immediate campsite area. Always check for current fire restrictions or bans before and during your trip.
• Wilderness Latrine: A basic wilderness latrine (often referred to as a "thunderbox" or box privy) is provided for human waste at each designated site. These are not for trash; all other waste, including personal hygiene products, must be packed out.
• Tent Pads/Areas: Customer reviews specifically highlight "Plenty of tent pads" and "several good tent pads" at this site. While not formal concrete pads, these are relatively flat, cleared areas suitable for pitching tents, strategically chosen to minimize impact on the surrounding vegetation.
• Hammock Trees: Reviews also note "trees for hammocks" and "many good hammocking trees," indicating the presence of suitable trees for hanging hammocks, a popular alternative sleeping arrangement for many backcountry campers.
• Water Access: Being an island campsite, #1583 offers direct access to the waters of Clove Lake for filtering and purification for drinking and cooking. All washing (dishes, personal bathing) must be conducted at least 200 feet away from any water source to prevent contamination.
• Canoe Landing: The site typically includes a natural, unimproved area suitable for landing and securing canoes, often described as "Easy take-out/put-in" and "nice canoe landing," or even "gently sloping rocks for lounging, loading canoe and drying wet gear."

The features and highlights of BWCA Campsite #1583 are a testament to its highly-rated status among BWCAW campers. Its natural attributes and the unique island setting contribute significantly to its appeal:

• Island Site: Its location on an island provides enhanced privacy, offering "Fantastic island site on Clove." Island sites are often sought after for their natural defense against bugs and potential for 360-degree views.
• Abundant Tent and Hammock Space: Reviews consistently praise the site for its "Plenty of tent pads and trees for hammocks" and "several good tent pads, many good hammocking trees," ensuring comfortable sleeping arrangements for various group sizes.
• Exceptional Views: Campers report "Great views of lake from nearly all sides of the island" and "Great sunset." This offers picturesque scenery for relaxation and photography throughout the day.
• Good Swimming and Lounging Rocks: Descriptions mention "south-facing, gently sloping rocks for lounging, loading canoe and drying wet gear," and "good swimming" and "lovely sitting and swimming rock." These natural features enhance recreational opportunities at the campsite.
• Decent Kitchen Area: One review notes a "Decent kitchen area," suggesting a practical space for meal preparation around the fire grate.
• Well-Maintained Latrine Trail: "Nice walk back to latrine" implies a well-defined path, which is a small but significant convenience in a wilderness setting.
• Explorable Island: The presence of "trails allow exploration of island and lead to several nice places to fish from shore or to just enjoy views" indicates opportunities for on-site exploration and diverse fishing spots.
• Fishing Opportunities: Campsites on Clove Lake offer access to good fishing. The rocky points and various areas around the island can be excellent spots for shore fishing.
• Sense of Seclusion: Despite its popularity, the nature of BWCA campsites ensures a strong sense of privacy and separation from other groups, fostering a truly serene experience.

Given that BWCA Campsite #1583 is a designated wilderness campsite, there is no direct phone number for the campsite itself. The address "Ely, MN 55731, USA" refers to the general region and gateway town. For essential information, permit reservations, and trip planning, you would primarily contact the managing authority and local outfitters:

Permit Reservations: All permits for overnight and motorized day use in the BWCAW (May 1 to September 30) must be reserved online through:

Website: Recreation.gov (Search for "Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness permits")

For general inquiries about the BWCAW and local area information, you can contact:

Superior National Forest Headquarters (General Information)

Address: 8901 Grand Ave Pl, Duluth, MN 55808, USA (Note: This is a general forest office, not directly at the BWCAW)

Phone: (218) 626-4300

Gunflint Ranger District Office (Closer to Entry Point 57)

Address: 2020 W Highway 61, Grand Marais, MN 55604 (Check for physical office hours before visiting)

Phone: (218) 387-1750

Local Outfitters (Highly Recommended for Planning & Gear specific to Magnetic/Clove Lakes):

Tuscarora Lodge and Canoe Outfitters

Address: 2368 Gunflint Trail, Grand Marais, MN 55604

Phone: (218) 388-2224

Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters

Address: 1431 Gunflint Trail, Grand Marais, MN 55604

Phone: (218) 388-4414

It is strongly advised to book permits well in advance, especially for highly-rated sites like #1583, and to utilize the expertise of local outfitters for a successful and safe wilderness trip.

In conclusion, BWCA Campsite #1583 on Clove Lake represents an exceptional opportunity for Minnesota locals to experience the unparalleled beauty and solitude of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Its status as a highly-rated island site, complete with ample tent and hammock areas, stunning lake views, and natural rock croppings for lounging, makes it a prime destination for those seeking a deep wilderness immersion. While it requires careful planning, self-reliance, and adherence to Leave No Trace principles, the rewards of camping at such a pristine and secluded location are immense.

For Minnesotans yearning for an escape from the everyday, a chance to reconnect with nature, and to create enduring memories amidst breathtaking scenery, BWCA Campsite #1583 offers precisely that. It embodies the essence of the Boundary Waters, providing an authentic and unforgettable backcountry adventure that celebrates the wild heart of Minnesota.

BWCA Campsite #1583

Ely, MN 55731, USA