BWCA Campsite #1604

Hello, fellow Minnesotans and outdoor enthusiasts! If the call of the wild echoes in your spirit, and you dream of paddling through pristine waters and camping under a canopy of stars, then let us introduce you to BWCA Campsite #1604. Nestled deep within the iconic Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) near Ely, this campsite offers a truly authentic and sought-after experience for those looking to immerse themselves in Minnesota's unparalleled natural beauty. It's a place where the sounds of civilization fade, replaced by the whisper of the wind and the gentle lapping of waves against a unique sandy shore.

This detailed article will guide you through what makes BWCA Campsite #1604 a standout destination for locals. We'll explore its specific location within the vast wilderness, discuss the essential (and intentionally minimal) services it provides, and highlight the distinctive features that campers consistently rave about. Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge needed to plan a responsible, safe, and utterly memorable trip to one of the BWCAW's highly regarded campsites. For those who understand and appreciate the privilege of wilderness travel, Campsite #1604 offers an opportunity to connect with the raw, untamed heart of our state.

The Boundary Waters is more than just a destination; it's a way of life for many Minnesotans. It represents freedom, challenge, and profound tranquility. Campsite #1604 encapsulates this spirit, offering a pristine haven where self-reliance is key and nature takes center stage. From easy canoe landings to ample space for relaxation, this site has garnered positive feedback from those who have had the good fortune to experience it. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or planning your first venture into the BWCAW, understanding the nuances of this campsite will enhance your adventure and help you respect this fragile ecosystem.

Join us as we uncover the allure of BWCA Campsite #1604, a testament to the wild beauty that makes Minnesota a premier destination for wilderness lovers. Prepare to pack your bags, secure your permits, and embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Boundary Waters.

BWCA Campsite #1604 is located within the expansive Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), with its general administrative base in Ely, MN 55731, USA. It's crucial to understand that "Ely, MN" is the nearest major town and a common jumping-off point for BWCAW trips, but the campsite itself is deep within the wilderness and not directly accessible by vehicle.

Accessing BWCA Campsite #1604 requires a canoe or kayak and involves paddling and potentially portaging, depending on your chosen entry point and route. This campsite is specifically located on Basswood Lake, one of the larger and more renowned lakes within the BWCAW. Basswood Lake is accessible from several entry points, including those serviced via the Fernberg Road from Ely, such as Fall Lake (Entry Point #24), Moose Lake (Entry Point #25), or Snowbank Lake (Entry Point #27). The journey to Campsite #1604 will involve varying distances of paddling and portaging from these entry points. For instance, some routes might involve entering via Newton Lake, and the site is noted to have easy landings when "coming from Newton Lake."

The BWCAW operates on a strict permit system, especially for overnight stays from May 1st to September 30th. You must secure an entry permit for a specific entry point on a specific date in advance through recreation.gov. This permit dictates where you can enter the wilderness, but once inside, you can typically choose from any available designated campsite. However, group size limits (maximum 9 people and 4 watercraft) and other regulations must be adhered to. Given the nature of wilderness travel, detailed maps (like those from Fisher Maps or McKenzie Maps) and navigational skills are essential for finding and reaching Campsite #1604. Outfitting services in Ely can provide route planning assistance, maps, and gear, making the journey more manageable for those less familiar with the BWCAW.

The remote location ensures a genuine wilderness experience, free from the sounds of motorized vehicles (except on certain designated motor lakes or portions thereof). The journey itself, with its paddling and portaging through stunning landscapes, is an integral and rewarding part of the adventure.

As a designated wilderness campsite within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, BWCA Campsite #1604 offers intentionally minimal services to preserve the pristine natural environment and ensure a true backcountry experience. The philosophy is "Leave No Trace," meaning campers are responsible for their impact and waste.

• Designated Campsite Pad:

  Campsite #1604 is described as a "Large campsite" with "Plenty of room for hammocks or tents" and "unlimited tent options as the terrain is quite flat." It features "Max Tent Pads: 6" or "Max Tent Pads: 8" as per different user accounts, indicating ample flat areas suitable for pitching multiple tents or setting up hammocks.

• Fire Grate:

  A metal fire grate is provided for controlled campfires. Reviewers mention a "well protected fire grate" and a "wonderful kitchen" area, indicating a functional and organized space for cooking over a fire. However, campers are always advised to check for current fire restrictions and bans, which are common during dry periods in the BWCAW.

• Latrine/Privy:

  All designated BWCA campsites are equipped with a rustic, outdoor latrine (often a "thunderbox" or vault toilet) located a short distance from the main campsite area. This helps manage human waste and maintain sanitation. It is important to use these facilities for their intended purpose only and pack out all personal waste items.

• Natural Water Source:

  Water must be sourced directly from the adjacent lake (Basswood Lake). It is absolutely crucial that all water collected from the lake be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption to prevent waterborne illnesses. There are no pumps or potable water spigots at the campsite.

• Waste Disposal (Pack It Out):

  There are no trash receptacles at the campsite. All visitors are required to adhere to the "pack it in, pack it out" principle, meaning all garbage, food scraps, and anything else brought into the wilderness must be carried out at the end of the trip.

• Absence of Modern Amenities:

  Campers should not expect amenities such as electricity, running water, showers, flush toilets, Wi-Fi, or reliable cell phone service. The BWCAW is designed for a self-reliant experience, promoting a complete disconnection from modern conveniences.

BWCA Campsite #1604 on Basswood Lake stands out with several highly praised features and highlights, making it a desirable destination for wilderness campers.

• Unique Sandy Beach Landing:

  Perhaps the most celebrated feature of Campsite #1604 is its "sandy beach," described as "super easy landing" and a "huge, hard sand beach that is great for swimming." This is a significant highlight in the BWCAW, where rocky landings are more common. The beach makes for effortless canoe access and provides a comfortable entry point for swimming.

• Spacious Campsite Area:

  Reviewers consistently note that it is a "Large campsite" with "Plenty of room for hammocks or tents" and "unlimited tent options as the terrain is quite flat." This generous space allows for comfortable setup of multiple tents and creates an open, uncrowded feel, ideal for larger groups or those desiring more spread-out living quarters.

• Excellent Canoe Landing Options:

  Beyond the sandy beach, the site offers "2 landings, one rocky and one big sandy beach," or a "low rock ledge with lots of storage" for nose-in or alongside landings. This versatility ensures easy access for various watercraft and conditions.

• Protected Fire Grate/Kitchen Area:

  The "kitchen was wonderful" with a "well protected fire grate." Some reports mention "3 log seating around the well protected fire grate," providing a functional and comfortable area for cooking and gathering, even if "no flat rocks to assist the cook" are present.

• Good for Bug Management (Dragonflies!):

  One review positively noted, "We got lucky and didn’t have many bugs, lots of dragonflies on mosquito patrol." While bug conditions vary, the presence of natural mosquito control agents like dragonflies is a welcome highlight.

• Ample Shade and Hammock Opportunities:

  The site has "enough pine trees around perimeter for shade and hammocks," offering natural cooling and excellent spots for relaxation. One review specifically mentioned a "really good spot for hammock on rocky landing."

• Good Fishing Nearby:

  While the swimming quality was noted as "poor compared to some spots, kind of murky and stagnant," one reviewer stated, "Fishing was good." Another specifically mentioned "Good smallmouth bass fishing right around the site." This makes it an appealing spot for anglers.

BWCA Campsite #1604 is a specific, designated wilderness campsite within the vast Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). As such, there is no direct phone number or specific address for the campsite itself. All essential contact and reservation information must be channeled through the managing authority, the U.S. Forest Service, or authorized outfitters.

The general administrative contact information for the Superior National Forest, which encompasses the BWCAW, is as follows:

Supervisor's Office

Superior National Forest

8901 Grand Avenue Place

Duluth, MN 55808

Phone: (218) 626-4300

For specific inquiries related to the BWCAW, especially for permits and conditions in the Ely area, you may wish to contact the Kawishiwi Ranger District:

Kawishiwi Ranger District Office

Ely, MN

Phone: (218) 365-7600

However, the most critical and direct way to interact with the BWCAW system for reservations and detailed planning is through online platforms and outfitters:

• Permit Reservations:

  Overnight permits for the BWCAW (required from May 1 to September 30) must be reserved in advance through www.recreation.gov. You can also call the reservation line at 1-877-444-6777. It is essential to select a specific entry point and date for your trip. While you pick the entry point, the specific campsite (like #1604) is typically chosen on a first-come, first-served basis once you are inside the wilderness.

• Local Outfitters in Ely:

  Ely, MN, is a hub for numerous experienced BWCAW outfitters who can greatly assist with trip planning, permits, canoe and gear rentals, food packing, route suggestions, and even transportation to entry points. Companies like Voyageur North Outfitters, Piragis Northwoods Company, Cliff Wold's Outfitting Co., and Canoe Country Outfitters are excellent resources. They have extensive knowledge of individual campsites, including #1604, and can offer valuable insights. Their contact information can be found on their respective websites.

• Online Resources:

  Websites like www.bwca.com and www.paddleplanner.com offer extensive community forums, maps, and user-generated reviews (like those referenced for Campsite #1604) that can be incredibly helpful for trip planning and learning about specific sites.

Always consult official Forest Service resources for regulations, fire bans, and essential wilderness ethics before your trip.

For Minnesotans, BWCA Campsite #1604 isn't just another dot on a map; it represents a quintessential Boundary Waters experience that is uniquely suited to our local appreciation for pristine wilderness and challenging outdoor adventures. Its blend of celebrated features and the inherent nature of BWCAW travel makes it an ideal destination for residents of our state.

Firstly, the ease of landing at Campsite #1604, thanks to its "sandy beach spot," is a significant draw. For Minnesotans familiar with the sometimes-rocky and challenging shores of our northern lakes, an easy landing is a welcome luxury, especially after a long day of paddling and portaging. This feature enhances the overall experience, making arrival and departure smoother and more enjoyable, which is particularly appealing for families or groups with varying levels of canoe experience. It speaks to the practical side of Minnesota outdoor enthusiasts who value both the challenge and the convenience where it matters most.

Secondly, the spaciousness of Campsite #1604, with "Plenty of room for hammocks or tents" and "unlimited tent options," provides a level of comfort and flexibility that can be hard to find in other, smaller backcountry sites. This allows groups to spread out, enjoy personal space, and set up a comfortable camp, which is crucial for multi-day trips. This ample room, coupled with good shade from surrounding pines, caters to the desire for a relaxed yet authentic wilderness experience that many Minnesotans seek – a balance between rugged adventure and comfortable respite.

Finally, the opportunity to truly disconnect and immerse oneself in the natural world, a hallmark of the BWCAW, is a profound draw for locals. Despite the positive comments about a "solid campsite overall" and the unique sandy beach, the reviews also highlight the presence of "dragonflies on mosquito patrol" and "mosquitos were decent," reminding us that this is genuine wilderness, not a manicured resort. This raw, untamed aspect is what many Minnesotans cherish. It's a chance to witness wildlife, hear the call of the loon, and experience the quiet solitude that defines our northern forests. Choosing Campsite #1604 means embracing the challenge, reveling in the beauty, and contributing to the conservation of a truly special place right here in our backyard, fostering memories that resonate deeply with the Minnesota outdoor spirit.

BWCA Campsite #1604

Ely, MN 55731, USA