BWCA Campsite 1599 on Basswood

Very well-used site, but for a reason. Large white and red pines and cedars dominate the site. The kitchen has an amazing view towards the south. The landing on the south side of the island is as easy as they come - mostly sand and gravel with a few rocks to watch out for. There is also a smaller, more difficult landing on the east side. Lots of large, flat tent pads. I put 4 max, but you could probably find more. Watch out for the poison ivy.

Excellent island site served as our basecamp. Nice sand/gravel landing allows 2 canoes to load at same time when nosed in. Rocks have been arranged to facilitate loading. The terrace above the landing features man-made steps to the large shaded clearing that features nicely scattered rocks. The kitchen has 4 log seating and the fireplace is well protected from wind. There are at least 5 tent sites with 2 being on a trail to the east side of the island. Red pines are the dominant tree, but they are too tall to allow easy pack hanging. There are artifacts that suggest another use before it became a canoe campsite.

In the motorized zone, but late in the season, it doesn't matter. Close to its nearest neighbor. This is a very nice site with a beautiful landing, an OK kitchen and lots of open space and flat spots. This is a former work site, and there is some old machinery lying about. This is also one of the sites from which you can see the AT&T tower on the Fernberg Road. In spite of the drawbacks, a very nice spot with a great view of Pipestone Bay.

Very nice site overall