BWCA Campsite #1585, Ely, MN

Introduction / Overview

Minnesota, the 'Land of 10,000 Lakes,' is globally renowned for its pristine northern wilderness, a gem that truly shines in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). For Minnesotans seeking an authentic, unplugged, and immersive outdoor experience, the BWCAW is the ultimate destination. This incredible area, nestled within the Superior National Forest, offers over a million acres of protected forests, lakes, and streams. Among the thousands of designated campsites that dot this vast expanse, BWCA Campsite #1585 holds a unique allure, situated on the legendary Basswood Lake near Ely, MN.

Campsite #1585 is not a typical drive-up campground. It is a designated, user-maintained wilderness campsite accessible only by paddle and portage, embodying the true spirit of the Boundary Waters. This site offers an opportunity to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with the raw, untamed beauty of the North Woods. Located on the expansive and historically significant Basswood Lake, the site provides a base camp for incredible fishing, wildlife viewing, and deep wilderness exploration. It represents a commitment to the "Leave No Trace" principles that preserve the BWCAW for future generations. For a local, this campsite is more than a spot to pitch a tent—it's an integral part of the Minnesota wilderness tradition, promising solitude and adventure in equal measure.

Location and Accessibility

BWCA Campsite #1585 is strategically located on the shores of Basswood Lake, one of the most famous and largest lakes within the BWCAW system. Basswood Lake straddles the US-Canada border, and the lake itself is a massive body of water known for its rugged shoreline and excellent fishing, particularly for Walleye, Northern Pike, and Smallmouth Bass.

The general address for the area is Ely, MN 55731, USA. However, reaching this specific campsite requires meticulous trip planning, as it is deep inside the protected wilderness area. The most common access points for this section of Basswood Lake are typically through Entry Points near Ely, such as the Fall Lake Entry Point (#24) or Moose Lake Entry Point (#25). These points often involve a combination of paddling and short portages to reach the expansive waters of Basswood. It is crucial to note that access to the BWCAW, and therefore to Campsite #1585, is strictly regulated by the U.S. Forest Service. All overnight visitors must possess a quota permit for their specific entry date and entry point, secured well in advance of the trip.

Accessibility is entirely non-vehicular. Once past the entry point, all travel is by canoe and portage. This remote location ensures a high degree of wilderness solitude. The campsite's exact position on Basswood Lake—often described as having coordinates around 48.03863, -91.70075—places it in a prime location on the lake's vast surface, offering varied access to nearby bays, islands, and historical areas. Its accessibility is a direct reflection of the commitment an adventurer must make to truly experience the Boundary Waters. Prospective visitors should be prepared for multi-day canoe and portage travel, as this is a deep-wilderness site, not a roadside stop.

Services Offered

As a designated wilderness campsite within the BWCAW, Campsite #1585 adheres to strict wilderness regulations designed to minimize human impact. The services provided are minimal and rustic by design, intended to facilitate 'Leave No Trace' camping while ensuring safety and environmental preservation. These services include:

One official, established fire grate: Designed for contained, efficient cooking fires and warmth, this is the only legal place to build a fire.
A designated tent pad area: While reviews suggest the flatness of the area can vary, the site includes an area designated for pitching tents.
An outdoor latrine (thunder box): This is a simple wooden box facility located a short distance from the main camp area to manage human waste and minimize environmental impact.
Canoe Landing Access: The site features a shoreline landing area for pulling canoes and gear out of the water. Customer reviews indicate this may range from a sandy beach to a more challenging rock landing, depending on water levels and specific location.
Natural Water Source: Access to the lake for filtering and treating drinking water (no potable water is provided).

Features / Highlights

Campsite #1585 is celebrated for several unique characteristics that draw Minnesota's experienced paddlers and first-time adventurers alike. The primary features and highlights are directly tied to its exceptional location on Basswood Lake:

Prime Basswood Lake Location: Situated on one of the most popular and expansive lakes in the BWCAW, offering exceptional opportunities for extended trips and exploration of large, open water.
Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Basswood Lake is famous for its abundant populations of game fish, making this site an ideal base for anglers targeting Walleye, Northern Pike, and Smallmouth Bass.
Variable Shoreline Experience: Customer reviews mention everything from a "sandy beach" to a "semi-difficult rock landing," suggesting the site's appeal may vary based on user preference for water access and specific camping style.
Great View and Scenery: Reports highlight a "Great view of the lake and islands," offering beautiful vistas for photographers and those simply looking to enjoy a stunning sunset or sunrise over the water.
Deep Wilderness Solitude: As a designated BWCAW campsite, it offers a level of seclusion and quiet unparalleled by typical state park campgrounds, providing an intimate connection with Minnesota’s iconic boreal forest ecosystem.
Proximity to Points of Interest: The location on Basswood Lake provides easier access to other notable areas like the Basswood Falls (check current regulations on motor access and specific travel routes).

Contact Information

Since BWCA Campsite #1585 is a remote, designated wilderness site, it does not have an independent phone number or separate mailing address. All official inquiries regarding permits, regulations, and conditions must be directed to the U.S. Forest Service office responsible for the area.

Address (General Area and Nearest Official Contact Point): Ely, MN 55731, USA (Basswood Lake is accessed via entry points near Ely)

Primary Phone Contact (Kawishiwi Ranger District/Ely Area): The Kawishiwi Ranger District, which oversees many of the Ely area's entry points to Basswood Lake, is the best resource for official information.

It is important to secure all necessary overnight permits through the official US Forest Service booking system, usually available online via a national recreation website. Outfitters in the Ely area can also provide assistance with route planning, gear, and permit pickup.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

BWCA Campsite #1585 on Basswood Lake represents the pinnacle of Minnesota's outdoor heritage and is perfectly suited for locals ready to embrace a true wilderness challenge. For generations, Minnesotans have held the Boundary Waters in high regard as the state's most profound natural treasure—a place where the modern world fades away and the call of the loon dominates the soundscape.

This specific campsite, with its remote location and minimal development, offers the essential 'Up North' experience: incredible fishing on a vast, iconic lake; the solitude needed for reflection; and the adventure of navigating a classic canoe country route. It’s a chance to test your skills, share an unforgettable experience with friends or family, and see the Minnesota wilderness in its purest form. Unlike crowded drive-up campgrounds, Campsite #1585 demands effort, which is precisely why the reward—the stunning scenery, the quiet isolation, and the sense of accomplishment—is so immense. For those in Minnesota, this is more than a camping trip; it’s a cultural rite of passage and a deep dive into the natural heart of the state. It offers a vital escape, a tradition to uphold, and a connection to the landscape that defines Minnesota living.