BWCA Campsite 1053 on Malberg

This campsite sits high up on a cliff. The landing worked fine for one canoe, and I treated the carry from the landing to the campsite almost like a short portage. There is some canoe storage in the cedar trees near the landing. Several trails run along the cliff edge, so I was careful to use the safer inland paths. This would not be a good site for small children. The kitchen is close to the cliff and offers good views in both directions along the channel. There is little shade in the kitchen, but the tent pad area is well shaded. I found four excellent tent pads that are flat, large, and shaded, plus a fifth possible pad near the kitchen that is not as good. Despite the climb, this is a great campsite if you are comfortable, or like, being elevated above the water. Personally, I loved it, so I am giving it five stars.

A decent site set above the narrows. We had no traffic in mid September but that would not be the case earlier in the year. It isn't a secluded site but it is good for a small group. Canoe garage among the trees up from the landing but you have to carry up to the site itself. Good view for stargazing but you won't see the northern horizon.

Tight landing that doesn't provide the best canoe storage area. It's a fairly aggressive climb up to the site and the main trail is right on the edge with a steep drop. (i.e. terrible site for young children.) There are some nice tent pads tucked just behind the main camp area which affords an extensive view of the channel and lake in both directions. Being it is located in the main channel of the lake all but assures you of having a cavalcade of canoes passing right by most of the day. Still, I think many will like the amenities it is endowed with.

This is a very unique site that obviously gets very overused. We also found a decent amount of trash here. It sits up on a high cliff with a walk up from the landing. The old fire grate apparently was right on the edge; the newer one gives more space for the camp kitchen. I'm giving it high marks for its uniqueness.

Very elevated site overlooking the narrows. Lots of traffic, but semi private due to elevation. Landing is ok, but a good 40-50 yards uphill to the campsite. Had to string the tarp in the woods.

Lovely views east and west. Not the best for swimming or fishing from camp and you'll see a fair bit of traffic, but I'm a fan of sitting up high.

Great views are awesome. Kitchen is open to the elements with no shade or a place for a tarp. Landing is 40 or so yards from camp up a rocky slope.

The camp site is on top of the cliff and has great views of the lake. Landing area is small and it is on a main route.