BWCA Campsite 1286 on Sucker

We only took this site because every site on Birch was already taken. I believe it ended up being a blessing in disguise. In almost every way this site exceeded expectations. However, the unavoidable drawback of this site is the motor boats going back and forth all day long to the adjacent portage and toward Basswood Lake. That by itself would normally knock a star off the rating, so I was tempted to only give this 3 stars. However, we decided that no on would be surprised by this, and in the context of the other sites in the area, this is actually a very nice site. It would work very well for a large group getting ready to take out at Moose Lake the next day. There is so much room for everyone to spread out. There are only a couple of nice tent pads, but there are plenty of other grassy areas that could be used in a pinch, and lots of trees for putting up hammocks, clotheslines, etc. There is even a leaning white pine that makes a perfect place to hang a bear bag, as long as it stands. There were a couple of black-backed woodpeckers that pecked and chattered away for our amusement, and a family of young squirrels that were very, very playful with us. One even ran up my wife's leg. The kitchen area is a large sloped rock, but with logs strategically placed to provide lots of seating, and even waist-high counter space for cooking and cleaning. It could get quite hot on sunny mornings, however, as there is no shade to the east (we had an overcast morning that was perfect). The view from the site down Sucker toward Newfound Lake is excellent (in between visits by motor boats). There are two landings near each other. One is easier for boat landing and boat storage. The other is better for water collection. Neither is great for swimming (too rocky), but we made do. At least there was a large flat rock that provided a comfortable spot to dry off and change clothes. It's a little steep to climb up to the site from the landing, but it's not far. The latrine was further away than we would have liked, and part of the path was rather overgrown. I looks like a relatively new location. I wish they would have taken the path through the open forest, rather than the "direct?" path through the undergrowth. I would definitely consider staying here again if Birch Lake is full.

Good landing with fire grate and tent sites up slight hil to over look the lakel, open with wind downed big trees, good view. Lots of sun - little shade. Latrine is short walk - easy path.