BWCA Campsite 326 on Hanson

This campsite has great views of Hanson Lake, nice level tent pads, plenty of space, and shade. The biggest downside is that it is very close to the portage. It is basically right on the portage, with a short path from the campsite connecting to it, so you may see people passing through. Other than that, it is a very good campsite. I found four good tent pads and eight maximum tent pads, with the best pads scattered throughout the back of the campsite. There are trails throughout the site, and the views are very nice. Most of the trees are in the tent pad area, including a few jack pines. Along the water in front of the kitchen there are some cedars, but not so many that they block the view. There are also rocks along the shoreline where you can sit and enjoy the lake view in the evening.

Would rate it a 3.8 or so if I could fine tune rating. Near (but not on top of) end of Hanson to Cherry portage. Glad it was here and unoccupied at end of long day of portages from Gijikiki/Ottertrack. Did not see another person on portage the day/night/morning we stayed. Decent landing with easy area to pull canoe out of water, but can do short carry from end of portage, too. At least 2 very level tent sites. Some good hammock trees with views of the water. Decent view, but not spectacular. Lots of trees/shade. Nice kitchen area. Uphill walk to latrine (Stauber) but not too far. Lots of mosquitoes when doing your business up there.

Great views, level tent spots, easy landing, trees for shade and spots to sit in the sun—but it is close to a portage trail that sees its share of use. We arrived in the afternoon and left early in the morning but the spot worked well for us.

We stayed here since we were going into Cherry the next morning, worked perfectly for that as the site trails connect directly to the portage. Site was decent and comfortable with nice views.

Ended up at this site since Ester was full. While it's very close to the Cherry portage, this wasn't a concern for us. The site was very nice with a great view and great rocks to sit out and watch the water.

The only significant negative for this site is proximity to the Cherry Portage. The camp is maybe 40 yards south of the portage landing. It has a nice exposed rock face looking east over the lake and looked like a nice spot. We portaged through and did not stay.

Small wooded site that connects to the portage

Thought it was nicer than the site across the lake. We were taking the Cherry Lake portage in the morning & didn't have to paddle from there in the morning. Lots of firewood around, site isn't used very often. Couple hammock spots.