I have been on 4 trips to Ensign. Each time the site had okay tent pads but none had huge ones. I am going on a trip first week of June and need a couple target sites for a 16' tent. I usually hammock camp but my group is 8people and this was their idea to solve the sleeping situation. I saw there was maybe 2 on the west side of lake, any ideas help.

Not sure how much help it will be but, if you haven't done so already? Check out the maps section . Just click on the red dots to get the campsite review. Perhaps they will provide the illumination you seek?

The photo shows our tents at site #1264. Each tent is about 9x8 (includes the vestibules). There is plenty of room for a larger tent. If you are also using a hammock, you may have trouble finding suitable trees. This site does show signs of heavy use. There is a trail that leads to the back of the site with a nice sitting area.




Evening view from the fire grate.

Pardon this question, but tent pads? I understand designated camping spots, but designated tent locations? Does this mean you have to have a freestanding tent that does not require stakes to hold it in place?

LukeMacGillie37: "Pardon this question, but tent pads? I understand designated camping spots, but designated tent locations? Does this mean you have to have a freestanding tent that does not require stakes to hold it in place?


"

Tent pads are not necessarily designated spots in campsites but, usually the most convenient spots are well established in most designated BWCA campsites - thus the original question. It does NOT mean that you can only use a freestanding tent.

TuscaroraBorealis: "

LukeMacGillie37: "Pardon this question, but tent pads? I understand designated camping spots, but designated tent locations? Does this mean you have to have a freestanding tent that does not require stakes to hold it in place?



"

Tent pads are not necessarily designated spots in campsites but, usually the most convenient spots are well established in most designated BWCA campsites - thus the original question. It does NOT mean that you can only use a freestanding tent. "

Thanks! Minor heart attack averted a month out from my first time heading into BWCA!

Enjoy!

I've never seen an eight person tent in the bwca but I'm sure someone has tried it. I'd bring two 4 person tents if it were me. Even that will seem tight. Good luck.

I've seen a couple few and far between and now that I think two of the sites I've visited could have fit. After talking with outfitter we found 6 potential campsites that'll fit us, thanks to all who replied.