If I read your post correctly you are worried about human theives, and are wondering if you have to tear down camp, pack everything up, and bring it all with you whenever you are out of sight of camp.
In thirty years of going to the BW I have never had anything stolen from a campsite while I was away. Many of the trips are pretty much as you described; make camp early (or base camp) and then explore or fish.There may have been others who have had problems,I never have. It would be a real drag pack it all up to go exploring, AND....there is no way to reserve your campsite. In many areas, if you leave your site there would be someone else there setting up camp shortly.
I would be more concerned about the safety of your vehicle back at the landing. Break-ins and thefts are sometimes common there.

Posted by Tim H on January 05, 2000 at 10:01