East Poplar River Camp

A Hiker's Oasis: Discover the East Poplar River Camp on the Superior Hiking Trail

For those who love the Minnesota North Shore, the **Superior Hiking Trail (SHT)** offers a uniquely intimate way to experience its rugged beauty. Scattered along this incredible footpath are primitive, first-come, first-served campsites that provide essential shelter and stunning views. Among the most scenic is the **East Poplar River Camp**, located near Lutsen, MN. This site is celebrated not just as a stopping point, but as a destination unto itself, defined by its exceptional location right on the banks of the picturesque Poplar River.

This is a true **backcountry experience**, meaning visitors must hike in and be fully self-sufficient. Campers who choose East Poplar River Camp are rewarded with an environment that is described as "incredibly scenic." The campsite offers a unique blend of forest seclusion and riverfront beauty, with opportunities to witness breathtaking natural spectacles, particularly at sunrise and sunset when "mist floats over the gentle current" and the water "mirror each tree along the shoreline." For dedicated SHT section hikers and thru-hikers, it's a memorable place to rest, recharge, and truly connect with the Northwoods wilderness.

Location and Accessibility: Foundational SHT Stop near Lutsen

The East Poplar River Camp is situated directly on the footpath of the Superior Hiking Trail in the scenic area north of Lutsen, Minnesota. Its location is deep within the backcountry, making it exclusively accessible via hiking. Visitors must utilize the established SHT trailheads near Lutsen or start their journey from other SHT points to reach this spot on foot.

The site's position along the Poplar River makes it a notable landmark, historically significant as it is close to the start of the old **Ojibwe Canoe Route portage**. While that historical portage no longer exists for hikers, its proximity highlights the river's importance as a travel route. Hikers must plan their mileage carefully, as all gear, food, and supplies must be carried in. Because it is a designated SHT campsite, the route to it is well-marked with the familiar blue blazes of the trail.

Address: Superior Hiking Trail, Lutsen, MN 55612, USA (Designated Campsite on the SHT)

Services Offered (Backcountry Essentials)

As an official Superior Hiking Trail campsite, East Poplar River Camp provides the essential, minimal services required for responsible backcountry camping, adhering strictly to the 'Leave No Trace' principles. Campers should approach this site ready for a primitive experience.

• Designated Tent Pads: The flattest area offers space for a small number of tents (estimated to fit two comfortably), concentrating foot traffic and minimizing environmental impact.
• Water Source: The **Poplar River** is the water source. Access can be muddy, but a **wooden platform** is provided that can be used to reach the water more cleanly. **Essential Note**: All river water must be treated (filtered, boiled, or chemically purified) before consumption.
• Fire Ring and Seating: Features a metal fire ring surrounded by "very nice built-in wood benches" and a wider section that can be used as a table. **Important**: There is typically no grate over the fire ring.
• Latrine: An established, open-air backcountry latrine is located nearby to manage human waste away from the river and camp area.
• Non-Reservable: The camp is available on a **first-come, first-served** basis and requires no fee or permit.
• No Amenities: There are no modern amenities (no electricity, no potable water, no trash service, no flush toilets). **Pack out all trash.**

Features / Highlights That Elevate the Experience

The East Poplar River Camp is praised by the hiking community for its specific natural features and the effort put into providing basic comforts.

• **Idyllic Riverfront Location**: The primary highlight is the "incredibly scenic" locale right on the Poplar River. The views, especially at dawn and dusk with the river mist and light, are frequently cited as the reason to choose this site.
• **Established Camp Amenities**: The presence of **built-in wood benches and a table** around the fire ring is a notable feature, offering a substantial upgrade in convenience compared to many more primitive SHT sites.
• **Proximity to Historical Portage**: Its location near the former canoe route portage adds a layer of historical interest. It also provides an option for paddlers, who may choose to take out here and portage down to West Poplar River Camp to bypass 0.4 miles of whitewater.
• **Rich Wildlife Viewing**: The river setting naturally attracts wildlife. Waking up to the sight of the river steaming in "20 degrees F temps" with a golden hue across the opposite bank is a unique, cherished memory for those who have stayed here.

Contact Information

As a designated backcountry campsite on the SHT, there is no direct contact information for the East Poplar River Camp itself. All logistical and trail-related inquiries are handled by the managing non-profit organization.

Address: Superior Hiking Trail, Lutsen, MN 55612, USA

Primary Contact (Superior Hiking Trail Association): For maps, trail conditions, campsite status, and general SHT information. Check the SHTA's official website for their current telephone number and contact methods.

Phone: Inquiries related to the SHT system should be directed to the SHT Association office. (This is generally a Minnesota-based landline that can be found via a quick search).

Emergency: In the event of a severe emergency, hikers should dial 911. Be aware that cell service is often intermittent or non-existent in these remote areas of the North Shore backcountry.

What is Worth Choosing the East Poplar River Camp?

The East Poplar River Camp is the perfect choice for the Minnesota backpacker who values **stunning natural beauty and established, communal camp infrastructure**. This site truly delivers on the promise of an "idyllic" backcountry stopover. While it has its limitations—it is a bit small with only a couple of flat tent spots, and it is in "full view of any passers by" on the main trail—its riverfront location and thoughtful seating arrangements make it a highly desirable overnight spot.

Choosing this camp means prioritizing the mesmerizing views and the comforting sound of the Poplar River. It’s an excellent spot for shorter SHT section hikes in the Lutsen area. Just remember to heed the advice of experienced hikers: be ready with a backup camp stove for cooking due to the lack of a fire grate, and, most importantly, **strictly follow the 7 principles of Leave No Trace** to ensure the campsite remains beautiful and pristine for all future hikers.