Manitou Backpack Campsite #16

Introduction / Overview: True Northwoods Backcountry

For Minnesota residents seeking to truly unplug and immerse themselves in the deep wilderness of the North Shore, Manitou Backpack Campsite #16 within the George H. Crosby Manitou State Park is a premier destination. This park is intentionally one of Minnesota’s most rugged and primitive, offering no drive-in camping and forcing visitors to hike in all of their gear. Campsite #16 is located deep within the park's interior, providing an authentic, secluded experience along the famed Manitou River.

Unlike the more easily accessible sites closer to Benson Lake, Site #16 requires a committed trek—approximately 4 miles—on challenging, uneven, and hilly terrain. This longer distance acts as a natural filter, ensuring maximum solitude and quiet. The reward for this effort is a secluded space right on the bank of the Manitou River, a picturesque river known for its cascades and rugged, volcanic canyon. It is an ideal spot for experienced backpackers, dedicated anglers, and anyone who considers a day-long hike with a full pack part of the essential Minnesota wilderness experience. Here, you are not just camping; you are truly backpacking into a remote corner of the state, surrounded by northern hardwoods, cedar, and spruce, in a landscape that supports local wildlife like black bear and moose.

Location and Accessibility: A Rewarding 4-Mile Trek

The George H. Crosby Manitou State Park is situated off the scenic North Shore of Lake Superior near Finland, Minnesota.

The general address for the park entrance and parking lot, where your journey begins, is: Lake No. 1, MN 55614, USA.

Access to Campsite #16 is by foot only. The hike is estimated to be approximately 4 miles (one-way) from the main parking area. It is one of the furthest sites from the trailhead, placing it deep in the park's wilderness zone. The trails leading to the river sites, including the one for #16, are famously rugged, featuring steep sections, exposed tree roots, rocky footing, and potential muddy spots. This is not a casual stroll; hikers should be prepared with proper durable footwear, ankle support, and sufficient time to complete the hike in daylight, especially with fully-loaded backpacks. Site #16 is specifically located on a section of the Manitou River that is described as wide and shallow, a beautiful setting that rewards the effort of the long journey. This remoteness ensures the highest level of peace and privacy, which is the primary allure for North Shore backcountry veterans.

Services Offered (Primitive & Backcountry)

Campsite #16 provides the fundamental, primitive services expected of a designated wilderness backpack site, focusing on low-impact camping.

• Tent Pad: The site is listed as having one designated tent pad, sized for a small tent, to minimize ground impact and ensure a level sleeping surface.
• Water Source: Direct access to the Manitou River is available for water collection. Crucially, all water must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption.
• Fire Pit: An upgraded metal fire pit with a moveable grate is provided for contained campfires. Dead and downed wood may be collected in the camping area for small fires.
• Food Storage: A bear pole or food hanging system is typically provided near the site for securing food and scented items away from bears and other wildlife. Some sites may have a bear box, but hikers should be prepared for the bear pole system.
• Sanitation: A primitive field latrine (outhouse) is located near the site for human waste disposal, per park regulations.
• Pack In/Pack Out: There is no trash service. Campers must pack out all garbage, leaving the site cleaner than they found it.

Features / Highlights: Riverfront Isolation

The most notable features of Campsite #16 are tied directly to its location deep within the George H. Crosby Manitou wilderness.

• Riverfront Location: The site is situated directly on the Manitou River at a section described as wide and shallow. This offers beautiful water views and the soothing sound of the river, which many campers find conducive to deep relaxation.
• Maximum Seclusion: At a 4-mile hike, this is one of the furthest sites from the parking lot, offering unmatched privacy and solitude. It is ideal for those seeking to truly escape the noise and presence of other hikers and campers.
• Superior Hiking Trail Access: The extensive park trail system, which includes sections of the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT), is easily accessible from the trail spur leading to the campsite. This makes it an excellent overnight stop for long-distance SHT hikers.
• Authentic Wilderness Feel: The rugged terrain and long hike deliver a profound sense of accomplishment and immersion in the Northwoods, a truly authentic Minnesota backcountry experience often compared to the feeling of being in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW).
• Angling Opportunities: The proximity to the Manitou River offers opportunities for trout fishing (license required), a popular activity in this cold-water environment.

Contact Information

For reservations and official park information, the Minnesota DNR State Park system is the primary point of contact.

Address: Lake No. 1, MN 55614, USA (General Park Area)

Reservations: Campsites must be reserved in advance through the Minnesota DNR State Park reservation system (online or phone).

Phone: For information on the park, trail conditions, and regulations, contact the Minnesota DNR Information Center or the staff at a nearby staffed park, such as Tettegouche State Park.

What is Worth Choosing: The Ultimate Challenge and Reward

Manitou Backpack Campsite #16 is decidedly worth choosing for a very specific type of Minnesotan camper: the one who finds value in the challenge and reward of deep backcountry solitude.

It is the perfect site for experienced backpackers or those seeking maximum distance from the trailhead. The 4-mile rugged hike is a commitment that guarantees a quiet, less-trafficked experience.

The seclusion and riverfront setting are the ultimate reward. Imagine settling in for the evening with only the sounds of the running river and the surrounding forest—a true escape from the hustle of everyday life.

Choosing this site means opting for a place where the hiking itself is the main attraction. The trails leading to #16 are demanding, providing a robust workout and the feeling of having earned your spot in the wilderness. It is an ideal base for exploring the most remote sections of the park's trail network and the Superior Hiking Trail.

If your definition of a perfect Minnesota camping trip includes rugged trails, a light pack (post-hike), and the deep tranquility of a private river campsite far from any road, then Campsite #16 promises an unforgettable adventure in one of the state's most revered wilderness parks. Be prepared, check the weather, and reserve early—this is North Shore backpacking at its finest.