Manitou Backpack Campsite #22

### 🏞️ Introduction / Overview

For Minnesotans yearning for a true escape into the North Shore’s wild, untamed beauty, Manitou Backpack Campsite #22 offers an exceptional, primitive experience. Located within the rugged George H. Crosby Manitou State Park, this is not a traditional car-camping spot; it is strictly a hike-in backcountry site designed for dedicated backpackers and those who embrace solitude over convenience. The park itself is celebrated as one of Minnesota’s most secluded state parks, deliberately offering minimal facilities to preserve its wilderness character.

Campsite #22 is one of a cluster of sites (including #20 and #21) nestled in the park’s northern area, specifically near the tranquil Benson Lake. This location provides a unique blend of easy accessibility compared to the park’s deeper river sites, while still delivering that coveted remote feeling. The site is a perfect base for exploring the park’s challenging trails, accessing the renowned Superior Hiking Trail (SHT), or enjoying the pristine waters of the designated trout lake nearby. It's a place to disconnect, where the sounds of the forest and the quiet murmur of nearby waters replace the noise of city life.

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### 🗺️ Location and Accessibility

Manitou Backpack Campsite #22 is located in the northern area of George H. Crosby Manitou State Park, deep in the highlands above Lake Superior. The official listed address, Lake No. 1, MN 55614, USA, simply points to the general remote area, but specific access is by foot only.

The George H. Crosby Manitou State Park entrance is situated about 70 miles north of Duluth, off the North Shore Scenic Drive (Highway 61). From the highway, visitors typically turn onto State Highway 1, then follow county roads (like Lake Co Rd 7 or Cramer Rd) to the park's main trailhead parking lot.

Crucially, Campsite #22 is known to be one of the easier sites to reach, making it ideal for first-time backpackers or families managing heavy gear. The hike-in distance is approximately 0.25 to 0.5 miles (a short walk) from the dedicated trailhead parking area. The path is often a combination of gravel/dirt road leading to a boardwalk and a short climb up wood steps or dirt switchbacks to the site cluster. While the terrain of the park is generally rugged and hilly—known for rocks, roots, and steep sections—Campsite #22’s proximity to the trailhead minimizes the strenuous nature of the haul, allowing more time to enjoy the surroundings.

Note for Minnesota locals: A valid State Park vehicle permit is required for parking at the trailhead.

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### 🏕️ Services Offered

The services at Manitou Backpack Campsite #22 are designed for primitive, Leave No Trace backpacking, emphasizing self-sufficiency and minimal environmental impact:

• Campsite Capacity: The site typically includes two designated, level tent pads for pitching tents, suitable for small groups.
• Sanitation: Access to a shared, enclosed field latrine (vault toilet) located near the cluster of sites (#20, #21, #22).
• Food Storage: The site is equipped with a bear-proof food locker or a bear pole for hanging food, essential in this bear country.
• Water: Non-potable water access is available from Benson Lake (lake water source). All water must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption. A hand pump for potable water is located back at the main park entrance/kiosk area.
• Firewood: Fire pits with movable grates are provided. Campers are encouraged to use camp stoves but may gather dead and downed wood for small campfires, following all state park regulations and current fire bans.
• Waste Management: This is a strict 'Pack It In, Pack It Out' park. All trash, food scraps, and waste must be carried out by the camper. There is no trash disposal service.
• Accessibility: The site is hike-in only; no car-side camping is permitted.

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### 🌲 Features / Highlights

Campsite #22's main attractions are its location and the surrounding park’s features:

• Proximity to Benson Lake: The site overlooks Benson Lake, a non-motorized, designated trout lake, visible through the trees. This proximity allows for easy fishing or paddling access (canoe/kayak must be carry-in).
• Easy Hike-In: Unlike the strenuous 4-mile hikes to some Manitou River sites, #22 is the perfect short hike (under half a mile), making it ideal for families or those with limited time.
• Spectacular Trail Network: Direct access to 24 miles of rugged park trails, including a portion of the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT). The SHT’s descent down to the Manitou River is nearby, offering a challenging day-hike opportunity.
• Scenic Overlooks and Waterfalls: The park is home to several must-see features, including the stunning Cascades of the Manitou River and the Misquah Trail Overlook, which provides spectacular views of Lake Superior and the Sawtooth Mountains, all accessible from the trail system near the campsite.
• Northwoods Solitude: As the park is less visited than other North Shore State Parks, this site provides genuine peace and quiet, allowing campers to fall asleep to the sounds of nature.

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### ☎️ Contact Information

George H. Crosby Manitou State Park is managed remotely, typically through Tettegouche State Park. Reservations for Campsite #22 must be made through the Minnesota DNR State Park reservation system.

Campsite Location (General Area): Lake No. 1, MN 55614, USA

George H. Crosby Manitou State Park (Contact via Tettegouche State Park)

Phone: (218) 353-8800

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### 💎 What is Worth Choosing This Campsite

Manitou Backpack Campsite #22 is the perfect choice for the Minnesota backpacker who seeks a taste of wilderness without the commitment of a multi-mile trek. It expertly balances the desire for seclusion with the need for accessibility, making it a highly desirable spot.

It is worth choosing Campsite #22 because:

• It is one of the easiest and shortest hike-ins in the entire George H. Crosby Manitou State Park, minimizing the strain of hauling heavy packs.
• It is located on Benson Lake, which is fantastic for tranquil, non-motorized paddling and fishing for trout.
• It offers a true Northwoods wilderness atmosphere—minimal development, no crowds, and the beauty of a rugged state park—all while being a short distance from your vehicle.
• The campsite cluster includes modern amenities for a primitive site, such as two tent pads and a shared bear-proof food locker, ensuring a safer and cleaner experience.

For local users who want an authentic, unplugged North Shore backpacking experience but don't want to dedicate a whole day to hiking, Campsite #22 near Benson Lake is your ideal, peaceful haven.