Middle Gooseberry Camp

Hello, fellow Minnesotans! For those of us who truly appreciate an immersive wilderness experience, where the sounds of nature are your primary soundtrack and the stars shine brighter than anywhere else, Middle Gooseberry Camp on the Superior Hiking Trail near Two Harbors offers a quintessential North Shore adventure. This isn't your typical drive-up campground; it's a rustic, hike-in campsite designed for backpackers and seasoned campers who seek solitude and a deep connection with Minnesota's breathtaking natural landscapes. If you're looking to shed the stresses of daily life and embrace the simplicity of the outdoors, this gem is calling your name.

Middle Gooseberry Camp is renowned for its prime location right on the Gooseberry River, providing easy access to water and the soothing sounds of flowing currents. Its rustic nature means you'll find essential amenities designed for backcountry camping, encouraging a "Leave No Trace" philosophy. While directions might initially lead you to areas not suitable for vehicle access (like a locked gate indicating "no ATV"), this only underscores its commitment to preserving a pedestrian wilderness experience. This campsite offers a quiet retreat, a place to truly disconnect and appreciate the unparalleled beauty of the North Shore, all while being part of Minnesota's celebrated Superior Hiking Trail network. It’s an opportunity to experience true tranquility and natural splendor.

Middle Gooseberry Camp is located on the Superior Hiking Trail, near Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA. This places it within the vast and beautiful Superior National Forest region, specifically along the iconic Superior Hiking Trail (SHT), which meanders through the stunning bluffs and valleys of Minnesota's North Shore of Lake Superior.

It's crucial for Minnesotans planning a visit to understand that Middle Gooseberry Camp is a backcountry, hike-in campsite. Unlike typical drive-in campgrounds, you cannot drive directly to this site. Access is exclusively by foot via the Superior Hiking Trail. This means you will need to park at a designated trailhead (such as the Gooseberry Falls State Park parking area or another SHT trailhead in the vicinity) and then hike to the campsite. The SHT is generally well-maintained and marked, but hikers should be prepared for varying terrain, including hills and potentially muddy sections, depending on recent weather conditions. Reviews mentioning a "locked gate that says no ATV" further emphasize the pedestrian nature of access.

The campsite's location "right on the river" refers to the Gooseberry River, providing beautiful riparian views and easy water access. This setting is not only picturesque but also offers a natural water source (which, as with all backcountry water, must be treated before consumption). Being situated along the SHT also means you're connected to a vast network of trails, allowing for longer backpacking trips or scenic day hikes to other points of interest within Gooseberry Falls State Park and beyond. Its true remoteness, while requiring effort to reach, is precisely what makes it a prized destination for those seeking an authentic and quiet wilderness experience on the North Shore.

As a rustic, hike-in campsite on the Superior Hiking Trail, Middle Gooseberry Camp offers essential amenities geared towards backpackers and Leave No Trace principles. You won't find flush toilets, showers, or electricity here; the experience is about connecting with nature in its raw form. Services typically found at SHT campsites include:

• Designated Tent Pads: Cleared, relatively flat areas designed for pitching tents, minimizing impact on the surrounding vegetation.

• Fire Ring/Fire Pit: A designated metal ring for building campfires (users must check for current fire restrictions and bring their own firewood).

• Benches: Simple log or wooden benches around the fire ring for seating.

• Backcountry Latrine (Outhouse/Privy): An open-air, rudimentary toilet facility, designed to manage human waste in a wilderness setting.

• Water Source (Gooseberry River): "Very easy access to water" from the adjacent Gooseberry River. All water from natural sources must be filtered, purified, or boiled before drinking.

• Food Storage: While not explicitly mentioned for this specific site, many SHT campsites include bear-resistant food lockers or poles for hanging food, essential in areas with wildlife activity (campers should always be prepared to hang their food regardless).

• Trail Access: Direct access to the Superior Hiking Trail for continued hiking or day trips.

• No Fees or Permits (for SHT campsites): Generally, SHT backcountry campsites do not require reservations or fees, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. However, state park rules and permits may apply if you access through or camp within an actual state park campground (always verify current DNR regulations).

• Prime Riverside Location: The most prominent highlight is its setting "Right on the river," specifically the Gooseberry River. This provides campers with immediate water access for filtering, beautiful scenic views, and the soothing sounds of flowing water, creating a tranquil backdrop for your stay.

• Iconic North Shore Proximity: The campsite is also noted for being "right across from the famous Split Rock." While not directly the lighthouse, this indicates its proximity to one of Minnesota's most recognizable natural and historical landmarks, offering a unique sense of place within the North Shore's grandeur.

• Rustic and Secluded Experience: This is a "not a very big site" and is designed for a more primitive camping experience. This means fewer crowds and a higher degree of solitude, appealing to those who prefer to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the wilderness away from the hustle and bustle of larger campgrounds.

• Direct Superior Hiking Trail Access: Being located directly on the SHT means unparalleled access to miles of world-class hiking. Backpackers can use this as a strategic overnight stop, while day hikers can explore nearby sections of the trail, enjoying varied terrain and stunning vistas.

• Abundant Nature and Wildlife: The natural setting along the river and within the forest ensures a rich environment for wildlife viewing. While this necessitates proper food storage, it's a valuable aspect for nature enthusiasts looking to observe local fauna in their natural habitat.

• Peaceful Atmosphere: The combination of its rustic nature, smaller size, and remote access via hiking trails contributes to a consistently quiet environment, perfect for relaxation, introspection, and enjoying the undisturbed sounds of the wilderness.

• Authentic Backcountry Charm: For those who appreciate traditional backpacking and camping, the lack of extensive modern amenities is a feature, not a bug. It encourages self-reliance and a deeper appreciation for the simplicity of outdoor living.

Address: Superior Hiking Trail, Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA

For Middle Gooseberry Camp, which is a backcountry campsite on the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT), there isn't a direct phone number for the campsite itself. These sites are managed by the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA) or fall within state park boundaries (like Gooseberry Falls State Park, in this case).

For general information about the Superior Hiking Trail, trail conditions, or questions regarding backcountry campsites, it's best to contact the Superior Hiking Trail Association:

Superior Hiking Trail Association Phone: (218) 834-2700 (This number is for the SHTA office, not the campsite directly).

If accessing through Gooseberry Falls State Park, you can contact the park office:

Gooseberry Falls State Park Office Phone: (218) 595-7100

It is highly recommended to consult the Superior Hiking Trail Association website (superiorhiking.org) and the Minnesota DNR website (mndnr.gov/gooseberryfalls) for the most up-to-date information on trail conditions, campsite details, water sources, and any regulations (e.g., fire bans, bear activity warnings) before embarking on your trip.

For Minnesotans, Middle Gooseberry Camp on the Superior Hiking Trail offers a unique and deeply authentic North Shore experience that resonates with our love for rugged beauty and peaceful solitude. We often seek out escapes that truly allow us to disconnect from the daily grind, and this rustic, hike-in campsite delivers exactly that. Its smaller size and pedestrian access mean fewer crowds, allowing for a level of tranquility that's hard to find in more developed campgrounds. For those who embrace the spirit of backpacking, this is a prime spot to challenge yourself and be rewarded with unparalleled natural beauty.

The campsite's location "Right on the river," the Gooseberry River, is a significant draw, providing easy access to water and the soothing sounds of flowing currents, a quintessential Northwoods experience. Furthermore, being "right across from the famous Split Rock" links you to one of our state's most iconic landmarks, enhancing the sense of place and natural wonder. This isn't a place for RVs or those seeking glamping luxuries; it’s for Minnesotans who pack light, lace up their hiking boots, and are eager for a true immersion in the wilderness.

The fact that you access it via the Superior Hiking Trail is a major plus, as the SHT is one of Minnesota's outdoor treasures. It provides endless opportunities for exploration, whether you're planning a multi-day thru-hike or simply a challenging day trip to and from the campsite. While being aware of wildlife (like bears) is part of the experience, it underscores the genuine wilderness setting. Middle Gooseberry Camp is a testament to Minnesota's commitment to preserving wild spaces for those who respect and seek them, offering a profound sense of peace and adventure for any local eager to explore our breathtaking North Shore.