West Caribou River Camp

Introduction / Overview

For Minnesota's dedicated backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts, the West Caribou River Camp is not a drive-in destination but a prized, rustic backcountry campsite located directly on the legendary Superior Hiking Trail (SHT). Situated high on the ridges overlooking Lake Superior and the vast North Shore, this site offers an authentic wilderness experience, perfectly positioned between trailheads near Silver Bay and the Caribou River area. It is a critical overnight stop for those tackling the SHT, whether thru-hiking the entire 300+ miles or completing a multi-day section hike.

The camp is renowned for its breathtaking views. As attested by those who have camped here, the site often provides a majestic perspective atop a ridge, with sweeping vistas of the sprawling Superior National Forest below and the vast, beautiful expanse of Lake Superior in the distance. This unique vantage point makes it a must-do stop, especially during the vibrant fall color season. Unlike developed state park campgrounds, West Caribou River Camp operates on a first-come, first-served, no-fee basis, requiring hikers to be self-sufficient and follow strict Leave No Trace principles. It provides a simple, well-maintained area for rest and refueling, allowing local adventurers to fully immerse themselves in the rugged, rock-and-ridge terrain of the Sawtooth Mountains.

The site is one of the nearly 100 designated backcountry campsites maintained by the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA), ensuring hikers have safe, established places to stay along this world-class footpath.

Location and Accessibility

The West Caribou River Camp is located deep within the backcountry of the Superior Hiking Trail in the North Shore region of Minnesota. Its general location is near Silver Bay, MN 55614, USA, in Lake County.

Hike-In Only:

This is a backcountry site and is not accessible by car. It must be hiked into, typically from nearby SHT trailheads such as those near the Caribou Falls State Wayside or County Road 6.

Trail System Placement:

The camp is situated on the main SHT corridor, specifically in the rugged section that includes steep ascents and descents along the Manitou and Caribou Rivers.

Caribou River Proximity:

It is located near the Caribou River gorge, one of the most scenic river crossings on the trail, which features cascades and rugged terrain.

Seasonal Access:

Access is primarily seasonal, from late spring through late fall. While the SHT is open year-round, winter camping requires specialized gear and extreme caution due to unpredictable North Shore weather and trail conditions.

Users must plan their hike according to the distance from the nearest trailhead (typically 3 to 11 miles apart) and the availability of parking, which is permitted overnight at most official SHT trailheads north of Duluth.

Services Offered

As a rustic, designated SHT backcountry site, the West Caribou River Camp offers essential services required for responsible, low-impact wilderness camping. It is designed for self-sufficient hikers and backpackers.

Tent Pads:

The site includes multiple, cleared tent pads designed to minimize impact on the forest floor, typically accommodating 2–5 tents. Hikers are expected to share space if the site is busy.

Latrine:

An open-air backcountry latrine (outhouse) is provided at a short distance from the camping area to ensure proper disposal of human waste.

Fire Ring:

A single, centrally-located fire ring is installed. Fires must only be built within this ring, and hikers are encouraged to carry a camp stove instead to reduce environmental impact. Firewood must be gathered in the surrounding forest (check for fire bans).

Seating:

Simple benches or log seating is often built around the fire ring for group convenience.

Water Source:

The camp is typically located near a natural water source, likely the Caribou River or a nearby tributary. All water must be filtered, boiled, or chemically treated before consumption.

No Fees or Permits:

There are no fees or reservations required to use this SHT campsite, promoting accessible recreation for all Minnesota residents.

Features / Highlights

The West Caribou River Camp is celebrated for its incredible setting and the memorable hiking it affords.

Spectacular Ridge-Top Vistas:

The paramount feature is the commanding view from its high elevation. Campers are treated to unparalleled panoramic views of Lake Superior and the vast, rolling Sawtooth Mountains and boreal forests.

Close to Caribou Falls:

The site is within a reasonable hiking distance of the Caribou Falls State Wayside, allowing hikers to experience the dramatic 35-foot waterfall and the Caribou River gorge—a major geological highlight.

Immersive Wilderness Feel:

Located on a rugged stretch of the SHT, the camp provides a challenging yet deeply rewarding experience that feels remote, ideal for those seeking true solitude and silence (though sharing the camp is always a possibility).

Access to Trout Streams:

The proximity to the Caribou River, a designated trout stream, offers the possibility of shore or river fishing for those carrying appropriate gear and licenses.

Backpacking Culture:

This is a place to connect with the vibrant Minnesota backpacking community. Sharing the fire ring and trading trail stories with fellow thru- or section hikers is a common and cherished part of the experience.

Contact Information

As a designated backcountry site on the Superior Hiking Trail, there is no direct phone number or dedicated mailing address for the West Caribou River Camp itself. Information and assistance are managed by the Superior Hiking Trail Association and the local State Park offices.

Address: Superior Hiking Trail, Silver Bay, MN 55614, USA (General Trail Section)

Primary Contact for Trail Information (Superior Hiking Trail Association): The SHTA office is the primary resource for maps, guidebooks, trail conditions, and general rules. While they do not provide a direct public phone line for the camp, their contact information for the main office is the most reliable resource for planning your hike. Check the official SHTA website for the latest contact details.

For emergencies, always dial 911 and be prepared to provide precise location coordinates (which should be carried with you via map or GPS).

What is worth choosing

For the experienced Minnesota hiker, the West Caribou River Camp is worth choosing because it offers the quintessential, hard-earned reward of the Superior Hiking Trail: a panoramic Lake Superior view combined with true, unreserved backcountry camping. It is a critical hub for multi-day trips in this rugged section, making logistics straightforward for section hikers from Duluth or the Twin Cities.

Unlike crowded state park campgrounds, this site requires self-reliance but grants the priceless return of quiet solitude, save for the sounds of the Northwoods. The free-to-use nature of the site, thanks to the SHTA, makes high-quality backpacking accessible. Choosing this camp means embracing the adventure of the Caribou River gorge, challenging climbs, and settling in for a night under the vast, dark sky atop a ridge where you can capture that breathtaking view mentioned by fellow campers. It’s an essential stop on the Superior Hiking Trail, embodying the best of Minnesota’s rugged, beautiful North Shore.