Cannon River Wilderness Campsite 2

For Minnesotans who truly cherish the raw beauty of the outdoors and seek an authentic escape from modern distractions, Cannon River Wilderness Campsite 2 offers an unparalleled primitive camping experience. Located deep within the expansive Cannon River Wilderness Area in Cannon City Township, this campsite is one of four designated primitive sites, designed for those who embrace self-sufficiency and a deep connection with nature. It’s a place where the sounds of the Cannon River and the rustling leaves replace the hum of daily life, providing a genuine sense of solitude and adventure. Unlike more developed campgrounds, Campsite 2 promises a rugged, back-to-basics experience, making it an ideal destination for hikers, canoeists, and anyone eager to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in Minnesota's natural landscapes.

Managed by Rice County Parks, the Cannon River Wilderness Area emphasizes conservation and low-impact recreation. This means that while amenities are minimal, the natural environment is pristine and largely undisturbed, offering a rare opportunity to witness Minnesota's wilderness in its truest form. If you're a local seeking an impactful, no-frills camping trip that emphasizes the quietude and challenge of the wild, Cannon River Wilderness Campsite 2 should be at the top of your list.

Cannon River Wilderness Campsite 2 is nestled within the scenic Cannon River Wilderness Area, situated in Cannon City Township, MN 55021, USA. This location places it within Rice County, a picturesque region of Southern Minnesota renowned for its rolling terrain, agricultural lands, and significant natural waterways, most notably the Cannon River itself. The Cannon River Wilderness Area spans approximately 850 acres, stretching for miles along both banks of the Cannon River, creating a vast natural haven.

Accessibility to Campsite 2, like the other primitive sites in this area, is intentionally designed to provide a more secluded experience. These are not drive-up campsites; rather, they are classified as "hike-in or canoe-in" sites. This means visitors will need to park their vehicles at designated parking areas within the Cannon River Wilderness Area (such as the east side parking area) and then either hike along trails to reach their campsite or paddle the Cannon River to gain access. While a specific hike duration to Campsite 2 isn't provided, reviews for other sites within the area suggest a manageable walk, often around 10 minutes from parking for the farthest sites.

The park's location is approximately 4 miles north of Faribault and extends along the river to a point about 5 miles south of Northfield. This strategic positioning makes it readily accessible for residents from these nearby communities, as well as from the broader Twin Cities metropolitan area, offering a convenient escape to a more wild and remote setting. The journey into the wilderness area, whether by foot or canoe, promises scenic views through forested hills, ravines, and along the picturesque riverbanks, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. The intentional lack of direct vehicle access helps maintain the serene and wild character of the campsite.

Cannon River Wilderness Campsite 2, as a primitive camping destination within a designated wilderness area, offers a very limited, essential set of services. This approach is deliberate, aiming to minimize human impact and enhance the authentic wilderness experience. Visitors should arrive prepared for self-sufficiency.

• Primitive Campsites: The fundamental service provided is the designated primitive campsite itself. These sites are typically basic clearings within the natural landscape, suitable for tent camping or hammock setups. They are designed to integrate with the environment rather than modify it extensively. There are four such primitive campsites within the Cannon River Wilderness Area.
• Picnic Table: Each primitive campsite is equipped with a picnic table, offering a stable surface for meal preparation, dining, and organizing gear.
• Fire Ring: A fire ring is present at each site, allowing campers to build contained campfires. It is crucial to adhere to all Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) rules on firewood, specifically that campers "cannot burn any wood from the park" and must bring their own firewood to prevent the spread of invasive species.
• Portable Toilets (May through October): While not directly at the individual campsites, portable toilets (porta-potties) are available at the east side parking area of the Cannon River Wilderness Area from May through October. This provides a basic, accessible restroom facility for park visitors and campers. There is no running water available within the wilderness area.
• Canoe Launch: The Cannon River Wilderness Area features a dedicated canoe launch to the Cannon River. This is a vital service for those who choose to access Campsite 2 by canoe or kayak, and for paddlers exploring the river.
• Hiking and Horseback Riding Trails: The broader Cannon River Wilderness Area offers approximately 5 miles of multi-use trails for hiking and horseback riding, providing recreational opportunities for campers to explore the surrounding natural beauty.

A critical aspect of the services, or rather the lack thereof, is the "pack in, pack out" policy. Visitors are responsible for removing all trash and waste they generate, as no trash removal services are provided. Similarly, campers must bring their own drinking water, as there is no running water at the campsites.

Cannon River Wilderness Campsite 2, and the encompassing Cannon River Wilderness Area, offer unique features and highlights that distinguish it as a premier destination for those seeking an authentic outdoor experience in Minnesota:

• True Primitive Camping Experience: This is the defining highlight. Campsite 2 provides a raw, no-frills camping experience, perfect for adventurers who prioritize self-sufficiency and a deep connection with untouched nature over modern conveniences. It's a true escape from developed areas.
• Secluded and Private Setting: The campsite is part of a series of primitive sites that are often described as "tucked away from people." This ensures a high level of privacy and solitude, allowing campers to fully immerse themselves in the quietude of the wilderness without interruption.
• Direct River Access: Being situated along the Cannon River, the wilderness area offers direct and convenient access for canoeing, kayaking, and enjoying the serene waters. The designated canoe launch makes it easy for paddlers to embark on river adventures right from the park.
• Scenic and Diverse Landscape: The Cannon River Wilderness Area boasts an incredibly varied and beautiful landscape, featuring "forested hills and ravines, riverbottom forest, steep bluffs, and sheer cliffs." The river itself carves through limestone, revealing impressive rock formations and outcrops, especially along its initial miles. This geological diversity provides stunning vistas and interesting exploration opportunities.
• Extensive Trail System: With approximately 5 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, the park allows campers to explore its rich ecosystems on foot or horseback. These trails wind through varied terrain, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and active recreation.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: For spontaneous adventurers, the campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are required. This flexibility is a significant highlight for those who prefer to plan their trips on short notice or simply arrive when the urge for wilderness strikes.
• Abundant Wildlife: The undisturbed natural environment is home to a rich array of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and various bird species such as bald eagles and herons. This makes the area an excellent spot for nature photography and wildlife observation.
• Accessible Wilderness: For Minnesotans, this wilderness area provides a significant escape into backcountry-like conditions without the need for extensive travel, making a true sense of remoteness easily accessible for weekend trips or longer.

These features collectively create an environment that champions rugged beauty and quiet exploration, making Cannon River Wilderness Campsite 2 a unique gem for local outdoor enthusiasts.

As a primitive campsite located within a county-managed wilderness area, Cannon River Wilderness Campsite 2 operates under a different operational model than private campgrounds or resorts. Therefore, specific promotional offers, discounts, or seasonal specials are generally not part of its offering. The value here lies in the unique wilderness experience itself.

Key points regarding fees and access for Cannon River Wilderness Campsite 2:

• No Reservations: All campsites within the Cannon River Wilderness Area are available on a first-come, first-served basis. This means there is no advance booking system, and consequently, no reservation fees or early-bird discounts. It emphasizes spontaneity and equal access for all.
• Likely Free or Minimal Fee: Primitive campsites in county wilderness areas are often free or have a very low, nominal fee, if any. The provided information does not specify a camping fee for Cannon River Wilderness Campsite 2, which typically suggests it is free. However, it is always prudent to confirm any current fees directly with Rice County Parks.
• 3-Day Maximum Stay: To ensure fair access and preserve the primitive nature of the sites, there is a maximum stay limit of 3 days. This policy helps maintain the "first-come, first-served" availability for a wider range of visitors.

Given these characteristics, prospective campers should not anticipate typical commercial promotions such as weekly rates, group discounts, or loyalty programs. The core "offer" of Cannon River Wilderness Campsite 2 is the opportunity for a peaceful, secluded, and authentic wilderness camping experience at a very accessible level, both geographically and financially, for Minnesota locals. Any official updates regarding fees or policies would be communicated directly by the managing authority, Rice County Parks.

As Cannon River Wilderness Campsite 2 is part of the Cannon River Wilderness Area, which is managed by Rice County, direct inquiries for information or assistance should be directed to the Rice County Parks & Facilities Department. A specific phone number for the individual campsite is not available due to its primitive nature.

Address: Cannon City Township, MN 55021, USA (This is the general location of the wilderness area that contains Campsite 2).

To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Cannon River Wilderness Campsite 2, including current conditions, specific rules (such as fire restrictions or "pack in, pack out" reminders), or details about the first-come, first-served availability, locals in Minnesota should contact Rice County Parks using the following information:

Phone: 1-507-332-6112 (Rice County Parks & Facilities Department)

Other relevant county phone numbers include:

• Northfield: 1-507-645-9576
• Lonsdale: 1-507-744-5185
• Toll Free: 1-888-200-4807

Physical Address for Rice County Parks & Facilities Department (for official correspondence or in-person inquiries during business hours):

Rice County Government Services Building

320 Third St. NW

Faribault, MN 55021

Operating Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

It is strongly advised to reach out to Rice County Parks before your trip for the most current information, especially since these are primitive, first-come, first-served sites.

For Minnesotans, Cannon River Wilderness Campsite 2 presents an exceptional opportunity to experience genuine wilderness within easy reach of home. Its location in Cannon City Township, just a short drive from communities like Faribault and Northfield, and relatively close to the Twin Cities, means that a profound escape into nature is both convenient and accessible. This proximity is ideal for locals seeking to maximize their time in the wild and minimize travel.

This campsite is particularly suitable for Minnesotans who have a deep appreciation for primitive camping and self-reliance. If you're someone who enjoys backpacking, canoe camping, or simply the challenge and reward of a "no-frills" outdoor adventure, this spot is tailor-made for you. The "hike-in or canoe-in" access inherently filters for those truly committed to a secluded experience, ensuring a quieter atmosphere free from the hustle of more developed campgrounds. It's a chance to truly disconnect from screens and reconnect with the natural world.

The raw, untouched beauty of the Cannon River Wilderness Area is a major draw. Locals can spend their days exploring miles of hiking trails, paddling the scenic Cannon River, and observing the abundant local wildlife, from deer to bald eagles. This offers a refreshing contrast to urban or suburban life, providing deep relaxation and a profound sense of rejuvenation. The geological features, like the limestone bluffs along the river, add another layer of natural wonder that many Minnesotans cherish.

Furthermore, as a publicly managed site within a county wilderness area, it often provides a more affordable and less bureaucratic camping option compared to private campgrounds. The "first-come, first-served" basis offers flexibility for those spontaneous weekend trips, and the "pack in, pack out" ethos fosters a sense of personal responsibility and environmental stewardship that resonates deeply with many outdoor-loving Minnesotans.

In essence, Cannon River Wilderness Campsite 2 is not merely a place to set up a tent; it's an invitation to embrace the untamed heart of Minnesota's natural landscape. It's where locals can challenge themselves, find solitude, and create lasting memories rooted in the authentic wild beauty of their own backyard.