East Caribou River Camp: A Spacious Backcountry Gem on the Superior Hiking Trail, Schroeder, MN

Introduction / Overview

For Minnesota's dedicated backpackers seeking an accessible, yet truly immersive, North Shore wilderness experience, the East Caribou River Camp stands out as one of the most generous and well-situated campsites on the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT). Located just a short distance from Highway 61 near the charming community of Schroeder, this backcountry gem offers a pristine environment defined by the rushing waters of the Caribou River. It is a designated, primitive, hike-in campsite, meaning there are no reservations and no fees—a cherished feature for local adventurers.

What sets East Caribou River Camp apart is its remarkable size and capacity. Unlike many SHT campsites that are limited to a few tent pads, East Caribou is frequently described by local users as a "Huge campsite" where "Multiple groups can fit." This makes it an ideal destination for larger local hiking groups, scouting troops, or families who appreciate having ample space without having to spread out illegally on the trail.

The appeal is further enhanced by the proximity to the Caribou River. The sound of the flowing river is a constant, peaceful companion, creating the "nice peaceful atmosphere" that reviewers highly value. While it is a popular site due to its accessibility from the Caribou Falls State Wayside, its large size often accommodates the demand, maintaining the communal, welcoming spirit of the Superior Hiking Trail. This camp perfectly balances accessibility with a rewarding sense of remoteness, making it a favorite for local weekend warriors and thru-hikers alike.

Location and Accessibility

East Caribou River Camp is strategically located on the Superior Hiking Trail corridor in Lake County, just north of Schroeder, MN, within the stunning North Shore Highland landscape. The general address for the trail section is Superior Hiking Trail, Schroeder, MN 55613, USA.

This campsite is particularly notable for its ease of access, making it a popular choice for both day hikers and those starting a multi-day trek.

Trailhead Proximity: The camp is situated very close to the Caribou River Wayside (located off Highway 61), often cited as being less than a mile—or even within 0.25 miles—of the SHT spur trail leading to Caribou Falls and the nearby trailhead parking lot.
The Hike In: The journey to the camp involves an "Easy hike up from the parking spot," typically following a gradual climb along the Caribou River. This is excellent for first-time backpackers or those looking for a lighter start to their SHT adventure.
Distinction from West Camp: Hikers should note there are two designated sites—East Caribou and West Caribou Camps. East Caribou is generally the larger site, closer to the river and its ambient sounds, and located nearer the Caribou River Spur Trail. West Caribou is smaller and may have more difficult water access.
Parking Consideration: While the camp is close to the Caribou Falls State Wayside, hikers must remember that most State Waysides along Highway 61, including the Caribou River Wayside,
DO NOT ALLOW OVERNIGHT PARKING
. Local hikers must use alternate overnight parking options, such as the designated SHT parking lot at Sugarloaf Road, which is only a few miles away and requires a longer hike to reach the site, or arrange a shuttle.

Services Offered

In line with the standards of the Superior Hiking Trail Association's backcountry network, East Caribou River Camp provides essential, rustic services to ensure a sustainable and comfortable primitive camping experience. The site operates on a shared, first-come, first-served basis with no fees or permits required.

The fundamental, primitive services and facilities provided are:

Multiple Tent Pads: The camp features numerous designated, leveled tent pads, allowing for multiple hiking groups to share the space comfortably without over-impacting the surrounding forest floor.
Designated Fire Pits: At least one central fire ring is provided for building safe, contained campfires, though some reviews suggest there may be two fire pits due to the camp's size. Campfires must adhere to all current fire restrictions, and only dead and downed wood should be collected.
Backcountry Latrine: An open-air, non-flush latrine (pit toilet) is maintained a short, discreet distance from the main camping area for the sanitary disposal of human waste.
Natural Water Source: The Caribou River is the primary water source. Due to the area being a gorge, the access to the water may be steep or difficult, and all water must be treated (filtered, purified, or boiled) before consumption.
Benches/Seating: Like most SHT campsites, it includes simple log benches or seating around the fire pit for communal use.

Features / Highlights

The East Caribou River Camp is a standout location on the SHT, celebrated for both its practical capacity and its access to one of the North Shore’s magnificent river canyons. Its features cater perfectly to the adventurous spirit of local hikers.

Key highlights and features that draw local users to this spot include:

The Peaceful River Sound: The camp is noted for being close to the Caribou River, providing a constant, relaxing "white noise" from the rapids that contributes significantly to the peaceful and restful atmosphere.
Exceptional Capacity: Being a "Huge campsite" with multiple tent sites, it is one of the best locations on the SHT for multi-party camping, allowing for "Multiple groups" to fit without feeling crowded.
The Canyon Overlook Deck: A major feature is the short, easy side excursion to a magnificent canyon overlook. Users highlight the advantage of taking the time "to walk a short distance down to the large deck overhanging the canyon," providing a spectacular view and an ideal spot for stargazing on a clear night.
Proximity to Caribou Falls: The campsite is just a short side trip away from the beautiful Caribou Falls, a 40-foot sloping waterfall and a significant landmark on the North Shore.
Easy Initial Access: Its short and relatively easy initial hike-in from the Caribou River Wayside makes it a highly appealing spot for quick weekend trips or for new backpackers testing their gear and ability.

Contact Information

As a primitive, remote, non-reservable site on the Superior Hiking Trail, East Caribou River Camp does not have its own phone number or operating staff.

Address: Superior Hiking Trail, Schroeder, MN 55613, USA (General Backcountry Location)

Primary Contact and Information: Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA)

(Note: All users must check the SHTA website for current trail conditions, alerts, and parking instructions before commencing their hike.)

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

The East Caribou River Camp is an essential, highly suitable destination for local Minnesota residents for several compelling reasons. First, its accessibility offers a major advantage: it allows for a true wilderness backpacking experience without the multi-day time commitment required for more remote sections of the SHT. Local adventurers can easily drive up the North Shore, secure parking (at an authorized lot), and quickly hike to the campsite for a single night or a rewarding weekend stay.

Secondly, the camp's massive capacity solves a common challenge on the popular SHT—finding space for a group. The "huge" size of East Caribou makes it a reliable choice for impromptu trips or organized outings, fostering community and shared outdoor enjoyment. The unique natural features, from the serene sound of the Caribou River to the stunning, nearby overlook of the canyon, offer a powerful connection to the dramatic landscape of the North Shore that is the pride of Minnesota. It embodies the core values of local outdoor life: easy access, shared resources (no fees/reservations), and an unforgettable experience in a cherished natural setting. For a Minnesota resident, this camp is an opportunity to reconnect with the heart of the Superior Hiking Trail.