East Kennedy Creek Camp, Silver Bay, MN

Introduction / Overview

For Minnesota's dedicated backpackers, the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) offers endless opportunities for rugged immersion in the Northwoods. Among the many designated, no-fee campsites maintained by the Superior Hiking Trail Association, East Kennedy Creek Camp stands out as a favored stop for those seeking a greater degree of privacy and seclusion. Located near Silver Bay, in the beautiful Lake County area, this campsite is not a drive-up destination but a reward for those committed to the footpath. It is situated in a particularly scenic and challenging segment of the SHT, making it a critical point for overnight rest and rejuvenation.

Like all official SHT backcountry sites, East Kennedy Creek Camp operates on a first-come, first-served basis, requiring no permits or fees, which is a major benefit for local users. It adheres strictly to the principles of primitive camping: hikers must pack in everything and pack out all refuse, ensuring the environment remains pristine for future generations of Minnesotans. The site's primary appeal, beyond its cost-free access, is its smart design and distance from the main trail. Reviewers consistently note that the long spur trail and separation of sleeping areas make this camp feel more private than many other shared locations along the SHT.

The name is derived from Kennedy Creek, which serves as the primary water source for the site. While generally reliable, hikers utilizing this camp must be prepared for the creek to slow or even dry up during late summer and fall seasons, a necessary bit of local knowledge for planning a successful backpacking trip in this region of the state. East Kennedy Creek Camp is an essential piece of infrastructure that allows hikers to tackle the breathtaking but demanding wilderness between major trailheads in the Silver Bay and Tettegouche State Park areas.

Location and Accessibility

East Kennedy Creek Camp is located deep within the forest in Lake County, Minnesota, accessible only by foot via the Superior Hiking Trail. This ensures a true backcountry experience, free from the noise and light pollution of the developed North Shore corridor.

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

The camp is positioned strategically along the central portion of the SHT, a multi-mile hike from any vehicle access point. The closest major area is Silver Bay, with nearby trailheads such as those on Lake County Road 5 (Penn Boulevard). The camp is a significant stop for section hikers tackling the dramatic terrain in this area, including the popular segment that features spectacular views of Lake Superior and passes near significant landmarks like Tettegouche State Park. The campsite is accessed by a designated spur trail—a long one, as noted by hikers—that leads off the main SHT footpath and takes campers into a secluded setting, enhancing the sense of privacy. This intentional separation from the main thoroughfare is a key part of its appeal to local residents seeking solace.

Services Offered

As a no-fee, backcountry location maintained by the SHTA, East Kennedy Creek Camp provides fundamental, rustic services necessary for responsible wilderness camping. Backpackers must arrive fully prepared to be self-sufficient, especially concerning water treatment and waste management.

Designated Tent Pads: The site features multiple areas specifically cleared and leveled for tent setup. A notable characteristic is that these tent pads are often "carved out" along the long access spur, distributing hikers and significantly increasing individual privacy.
Constructed Fire Ring: A fire ring is centrally located within the main camping area. This essential feature is designed to safely contain campfires, reducing the risk of ground fires and preventing damage to the surrounding forest. Campers should only use fires within this structure.
Backcountry Latrine: A pit toilet, or 'thunderbox,' is provided and located a short distance away from the main camp area and water source, ensuring sanitary disposal of human waste, a cornerstone of responsible trail use.
Creek Access for Water: Kennedy Creek is the primary water source. While generally available, local knowledge suggests carrying extra water or confirming flow rates during drier periods, especially late in the season. All water collected must be treated, filtered, or boiled before consumption.
First-Come, First-Served Basis: The camp requires no reservations. It is expected that all small groups will share the site, making room for others as they arrive, per SHT etiquette.

Features / Highlights

East Kennedy Creek Camp is particularly well-regarded for its thoughtful layout and specific natural features, which enhance the quality of the overnight experience.

Exceptional Privacy: The long access spur trail leading into the campsite, combined with the dispersed, carved-out tent pads, makes this site feel significantly more private than most other SHT camps. This layout effectively maximizes the distance between neighboring groups.
Lower Bug Presence: Situated a "close enough, but far enough" distance from the main creek, the camp location is often reviewed as being less buggy than other water-adjacent sites, especially those near standing pond water, providing a more comfortable evening experience.
Ideal Hammock Terrain: The surrounding forest is abundant with large, suitable trees, making East Kennedy Creek Camp an excellent choice for local hikers who prefer to sleep in a hammock or tarp setup, with plenty of private spaces to choose from.
Flat, Comfortable Tent Areas: Campers appreciate the flat, well-maintained nature of the tent areas, which ensures a more comfortable and level sleeping surface after a strenuous day on the SHT's rugged terrain.
Proximity to Wolf Ridge ELC Trail: Its location is known to be near the Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center (ELC) trail system, providing an important local connection and, according to local sources, an alternative water source in the event Kennedy Creek is running dry, adding a layer of security to trip planning.

Contact Information

As a primitive, trailside campsite, East Kennedy Creek Camp does not have an on-site office. All general inquiries, detailed trail information, and reports should be directed to the organization responsible for the maintenance and management of the Superior Hiking Trail system.

General Trail Association Phone: (218) 834-2700

General Trail Association Mobile Phone: +1 218-834-2700

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

Local residents planning a trip should consult the Superior Hiking Trail Association's resources for the most current trail conditions and water source updates before setting out.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

East Kennedy Creek Camp is perfectly suited for Minnesota locals because it offers an authentic, no-frills, and highly private Northwoods backpacking experience right in their backyard. The camp's design, with its long spur and dispersed tent pads, speaks directly to the local preference for solitude and quiet wilderness immersion—getting "far enough" from the bustle of the trail. The no-fee, first-come nature of the SHT campsites supports the spontaneous and economical outdoor adventures favored by Minnesotans. By requiring self-sufficiency and adhering to strict Leave No Trace principles, this site reinforces the local conservation ethic. Furthermore, the insider knowledge regarding the potential unreliability of the creek and the proximity to the Wolf Ridge ELC trail system adds a layer of local expertise required for successful trip planning. For the Minnesota resident, East Kennedy Creek Camp is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a quiet, flat, and comfortable respite that serves as an essential, high-quality waypoint on one of the state's most cherished long-distance footpaths.