Ferguson Camp

For Minnesotans who find solace in the deep woods and the challenge of the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT), Ferguson Camp offers a unique, secluded resting point near Two Harbors. Unlike larger, more frequented campsites, Ferguson Camp is known for its intimate setting, providing a truly peaceful overnight experience for backpackers traversing our beloved North Shore. It’s a testament to the diverse range of experiences available along the SHT, catering to those who prefer a more private and understated encounter with nature.

This primitive campsite is an integral part of the SHT's network, carefully placed to provide essential services to hikers. While smaller in scale, its charm lies in its quietude and its integration into the natural landscape. For many local hikers, discovering these more secluded spots is part of the reward of exploring the SHT. Ferguson Camp serves as a vital link for multi-day trips, ensuring that adventurers have a well-situated and tranquil spot to unwind, prepare a meal, and rest before continuing their journey through Minnesota's stunning wilderness.

Ferguson Camp is strategically located directly on the Superior Hiking Trail, within the general vicinity of Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA. As an SHT campsite, its accessibility is primarily by foot, making it a destination for those already immersed in a hiking adventure. Its position along the trail means that hikers will arrive at it after covering a certain distance from a nearby trailhead, making it a well-earned rest stop.

One of the most notable aspects of Ferguson Camp’s location, as highlighted by a reviewer, is its seclusion. It’s described as "secluded from the trail on a hill in a spruce grove," which immediately suggests a peaceful and private setting away from the direct footpath. This elevated position can offer a different perspective and a sense of being truly tucked away in the forest. While the exact access point will depend on your chosen segment of the SHT, all approaches involve navigating the well-marked blue blazes that guide hikers along the North Shore's captivating terrain. The camp's direct connection to the trail system makes it a convenient and integral part of any SHT itinerary.

Ferguson Camp, true to its nature as a primitive Superior Hiking Trail campsite, provides the fundamental amenities necessary for a minimalist, leave-no-trace camping experience. These services are designed to support backpackers efficiently while preserving the natural integrity of the site.

• Designated Tent Pads: The campsite offers cleared, level areas specifically for setting up tents. As one reviewer notes, it's a "much better site for tent campers," with "good spots for tents." It's important to respect these designated areas to minimize environmental impact. The site is noted to have "only two tent pads," indicating its small and intimate nature.

• Fire Rings: A communal fire ring is typically available for campers to have safe and contained campfires. However, it is always crucial to check current fire restrictions and bans for the area before igniting a fire.

• Open-Air Latrine: A backcountry latrine is provided to manage human waste properly and maintain sanitation standards in the wilderness, ensuring a more hygienic experience for all users.

• Water Source (River Access): While some might find it not "close from what we saw," another reviewer confirms "easy access to the river, which has super tasty water." This indicates the presence of a natural water source from the river, but it is absolutely essential that all water collected from this or any natural source be treated (filtered, purified, or boiled) before consumption to ensure safety.

• "Leave No Trace" Principle: All users are expected to adhere to Leave No Trace principles, which includes packing out all garbage and waste. This collective effort is vital for maintaining the pristine condition of Ferguson Camp and the entire SHT.

It’s important to manage expectations: as a primitive site, Ferguson Camp does not offer amenities such as picnic tables at every site, potable tap water, electricity, or flush toilets. Its charm lies in its simplicity and direct connection to the wild, appealing to those prepared for a rustic camping adventure.

Ferguson Camp’s distinct appeal comes from its specific features and its unique position along the Superior Hiking Trail.

• Secluded Location: A standout highlight is its seclusion, being "secluded from the trail on a hill." This offers a greater sense of privacy and tranquility compared to more exposed or larger campsites, ideal for those seeking solitude.

• Spruce Grove Setting: Nestled "in a spruce grove," the camp provides a classic Northwoods atmosphere with the distinct scent of pine and ample shade from the evergreen canopy. This creates a cozy and immersive forest experience.

• View of the Trail: Despite being secluded, one reviewer mentions a "view of the trail below the hill," suggesting a strategic vantage point that allows campers to observe the trail without being directly on it.

• Easy River Access: The camp offers "easy access to the river," which is crucial for water resupply (after treatment) and provides the soothing sounds of flowing water, enhancing the natural ambiance. The water is even noted as "super tasty" after treatment!

• Suitable for Tent Campers: While hammock hangers might find limited options ("could not find good hammock trees other than for a single setup"), the site is explicitly noted as a "much better site for tent campers" with "good spots for tents."

• Intimate Size: With "only two tent pads," Ferguson Camp is a small and personal site, often leading to a quieter and more exclusive experience, especially if you're the only group there.

• River Sounds: The river is "close enough to hear but without drowning out all other sound," providing a perfect natural soundtrack to your evening without being overwhelming.

• No Reservations or Fees: As a designated SHT campsite, Ferguson Camp typically operates on a first-come, first-served basis without any fees or reservations, offering flexibility for spontaneous adventurers.

As a primitive, non-reservable campsite on the Superior Hiking Trail, Ferguson Camp does not offer traditional commercial promotions or discounts. The "special offer" here is the inherent value of a free, well-maintained backcountry camping experience. The Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA) is a non-profit organization that manages and maintains these campsites through a combination of membership fees, donations, and dedicated volunteer efforts. This model ensures that these vital trail resources remain accessible to all hikers at no direct cost.

While there are no monetary savings or loyalty programs specific to staying at Ferguson Camp, you can support the continuation of these invaluable resources by:

• Becoming an SHTA Member: Joining the Superior Hiking Trail Association directly contributes to the upkeep of the trail and its campsites, ensuring their availability for future generations. Members often receive newsletters, trail updates, and sometimes discounts on SHTA merchandise.

• Making a Donation: Direct financial contributions to the SHTA are always welcomed and essential for covering the costs of trail maintenance, signage, and the construction and upkeep of campsites like Ferguson Camp.

• Volunteering: Participating in SHTA volunteer workdays, which involve trail clearing, maintenance, or construction projects, is a hands-on way to support the trail system and ensure its continued quality.

The true "promotion" of Ferguson Camp is the unparalleled opportunity for a free, secluded, and immersive wilderness camping experience on one of Minnesota's premier long-distance hiking trails. It’s an invaluable resource for any local outdoor enthusiast.

As a primitive, unstaffed campsite located deep within the Superior Hiking Trail system, Ferguson Camp does not have its own direct phone number or a physical office on-site. All information pertaining to this campsite, including its location on maps, current trail conditions, and any relevant regulations, is managed by the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA).

• Address: Superior Hiking Trail, Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA (This address is a general geographical indicator for the trail's vicinity, not a specific physical address for Ferguson Camp itself).

• Superior Hiking Trail Association Website: The most comprehensive and up-to-date source of information is the official SHTA website (superiorhiking.org). This site provides detailed trail maps, campsite locations, important alerts (such as trail closures or fire bans), FAQs, and general contact information for the association.

• SHTA General Inquiries: For any specific questions about the trail, its campsites, or current conditions, it is best to refer to the SHTA website's "Contact Us" section. This will typically provide an email address or a general phone number for their main office.

It is highly recommended that anyone planning a trip to Ferguson Camp consult the SHTA website before their journey. This will ensure you have the most current information regarding trail status, water source reliability, and any other advisories that could impact your hike and stay. Being prepared with the latest information is key to a safe and enjoyable backcountry experience.

For Minnesotans who truly appreciate the peace and solitude of the backcountry, Ferguson Camp on the Superior Hiking Trail is a remarkable find. Its small size and secluded location, tucked away on a hill in a spruce grove, make it an ideal spot for those seeking a more private and immersive camping experience away from larger crowds. As local hikers know, finding these quiet nooks on popular trails can be a real treasure.

The "easy access to the river" for water (remember to treat it!), and the calming sound of the water without being overwhelming, add significantly to the camp's appeal. While it may not be the best fit for hammock campers due to limited ideal trees, it's clearly a "much better site for tent campers," with good, level spots to pitch your shelter. This specialized appeal makes it a valuable resource for a specific type of North Shore adventurer.

Ferguson Camp perfectly embodies the spirit of the Superior Hiking Trail: it's rugged, beautiful, and sustained by the dedication of the SHTA, allowing us locals to experience the raw, untamed beauty of our state without fees or reservations. It’s suitable for Minnesotans because it offers an authentic, no-frills wilderness experience that encourages self-reliance and a deep connection to nature. For those moments when you truly want to disconnect and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the North Shore, Ferguson Camp provides that perfect, secluded haven. It’s a place where the sounds of the forest and the river are your only companions, and the starlit sky is your roof.