Kimball Creek Camp, Grand Marais, MN

Introduction / Overview

For the dedicated backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts of Minnesota, the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) is more than just a path—it is a treasured local resource. Tucked into one of the trail's most beautiful sections near Grand Marais is Kimball Creek Camp, a designated backcountry campsite that offers a quintessential North Shore wilderness experience. This site is not a conventional drive-in campground; it is a rustic, hike-in location designed specifically for thru-hikers and section hikers traversing the rugged, magnificent terrain of the SHT.

Kimball Creek Camp is renowned for its idyllic setting right next to the babbling Kimball Creek, providing a soothing soundtrack to a night under the stars. The camp rewards hikers who successfully navigate a challenging stretch of the trail with a sense of accomplishment and profound natural beauty. It serves as a necessary and welcome respite, offering essential, basic amenities within a pristine forest environment. As a popular spot along the trail, it embodies the spirit of shared adventure and minimalist camping that defines the Superior Hiking Trail community. Visitors should arrive prepared for primitive conditions and follow the strict Leave No Trace ethics that preserve this unique Minnesota treasure for future generations.

Location and Accessibility

Kimball Creek Camp is officially located along the Superior Hiking Trail near Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA. Its exact location is backcountry, meaning it is only reachable by foot, a key characteristic that maintains its secluded, natural atmosphere.

Accessibility is by foot travel only. The campsite is integrated into the SHT system, situated between trailheads that typically connect to County Road 14 (Cook County Road 14) or other nearby access points. Hikers often use this camp as an overnight stop on a multi-day trip. Local users should note that the trail sections leading to the campsite are known to be steep and challenging, consistent with the rugged character of the Superior Trail. A review warns that the trail "is steep, but no different than other sections of the superior trail," indicating that experienced SHT hikers will recognize the level of difficulty. The remote nature of this site means access involves parking at a designated SHT trailhead parking lot and hiking in, making careful planning of mileage and elevation gain essential.

Services Offered (Backcountry Essentials)

As a designated SHT backcountry site, Kimball Creek Camp provides a focused set of rustic services aimed at supporting hikers while minimizing impact on the environment. The focus is on functionality and resource protection.

Tent Pads: The site features several designated, leveled tent pads (typically 2-4) to provide a flat, protected area for sleeping and to prevent widening the campsite area. Reviewers note the tent pads are "pretty small," suggesting groups may need to consolidate tents.
Backcountry Latrine: A pit or vault latrine is provided a short distance from the main camp area for human waste disposal, helping to maintain sanitation in the wilderness setting. Caution is advised, as customer feedback indicates the path down to the latrine/creek area can be "muddy and treacherous," posing a slip-and-fall risk.
Fire Ring: A communal metal fire ring is available for campfires. Hikers should always check for seasonal fire restrictions that are common in Minnesota's North Woods and be prepared to use a portable camp stove for cooking.
Water Access: The campsite offers good water access to Kimball Creek. This is a crucial service for hikers. All water sourced from the creek must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption to ensure safety.
Primitive Seating: Often, basic log or bench seating is provided near the fire ring for communal use.
No Reservations/No Fees: Like most SHT campsites, there are typically no fees, permits, or reservations required. This operates on a first-come, first-served, shared-site basis. Visitors should be prepared to share the camp with other hiking parties.

Features / Highlights

The appeal of Kimball Creek Camp lies primarily in its exceptional natural features and location along the trail:

The Babbling Creek: The defining highlight is the immediate proximity to the Kimball Creek. Its constant, gentle sound is a highly-praised feature, creating a uniquely peaceful and memorable overnight experience.
Excellent Water Source: The good access to the creek ensures a reliable water source for filtering, which is vital for backpackers on a long trail section. The beauty of the creek itself is noted to be "beautiful and well worth the trip."
Superior Hiking Trail Immersion: The camp is fully surrounded by the mature North Woods forest, offering deep immersion into the Superior National Forest and the challenging, rewarding landscape of the SHT. It allows for the exploration of deep gorges and high overlooks in the surrounding area.
Hammock-Friendly Trees: The site includes "some good hang-bag trees," a welcome feature for those who prefer hammock camping over ground tents or those who use a bear bag for food storage.
North Shore Proximity: The camp’s location near Grand Marais means it is close to trailheads that offer easy connections to the town for resupply, shuttling, or post-hike celebrations, offering the perfect balance between remote wilderness and necessary convenience.

Contact Information

As a rustic trailside stop, Kimball Creek Camp does not have its own managed office or direct phone line. For up-to-date trail conditions, closure information, and essential planning details, local users should consult the primary organization managing the trail:

Address (General Area and Management):

Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA)

7332 Grand Ave., Duluth, MN 55807 (Consult SHTA maps and guidebooks for precise trailhead access near Grand Marais, MN 55604)

Superior National Forest (For land area management and forest alerts):

Gunflint Ranger District

Grand Marais, MN 55604

Phone (Superior National Forest - Gunflint District):

(218) 387-1750 (Contact for local weather, fire restrictions, and forest regulations)

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

Kimball Creek Camp is an essential fixture for Minnesotans who value the state’s world-class backpacking opportunities. It offers a pure, unadulterated wilderness escape without the crowds or fees associated with more developed sites. For local hikers, this camp is not just a place to sleep; it is a destination that proves the immense natural payoff is worth the rigorous physical effort of the North Shore trails.

This site is perfectly suited for experienced local backpackers who embrace the self-sufficiency required by primitive camping. It allows residents to tap into the restorative power of the North Woods, offering the simple, profound pleasure of falling asleep to the sound of the creek. While the trail down to the water and latrine may be muddy and the tent pads small, these are simply accepted challenges that are a part of the real, unmanicured beauty of Minnesota's most beloved footpath. It’s an authentic place for Minnesotans to connect with nature, test their resolve, and participate in the shared tradition of the Superior Hiking Trail.