Manitou Backpack Campsite #16

- Lake No. 1, MN 55614

For Minnesotans who truly embrace the "land of 10,000 lakes" spirit, there is no greater draw than the rugged beauty of the North Shore. Tucked away from the bustling tourist route of Highway 61 lies a unique, primitive haven: George H. Crosby Manitou State Park. Unlike its more developed counterparts, this park offers an experience dedicated solely to the backpacker. Within this landscape of deep gorges, volcanic canyons, and boreal forests is Manitou Backpack Campsite #16, a specific, secluded destination that represents the pinnacle of wilderness camping within the Minnesota State Park system.

Campsite #16 is not a drive-up spot; it is a true hike-in site, demanding a commitment that rewards visitors with unparalleled solitude and immersion in nature. It is renowned among local hiking enthusiasts for being one of the most remote and challenging sites to reach within the park, which inherently filters out casual visitors. This ensures that the only neighbors you’ll have are fellow, dedicated outdoors enthusiasts, along with the resident moose, deer, and timber wolves.

The entire George H. Crosby Manitou State Park was established with the goal of limiting development, preserving the wild character of the Manitou River. Campsite #16 is a direct beneficiary of this philosophy. By choosing this site, you are electing for a pure, low-impact camping adventure, where your experience is defined by the sound of the Manitou River's cascade and the deep quiet of the old-growth forest. This article provides essential, factual information for Minnesota locals planning their unforgettable Northwoods escape to this rugged and beautiful location.

Manitou Backpack Campsite #16 is situated within the boundaries of George H. Crosby Manitou State Park in Lake County, Minnesota. The provided address, while general (Lake No. 1, MN 55614), points directly to the inland area of the North Shore near the communities of Finland and Silver Bay. The park itself is strategically located away from Highway 61, requiring travelers to take a dedicated route inland via County Roads to reach the main trailhead and parking area.

Accessibility to the site is strictly non-motorized and is considered a moderately difficult backpacking trek. The total distance to Campsite #16 is approximately 4 miles from the main park parking lot and registration kiosk. Due to its distance and the challenging nature of the terrain—which features steep inclines, exposed roots, and rocky sections common to the Sawtooth Mountains—it is often cited as the longest and most secluded backpack campsite in the park.

The trail system used to access the site is well-marked and includes sections of the famed Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) which traverses the park. The journey to Campsite #16 follows the rugged Manitou River Trail, leading hikers deep into the volcanic canyon. Because of the challenging terrain, visitors must allocate ample daylight hours for the hike in and ensure they are physically prepared. The reward for the effort is maximum isolation, with the site often being positioned right on a quiet, scenic stretch of the Manitou River.

As a designated wilderness backpacking site within a State Park, Campsite #16 offers essential, low-impact services to facilitate a primitive, yet managed, overnight stay. Visitors must be fully self-sufficient and prepared for a genuine backcountry experience.

• Designated Tent Pad: A cleared, level area designed for a single tent, ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding vegetation and forest floor.
• Field Latrine: A designated, primitive field latrine (or pit toilet) is located nearby, providing essential sanitation services away from the campsite itself.
• Fire Ring: A metal fire ring is provided for safe, contained campfires. Note: Camp stoves are strongly encouraged for cooking, and local park rules allow for the collection of dead and down wood in the backpack camping area, though this should be used sparingly and away from the immediate site.
• Bear Pole or Food Storage Device: Campsites in this park are typically equipped with a designated bear pole or similar system for hanging food, or occasionally a bear-resistant food locker, to safely secure provisions from local wildlife.
• Water Source Access: The site is positioned near the Manitou River, which serves as the primary water source. Campers must bring and use their own filtering and purification systems, as this water is not potable and no drinking water is provided at the site.

Visitors should be aware that services commonly found at developed campgrounds, such as potable water pumps, electrical hookups, showers, or trash disposal, are not available at this remote location. All garbage must be packed out—“Leave No Trace” is the operational standard.

Campsite #16 is celebrated for the exceptional features inherent to its wild location and demanding accessibility, making it a bucket-list destination for local backpackers.

• Manitou River Frontage: The site is located directly on or immediately adjacent to the Manitou River, offering soothing water sounds, scenic views, and convenient access for water collection.
• Maximum Seclusion: At approximately four miles in, it is one of the deepest backcountry sites in the park, guaranteeing a quieter, more isolated experience far from the main parking lot and day-use crowds.
• Access to the Cascades: The hiking path to the campsite offers access to the park’s famous waterfalls and cascades on the Manitou River, allowing for incredible day trips and photographic opportunities.
• Rugged Trail Challenge: The strenuous, rocky, and root-covered trails provide a significant physical challenge, offering an authentic test of backpacking skill and rewarding visitors with a strong sense of accomplishment.
• True Boreal Forest Environment: The park's landscape is a showcase of classic northern Minnesota forest—cedar, fir, spruce, and northern hardwoods—providing prime opportunities for wildlife viewing, including the park’s resident moose and wolf populations.

All inquiries, reservations, and official needs for Manitou Backpack Campsite #16 are managed through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) system, specifically through the office that oversees George H. Crosby Manitou State Park.

Address (Park Office, c/o Tettegouche State Park): 5702 Highway 61, Silver Bay, MN 55614

Phone (Park Information and Reservation Assistance): (218) 353-8800

Reservations (Minnesota State Parks Reservation System): (866) 857-2757 (Reservations are mandatory for all state park campsites, including backpack sites).

Manitou Backpack Campsite #16 is perfectly suited for Minnesota locals because it offers an intense, high-reward wilderness experience without requiring a Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) permit or the logistical planning of a canoe trip. For Minnesotans, who possess a natural appreciation for the wild and understand the demands of the northern landscape, this campsite provides a readily accessible form of true backpacking solitude.

The site’s challenging hike-in status acts as a self-regulating mechanism, ensuring that those who reach Campsite #16 are committed to low-impact camping and are prepared to respect the fragile environment. This is the ideal spot for local adventurers looking to test their gear, train for longer backcountry excursions, or simply escape the over-crowded, amenity-heavy campgrounds closer to the Twin Cities. It offers an authentic slice of the North Shore’s unique, rugged terrain and its deep forest ecology, affirming the state’s reputation as a premier destination for wilderness recreation. For the experienced local backpacker, Campsite #16 is not just a place to stay—it is a destination that truly embodies the wild heart of Minnesota.

Manitou Backpack Campsite #16

Lake No. 1, MN 55614, USA