Manitou Backpack Campsite #19

- Lake No. 1, MN 55614

For Minnesotans seeking a blend of classic North Shore trail hiking and genuine backcountry solitude, Manitou Backpack Campsite #19 offers a distinctive and rewarding experience. Nestled within the rugged George H. Crosby Manitou State Park, a jewel of the Minnesota State Park system, this site is not for the casual visitor. Unlike the park’s closest lake sites, Campsite #19 requires a moderate hike-in coupled with a challenging final ascent, rewarding the dedicated camper with a rare degree of privacy.

George H. Crosby Manitou State Park operates as a true wilderness park, offering only hike-in primitive campsites—no drive-up or cart-in options are available. This dedication to low-impact camping preserves the area’s remote feel, making it a favorite for local backpackers and those preparing for trips into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Campsite #19 is situated near the tranquil, non-motorized Benson Lake, but its placement on a secluded hill above the main trail ensures a feeling of deep isolation and unique quiet. Its reputation precedes it as a site defined by a brief, demanding final push that guarantees its exclusivity and quietude.

Manitou Backpack Campsite #19 is located in the beautiful highlands of the North Shore, specifically within the boundaries of George H. Crosby Manitou State Park, a wilderness sanctuary near Finland, Minnesota.

General Area: Lake No. 1, MN 55614, USA

The campsite is situated approximately 1.5 miles from the main park trailhead parking lot. This is longer than the closest lake sites (like #20 or #21) but significantly shorter than the more distant sites along the Manitou River. The journey to Site #19 is a notable challenge:

• Initial Approach: The first portion of the trail is relatively flat and easy, often following the boardwalk section that circles Benson Lake.
• Final Ascent: The site is distinguished by its spur trail—a steep hike up boulders to a secluded, elevated location. Reviewers stress the difficulty of this final pitch, noting it requires careful footing and is best suited for seasoned hikers or those with lighter packs.
• Isolation: The steepness and location on a secluded hill mean that despite being on the Benson Lake trail network, the site achieves a high level of seclusion from both the main trail and neighboring campsites.

The access requires a backpacker to be fully prepared to carry all gear and supplies over uneven and demanding terrain for the final section. This deliberate effort is what sets up the reward of the campsite's unique, elevated location.

In line with the park's wilderness designation, Campsite #19 offers only essential, low-impact services to maintain its primitive nature. All park rules emphasize 'Leave No Trace' principles.

• Primitive Fire Pit: A designated metal fire ring is available for controlled campfires, which is essential for safely containing any burning embers. Firewood must be collected from dead and down wood in the camping area only, but campers are encouraged to use gas or alcohol camp stoves.
• Small, Level Tenting Area: The site features a highly valued level tent site at the top of the hill, specifically described as having only room for 1 tent. This makes it ideal for solo backpackers or small couples.
• Seating: The site includes a basic seating arrangement, often a single, rustic feature like a burned log bench, emphasizing the minimalistic approach to amenities.
• Field Latrine: A primitive outhouse (field latrine) is accessible nearby, though its exact proximity is a short walk from the main tent area.
• Food Storage: While the review mentions a fire pit, historical park data suggests Benson Lake sites utilize a food storage system, either a bear box or a bear pole for hanging food, to ensure safety and compliance with wilderness standards.
• Water Source: Water must be drawn from Benson Lake, which must then be treated, boiled, or filtered for safe consumption.
• Pack-In/Pack-Out: As with all sites in the park, there is no trash service. All garbage must be packed out by the camper.

The highlights of Campsite #19 are intrinsically linked to its challenging access and singular setup, creating a memorable experience for the dedicated Minnesota backpacker.

• Superior Seclusion: The final, steep ascent over boulders effectively deters casual visitors, making this one of the most private and quiet sites on the Benson Lake perimeter.
• Elevated Position: Situated on a hill above the lake, the campsite provides an elevated perspective of the surrounding forest and potentially Benson Lake itself, offering excellent photo opportunities and a breezy atmosphere.
• Perfect for Solo/Couple Backpacking: The description of only having room for 1 tent on the level pad makes it the ideal reservation for a solo traveler or a couple seeking a truly intimate and secluded wilderness retreat away from larger groups.
• Unique Trail Experience: The 1.5-mile hike features a pleasant combination of boardwalk and dirt trail before culminating in the steep boulder climb. This variety in terrain makes the journey to the site a memorable part of the adventure.
• Gateway to Benson Lake Loop: The campsite sits directly along the popular Benson Lake trail, offering campers quick access to a scenic and relatively easy 1-mile loop for fishing, wildlife viewing, or simply a morning stroll before venturing out onto the more rugged trails of the park's interior.

George H. Crosby Manitou State Park does not have its own visitor center and is administered by the nearby Tettegouche State Park. Reservations are handled through the statewide Minnesota DNR system.

Park Management (Administrative Office):

C/O Tettegouche State Park

7616 Lake County Road 7 (Physical Park Entrance)

Finland, MN 55614

Phone (Tettegouche Office): (218) 353-8800

Reservations (MN DNR): 866-857-2757

Note: Vehicle permits are required for entry and parking. Cell phone service is known to be spotty or non-existent in this remote park area, so visitors should plan accordingly and carry a physical map.

Manitou Backpack Campsite #19 represents the quintessential North Shore backpacking challenge for a devoted Minnesota outdoors enthusiast. It’s a perfect test and reward for the local who values solitude above all else. The 1.5-mile distance offers an ideal overnight or weekend backpacking trip—long enough to feel immersed in the wilderness, but manageable for a two-day excursion.

For Minnesotans accustomed to the crowded spots on Highway 61, this campsite offers a genuine, unplugged escape. The highly specific features—a single-tent pad, a fire pit, and the demanding final boulder climb—cater directly to the experienced hiker who seeks a premium, exclusive camping area. It’s a site that proudly demands effort and, in return, grants unparalleled privacy and quiet above the lake. For those seeking a personal, reflective retreat in the state's rugged northern woods, away from the sounds of neighboring campers and only the wind in the trees and the potential howl of a wolf for company, Campsite #19 is a coveted reservation and a true taste of northern Minnesota's untamed spirit. It provides the perfect blend of accessibility to the Benson Lake trail system and deep-woods seclusion.

Manitou Backpack Campsite #19

Lake No. 1, MN 55614, USA