Middle Gooseberry Camp, Two Harbors, MN

For Minnesotans who truly embrace the spirit of adventure and the raw beauty of our North Shore, backcountry camping along the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) offers an unparalleled experience. Among the numerous designated campsites scattered along this iconic trail, Middle Gooseberry Camp stands out as a prime spot for hikers seeking a quiet respite amidst stunning natural surroundings. This isn't your typical drive-in campground with RV hookups; it's a true wilderness camping experience, designed for those who arrive on foot and appreciate the simplicity and challenge of backpacking. Nestled beside the scenic Gooseberry River, Middle Gooseberry Camp provides a vital overnight stop for thru-hikers and section hikers exploring the renowned SHT. If you're looking to disconnect, immerse yourself in the sounds of nature, and enjoy the pristine beauty of the North Shore, this campsite offers exactly that. We’ll delve into the specifics of Middle Gooseberry Camp, helping you understand what to expect and why it's a fantastic option for your next Minnesota hiking adventure.

Middle Gooseberry Camp is located directly on the Superior Hiking Trail, specifically in the vicinity of Gooseberry Falls State Park, near Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA. It's crucial to understand that this is a backcountry campsite, meaning it is not accessible by vehicle. Directions that might lead to a "locked gate that says no ATV" are likely indicating a trail access point for hikers only, emphasizing that motorized vehicles are prohibited. Campers must hike in to reach this destination. The campsite's exact position is "right on the Gooseberry River," making water access incredibly easy – a significant convenience for backpackers who need to filter drinking water. The Superior Hiking Trail itself is well-marked and provides numerous trailheads for access, typically spaced 3 to 11 miles apart, allowing hikers to plan their trips effectively. Given its location within or very near Gooseberry Falls State Park, campers will find themselves within a landscape characterized by mixed evergreen, aspen, and birch forests, with the soothing sounds of the Gooseberry River always nearby. This campsite is an integral part of the SHT's network of over 90 designated campsites, ensuring that hikers have established places to rest.

As a backcountry campsite on the Superior Hiking Trail, Middle Gooseberry Camp offers essential services geared towards minimalist hiking and camping. It’s designed to provide basic necessities while preserving the wilderness experience.

Designated Tent Pads: The campsite provides several designated tent pads. While it's noted as "not a large site," these pads offer cleared, relatively flat spaces to set up tents, minimizing impact on the surrounding environment.
Fire Pit: A centrally located fire pit is available, often with benches, allowing hikers to build a safe campfire for warmth, cooking, and camaraderie under the stars.
Benches/Seating Area: Benches are typically provided around the fire pit, offering a place to rest and socialize after a day of hiking.
Backcountry Latrine: An open-air backcountry latrine is situated "well back in the woods" for sanitation purposes, promoting Leave No Trace principles and helping maintain the cleanliness of the area.
Easy Water Access: The campsite is "right on the river," providing very easy access to a natural water source (the Gooseberry River). Hikers are reminded that this water source will require treatment (filtering, boiling, or chemical purification) before consumption.
No Permits or Reservations: Like all Superior Hiking Trail campsites, Middle Gooseberry Camp does not require permits or reservations. This operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and campers are expected to share the site with other hikers.

Middle Gooseberry Camp, though rustic, boasts several features and highlights that make it a cherished spot for those traversing the Superior Hiking Trail. Its appeal lies in its natural setting and the core backpacking experience it provides.

Direct River Access: A significant highlight is its immediate proximity to the Gooseberry River. This offers beautiful views, the soothing sound of flowing water, and crucial easy access for water purification. The river setting makes for a very picturesque and relaxing campsite.
Scenic Views and Natural Surroundings: The campsite is set within the stunning landscapes of the North Shore, characterized by forests and river views. It offers a truly immersive natural experience, allowing campers to appreciate Minnesota's wilderness firsthand.
Beaver Dam Sightings: A unique natural feature mentioned in reviews is the occasional presence of a "large beaver dam about 400 feet downstream from this campsite." This provides an interesting wildlife viewing opportunity for campers.
Quiet and Secluded: Being a backcountry campsite, it offers a level of quietude and seclusion that is hard to find in more developed campgrounds. It's a place to truly disconnect and enjoy the sounds of nature.
Part of the Superior Hiking Trail Network: As one of 94 designated campsites along the SHT, it offers a reliable and well-maintained stopping point for hikers. The SHT itself is renowned for its well-marked footpaths and stunning scenery, making the journey to and from the campsite an experience in itself.
No Fees: Unlike many state park campgrounds, SHT campsites, including Middle Gooseberry, do not charge fees, making it an incredibly economical option for backpackers.
Close to Gooseberry Falls State Park: While remote, its location within the broader Gooseberry Falls State Park area means hikers can also explore the park's famous waterfalls and other attractions during their trek.

As a designated backcountry campsite on the Superior Hiking Trail, Middle Gooseberry Camp does not offer traditional "promotions or special offers" in the commercial sense. Its primary and continuous "special offer" is its inherent accessibility and affordability.

Free Camping: There are no fees or permits required to use any of the Superior Hiking Trail campsites, including Middle Gooseberry Camp. This makes it an incredibly budget-friendly option for backpackers and hikers.
First-Come, First-Served: All SHT campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning that while you can't reserve a spot, you also don't need to plan far in advance or pay reservation fees. This flexibility is a significant benefit for spontaneous trips.
Shared Resource: Campers are expected to share the campsite, fostering a sense of community among fellow hikers. This cooperative spirit is a part of the SHT experience itself.

The value here lies in the consistent provision of well-maintained, basic camping infrastructure in a stunning natural setting without any monetary cost, allowing Minnesotans to fully embrace the joys of wilderness backpacking.

Given that Middle Gooseberry Camp is a backcountry campsite located directly on the Superior Hiking Trail, there isn't a direct phone number or dedicated office for the camp itself. Access and information are primarily managed through the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA) and the broader Gooseberry Falls State Park resources.

Address: Superior Hiking Trail, Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA (This is a general address for the trail section, not a specific visitor center for the campsite.)
Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA) Website: For detailed maps, trail conditions, campsite descriptions, and general information about the SHT, their website is the primary resource.
Gooseberry Falls State Park Visitor Center: As the campsite is in the vicinity of Gooseberry Falls State Park, their visitor center might offer general park information or context for the trail section, though they won't manage the specific SHT campsite directly.

For planning your hike and understanding campsite specifics, it is highly recommended to acquire the official Superior Hiking Trail Guidebook, which provides detailed descriptions of all campsites, including water sources and tent pad numbers. The SHTA website also has FAQs and resources, including shuttle services, which can be crucial for planning your trip to or from the Middle Gooseberry Camp area.

For us Minnesotans, Middle Gooseberry Camp offers an authentic and accessible backcountry camping experience that truly highlights the natural splendor of our North Shore. It's perfectly suited for those seeking a genuine escape into the wilderness, where the only sounds are the rustle of leaves and the flow of the Gooseberry River. This isn't a crowded, amenity-heavy campground; it’s a serene stopover designed for hikers who appreciate the simple joys of nature. The fact that it's part of the extensive and well-maintained Superior Hiking Trail system means easy planning for day hikes or longer backpacking adventures. Its free, first-come, first-served policy makes it incredibly flexible and budget-friendly for spontaneous trips. While it requires a hike to reach and amenities are minimal, the reward is an unparalleled connection with the pristine beauty of our state, far from the distractions of daily life. For the local adventurer yearning for a true North Woods experience, Middle Gooseberry Camp is a quintessential Minnesota gem.