Old Logging Trail Campground

For Minnesotans seeking that quintessential "up north" camping experience – where peace, natural beauty, and well-maintained facilities converge – Old Logging Trail Campground within the magnificent St. Croix State Park near Hinckley, MN, stands out as a prime destination. This campground offers a blend of rustic charm and modern convenience, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a classic outdoor adventure with comfortable amenities.

As highlighted by happy campers, Old Logging Trail Campground consistently delivers on its promise of a quality camping experience. One delighted visitor shared, "Clean, very quiet, safe and has the all around camping experience. Even the public restrooms and showers are so clean and well lighted at night! Definitely one of my favorite campsites!!" Another camper emphasized the natural wonders, noting, "Stargazing and camping is great here. But beware of the cold weather and many spots to explore in the state park. Plan accordingly, download offline maps as signal's would be nill." These reviews paint a clear picture: a peaceful retreat known for its cleanliness, safety, and incredible opportunities for stargazing, all set within a vast state park waiting to be explored. Whether you're pitching a tent or bringing your RV, Old Logging Trail Campground promises an authentic Minnesota camping adventure where you can unwind, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories.

Old Logging Trail Campground is strategically located within St. Croix State Park, near Hinckley, MN. Its address, 30065 Co Hwy 22, Hinckley, MN 55037, USA, places it deep within Minnesota's largest state park, offering a true immersion in the natural environment while still being reasonably accessible. St. Croix State Park itself is situated in Pine County, in the east-central part of Minnesota, bordering Wisconsin.

The park's location off Interstate 35 makes it a convenient drive for many Minnesotans. From the Twin Cities metro area, it's roughly a 1.5 to 2-hour drive north, providing an ideal distance for weekend getaways without feeling too far from home. Similarly, for those coming from Duluth, it's an accessible journey south. County Highway 22 provides direct access to the campground once inside the park.

While the campground offers a sense of seclusion and wilderness, especially noted by the limited cell signal in some areas ("signals would be nil"), its integration within a well-established state park means that essential services and park facilities are still within reach. The park office, visitor center, and various trailheads are easily accessible by car from the campground. This balance of being immersed in nature yet having well-maintained infrastructure and roads makes Old Logging Trail Campground highly accessible for a wide range of campers, from those with large RVs to tent campers seeking a secluded spot. The journey to the park itself showcases the scenic beauty of Minnesota's forests and rivers, setting the tone for a relaxing outdoor escape.

Old Logging Trail Campground, as part of St. Croix State Park, provides a comprehensive set of services designed to enhance the comfort and enjoyment of campers, blending rustic charm with essential modern conveniences.

• Campsite Variety: The campground offers a mix of sites to accommodate different camping styles. It includes standard drive-in sites suitable for tents, trailers, and smaller RVs. Critically, 20 of its sites are equipped with electric hookups (20, 30, and 50 amp), providing power for RVs and other electrical needs. Each site typically includes a picnic table and fire ring for cooking and relaxation.

• Clean Restrooms and Hot Showers: A major highlight, as noted in reviews, is the exceptionally clean and well-maintained restroom and shower building. These facilities are well-lit at night, ensuring comfort and convenience even in the dark, a significant perk for any camper.

• Potable Water: Access to drinking water is readily available throughout the campground, ensuring campers have a reliable source for hydration and other needs.

• RV Dump Station: For the convenience of RV campers, a dump station is available within St. Croix State Park, allowing for easy wastewater disposal before leaving the park.

• Firewood Sales: Firewood is typically available for purchase at the park office or through a designated app (like Yodel), promoting responsible campfire practices and preventing the spread of tree diseases.

• Visitor Center/Nature Store: Within St. Croix State Park, a visitor center and a nature store are available. The visitor center provides information on park activities and exhibits, while the store often sells basic camping supplies, snacks, and souvenirs.

• Ranger Station: The presence of a ranger station ensures that assistance, information, and emergency services are accessible within the park.

While cell signal might be limited, these well-maintained facilities ensure a comfortable and hassle-free camping experience, allowing campers to focus on enjoying the natural surroundings.

Old Logging Trail Campground, and its setting within St. Croix State Park, boasts numerous features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for Minnesotans seeking outdoor adventure and relaxation:

• Exceptional Cleanliness and Safety: Consistently praised in reviews, the campground is known for its immaculate facilities, particularly the restrooms and showers, and a general sense of safety and quiet. This contributes significantly to a positive and stress-free camping experience.

• Outstanding Stargazing Opportunities: Due to its remote location within the vast state forest, away from major light pollution, Old Logging Trail Campground offers exceptionally dark skies, making it a fantastic spot for stargazing and appreciating the Minnesota night sky.

• Extensive Trail System Access: The campground provides direct access to a portion of St. Croix State Park's impressive 127 miles of hiking trails and 5.5 miles of paved biking trails. These trails wind through diverse landscapes, offering opportunities for exploration for all fitness levels. The park also features 80 miles of snowmobile trails and 11 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails for winter enjoyment.

• River Access and Water Activities: St. Croix State Park is bordered by two Wild and Scenic Rivers: the St. Croix River and the Kettle River. Campers can enjoy activities like canoeing, kayaking, and fishing for species such as northern pike, catfish, and smallmouth bass. The park offers boat launches for convenient river access.

• Diverse Wildlife and Nature Viewing: The expansive forest provides habitat for a variety of wildlife, including deer, bears, foxes, and numerous bird species, offering excellent opportunities for nature watching and photography.

• Historic Fire Tower: Visitors can climb the 100-foot tall historic fire tower within the park for panoramic views of the surrounding forest and rivers, providing a unique vantage point and a glimpse into the park's past.

• Proximity to Park Amenities: Being one of three developed campgrounds in the park (along with Riverview and Paint Rock Springs), Old Logging Trail is within walking distance or a short drive to the St. Croix Lodge, Interpretive Center, and various recreational facilities like playgrounds, horseshoe pits, and volleyball courts.

• Year-Round Activities: While summer is prime camping season, St. Croix State Park offers activities throughout the year, including winter camping, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing, making it a versatile destination for all seasons.

As a campground within a Minnesota State Park, Old Logging Trail Campground operates under the standardized fee structure set by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This means that traditional "promotions" in the commercial sense are uncommon. However, Minnesotans can take advantage of certain programs and fee structures that offer value and encourage park visitation:

• Minnesota State Park Vehicle Permits: The most significant "promotion" for frequent visitors is the annual Minnesota State Park Vehicle Permit. For a single fee (around $35), this permit grants unlimited access to all Minnesota State Parks and Recreation Areas for a full year. This is a considerable saving compared to purchasing daily permits (around $7) for multiple visits. Additional annual permits for other vehicles registered to the same address are also available at a reduced rate.

• Standardized Camping Fees: Campsite fees are consistent across the DNR system. For Old Logging Trail Campground, electric sites typically cost around $32 per night (this includes a base fee for the site plus an electric hookup fee, based on current DNR pricing models for state park electric sites), while non-electric sites are less. These rates offer good value for the amenities and natural environment provided.

• Reservations: While not a discount, the ability to make reservations online via the ReserveMN system is a crucial feature that ensures you secure a spot, especially during peak season or for electric sites. This convenience helps prevent wasted trips and enhances the overall planning experience.

• Shoulder Season Advantages: Camping during the spring and fall often means fewer crowds and potentially more peaceful experiences. While the rates remain the same, the increased availability of sites and quieter trails can be seen as an added value for those who prefer a more serene getaway.

• Gift Cards: Minnesota State Parks and Trails gift cards are available for purchase, allowing individuals to give the gift of outdoor recreation. While not a promotion, they can be a convenient way to budget for future camping trips or present a thoughtful gift to fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on camping fees, vehicle permit costs, and any specific park advisories or programs, it is always recommended to visit the official Minnesota DNR website for St. Croix State Park or contact the park office directly.

For detailed inquiries, reservations, or to gather the most current information regarding Old Logging Trail Campground and St. Croix State Park, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 30065 Co Hwy 22, Hinckley, MN 55037, USA (This is the address for the main St. Croix State Park office, which manages Old Logging Trail Campground.)

• Phone: (320) 384-6591 (Pine City DNR Office, often handling St. Croix State Park inquiries) or (320) 280-7880 (St. Croix State Park Office phone as listed on DNR site).

When calling, specify that you are inquiring about "Old Logging Trail Campground" to ensure you receive precise information. For reservations, the Minnesota DNR's online reservation system (ReserveMN.usedirect.com) is the most efficient method, but phone inquiries can also assist with specific questions about site amenities or park conditions.

For Minnesotans, Old Logging Trail Campground in St. Croix State Park represents an ideal camping destination, perfectly blending accessibility with an authentic and high-quality outdoor experience. Its suitability for locals is multifaceted, catering to a range of preferences and ensuring a memorable escape close to home.

Firstly, the campground's reputation for being "clean, very quiet, and safe" with "well-lighted" restrooms and hot showers addresses key priorities for many campers, particularly families or those new to camping. This level of comfort within a natural setting allows for true relaxation. Secondly, its location within Minnesota's largest state park provides an unparalleled playground for outdoor activities. Whether you're an avid hiker, a keen mountain biker, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll, the extensive network of trails offers endless exploration opportunities. The dual river access to the St. Croix and Kettle Rivers further enhances the experience, inviting canoeists, kayakers, and anglers to enjoy the peaceful waters.

Beyond the activities, the chance for "great stargazing" provides a unique and awe-inspiring experience, a rare commodity for those living near urban centers. The blend of seclusion and modern amenities, coupled with the straightforward access from major population centers, makes Old Logging Trail Campground an incredibly practical and rewarding choice for Minnesotans. It’s a place where families can bond around a campfire, adventurers can explore miles of wilderness, and anyone can simply unwind and reconnect with the natural beauty that defines our beloved state. It’s a cherished gem, providing the perfect backdrop for generations of Minnesota camping memories.