Onion River Camp

- Superior Hiking Trail, Tofte, MN 55615

For dedicated Minnesota hikers and backpackers, the rugged beauty of the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) offers endless opportunity for adventure. Deep in the heart of this iconic North Shore pathway, near the popular destinations of Tofte and Lutsen, lies the designated backcountry rest stop known as Onion River Camp. This location is much more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a strategic basecamp situated along one of the SHT’s most scenic and frequented sections, providing essential, rustic amenities to those traversing the high ridges of the Sawtooth Mountains.

Administered by the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA), Onion River Camp exemplifies the SHT's commitment to providing a network of free, first-come, first-served camping opportunities. It is designed to minimize impact on the environment while maximizing the wilderness experience. While not a conventional, drive-up campground, its relatively high level of accessibility—only a short hike from a major trailhead—makes it a unique and valuable asset for both long-distance thru-hikers and weekend section hikers who want to immerse themselves in the deep woods quickly. The surrounding area is famed for its mixed forest canopy, breathtaking vistas, and proximity to major hiking loops, ensuring your overnight stay is perfectly framed by the spectacular Minnesota landscape.

The communal and respectful nature of the SHT campsite system means that Onion River Camp requires all users to follow 'Leave No Trace' principles, ensuring that this pristine environment is preserved for all Minnesotans and visitors to enjoy for generations.

Onion River Camp is centrally located in a prime area of the Superior Hiking Trail, approximately halfway between Tofte and Lutsen. Its address places it firmly within the famed North Shore wilderness corridor of Cook County.

General Location: Superior Hiking Trail, Tofte, MN 55615, USA. The campsite is part of the SHT section that connects the Britton Peak and Oberg Mountain trailheads, a highly sought-after segment of the trail known for its dramatic climbs and stunning Lake Superior overlooks. The camp itself is situated in close proximity to the Onion River, which provides a key water source for hikers, and is named for this feature.

Accessibility: Access to Onion River Camp is excellent, which contributes to its popularity. It is only a relatively short hike from the SHT trailhead located off Forest Road 336 (also known as Onion River Road), which intersects with Highway 61 near the Ray Berglund State Wayside. This trailhead, which also serves as the parking area for the Oberg Mountain Loop, allows for overnight parking, making it an ideal drop-off and pickup point for planning an overnight trip. While the main campsite is very close to the trailhead, it is essential to remember that it is still a hike-in site, and all gear must be carried in. Users should note that while the camp is large, the approach is through a heavily wooded area where seasonal conditions, such as high insect activity or hanging caterpillars in early summer, may be present before reaching the main bridge or campsite area, according to visitor reports.

As a standard SHT backcountry site, the amenities at Onion River Camp are rustic, minimalist, and designed to support fundamental overnight needs while maintaining the integrity of the natural setting.

• Shared Use & No Fee: The campsite is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservations or permits required. All parties must be prepared to share the site with fellow backpackers, adhering to the trail's respectful, communal ethos.

• Multiple Tent Pads: This camp is noted as being a "Large campsite," which means it is equipped with several designated tent pads—cleared and level areas intended for pitching tents on a durable surface to prevent damage to surrounding vegetation.

• Cooking & Social Area: A single, constructed fire ring is provided for building campfires. It is typically accompanied by a "picnic table and 2 benches," which is a notable luxury at a rustic SHT campsite, offering a dedicated spot for cooking and socializing.

• Backcountry Latrine: An open-air, self-composting latrine (outhouse) is provided a short distance from the main camping area for responsible disposal of human waste, a non-negotiable part of SHT etiquette.

• Water Source Access: The Onion River runs near the campsite, providing a natural water source. Hikers must be prepared to filter, boil, or treat all water drawn from the river before consumption. One reviewer noted the water source may require a hike of "a little less than .2 miles" which can include a "steep hill" climb, so preparedness for water retrieval is essential.

• LNT Infrastructure: The overall site is laid out to facilitate 'Leave No Trace' ethics, encouraging campers to confine activities to established infrastructure like the tent pads and fire ring.

Onion River Camp stands out not only for its space and facilities but also for its proximity to some of the North Shore’s most cherished natural attractions.

• Proximity to Scenic Loops: The camp is "Extremely close to Leveaux Mountain Spur loop" and is also near the famed Oberg Mountain Loop. These loops offer numerous, excellent scenic overlooks with sweeping views of Lake Superior and the surrounding Sawtooth Mountains, making the camp an ideal spot for peak bagging and photography.

• Spacious Group Potential: Being described as a "Large campsite," it is better suited than many other SHT sites for multiple parties or larger backpacking groups (within the SHT's size limits), ensuring there is ample space for several tents and gear.

• Bonus Seating and Table: The presence of a "picnic table and 2 benches" at the fire ring is a distinct and valued feature that significantly enhances the comfort and social experience of a backcountry stay.

• Excellent Trailhead Access: The camp's close relationship to the Oberg Mountain/Onion River Road parking area provides convenient parking and potential shuttle access for those planning point-to-point hikes.

• River Setting: Located near the Onion River, the sound of the flowing water can provide a tranquil background for sleeping, though hikers should be prepared for varying levels of insect activity, particularly in early summer, as noted by one visitor.

• Year-Round Potential: Due to its relatively short access hike from a trailhead, Onion River Camp is often utilized for winter camping trips, making it a versatile option for four-season local adventurers.

As a wilderness campsite on a non-profit-maintained trail, direct contact for the site itself is not available. All inquiries, trail conditions, and general information are managed by the overseeing association.

Administering Organization: Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA)

Street Address: 618 1st Ave, Two Harbors, MN 55616

Mailing Address: PO Box 315, Two Harbors, MN 55616

Phone: (218) 834-2700

Email: info@superiorhiking.org

Address (General Area): Superior Hiking Trail, Tofte, MN 55615, USA.

For Minnesotans, Onion River Camp is a quintessential North Shore experience condensed into a highly accessible backpacking spot. It is perfectly suited for locals because it offers a true wilderness escape with minimal logistical fuss. The short, manageable hike from the trailhead makes it ideal for a quick weekend overnighter—you can leave the Twin Cities on Friday afternoon and be deep in the woods by evening. Its location as a gateway to the famous Oberg and Leveaux Mountain overlooks means it serves as a central point for experiencing the absolute best scenery the SHT has to offer.

The site's relative size and the presence of a picnic table and benches are features appreciated by local hiking clubs, families with older children, or small groups that value a more comfortable base of operations. While visitors should always be prepared for the realities of the North Woods—such as variable weather and seasonal insect hatches—the enduring value of Onion River Camp lies in its role as a free, beautiful, and strategically placed sanctuary. It allows Minnesotans to easily connect with the rugged landscape that defines the region, proving that world-class, multi-day adventure is literally in our backyard, maintained by a community that shares the commitment to preserving this northern treasure.

Onion River Camp

Superior Hiking Trail, Tofte, MN 55615, USA