South Cross River Camp: Backcountry Solitude on the Superior Hiking Trail, MN

**Introduction / Overview**

For dedicated hikers and lovers of the North Shore, South Cross River Camp stands as one of the quintessential backcountry destinations along Minnesota’s world-class footpath, the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT). Located near the scenic town of Schroeder, MN, this site offers the perfect blend of accessibility from a major trail system and true wilderness immersion. Unlike car-camping campgrounds, South Cross River Camp is a designated, trailside resting point—a vital piece of infrastructure for section hikers and thru-hikers traversing the rugged, beautiful terrain that parallels Lake Superior.

The atmosphere here is defined by the powerful, soothing rush of the adjacent Cross River. Visitors consistently praise the site’s proximity to the cascading water, which provides a natural soundtrack for sleeping and offers a dramatic, memorable setting. It operates under the Superior Hiking Trail Association’s (SHTA) backcountry ethos: first-come, first-served, and the expectation of sharing space with fellow backpackers. This ensures a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere while adhering to essential Leave No Trace principles. Local Minnesotans know that camping on the SHT requires full self-sufficiency and a preparedness to embrace the elements, making a stay at South Cross River Camp a rewarding part of a genuine North Shore adventure.

**Location and Accessibility**

South Cross River Camp is officially located on the Superior Hiking Trail, near Schroeder, MN 55613, USA. It is critically important for users to understand that this is a **backcountry campsite**, meaning it cannot be accessed directly by vehicle. The address serves as a geographical locator for the general area along the trail corridor.

The camp is typically accessed via an entrance point near Minnesota Highway 61, often the Temperance River Wayside parking lot or the Cook County Road 1 (Cramer Road) parking lot. The distance from the nearest trailhead varies, but the camp is nestled between other major trail sections. It is situated in close proximity (just 0.1 miles) to its counterpart, the North Cross River Camp, giving hikers alternative options in a popular area. Access involves hiking a minimum of a few miles over challenging, rocky, and root-filled trail, which is characteristic of the Sawtooth Mountains region of the North Shore. This hike-in requirement preserves the solitude and integrity of the site, ensuring that only those truly committed to the SHT experience reach its peaceful riverbanks. Hikers should consult official SHT maps and guidebooks to determine the precise mileage and elevation changes for their chosen route into the camp.

**Services Offered**

As a remote backcountry site managed for minimal impact, South Cross River Camp provides basic, essential services designed for responsible wilderness use.

Backcountry Latrine: Every SHT camp, including this one, features an open-air backcountry latrine (often a 'box' or 'thunderbox' toilet). While user reviews have noted its exposed nature in the past, the presence of a dedicated latrine is crucial for properly disposing of human waste away from water sources and the main campsite area.
Shared Fire Ring: A single, centralized fire ring is provided for the entire campsite, accompanied by rustic log benches. Campfires must be contained strictly within this designated ring, and only dead and downed wood may be collected for fuel.
Multiple Tent Pads: The site is described as spacious and large, capable of accommodating multiple tents or hammock setups. The durable tent pads are cleared, flattened areas designated to concentrate camping impact and protect the surrounding forest floor.
Natural Water Access: The camp is situated right next to the rushing Cross River, providing a reliable water source. **Critical Note:** All water from the river must be filtered, purified, or boiled before consumption, as it is raw and non-potable.
Proximity to Trail: The camp sits directly on the Superior Hiking Trail, offering a convenient overnight stop for backpackers. A short spur trail typically leads from the main SHT footpath into the camping area.

**Features / Highlights**

South Cross River Camp is a favorite among Minnesotans due to its specific, highly attractive wilderness characteristics:

Riverside Ambiance and Cascade Noise: The most striking feature is its intimate location by the Cross River. Visitors report falling asleep to the powerful, rhythmic sound of the nearby cascade and rushing water, a natural white noise that promotes deep sleep and enhances the feeling of peaceful isolation.
Spacious Layout: Compared to other SHT sites, this camp is noted for being particularly spacious. This allows different groups to set up their tents with adequate personal space, even when the site is being shared, upholding the expected etiquette of the Superior Hiking Trail.
Year-Round Accessibility: The SHT, while challenging, is open year-round for foot traffic. This camp can be a destination for dedicated winter enthusiasts willing to snowshoe or ski in for a cold-weather camping experience.
Central North Shore Location: Positioned conveniently near Schroeder and within a reasonable hiking distance of Temperance River State Park, the site allows access to some of the North Shore’s most photographed waterfalls and hiking views.
Ideal for Group Camping: Due to its larger size, the South Cross River Camp is often considered better suited than many smaller SHT sites for small groups or those who prefer a little more room to spread out and enjoy the campfire area.

**Contact Information**

South Cross River Camp is a primitive, unstaffed backcountry site. There is no direct phone number or reservation system. All essential contact information is managed by the organization that stewards the trail.

Address: Superior Hiking Trail (near the Cross River), Schroeder, MN 55613, USA

Phone: N/A (Backcountry site – no direct phone)

For all inquiries regarding the Superior Hiking Trail, including trail conditions, maps, and specific site details, the primary contact remains the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA). Emergency situations should be handled by contacting local authorities (e.g., Cook County Sheriff's Office) via a satellite communication device, as cell service is unreliable in this remote area.

**Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals**

South Cross River Camp holds a special place for Minnesotans because it embodies the accessible ruggedness of the North Shore wilderness. It offers the opportunity to engage in true, no-fee, no-reservation backcountry backpacking—a deeply valued freedom for local outdoor enthusiasts. For a resident, hiking the SHT to this camp is a pilgrimage to the state's most scenic corridor, providing a tangible connection to the ancient, billion-year-old geology of Lake Superior’s shoreline.

Its suitability lies in its balance: the trail is well-maintained and marked, yet the camping experience is delightfully primitive. The reward for the challenging hike is not a manufactured experience, but the genuine sound of the rushing Cross River, a spacious spot to pitch a tent under the Northwoods pines, and the shared camaraderie of fellow hikers. This camp is a simple, beautiful reminder of the wild heart of Minnesota, accessible to any local prepared to carry a pack and abide by the responsible ethics of the trail. It is the perfect place for a resident to disconnect, recharge, and reaffirm their connection to the legendary North Shore.