St Croix River Campsite 36.6
St Croix River Campsite 36.6 Overview
Rating
Address 66GV+FX, East Farmington, WI 54020, USA
Hours
St Croix River Campsite 36.6 Location & Map
WisconsinPolk CountyEast Farmington
St Croix River Campsite 36.6 About
Wisconsin is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, offering a diverse array of outdoor experiences for every type of adventurer. Among its most cherished natural treasures is the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, a pristine waterway that invites exploration and provides unique opportunities for immersion in nature. For those in Wisconsin who truly seek to disconnect and embrace a more traditional, secluded camping experience, the St. Croix River Campsite 36.6 represents an ideal destination.
Unlike many developed campgrounds with extensive amenities, Campsite 36.6 along the St. Croix River is a primitive, designated shoreline campsite. This means it's designed for campers who arrive by watercraft – be it canoe, kayak, or small boat – and prefer a more rugged, back-to-basics approach to camping. These sites are part of the broader St. Croix National Scenic Riverway managed by the National Park Service, emphasizing conservation and providing quiet solitude. While there are no specific customer reviews for Campsite 36.6 directly, the general description of St. Croix Riverway campsites paints a clear picture: forested scenery, clean waters, and a chance to truly experience river life.
For Wisconsin locals drawn to the allure of a genuine wilderness experience, where the journey to the campsite is part of the adventure, St. Croix River Campsite 36.6 offers an authentic opportunity. It's a place to find peace, enjoy the serene flow of the river, and appreciate the undisturbed beauty of nature. This type of camping requires preparation and an appreciation for primitive conditions, but in return, it offers an unparalleled sense of escape and connection to the wild.
St. Croix River Campsite 36.6 is identified by its river mile marker, indicating its location along the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. While the address provided is 66GV+FX, East Farmington, WI 54020, USA (a Plus Code, which is a global digital address that represents a specific location), the primary accessibility for this type of campsite is by water. This means campers typically paddle or boat to the site.
East Farmington is a small community in Polk County, Wisconsin, which lies along the eastern bank of the St. Croix River. This region is part of the scenic St. Croix River Valley, known for its dramatic bluffs, lush forests, and the wild and scenic designation of the river itself. Launch points for watercraft would be available at various public landings along the St. Croix River, both upstream and downstream from Campsite 36.6, providing access for paddlers starting their river journey.
For Wisconsin locals, reaching a launching point for the St. Croix River is generally straightforward via state and county highways. From cities like St. Croix Falls or Taylors Falls (on the Minnesota side, connected by bridge), public landings offer convenient access to the river. The "river mile 36.6" designation indicates its precise position for river travelers, allowing for accurate navigation. This water-only access enhances the primitive and secluded nature of the campsite, appealing to those seeking a true wilderness immersion just a short drive from more populated areas.
As a primitive shoreline campsite within the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, Campsite 36.6 offers basic, no-frills amenities designed to support a natural camping experience while minimizing environmental impact.
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Designated Campsite Clearing: Each site includes a cleared area specifically intended for pitching tents. This ensures campers have a suitable, relatively flat space to set up their sleeping arrangements.
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Metal Fire Ring: A metal fire ring is provided at the campsite, allowing campers to safely build campfires for cooking, warmth, and ambiance. This is crucial for containing fires and preventing wildfires.
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Primitive Toilet: Campsites along this section of the Riverway typically include a primitive toilet, often a vault toilet or pit toilet. While not a modern flush toilet, it provides a designated and managed facility for human waste, crucial for sanitation in a primitive setting.
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Picnic Table (at many sites): Many of the St. Croix Riverway campsites include a picnic table, offering a convenient surface for preparing and eating meals, as well as general campsite activities.
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First-Come, First-Served Basis: These primitive campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are generally not taken. Campers must arrive and occupy the site to claim it.
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No Fee (but permit may be required): There is generally no fee to camp at St. Croix National Scenic Riverway campsites. However, a free annual camping permit is required for camping on the St. Croix River between Highway 8 and the Soo Line High Bridge, which would encompass Campsite 36.6. This permit ensures campers are aware of and comply with regulations.
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No Potable Water: It is important to note that drinking water is typically NOT available at these primitive campsites. Campers must bring all their own water or be prepared to filter/purify river water.
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No Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups at these primitive sites, reinforcing the rustic, self-contained nature of the camping experience.
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Immersive Riverside Experience: The paramount feature is the direct access to the St. Croix River, a nationally recognized wild and scenic river. Camping directly on its banks offers stunning views, the soothing sounds of the river, and immediate access for paddling and fishing.
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Quiet Solitude: These primitive sites are designed for a peaceful experience. The "unbroken forested scenery" and "relatively free-flowing clean waters" contribute to an atmosphere of quiet solitude, appealing to those seeking an escape from noise and crowds.
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Watercraft Accessibility: The unique characteristic of being primarily watercraft-accessible adds an adventurous element, rewarding those who enjoy paddling or boating with a secluded camping spot.
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Free Camping (with permit): The absence of a camping fee, combined with the requirement of a free annual permit (for this section of the river), makes it an incredibly accessible option for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts.
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Leave No Trace Philosophy: The nature of these sites encourages and relies on campers practicing Leave No Trace principles, fostering a respectful and sustainable relationship with the environment.
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Wildlife Viewing: The undeveloped nature of the riverway provides excellent opportunities for observing diverse wildlife, including birds, deer, and other animals in their natural habitat.
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Fishing and Paddling Paradise: The St. Croix River itself is a major draw for fishing and paddling, offering endless miles of scenic waterway to explore directly from the campsite.
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Three-Night Stay Limit: A three-night limit at individual campsites ensures availability for a broader range of visitors, promoting equitable access to these popular spots.
As part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, which is managed by the National Park Service, St. Croix River Campsite 36.6 operates under a different model than most commercial campgrounds. Therefore, traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the marketing sense are generally not applicable.
However, the primary "offer" of these campsites is their accessibility and cost structure:
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No Camping Fee: A significant advantage is that there is typically no fee to camp at these designated primitive sites along the St. Croix Riverway. This makes it an incredibly affordable outdoor experience.
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Free Annual Camping Permit: For the section of the St. Croix River between Highway 8 and the Soo Line High Bridge (which includes Campsite 36.6), a free annual camping permit is required. This permit is easy to obtain from the St. Croix River Visitor Center or via the National Park Service website. It ensures compliance with regulations rather than being a cost.
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First-Come, First-Served Access: Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, which can be seen as an "offer" of flexibility, though it also means planning is essential, especially during peak times.
There are no seasonal discounts, package deals, or loyalty programs as might be found at private campgrounds. The value of these sites lies in their pristine nature, seclusion, and the opportunity for an authentic river camping experience at virtually no cost. Campers should focus on understanding the permit requirements and preparing for primitive conditions rather than seeking commercial promotions.
For St. Croix River Campsite 36.6, as it is a primitive campsite within the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, direct contact for booking is not typically available for individual sites, as they are first-come, first-served. However, for general information about the Riverway, camping regulations, or to obtain the required camping permit, you would contact the National Park Service.
Primary Contact for St. Croix National Scenic Riverway:
St. Croix River Visitor Center Address: 401 North Hamilton Street, St. Croix Falls, WI 54024, USA (This is the primary visitor center for the broader riverway, in a nearby Wisconsin town.)
Phone: (715) 483-2274 (This is the general phone number for the St. Croix River Visitor Center, as per NPS information.)
Website: For the most detailed and up-to-date information on camping regulations, permit requirements, Leave No Trace principles, and maps of campsites along the Riverway, visitors should consult the official National Park Service website for the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway (nps.gov/sacn). This is the authoritative source for all necessary planning information for this unique camping experience.
For Wisconsin locals, St. Croix River Campsite 36.6, and indeed the primitive campsites along the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the state's natural heritage. This type of camping is particularly suitable for residents who seek a genuine escape, a true wilderness experience that is increasingly rare in our busy world.
The core appeal lies in its primitive, watercraft-accessible nature. For those who own a canoe, kayak, or small boat, or are willing to rent one, these campsites provide an adventurous entry point into the wild and scenic beauty of the St. Croix River. It’s an ideal setting for multi-day paddling trips, where the journey itself is as rewarding as the destination. The quiet solitude, forested scenery, and clean waters offer a profound sense of peace and a chance to truly disconnect.
Furthermore, the fact that these sites are free (with a simple, free permit required for this section of the river) makes them incredibly accessible for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts. It encourages a Leave No Trace ethic, fostering respect for the environment that resonates with Wisconsin's conservation-minded population. For residents yearning for an authentic, uncrowded, and deeply immersive outdoor experience within their home state, St. Croix River Campsite 36.6 provides a quintessential Northwoods adventure right on their doorstep. It's a testament to the raw, untamed beauty that Wisconsin proudly preserves for all to enjoy.
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