Andy Creek Camp

For Minnesotans who answer the call of the wild and seek an authentic backcountry experience, Andy Creek Camp offers a true taste of wilderness along the renowned Superior Hiking Trail (SHT). Located near Hovland, MN, this designated campsite provides a secluded spot for weary hikers looking to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of Minnesota's North Shore. Unlike developed campgrounds, Andy Creek Camp is a testament to primitive camping, a place where nature dictates the terms and self-reliance is key. It's a destination for those who appreciate the quiet rustle of leaves, the crackle of a campfire under a star-filled sky, and the profound sense of accomplishment that comes with navigating the iconic SHT.

The Superior Hiking Trail is a magnificent long-distance footpath that winds for over 300 miles along the rocky ridges overlooking Lake Superior. It offers a diverse range of terrain, from challenging climbs to serene forest paths, all providing glimpses of Minnesota's breathtaking boreal forests, dramatic cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. Andy Creek Camp is one of the many backcountry campsites thoughtfully maintained by the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA) to support both day hikers and thru-hikers. It's not a destination for RVs or car camping; rather, it’s a dedicated stop for backpackers who carry everything they need on their backs, seeking a night or two of rest before continuing their journey along this celebrated trail. This commitment to maintaining a true wilderness experience means that visitors to Andy Creek Camp are part of a shared tradition of responsible outdoor recreation, embracing the "Leave No Trace" principles that preserve this invaluable natural resource for all.

While Andy Creek Camp provides a designated place to rest, it's important for hikers to understand its specific characteristics, as each SHT campsite offers a slightly different experience. This particular site caters to smaller groups, and while it provides a fundamental base for your adventure, being prepared for the elements and understanding its nuances is crucial for an enjoyable and safe visit. It's a place where the grandeur of the North Shore wilderness is your primary amenity, inviting you to truly connect with the environment and the spirit of the trail.

Andy Creek Camp is situated directly on the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) near Hovland, MN 55606, USA. Its location means it is nestled within the extensive Superior National Forest, offering a remote backcountry experience. The SHT itself stretches for over 300 miles, generally following the ridgelines overlooking Lake Superior from south of Duluth all the way to the Canadian border.

Access to Andy Creek Camp is exclusively by foot, as it is a hike-in backcountry campsite. There are no roads or vehicle access directly to the campsite. Hikers typically begin their journey from one of the many designated Superior Hiking Trail trailheads located along Minnesota Highway 61 or intersecting roads, particularly those found north of Grand Marais in the Hovland area. Popular entry points that might lead to Andy Creek Camp would involve sections of the SHT accessible via the numerous parking lots along the Gunflint Trail or closer to Hovland.

The exact distance to Andy Creek Camp will vary depending on which trailhead a hiker chooses to begin their trek. Hikers are encouraged to consult official Superior Hiking Trail maps and guidebooks for precise mileage and navigational details. Shuttle services are available along portions of the SHT, which can aid in creating point-to-point hikes, allowing hikers to be dropped off at one trailhead and picked up at another after passing Andy Creek Camp. However, regardless of the entry point, reaching Andy Creek Camp involves navigating varied terrain, including ascents and descents characteristic of the SHT, and carrying all necessary gear for a self-supported camping experience. This means that a certain level of physical fitness and preparedness for backpacking are essential for those planning a visit.

Andy Creek Camp, like all designated campsites along the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT), offers a primitive backcountry camping experience. The services provided are minimal, focusing on essential facilities to support responsible and low-impact camping while maintaining the wilderness character of the trail. Visitors should be prepared to be entirely self-sufficient.

• Designated Tent Pads: The campsite features several designated, relatively flat areas, or "tent pads," specifically cleared for setting up tents. These pads are designed to minimize impact on the surrounding vegetation and offer suitable ground for sleeping. One review noted that it might accommodate up to three tents and that there was only one spot suitable for hanging a hammock.
• Fire Ring with Benches: A permanent, established fire ring is present at the campsite. This allows for safe and contained campfires for cooking and warmth, provided fire restrictions are not in place. The campsite also reportedly includes benches around the fire pit, offering a communal space for hikers. Campers are responsible for gathering their own dead and downed firewood.
• Backcountry Latrine: A rustic, designated pit latrine (outhouse) is provided at the campsite. These facilities are crucial for proper human waste disposal, helping to prevent contamination of water sources and maintaining the cleanliness of the campsite and the surrounding natural area.
• Access to Water Source: The campsite is located near Andy Creek, which serves as its primary water source. However, it is critically important to note that this creek has been reported as an "unreliable creek to the north," sometimes having "a little flow" even in mid-July. All water obtained from the creek or any other natural source must be filtered, boiled, or chemically treated to make it safe for drinking. Campers should always carry sufficient water or a reliable purification method and be prepared for potentially low water levels, especially during drier periods.
• No Fees or Reservations: Unlike some state park campgrounds, SHT backcountry campsites, including Andy Creek Camp, do not require permits, fees, or reservations. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and hikers are expected to share the site with other users if it is busy.
• No Modern Amenities: Visitors should not expect any modern conveniences such as electricity, running water (beyond the natural creek), showers, flush toilets, trash bins, or cellular service. Campers must pack in all necessary supplies, including food, water purification systems, and appropriate gear for food storage (bear bags or bear canisters are recommended). All trash must be packed out of the campsite and the trail.

Andy Creek Camp, while primitive, offers distinct features and highlights that appeal to those seeking a true Superior Hiking Trail experience:

• Secluded Backcountry Setting: Positioned within the vast wilderness traversed by the SHT, Andy Creek Camp offers a genuine escape from civilization. It provides the quiet solitude characteristic of deep woods camping, far from road noise and artificial light.
• Integral to the Superior Hiking Trail Experience: As a designated SHT campsite, it serves as a critical overnight stop for section hikers and thru-hikers. Its presence allows for multi-day treks through some of Minnesota's most scenic terrain.
• Large Fire Pit with Benches: A notable feature mentioned in reviews is the presence of a "large fire pit" accompanied by benches. This creates an inviting and functional communal area for campers to gather, cook, and enjoy a campfire, which is a quintessential part of the wilderness camping experience.
• Connection to the North Shore Landscape: While the immediate vicinity of the camp might be densely treed, its location on the SHT means hikers can access stunning views of Lake Superior, the Sawtooth Mountains, and the unique boreal forest ecosystem as they approach or depart the campsite.
• Primitive, Leave No Trace Ethos: The very nature of Andy Creek Camp promotes a strong "Leave No Trace" ethic. It’s an ideal place to practice minimal impact camping, fostering a deeper appreciation for environmental stewardship among visitors.
• Wildlife Viewing Potential: Being deep within a natural corridor, the area around Andy Creek Camp offers opportunities to observe various Minnesota wildlife, including deer, small mammals, and a diverse array of bird species, adding to the immersive nature experience.
• "Open Space" Feel: One review noted "Lots of open space in this camp." While specific tent pads exist, this suggests that the overall layout of the campsite might feel less constrained than some other primitive sites, allowing for a more comfortable experience.

For Andy Creek Camp, located on the Superior Hiking Trail near Hovland, MN 55606, USA, there is no direct contact information (such as a phone number or specific address) for the campsite itself. As a backcountry wilderness campsite, it does not have staff or facilities on-site. Instead, all information and planning resources are managed by the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA) and related government agencies.

To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Andy Creek Camp, trail conditions, regulations, and planning your hike, Minnesotans should refer to the following:

• Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA): This is the primary organization responsible for maintaining the SHT and its campsites. Their official website is the authoritative source for detailed maps, guidebooks, current trail conditions (which are crucial for water sources and potential closures), FAQs, and general backpacking advice.
  • Website: superiorhiking.org
  • General Contact Information: Often available via a contact form or general inquiry email on their website. They do not have a dedicated phone line for trail conditions or campsite specifics.
• Superior National Forest: Andy Creek Camp is located within the Superior National Forest. While the SHTA manages the trail and campsites, the Forest Service oversees the broader land. They can provide information on area-wide regulations, fire restrictions, and general forest conditions.
  • Website: fs.usda.gov/superior
  • Local Ranger District: For information specific to the Hovland area, contacting the Grand Marais office of the Gunflint Ranger District would be most relevant.
    • Address: 2020 West Highway 61, Grand Marais, MN 55604 (It's advisable to call ahead for office hours or specific directions as this may be a general area address).
    • Phone: (218) 387-1750 (This is a general number for the Gunflint Ranger District)
• Local Outfitters: Outfitters in towns like Grand Marais and along the Gunflint Trail frequently assist hikers with gear, shuttle services, and up-to-date local knowledge about trail conditions and specific campsites. They can be invaluable resources for pre-trip planning.

Andy Creek Camp, positioned along the legendary Superior Hiking Trail near Hovland, is an exceptionally suitable destination for Minnesotans seeking a genuine and challenging wilderness experience. For locals, its appeal lies in its raw, untamed nature and its deep connection to the state's cherished outdoor identity.

Firstly, for those who value authenticity over amenities, Andy Creek Camp delivers. It's a no-frills, primitive campsite, demanding self-reliance and adherence to Leave No Trace principles. This encourages a direct and unmediated connection with nature, allowing Minnesotans to fully embrace the spirit of backpacking and outdoor survival. The satisfaction of reaching this secluded spot after a day's hike and setting up camp amidst the wild is a uniquely rewarding experience.

Secondly, while it requires preparation, the accessibility of the Superior Hiking Trail from various points along the North Shore makes this deep wilderness experience attainable for many Minnesotans. It offers a relatively convenient entry point into the remote backcountry, allowing for a significant escape from urban life without extensive travel demands. It's an opportunity to swap city noise for the sounds of the forest, and screens for breathtaking natural vistas.

Furthermore, Andy Creek Camp, with its reported large fire pit and benches, provides a quintessential campfire experience, a beloved tradition for many Minnesotans. This communal feature fosters camaraderie among hikers and offers a comforting focal point in the wilderness. While the water source's reliability and the prevalence of mosquitoes are important considerations, these aspects encourage Minnesotans to employ their outdoor skills – whether it's efficient water filtration or effective bug management – enhancing their competence and resilience in the wild.

Ultimately, Andy Creek Camp, and the SHT as a whole, serves as a vital training ground and a profound escape for Minnesota locals. It allows them to push their limits, connect with the raw beauty of their state, and find solace in the quiet grandeur of the Northwoods. It's a place where lifelong memories are forged, challenging both body and mind in the best possible way, reinforcing why Minnesota's wilderness is so deeply valued.

Andy Creek Camp

Superior Hiking Trail, Hovland, MN 55606, USA