Manitou Backpack Campsite #20

Introduction / Overview

For Minnesotans yearning for a true wilderness experience without venturing too far off the beaten path, Manitou Backpack Campsite #20 offers an exceptional opportunity. Located within the rugged and beautiful George H. Crosby Manitou State Park, this site provides a genuine backpacking adventure that remains remarkably accessible. Unlike some remote wilderness areas that require extensive multi-day treks, Campsite #20 is lauded for its relatively short and manageable approach, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned backpackers and those new to the joys of hike-in camping. The park itself is a gem of the North Shore region, characterized by its dramatic terrain, cascading rivers, and dense forests, creating a truly immersive natural environment. Manitou Backpack Campsite #20 allows visitors to experience the solitude and raw beauty of Minnesota's wilderness, complete with the sounds of nature and opportunities for wildlife observation, while still benefiting from a degree of convenience for initial access. It's a perfect blend of adventure and approachability for anyone in Minnesota looking to escape into the tranquility of the great outdoors.

Location and Accessibility

Manitou Backpack Campsite #20 is situated in the heart of George H. Crosby Manitou State Park, with its address noted as Lake No. 1, MN 55614, USA. This park is a unique destination on Minnesota's scenic North Shore, near the town of Finland. Access to the park typically involves taking State Highway 61 from Duluth to State Highway 1, then proceeding to Finland, and finally, Lake County Road 7 for approximately eight miles to the park entrance. What truly sets Campsite #20 apart in terms of accessibility is its remarkable proximity to the parking lot. Unlike many backpacking sites that demand miles of strenuous hiking, this site is only about 0.5 miles from the designated parking area. The initial portion of the trail to the site is described as being on a boardwalk, offering a relatively easy and level path before a short uphill hike to the campsite itself. This minimal distance and boardwalk access make it one of the most convenient backpacking sites within the park, welcoming those who might be hesitant about longer, more arduous treks. Despite its accessibility, the campsite quickly immerses visitors in a wild environment, providing the sought-after feeling of seclusion that defines a true backcountry experience. This balance of ease of access and wilderness immersion makes Manitou Backpack Campsite #20 a highly desirable location for Minnesotans eager to explore the North Shore's rugged beauty.

Services Offered

• Primitive Campsite: Manitou Backpack Campsite #20 provides a primitive camping experience, meaning there are no modern amenities like running water, electricity, or shower facilities directly at the site. Campers must be self-sufficient and prepared for backcountry conditions.
• Bear Box for Food Storage: A significant amenity at Campsite #20 is the presence of a bear box. This sturdy, animal-resistant container is essential for safely storing food and scented items, protecting them from bears and other wildlife, and ensuring a safer camping experience.
• Designated Fire Ring: The campsite is equipped with a designated fire ring, allowing campers to have safe and contained campfires, provided there are no fire bans in effect. Dead and downed wood found in the area can typically be collected for firewood.
• Level Tent Area: Customer reviews indicate the site offers a "level" area for tents, which is a crucial comfort in a backpacking setting, providing a stable and comfortable sleeping surface.
• Nearby Vault Toilet: While not directly at the campsite, a vault toilet is conveniently located at the parking lot, down the middle trail entrance, offering a more developed restroom option before or after the short hike to the site.
• Access to Natural Water Source: As a lakeside campsite, visitors have access to water from Lake No. 1. However, all water from natural sources must be filtered, boiled, or treated before consumption to ensure safety.
• Solitude and Tranquility: The primary "service" of this wilderness campsite is the profound sense of peace and solitude it offers, allowing campers to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature's quiet rhythms.

Features / Highlights

• Closest Campsite to Parking: One of the most significant highlights of Manitou Backpack Campsite #20 is its extreme proximity to the parking lot, being only 0.5 miles away. This makes it an incredibly accessible option for backpackers, minimizing the effort of carrying gear and opening up wilderness camping to a wider range of experience levels.
• Boardwalk Approach: The initial part of the trail to the campsite features a boardwalk, offering an easy and stable walk before the short uphill climb to the site. This gentle introduction to the trail is a notable convenience.
• Equipped with a Bear Box: The presence of a dedicated bear box is a crucial feature, ensuring safe food storage and reducing concerns about wildlife encounters, allowing campers to focus on enjoying their experience.
• Wildlife Sightings: Reviewers have reported seeing "trout jumping in the lake" and hearing "a wolf howling several times," indicating excellent opportunities for wildlife observation and an authentic wilderness atmosphere. This adds significantly to the appeal for nature enthusiasts.
• Lakeside Access: Being located on Lake No. 1, the campsite offers direct access to the lake, which is perfect for fishing (especially for trout), enjoying the water, or simply taking in the serene lake views.
• Secluded and Peaceful Setting: Despite its accessibility, the campsite maintains a high degree of seclusion, providing a quiet and peaceful retreat from the distractions of everyday life, as emphasized by the sounds of nature.
• Level Tent Area: The reported "level" area for pitching tents is a practical highlight, contributing to a more comfortable and enjoyable overnight stay in a backcountry setting.
• Gateway to Hiking Trails: George H. Crosby Manitou State Park offers numerous rugged and beautiful hiking trails, and Campsite #20 serves as an excellent base for exploring these paths, including potential access to the Superior Hiking Trail.

Contact Information

Manitou Backpack Campsite #20 is a specific site within George H. Crosby Manitou State Park. As such, there is no direct phone number or dedicated contact information for the individual campsite itself. All inquiries, reservations, and information regarding backpacking permits and park regulations should be directed to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR) Parks and Trails Division, which manages George H. Crosby Manitou State Park.

Address: Lake No. 1, MN 55614, USA (This address refers to the general location of the park, rather than a direct mailing address for the campsite).

For the most up-to-date and accurate information on reserving Campsite #20, checking park conditions, or understanding rules and regulations, Minnesotans should visit the official George H. Crosby Manitou State Park page on the Minnesota DNR website or contact the park office directly. While a phone number for the specific park isn't provided here, it can be easily found on the official MNDNR website. Visitors typically make reservations for these sites through the state park's online reservation system, or by calling the central reservation line for Minnesota State Parks and Trails.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Manitou Backpack Campsite #20 in George H. Crosby Manitou State Park is an outstanding choice for Minnesotans seeking an immersive yet accessible wilderness experience. For local residents, this campsite offers the perfect balance of adventure and convenience that is often difficult to find. Its proximity to the parking lot, being just 0.5 miles away, is a significant advantage, particularly for those new to backpacking, families with older children, or individuals looking for a quick escape without the commitment of an arduous multi-mile hike. The initial boardwalk path further enhances this accessibility, making the journey to the site less strenuous than many other backcountry options. Once at Campsite #20, Minnesotans are treated to the authentic sights and sounds of their state's remarkable natural environment – from the tranquil waters of Lake No. 1 where trout can be seen jumping, to the evocative call of a wolf echoing through the forest. The presence of a bear box for food storage provides peace of mind, reinforcing a sense of safety and responsible wilderness practices. This campsite serves as an ideal base for exploring the rugged terrain and extensive trail system of George H. Crosby Manitou State Park, including access to segments of the Superior Hiking Trail. For Minnesotans, who often cherish their state's pristine lakes and forests, Campsite #20 offers a fantastic opportunity to deepen that connection, providing a peaceful retreat where they can truly disconnect and rejuvenate amidst the beauty of their home state's Northwoods. It's a testament to the fact that genuine wilderness experiences are within reach, even for a quick weekend getaway, right here in Minnesota.

You can see some of the beautiful landscapes in George Crosby Manitou State Park Minnesota & a moose. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-GR94cK-vA

Manitou Backpack Campsite #20

Lake No. 1, MN 55614, USA