Manitou Backpack Campsite #5

Welcome, fellow Minnesotans, to an in-depth look at one of our state's more challenging, yet incredibly rewarding, outdoor destinations: Manitou Backpack Campsite #5. Tucked away within the rugged and pristine George H. Crosby Manitou State Park near Little Marais, this campsite offers a truly immersive wilderness experience for those prepared to embark on a memorable backpacking journey. If you're seeking to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with nature in its most untamed form, Campsite #5 promises an adventure that speaks to the heart of Minnesota's outdoor spirit.

This comprehensive guide is designed to provide you with all the essential information about Manitou Backpack Campsite #5, empowering you to plan a safe, responsible, and fulfilling trip. We'll explore its unique location, detail the minimal yet crucial services available, highlight its distinguishing features, and explain why it's a perfect fit for locals craving an authentic backcountry escape. Our goal is to ensure you're well-equipped with the knowledge needed to fully appreciate the raw beauty and tranquility that await at this special North Shore destination.

George H. Crosby Manitou State Park is renowned for its remote, hike-in only access, which preserves its wild character and offers a profound sense of solitude. Manitou Backpack Campsite #5 perfectly embodies this ethos, providing a serene haven where the sounds of the city are replaced by the rush of a nearby waterfall and the rustle of the forest. It's a place where the stars shine brighter, and the air feels crisper, inviting you to slow down and truly experience the natural world. For Minnesotans who cherish our state's stunning landscapes and embrace the challenge of earning their views, this campsite offers an unparalleled opportunity to deepen your connection with the wilderness.

Whether you're a seasoned backpacker looking for your next challenge or an enthusiastic beginner eager to push your boundaries, understanding the specific nuances of Campsite #5 is the first step towards an unforgettable adventure right here in our own backyard. Prepare to discover a piece of Minnesota's natural heritage that will leave you refreshed, inspired, and with stories to tell.

Manitou Backpack Campsite #5 is located deep within the wilderness of George H. Crosby Manitou State Park, near the charming community of Little Marais, MN 55614, USA. This isn't a drive-up campground; its remote location is a significant part of its appeal and requires a dedicated backpacking effort to reach.

To access the park, you'll typically drive along Minnesota's scenic Highway 61 (the North Shore Scenic Drive) to the vicinity of Little Marais. From there, you'll turn inland onto Lake County Road 7 (which becomes County Highway 7) and proceed about eight miles to the park's small, designated parking lot. This is where your true backcountry journey begins.

Campsite #5 is approximately 2.5 miles from the park's entry point, accessible via challenging terrain. As described by previous visitors, the path involves "pretty challenging terrain over boulders and steep hills," so be prepared for a rigorous hike. While Google Maps can accurately pinpoint the site's location once downloaded for offline use (due to limited service in the woods), navigation can be tricky. It is specifically noted that "the path to site 5 coming from the “Middle Trail” is not well marked." Instead, visitors are advised to "take the Yellow Birch trail instead." This highlights the importance of detailed trail maps (physical or downloaded for offline use) and navigational skills.

The hike to Campsite #5 is part of the experience, traversing dense forests and offering a profound sense of immersion in the Northwoods. The ruggedness of the trails ensures that the park remains a sanctuary for those seeking solitude and a genuine wilderness experience, far removed from the sounds of civilization. Proper planning, including wearing appropriate hiking footwear and carrying all necessary gear, is essential for a safe and enjoyable journey to this secluded gem. The effort to reach it truly enhances the reward of staying at such a pristine site.

As a backcountry campsite within a wilderness state park, Manitou Backpack Campsite #5 adheres strictly to Leave No Trace principles. This means the "services offered" are intentionally minimal, designed to preserve the natural environment and provide an authentic, self-sufficient camping experience.

• Designated Campsite Pad:

  The campsite provides at least three level places suitable for pitching tents, ensuring a relatively comfortable and stable sleeping area amidst the natural terrain. These pads are chosen to minimize impact on the surrounding ecosystem.

• Fire Grate and Fire Pit:

  Campsite #5 is equipped with a designated fire pit and a metal fire grate, allowing for controlled campfires. It also features a "wooden log bench and rock table," providing a more comfortable and established setup compared to some other nearby sites, enhancing the communal fire experience. Always check current fire restrictions and regulations before lighting a fire, as conditions can change rapidly.

• Vault-Style Toilet:

  The campsite has a "vault style toilet," which helps manage human waste effectively in the wilderness. However, it's important to note that it has "no walls around the toilet so little privacy." This is typical for basic backcountry latrines and campers should be prepared for this lack of enclosure.

• Natural Water Source:

  Water for drinking and cooking must be sourced from natural bodies like the nearby Manitou River. It is absolutely essential to filter, purify, or boil all water from these sources before consumption to prevent waterborne illnesses. There are no potable water spigots at the campsite.

• Waste Disposal (Pack It Out):

  There are no trash receptacles at the campsite or along the trails. All visitors are strictly required to pack out everything they pack in, including all garbage, food scraps, and waste. Adhering to this principle is crucial for maintaining the park's pristine condition.

• Abundant Shade:

  The campsite offers "lots of shade," providing respite from the sun, especially during warmer months. This natural shading contributes to a cooler and more comfortable camping environment.

• Limited/No Cell Service:

  As noted by previous campers, you will experience "limited service in the woods." Be prepared for a digital detox, as cell phone reception is generally unreliable or non-existent, ensuring a true escape from modern connectivity.

Manitou Backpack Campsite #5 offers several distinct features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for a wilderness adventure, particularly for those who appreciate a more rugged experience.

• Proximity to a Waterfall:

  One of the most notable features of Campsite #5 is its location "near the waterfall." While this contributes to a "little loud" ambiance compared to quieter sections of the river, the constant sound of rushing water can be incredibly soothing and provides a unique, scenic backdrop for your campsite. The visual spectacle of the waterfall itself is a significant draw.

• Superior Campsite Setup:

  Visitors have noted that the site's amenities are "nicer than the setup at sites 3 and 4." This includes a "nice fire pit and wooden log bench and rock table," which provides a more comfortable and functional common area for cooking, eating, and relaxing around the campfire.

• Ample Tent Space and Shade:

  The campsite offers "at least 3 level places for tents," making it suitable for small groups or multiple tents. Coupled with "lots of shade," it provides comfortable and cool spots for pitching your shelter, even during sunny days.

• Rugged Hiking Experience:

  The 2.5-mile hike to Campsite #5 from the Middle Trail (or Yellow Birch Trail) is described as "pretty challenging terrain over boulders and steep hills." This ruggedness is a highlight for experienced backpackers seeking a more strenuous and rewarding trek, ensuring that the destination is truly earned.

• True Wilderness Immersion:

  George H. Crosby Manitou State Park is known for its untouched wilderness. Campsite #5 provides a deep immersion into the Northwoods, offering solitude and ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, stargazing, and connecting with nature away from crowds.

• Basic but Functional Latrine:

  While the vault-style toilet offers "little privacy" due to a lack of walls, its presence means "fewer runs to the parking lot for #2 bathroom visits." This convenience, despite the rustic nature, is a practical highlight for backcountry campers.

• Scenic River Access:

  Being near the Manitou River, even if near a louder section, provides direct access to a natural water source and opportunities to enjoy the river's beauty. For those interested in fishing, the Manitou River and Benson Lake offer trout fishing opportunities within the park.

Given that Manitou Backpack Campsite #5 is a remote, hike-in site within George H. Crosby Manitou State Park, direct contact information for the campsite itself (like a phone number at the site) does not exist. All administrative matters, including reservations, permits, and park information, are handled by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) through the park office.

The official contact information for George H. Crosby Manitou State Park, managed by the DNR, is as follows:

George H. Crosby Manitou State Park

c/o Tettegouche State Park (as Tettegouche serves as the administrative hub for Crosby Manitou)

5702 Highway 61

Silver Bay, MN 55614

Phone: (218) 353-8800

Email: tettegouche.statepark@state.mn.us

For comprehensive and up-to-date information, it is highly recommended that you visit the official Minnesota DNR website for George H. Crosby Manitou State Park. This online resource is the most reliable place to find details regarding:

• Reservations for backcountry campsites (essential, as all campsites must be reserved in advance)

• Required park vehicle permits

• Current trail conditions, including any closures or advisories (especially important for the rugged trails leading to Campsite #5)

• Fire restrictions and regulations, which are crucial for planning campfires

• Detailed maps of the park and its extensive trail system, which are vital for navigation, especially given the challenging terrain and potentially unmarked paths to certain sites, like the advice to use the Yellow Birch Trail to site #5.

• Leave No Trace principles and other park rules specific to wilderness camping

Remember to plan your trip well in advance, especially during peak seasons, and always confirm all details directly with the DNR. Your preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable wilderness experience at Manitou Backpack Campsite #5.

For Minnesotans seeking an authentic and challenging wilderness experience, Manitou Backpack Campsite #5 stands out as an exceptional choice. Its unique characteristics align perfectly with the adventurous spirit and appreciation for nature deeply rooted in our local culture.

Firstly, the very nature of George H. Crosby Manitou State Park, being a hike-in only park, offers a level of seclusion and a true "backcountry" feel that is increasingly rare and highly sought after. For locals accustomed to our state's vast outdoor opportunities, this campsite provides a distinct challenge that rewards effort with unparalleled solitude and pristine natural beauty. The 2.5-mile trek, though rugged with boulders and steep hills, becomes part of the adventure, allowing you to truly earn the tranquility that awaits. This isn't a casual car-camping trip; it's an immersive journey that appeals to those who value self-reliance and physical engagement with the environment.

Secondly, the campsite's specific features, such as its proximity to a captivating waterfall and its "nicer" fire pit and log bench setup, offer a unique ambiance. While the waterfall's presence may mean a bit more noise than a completely still section of the river, the constant rush of water is a powerful, natural symphony that can be incredibly therapeutic. The enhanced campfire area provides a comfortable hub for evenings, perfect for sharing stories under a sky free of light pollution, a true luxury for many Minnesotans living in more urbanized areas.

Finally, choosing Manitou Backpack Campsite #5 means embracing a truly unplugged experience. With limited to no cell service, you are compelled to disconnect from digital distractions and fully engage with your surroundings and companions. This digital detox allows for deeper connection with nature and introspection, a vital refresh for our busy lives. For Minnesotans who pride themselves on embracing the outdoors and understanding the profound peace found in the wild, Campsite #5 offers a profound opportunity to reconnect with the very essence of our state's natural heritage. It's an investment in an experience that builds resilience, creates lasting memories, and fosters an even deeper appreciation for the magnificent wilderness areas we are fortunate to have in our own backyard.

Manitou Backpack Campsite #5

Little Marais, MN 55614, USA