North Carlson Pond Camp

Hello, fellow Minnesotans and avid hikers! If you’ve ever dreamed of a true wilderness escape where the sounds of nature replace the daily grind, then North Carlson Pond Camp on the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) is calling your name. Tucked away in the rugged beauty of Minnesota's North Shore near Hovland, this backcountry campsite offers a rewarding experience for those willing to trek a little deeper into our state's stunning natural landscapes.

North Carlson Pond Camp is not your typical drive-up campground with extensive amenities. Instead, it's a primitive, hike-in site designed for backpackers and those who embrace a more rustic connection with the outdoors. It's one of the many designated campsites along the famed Superior Hiking Trail, a footpath that winds its way along the ridgeline overlooking Lake Superior, offering unparalleled views and diverse terrain. This particular site is known for its serene setting, ample space for tents, and unique natural features that make the journey entirely worthwhile.

While the hike to get there might present some challenges – as seasoned hikers often attest that the "mostly flat" description sometimes given to sections of the SHT can be misleading – the reward is a beautiful, peaceful camping spot. It's a place where you can truly disconnect, listen to the whisper of the pines, and enjoy the simple pleasures of a campfire under a vast, star-filled Minnesota sky. For Minnesotans who cherish our state's wild places, North Carlson Pond Camp offers an authentic and memorable backcountry adventure.

North Carlson Pond Camp is located along the iconic Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) in the vicinity of Hovland, MN 55606, USA. As a backcountry campsite on a long-distance hiking trail, direct vehicle access is not available to the campsite itself. This means you will need to hike in to reach your destination.

The most common access point for North Carlson Pond Camp is typically from the Arrowhead Trailhead. While Google Maps might suggest the hike is "mostly flat," hikers who have experienced this section of the SHT note that the terrain involves significant "ups and downs" through creek valleys and potentially "overgrown sections." This makes the hike an adventure in itself, showcasing the rugged beauty of the North Shore's topography.

The Superior Hiking Trail system is well-marked with blue blazes, guiding hikers along its path. Spur trails, often leading to campsites or overlooks, are typically marked with white blazes. For locals, accessing the Superior Hiking Trail is relatively straightforward via numerous trailheads located along Highway 61, particularly as you head north towards Grand Marais. The journey to North Carlson Pond Camp offers an immersive experience of Minnesota's boreal forests and rocky ridges, making the effort of the hike entirely part of the rewarding adventure. It's a prime example of how our state preserves wilderness experiences that are accessible to those willing to embrace foot travel.

North Carlson Pond Camp, as a primitive backcountry campsite on the Superior Hiking Trail, offers essential services designed to support a responsible and self-sufficient camping experience. These amenities are basic, focusing on minimizing environmental impact while providing necessary comforts for hikers.

• Designated Campsite Space: The site provides enough clear space for "three tents," and reviews suggest it can also accommodate "2 or 3 hammocks." This ensures designated areas for camping, reducing impact on the surrounding vegetation.
• Fire Ring: A designated fire ring is provided for building campfires. This allows campers to safely enjoy fires for cooking and warmth, while helping to prevent wildfires by containing the flames to a prepared area.
• Backcountry Latrine: The campsite includes a backcountry latrine (an outhouse without a full structure). While one review notes it can be "slightly full," these facilities are crucial for proper human waste disposal, contributing to the cleanliness and hygiene of the wilderness area.
• Natural Water Source: A significant service is the access to a natural water source. About "500 ft from the campsite," a small path leads down to a pond with a "small waterfall flowing into it," which serves as a "great water source." Another review mentions a "good water source from the creek northbound on the trail." It's imperative that all water collected from natural sources be filtered or treated before consumption to ensure safety.
• Pack In, Pack Out Policy: As with all primitive SHT campsites, there are no trash receptacles. Campers are strictly required to pack out all garbage, including food scraps, to maintain the pristine condition of the wilderness.
• No Potable Water (Treated Only): While a natural water source is available, it is not treated potable water. Campers must bring their own water purification methods.
• No Electricity or Modern Amenities: This is a true backcountry experience. There are no electrical hookups, showers, or other modern conveniences typical of developed campgrounds.

These services emphasize self-reliance. Hikers are expected to be fully prepared with their own gear, food, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles to ensure a safe and responsible stay.

North Carlson Pond Camp on the Superior Hiking Trail offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a rewarding destination for hikers seeking a genuine Minnesota backcountry experience.

• Secluded Pond with Waterfall: A unique and highly praised highlight is the nearby pond, located about 500 feet from the campsite, featuring a "small waterfall flowing into it." This serves not only as a crucial water source but also as a "great place to sit back and relax and take in the sounds and site of nature," offering a picturesque and serene spot for contemplation.
• Ample Tent Space: The campsite provides "enough space for three tents," accommodating multiple camping setups comfortably. This is a significant advantage for groups or families.
• Rustic Charm: Despite some areas potentially being "overgrown" or needing "some TLC," the campsite offers an authentic, untamed wilderness feel. For those who appreciate rugged beauty, this is a distinct feature.
• Excellent Water Source: The pond with the waterfall, and the creek mentioned further north on the trail, provide reliable natural water sources. While requiring treatment, this convenience is vital for backpackers.
• True Backcountry Experience: Situated directly on the Superior Hiking Trail, this campsite offers a genuine backcountry adventure, far from roads and developed areas. This provides a deep sense of solitude and immersion in nature.
• Beautiful Surroundings: The journey to the camp, despite its "ups and downs," takes you through scenic creek valleys and classic Northwoods terrain, making the entire experience visually rewarding.
• Designated Fire Ring and Latrine: The presence of a dedicated fire ring allows for safe campfires, and the backcountry latrine provides essential sanitation, balancing wilderness with responsible use.
• Opportunities for Hammock Camping: The site is noted to have space for "2 or 3 hammocks," appealing to hammock campers who enjoy sleeping suspended among the trees.
• Wildlife and Nature Immersion: Being in a natural, remote setting, campers have heightened opportunities for wildlife viewing and experiencing the pure sounds of the forest.

While bugs can be an issue, as noted in a review, this is a common challenge in Minnesota's wilderness, especially during certain seasons, emphasizing the need for proper preparation (bug spray, head nets, etc.). The overall sentiment is that the remote beauty and unique features make the journey and any minor inconveniences "totally worth it."

North Carlson Pond Camp is a backcountry campsite located on the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT), which is managed by the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA) in coordination with various land managers, including the U.S. Forest Service and State Parks. As a primitive, hike-in site, there is no direct phone number or mailing address for the campsite itself.

Address: Superior Hiking Trail, Hovland, MN 55606, USA (This address indicates the general area of the trail, not a specific physical address for the campsite).

For detailed information regarding the Superior Hiking Trail, including trail conditions, maps, campsite descriptions, and any alerts, the best resource is the Superior Hiking Trail Association:

Website: Visit the official Superior Hiking Trail Association website (superiorhiking.org). Their site offers a wealth of planning resources, including a "Know Before You Go" section, FAQs, current trail conditions, and information on their guidebook and trail atlas, which are indispensable for planning your hike.

Guidebook/Maps: The Superior Hiking Trail Guidebook and Trail Atlas are highly recommended for detailed mile-by-mile descriptions, campsite locations, water sources, and trailhead information. These can often be purchased directly from the SHTA website or local outfitters.

Phone/Email: While the SHTA primarily operates online, you can usually find general contact information (phone number or email address) for their office on their official website for broader inquiries.

It's important to note that SHT campsites are generally first-come, first-served and do not require reservations or permits, unlike some wilderness areas. However, always check the SHTA website for the latest rules, regulations, and any temporary closures or advisories (such as fire bans or bridge outages) before embarking on your trip.

For us Minnesotans, North Carlson Pond Camp on the Superior Hiking Trail offers a quintessentially Northwoods experience that resonates deeply with our appreciation for rugged beauty and outdoor adventure. It's a perfect fit for locals because it provides an accessible yet truly immersive backcountry escape right in our own backyard, along one of the most celebrated long-distance trails in the nation.

While the hike to get there isn't a walk in the park – as acknowledged by fellow Minnesotans who have navigated its "ups and downs" – this challenge is precisely what makes the destination so rewarding. It's a testament to the effort and commitment that defines many of our most cherished outdoor pursuits. Arriving at a beautiful, spacious campsite after a challenging hike provides a profound sense of accomplishment and a heightened appreciation for the tranquility you find.

North Carlson Pond Camp embodies the self-reliant spirit that many Minnesotans value in their outdoor activities. With its natural water source (requiring treatment, of course!) and basic amenities like a fire ring and latrine, it encourages a true Leave No Trace philosophy. The unique feature of the pond with its small waterfall offers a serene spot for reflection and rejuvenation, a perfect antidote to the stresses of modern life. For backpackers seeking solitude, natural beauty, and a genuine connection to Minnesota's wild landscapes, this campsite on the SHT offers an unforgettable and highly rewarding experience. It's not just a campsite; it's a slice of pure Minnesota wilderness, waiting for us to discover and cherish.

North Carlson Pond Camp

Superior Hiking Trail, Hovland, MN 55606, USA