North Cross River Camp

For Minnesotans who truly yearn for an escape into the untouched beauty of our state's wilderness, where the sounds of the forest replace the hum of daily life, North Cross River Camp offers an authentic and deeply rewarding experience. Nestled directly along the iconic Superior Hiking Trail near Schroeder, MN, this isn't just any campsite; it’s a gateway to an immersive adventure designed for those who want to disconnect and reconnect with nature. If your idea of a perfect getaway involves hiking through stunning landscapes and falling asleep to the gentle sounds of a flowing river, then North Cross River Camp is a destination you'll want to explore.

North Cross River Camp embodies the essence of rustic, hike-in camping that many Minnesotans cherish. It’s a place where the focus is entirely on the natural environment, providing a serene backdrop for your outdoor pursuits. Imagine setting up your tent after a satisfying day on the trail, with the Cross River nearby, offering both a source of water (after proper treatment) and the calming sound of moving water. This campsite is ideal for seasoned thru-hikers tackling sections of the Superior Hiking Trail, as well as for local adventurers looking for a secluded and peaceful overnight stay away from more developed campgrounds. It promises an experience that will not only challenge you but also leave you with a profound appreciation for Minnesota's incredible natural heritage.

North Cross River Camp is strategically located directly on the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT), a renowned long-distance footpath that stretches along Minnesota's North Shore of Lake Superior. The address provided, Superior Hiking Trail, Schroeder, MN 55613, USA, indicates its precise placement within this expansive trail system. Schroeder, Minnesota, is a small community situated between Tofte and Grand Marais, placing the campsite within a particularly scenic and rugged section of the North Shore.

Accessibility to North Cross River Camp, like other backcountry campsites on the SHT, is exclusively by foot. You cannot drive directly to the campsite. Hikers typically access the camp from designated Superior Hiking Trail trailheads. While specific trailheads leading directly to North Cross River Camp aren't universally listed without detailed maps, common access points in the Schroeder area would include those near Temperance River State Park or other points along Highway 61. From these trailheads, you would hike a certain distance on the SHT to reach the campsite.

The beauty of its hike-in accessibility is that it ensures a quieter, more secluded experience, as only those willing to put in the effort will reach it. This makes it a true wilderness camping experience, far removed from road noise and typical campground crowds. Once at the campsite, its location along the Cross River provides natural access to water (which must be filtered or treated) and contributes to the tranquil atmosphere. Always consult up-to-date Superior Hiking Trail maps for precise distances and route planning to this specific campsite.

As a designated backcountry campsite on the Superior Hiking Trail, North Cross River Camp offers essential, minimalistic services designed to support a rustic wilderness experience while minimizing environmental impact. Campers are expected to be fully self-sufficient. Here’s what you can typically expect:

• Designated Tent Pads: The campsite will feature cleared, relatively flat areas suitable for pitching tents. These pads help to protect the natural ground cover and provide a more comfortable, level sleeping surface.
• Fire Ring: A designated fire ring is provided for containing campfires. It is crucial to use only this ring for fires and to ensure all fires are completely extinguished before leaving the site. Always check for current fire restrictions in the Superior National Forest and along the Superior Hiking Trail.
• Wilderness Latrine (Pit Toilet): Like all SHT backcountry sites, North Cross River Camp will have a wilderness latrine. This is typically a very basic, un-enclosed pit toilet designed for environmentally responsible human waste disposal.
• Natural Water Source: Located along the Cross River, the campsite offers access to a natural water source. However, it is absolutely essential to filter, purify, or boil all water from this source before consumption, as it is not potable.
• No Potable Water: There is no treated, potable (drinking) water available at the campsite. Campers must come prepared to treat their water or carry all the water they need.
• No Garbage Service: These sites operate under a strict "pack it in, pack it out" policy. All trash, food scraps, and any other refuse must be carried out by the camper, leaving no trace behind. This also includes any fish remains.
• No Fees: Camping at Superior Hiking Trail backcountry campsites like North Cross River Camp is typically free of charge, operating on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Group Size Limits: There are usually group size limits (typically 9 people or fewer) to minimize impact on the environment and preserve solitude.

North Cross River Camp, by virtue of its location and design, offers several distinct features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for a wilderness camping adventure on Minnesota's North Shore:

• Direct Access to Superior Hiking Trail: Its primary highlight is its direct location on the SHT, making it an ideal overnight stop for thru-hikers or a perfect destination for a secluded hike-in camping trip. This provides unparalleled access to one of Minnesota's premier long-distance trails.
• Riverside Location (Cross River): Being situated along the Cross River offers not only scenic beauty but also a natural water source (for treatment) and the calming sounds of flowing water, enhancing the peaceful atmosphere of the campsite.
• Seclusion and Quiet: As a backcountry, hike-in site, North Cross River Camp provides a high degree of solitude and tranquility, away from road noise and crowded campgrounds. This is ideal for those seeking a true escape into nature.
• Immersive Wilderness Experience: The rustic nature of the site and its remote location ensure a genuine wilderness experience, fostering self-reliance and a deeper connection to the natural environment.
• Potential for Wildlife Viewing: The untouched forest environment surrounding the campsite offers opportunities for observing various wildlife, including deer, moose, and a wide array of bird species.
• Beautiful Scenery: The section of the Superior Hiking Trail near Schroeder is known for its rugged beauty, including forests, rocky outcrops, and stunning views, all accessible from the campsite.
• Stargazing Opportunities: Far from urban light pollution, the night sky above North Cross River Camp is likely to be exceptionally clear, offering spectacular views of stars and celestial phenomena.
• Free Camping: As a Superior Hiking Trail backcountry site, camping is typically free, making it an economical option for an authentic wilderness adventure.

As North Cross River Camp is a rustic, unstaffed backcountry campsite located directly on the Superior Hiking Trail, it does not have a traditional street address or direct phone number. All inquiries and essential planning should be directed to the official Superior Hiking Trail Association or the relevant U.S. Forest Service office.

Address: Superior Hiking Trail, Schroeder, MN 55613, USA (This address refers to its location along the trail near Schroeder, not a physical office at the campsite.)

For detailed information about North Cross River Camp, including specific distances from trailheads, trail conditions, and any regulations, it is highly recommended to consult the official resources of the Superior Hiking Trail Association. They are the primary source for maps, trail updates, and general information about SHT campsites.

Superior Hiking Trail Association Phone: (218) 834-2700

It is essential to visit the Superior Hiking Trail Association's official website (www.superiorhiking.org) before your trip. Their website provides comprehensive maps, trail sections, water source information, and updates on trail conditions that are crucial for planning a safe and enjoyable backcountry camping experience. Always practice Leave No Trace principles when visiting such remote sites.

For Minnesotans, North Cross River Camp offers an authentic and accessible slice of the true Northwoods wilderness, making it an exceptionally suitable destination for locals. It embodies the adventurous spirit and deep appreciation for untouched nature that defines so many in our state. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's an immersive experience in the heart of Minnesota’s iconic North Shore.

The camp's direct location on the Superior Hiking Trail means that Minnesotans can easily integrate it into day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips, exploring one of our state's most celebrated long-distance trails. The rustic, hike-in nature of the campsite ensures a level of solitude and quiet that is increasingly hard to find, appealing directly to those who seek genuine peace and a profound connection with the natural world. The presence of the Cross River offers both practical benefits (water source) and a serene auditory backdrop, enhancing the overall tranquility.

Whether you're an experienced backpacker looking for a new section of the SHT to explore, or a local family seeking an introductory backcountry experience, North Cross River Camp provides a unique opportunity. It allows Minnesotans to disconnect from urban life, challenge themselves physically, and create lasting memories in the pristine environment of their own backyard, fostering a deeper appreciation for the unparalleled natural beauty that is uniquely found along Minnesota’s Superior Hiking Trail.

North Cross River Camp

Superior Hiking Trail, Schroeder, MN 55613, USA