Old Railroad Bridge

Welcome, fellow Minnesotans, to an in-depth look at a truly rustic and authentic outdoor destination: Old Railroad Bridge Campground. Tucked away in Rushseba Township, this primitive campground offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature along the stunning St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. If your idea of a perfect getaway involves embracing simplicity and enjoying the tranquil beauty of one of Minnesota's most cherished waterways, then Old Railroad Bridge Campground is a spot worth discovering.

Old Railroad Bridge Campground is not about luxurious amenities or bustling crowds. Instead, it provides a back-to-basics camping experience, designed for those who are self-sufficient and appreciate the quiet solitude of the wilderness. With just 13 sites, it offers an intimate setting where the sounds of the river and the rustle of leaves replace the distractions of daily life. It's a place for adventurers who are comfortable with essential facilities and prefer the raw, unspoiled beauty of the outdoors. In this article, we’ll explore its strategic location, the fundamental services it provides, its distinct features, and why it's a fitting choice for adventurous locals looking for a genuine, no-frills escape into Minnesota's natural splendor.

Old Railroad Bridge Campground is located in Rushseba Township, MN 55069, USA. This places it within a serene, rural area of Minnesota, specifically in Chisago County, known for its picturesque landscapes and proximity to the St. Croix River. For residents across Minnesota, particularly those in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, this campground offers a relatively accessible option for a quick escape into nature, being approximately 1 hour and 3 minutes from Minneapolis. Other drive times include 1 hour 31 minutes from St. Cloud and 1 hour 34 minutes from Duluth.

The campground's primary appeal lies in its direct connection to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. This suggests that while there is likely vehicular access to the campground itself (as it is a designated camping area), its main draw is for campers looking to engage with the river. Its location along the St. Croix River provides opportunities for water activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The surrounding terrain is characterized as "flat," which can make for easier hiking and exploration in the immediate vicinity. While specific road names for direct access might require consulting local maps or park information, its address within Rushseba Township and proximity to major Minnesota cities make it a discoverable and reachable destination for self-sufficient campers seeking a quiet riverside experience.

Old Railroad Bridge Campground embraces a primitive camping philosophy, providing only the most essential services for a back-to-basics outdoor experience. This approach caters to "Mother Nature savvy campers" who are prepared for minimal amenities. Based on available public data, here are the key services you can expect:

• Campsites: The campground offers 13 designated campsites. While specific details on size or type (tent-only, small RVs) are not extensively provided, the limited number of sites implies an intimate and less crowded setting. These sites provide a cleared space for setting up camp.

• Vault Toilets: For restroom facilities, vault toilets are available on-site. These are non-flush toilets commonly found in more rustic or primitive campgrounds and offer a basic, functional sanitary option.

• No Potable Water: A crucial piece of information for planning, the campground explicitly states "No potable water." This means campers must bring all their own drinking, cooking, and washing water. This requires significant self-sufficiency and preparation.

• Fire Rings: While not explicitly stated in the limited information, it is highly common for primitive campsites to provide fire rings for safe campfires. Campers should always check for any fire bans before lighting a fire.

• Direct River Access: The campground's location "at beautiful Arkansas River" (though this seems to be a discrepancy in the data provided, as it is in Minnesota on the St. Croix River) implies direct and easy access to the river. This is a key "service" for paddlers and those who enjoy riverside activities.

Given the limited amenities, campers visiting Old Railroad Bridge Campground should be fully prepared with all necessary supplies, especially water. The focus here is on the natural environment and self-reliance, rather than extensive comfort services.

Old Railroad Bridge Campground offers several distinctive features and highlights that appeal to campers seeking a primitive and nature-focused experience in Minnesota:

• Primitive Camping Experience: This campground is designed for "Mother Nature savvy campers" who appreciate having "just the bare necessities." This means an absence of modern conveniences like electric hookups or potable water, fostering a deeper connection with the natural environment and encouraging self-reliance. For many, this is a highly desirable feature for a true outdoor escape.

• Intimate Size: With only 13 campsites, the campground offers a more secluded and less crowded experience compared to larger, more developed campgrounds. This intimate setting contributes to a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.

• St. Croix Riverfront Location: The campground is situated directly on the St. Croix River (despite a data discrepancy mentioning the Arkansas River, the address is in Minnesota and maps confirm St. Croix connection). This provides direct access for water-based activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, making it a prime spot for river enthusiasts. The St. Croix is a federally protected Wild and Scenic Riverway, offering pristine views and tranquil paddling.

• Focus on Natural Beauty: The absence of extensive development allows the natural beauty of the area to be the main attraction. The phrase "no Instagram filters needed" captures the inherent scenic quality of the location.

• Basic, Essential Facilities: The provision of vault toilets ensures a basic level of sanitation, while the allowance for campfires (likely with fire rings, though not explicitly stated) enables traditional outdoor cooking and ambiance.

• Part of a Larger Recreational Area: Being located in Rushseba Township, the campground is likely part of or in close proximity to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, offering access to broader exploration opportunities, including hiking along its banks and enjoying the river's wild character. The nearby Wild River State Park also offers additional trails and access points.

These features collectively define Old Railroad Bridge Campground as an ideal choice for minimalist campers and paddlers who prioritize a quiet, unspoiled natural setting and direct access to one of Minnesota's most beautiful rivers.

For those interested in visiting Old Railroad Bridge Campground, or seeking further information about this primitive camping area, here is the direct contact information:

Address: Rushseba Township, MN 55069, USA

As a primitive campground, particularly one likely associated with the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, direct phone numbers for the campground itself may not be available. For specific details on availability (many primitive sites are first-come, first-served), rules and regulations, any potential fees, or current river conditions, it is highly recommended to contact the managing authority. This would typically be the National Park Service, which manages the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, or potentially the local Rushseba Township offices if it's a municipal park.

Contact information for Rushseba Township (which manages local affairs for the area):

Physical Address: 51533 Forest Blvd, Rush City, MN 55069 (This is the township office, not the campground itself)

Township Clerk Phone: (320) 358-3543 (Debi Erickson, Clerk)

It is advisable to check the National Park Service website for the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway or call the relevant park ranger station for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding camping at Old Railroad Bridge, as details for primitive sites can sometimes be less formalized than larger, more developed campgrounds.

For Minnesotans, Old Railroad Bridge Campground in Rushseba Township offers an exceptionally suitable and authentic outdoor experience, perfectly aligning with a desire for genuine wilderness and self-reliant adventure right in our own state. Its primitive nature and pristine location make it an ideal local choice for several compelling reasons.

Firstly, its direct access to the St. Croix River, a jewel among our state's waterways, is a significant draw. For local paddlers and river enthusiasts, this means a convenient launch point and a serene riverside camp experience without extensive travel. It allows Minnesotans to fully immerse themselves in the wild and scenic beauty of the St. Croix, whether through a day paddle or an overnight trip. This connection to such a significant natural resource in our backyard is invaluable.

Secondly, the campground's commitment to providing "just the bare necessities" fosters a true primitive camping experience. While the absence of potable water requires self-sufficiency and careful planning, it appeals to those "Mother Nature savvy campers" who genuinely seek to unplug from modern conveniences. The presence of vault toilets ensures basic sanitation, allowing for a comfortable yet unadorned stay. For many Minnesotans, this back-to-basics approach is a welcome relief from overly developed sites, offering a chance to truly connect with nature.

Finally, with only 13 sites, Old Railroad Bridge Campground offers a quiet, intimate, and less crowded environment. This peaceful atmosphere is perfect for locals seeking solitude, reflection, and an escape from the noise and bustle of urban life. It's a place where the focus is solely on the natural surroundings and the simple joys of camping. For Minnesotans who value quiet, unadulterated nature, river access, and the satisfaction of a self-reliant outdoor adventure, Old Railroad Bridge Campground is not just suitable, but an ideal local destination to experience the authentic beauty of our state.

Old Railroad Bridge

Rushseba Township, MN 55069, USA