Palisade Creek West Campsite

For Minnesotans who truly seek solitude and an authentic backcountry experience, Palisade Creek West Campsite on the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) offers a compelling retreat into the heart of the North Shore wilderness. This isn't a bustling public campground; it's a remote, primitive site designed for dedicated backpackers who cherish the quiet of the forest and the challenge of earning their views. Imagine arriving at a secluded spot after a rewarding hike, with the gentle sounds of Palisade Creek nearby and no other hikers within earshot. This unique blend of accessibility and profound isolation makes it a highly desirable destination for those who wish to deeply connect with Minnesota's rugged natural beauty.

Nestled above Palisade Creek, just west of the more frequently visited Palisade Head area near Silver Bay, this campsite is lauded for its peaceful ambiance and privacy. While the trail leading in might occasionally be challenging, the destination rewards with a truly serene environment. It’s a place where you can unwind in a truly natural setting, away from the typical crowds, and experience the Northwoods as it’s meant to be. If you're ready to embrace self-sufficiency and the simple pleasures of wilderness camping, Palisade Creek West Campsite promises an unforgettable and tranquil escape along one of Minnesota’s most celebrated long-distance trails.

Palisade Creek West Campsite is located directly on the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) near Silver Bay, MN 55614, USA. As a designated backcountry campsite, it is accessible solely by foot via the SHT. There are no direct roads or vehicle access to the campsite itself; all gear and supplies must be carried in by backpackers.

The campsite is situated within the vicinity of Tettegouche State Park, known for its dramatic cliffs, pristine forests, and Lake Superior overlooks. To reach Palisade Creek West Campsite, hikers typically start from a designated SHT trailhead along Highway 61, often in or near Silver Bay or within Tettegouche State Park. The specific access point and hiking distance will depend on your chosen route and starting location. Common trailheads in the area include those at the Tettegouche State Park Visitor Center or other smaller access points along the highway. Hikers should consult detailed SHT maps (available from the Superior Hiking Trail Association or online) to plan their hike, as distances and terrain vary significantly. While the trail leading to it can be challenging, including muddy sections, the remote nature of the site means it's far enough removed from the main trail that "we didn't hear any passing hikers during our stay." This seclusion is a key part of its appeal, but it also means hikers must be prepared for varied trail conditions and self-reliant in a wilderness setting.

Palisade Creek West Campsite is a primitive backcountry campsite on the Superior Hiking Trail, offering essential, basic amenities for self-sufficient backpackers. The emphasis is on maintaining the natural environment and minimizing human impact.

• Designated Tent Sites: The campsite offers "one nice tent site, and a couple others scattered in the woods." These areas are typically "stamped down tent pads" or flat, dry spots suitable for pitching tents, designed to concentrate impact and protect the surrounding vegetation. Reviewers note they were "flat, dry, and private."

• Fire Ring: A designated metal fire ring is provided for campfires. Campers are permitted to use only dead and downed wood found on the forest floor for their fires. It is crucial to always check for any current fire bans or restrictions issued by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or the U.S. Forest Service before lighting a fire.

• Benches: Like most SHT campsites, Palisade Creek West likely includes simple log or wooden benches around the fire ring for comfortable seating.

• Backwoods Latrine: A primitive, open-air latrine (sometimes referred to as a "thunderbox" or "outhouse without the house") is available at a short distance from the main camping area. This provides a designated spot for human waste, though campers are expected to pack out all non-decomposable items like toilet paper and hygiene products.

• Water Access: The campsite is located "just above Palisade Creek" with "easy access to water." However, it is imperative to remember that this is natural, non-potable water and *must* be filtered, boiled, or chemically treated before consumption to ensure it is safe for drinking and cooking. Reviewers noted the water was "clean and easy to find."

• Bear Hang Spots: The campsite provides "good spots for a bear hang." This is a crucial safety feature for storing food and scented items away from bears and other wildlife, typically involving hanging a food bag from a tree branch.

• No Garbage Service: Adhering to the strict "pack it in, pack it out" wilderness ethic, there are no garbage receptacles or disposal services at Palisade Creek West Campsite. All trash, food scraps, and waste must be carried out by campers, leaving no trace of their visit.

• No Fees or Reservations: Superior Hiking Trail backcountry campsites are generally free to use and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. No permits are typically required for camping at these designated sites.

• Secluded and Private: A major highlight of Palisade Creek West is its exceptional seclusion. Reviews consistently mention it being "remote," "quiet and secluded," and "far enough removed from the trail that we didn't hear any passing hikers," offering more privacy than its East counterpart.

• Peaceful Ambiance: The remote location and limited human presence contribute to a profoundly peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those seeking tranquility in nature.

• Good Tent Sites: The availability of "flat, dry, and private" tent sites makes for a comfortable night's rest, a valued feature in backcountry camping.

• Easy Water Access: Convenient access to clean water from Palisade Creek is a significant advantage, though purification is always necessary.

• Excellent Bear Hang Opportunities: The presence of "good spots for a bear hang" indicates forethought for camper safety and reinforces responsible food storage practices in bear country.

• Less Crowded: Compared to "East Palisade," this site is noted as being "less crowded," making it a preferred choice during peak season for those desiring more solitude.

• Scenic Surroundings: The site offers a "nice view of the hillside opposite" and is nestled in the stunning Northwoods landscape of Tettegouche State Park, providing a beautiful natural backdrop.

• No Fees and First-Come, First-Served: The absence of fees and the first-come, first-served policy are appealing to budget-conscious and spontaneous backpackers, offering accessible wilderness camping.

• True Backpacking Experience: This campsite embodies the essence of backcountry camping, requiring self-reliance and adherence to Leave No Trace principles, which appeals to experienced hikers.

Address: Palisade Creek West Campsite, Superior Hiking Trail, Silver Bay, MN 55614, USA (within Tettegouche State Park, on the SHT).

Phone: As a primitive backcountry campsite, there is no direct phone number for Palisade Creek West Campsite itself. For official information regarding Tettegouche State Park, its regulations, trail conditions, or for general inquiries about the Superior Hiking Trail, contact the relevant authorities:

• Tettegouche State Park Office (Minnesota DNR): (218) 353-8800

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

• Minnesota DNR Information Center (Toll Free): 888-646-6367

Website: The most reliable sources for information will be the official websites for the Minnesota DNR (specifically for Tettegouche State Park) and the Superior Hiking Trail Association.

• Tettegouche State Park - Minnesota DNR
• Superior Hiking Trail Association

For Minnesotans with a deep love for the rugged beauty of the North Shore and a desire for genuine backcountry solitude, Palisade Creek West Campsite on the Superior Hiking Trail is an exceptional choice. It's ideally suited for locals because it offers a truly remote and peaceful escape within our state's iconic wilderness, without requiring extensive travel outside of Minnesota. While the trail might present muddy challenges, the reward is a uniquely secluded experience, far removed from the sounds of civilization and even other hikers.

The campsite's privacy, comfortable tent sites, easy access to clean water (with proper purification), and vital bear hang locations demonstrate its practical design for backpackers. For Minnesotans seeking to test their self-sufficiency, embrace Leave No Trace principles, and find deep quietude in nature, this no-fee, first-come, first-served site is a perfect fit. It offers a more intimate connection with the Northwoods compared to busier alternatives, making it "probably the best site to be during peak season on this section of the Superior Hiking Trail" for those prioritizing solitude. Despite occasional issues with previous campers' waste, the inherent quality of the site and its surroundings still make it a highly recommended destination for any Minnesotan ready to carry their world on their back and immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of our state's beloved North Shore.

Palisade Creek West Campsite

Superior Hiking Trail, Silver Bay, MN 55614, USA