South Carlson Pond Camp

For Minnesotans who cherish the call of the wild, the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the rugged beauty of our state's North Shore. Winding through dense forests, over ancient rocky bluffs, and alongside pristine rivers and lakes, the SHT is a celebrated gem for backpackers and day hikers alike. Along its extensive path, numerous backcountry campsites provide essential havens for those embarking on multi-day journeys. Among these, South Carlson Pond Camp, located near Hovland, MN 55606, has garnered a reputation as a favorite for many, offering a serene and spacious retreat amidst the wilderness. This article is crafted specifically for local Minnesotans, providing a clear, engaging, and factual overview of this particular SHT campsite, enriched by the experiences of fellow hikers.

The Superior Hiking Trail stretches over 300 miles from south of Duluth to the Canadian border, traversing a landscape shaped by glaciers and defined by its dramatic elevation changes and stunning Lake Superior vistas. Maintained by the dedicated Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA) and its volunteers, the trail offers a rustic backpacking experience. Unlike many state or national park campgrounds, SHT campsites are generally more primitive, designed for self-sufficient backpackers. They do not require permits or fees, but operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and are meant to be shared. South Carlson Pond Camp perfectly embodies this ethos, providing a designated spot to rest and rejuvenate while adhering to the Leave No Trace principles that are fundamental to preserving the SHT's unique environment. Its setting within this beloved trail system ensures a true wilderness immersion, appealing directly to those Minnesotans who seek solace and adventure away from paved roads.

Location and Accessibility

South Carlson Pond Camp is situated directly on the Superior Hiking Trail, with its address listed as Superior Hiking Trail, Hovland, MN 55606, USA. Hovland is a small community nestled along the North Shore of Lake Superior, just north of Grand Marais in Cook County. Being a backcountry campsite on the SHT, South Carlson Pond Camp is not accessible by vehicle; it must be hiked into.

Access to South Carlson Pond Camp involves parking at a designated SHT trailhead and hiking a segment of the trail. The SHT is well-marked with blue blazes on trees, making navigation generally straightforward. Common trailheads in the vicinity of Hovland, such as the Arrowhead Trail, Judge C.R. Magney State Park, or other access points north of Grand Marais, would serve as starting points for a hike to South Carlson Pond Camp. The distance to the campsite will vary depending on your chosen entry point. Hikers planning to stay at South Carlson Pond Camp should consult the official Superior Hiking Trail Guidebook or use reliable hiking apps with SHT maps to determine the most suitable trailhead and estimate the mileage to the campsite. The SHT offers a variety of terrain, including ascents to rocky outcroppings and descents along river valleys, so hikers should be prepared for varying levels of difficulty. Overnight parking is generally permitted at most SHT trailheads north of Duluth, but it is always wise to confirm specific parking regulations for your chosen trailhead. Shuttle services are also available along sections of the SHT, which can be helpful for section hikers planning point-to-point trips.

Services Offered

• Designated Campsite: South Carlson Pond Camp is an official, designated backcountry campsite on the Superior Hiking Trail. This means it is a recognized and approved location for overnight camping, helping to concentrate impact and preserve the surrounding wilderness.

• Fire Ring: The campsite includes at least one centrally-located fire ring. This allows for safe and contained campfires, provided there are no active fire bans in effect. Visitors are responsible for gathering their own firewood from dead and downed trees in the vicinity.

• Benches: The site typically features benches around the fire pit, providing seating for campers to relax and socialize.

• Multiple Tent Pads/Areas: User reviews specifically highlight "lots of room for multiple tents" and "multiple tent pads," indicating ample space for various tent setups and groups. This is a significant advantage for larger groups or when the trail is busy.

• Backcountry Latrine: Like all SHT campsites, South Carlson Pond Camp features an open-air backcountry latrine (outhouse). These are basic, low-impact facilities designed for human waste disposal, ensuring proper sanitation in the wilderness.

• Water Source: The campsite has a natural water source from a creek, accessible by going "straight down the hill from the fire pit. Just go out the camp entrance and turn left (SOBO) and go around hill and the creek will be on your right." While the immediate beaver pond may be dry, the creek generally provides water. It is crucial to note that all water from natural sources on the SHT requires filtration or purification before consumption.

Features / Highlights

• Spacious and Open Setting: Hikers frequently praise South Carlson Pond Camp for being a "very open spot on top of hill" with "lots of room for multiple tents and multiple spots for hammocks." This spaciousness is highly valued in a backcountry setting.

• Minimal Bug Issues (often): "Bugs were not a problem" is a notable highlight from a reviewer, suggesting that its elevated and open location can provide relief from mosquitoes, especially compared to lower, marshier areas. However, as noted in other reviews, during late spring through summer, especially with wetland scenery nearby, mosquitoes can still be numerous, so preparedness is key.

• Scenic Surroundings: The campsite boasts "wonderful" scenery, "sitting atop a hill surrounded by a marshy pond, a creek, and countless spruce trees." This provides a classic Northwoods aesthetic and a tranquil setting.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The wetland environment increases the chances of wildlife sightings. Reviewers mention the possibility of hearing "wolves at night, and see moose in the morning," adding to the wild appeal of the site.

• Hammock-Friendly: The presence of "plenty of trees for hammock campers" makes this a particularly appealing site for those who prefer hammocks over tents, offering versatile sleeping options.

• Proximity to Cleaner Water (further North): While the immediate water source is a marshy creek, hikers note that "approximately 3 miles north on the Superior Hiking Trail Carlson Creek is much cleaner, and cooler." This offers a better option for water resupply for those heading further north.

• Backcountry Solitude: While SHT campsites are shared, being located away from roads provides a true sense of backcountry solitude and connection with nature, which is a core appeal of the trail.

Contact Information

South Carlson Pond Camp, as a backcountry campsite on the Superior Hiking Trail, does not have a direct phone number or a specific office address for contact. All inquiries and information regarding SHT campsites are managed by the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA).

Address: Superior Hiking Trail, Hovland, MN 55606, USA (This address indicates the general location along the trail system, not a physical office for the campsite itself.)

For comprehensive information regarding the Superior Hiking Trail, its campsites, conditions, and regulations, local Minnesotans should utilize the following primary resources:

• Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA):

• Website: The official SHTA website (superiorhiking.org) is the most crucial resource. It provides detailed maps, current trail conditions, FAQs about camping, trailhead information, and safety guidelines. It is regularly updated and indispensable for trip planning.

• Phone: (218) 834-2700 (General inquiries for SHTA)

• Email: info@superiorhiking.org

• Superior Hiking Trail Guidebook: The SHTA publishes a highly recommended guidebook with detailed maps and descriptions of all trail sections and campsites, including water sources and tent pad numbers. This is an essential physical map for any SHT trip.

• Recreation.gov and U.S. Forest Service: While SHT campsites do not require permits or fees (except for certain sections like the BWCAW near the northern terminus, which is not applicable to South Carlson Pond Camp), some sections of the SHT pass through the Superior National Forest. For broader forest information, the Superior National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/superior) can be a supplementary resource, though SHTA is the primary contact for the trail itself.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

South Carlson Pond Camp on the Superior Hiking Trail near Hovland, MN, is an exceptionally suitable destination for Minnesotans seeking an authentic and rewarding backcountry experience. Its location within the esteemed SHT system means it's part of a well-maintained and cherished local resource, accessible to many residents within a reasonable drive to a trailhead.

This campsite truly offers the core elements of a memorable Northwoods adventure: a spacious and comfortable setting, the peaceful sounds of nature, and the raw beauty of a creek and marshland. The fact that it provides ample space for both tents and hammocks caters to diverse camping preferences, a detail highly valued by local hikers. While the water source requires treatment, this is a standard practice for backcountry camping, fostering self-reliance and adherence to Leave No Trace principles that many Minnesotans are already familiar with or keen to learn. The potential for wildlife sightings, from moose in the morning to wolves at night, adds an exciting and immersive dimension to the experience, connecting campers directly with Minnesota’s vibrant ecosystem.

For Minnesotans, spending time at South Carlson Pond Camp is more than just an overnight stay; it's an opportunity to strengthen bonds with nature, challenge oneself physically, and create lasting memories with friends and family. It’s a chance to truly disconnect from the digital world and embrace the quiet, restorative power of our state's incredible wilderness, embodying the very spirit of outdoor adventure that defines Minnesota.

South Carlson Pond Camp

Superior Hiking Trail, Hovland, MN 55606, USA