South Egge Lake Camp

Nestled deep within the magnificent Minnesota wilderness, South Egge Lake Camp offers a truly immersive backcountry camping experience for those seeking solace and adventure along the renowned Superior Hiking Trail. Unlike traditional drive-up campgrounds, South Egge Lake Camp is a hike-in destination, promising a serene escape far from the sounds of traffic and crowds. This overview is designed for Minnesota locals eager to explore the unparalleled beauty of the Northwoods, providing essential details about this unique campsite's location, available features, and why it stands out as an ideal spot for an authentic outdoor adventure.

South Egge Lake Camp is more than just a place to set up your tent; it’s a gateway to the vast and breathtaking landscapes that define Minnesota's wild heart. As part of the extensive Superior Hiking Trail system, this campsite embodies the spirit of wilderness backpacking, offering a chance to truly disconnect and reconnect with nature. The pristine lake, the surrounding forested terrain, and the abundant wildlife create an idyllic setting for reflection, rejuvenation, and exploration. Whether you're an experienced thru-hiker or embarking on your first overnight backpacking trip, South Egge Lake Camp provides a foundational piece of the unforgettable Superior Hiking Trail experience, making it a must-visit for anyone passionate about Minnesota's great outdoors.

South Egge Lake Camp is strategically located on the Superior Hiking Trail near Finland, MN, specifically at Superior Hiking Trail, Finland, MN 55603, USA. As a hike-in campsite, direct vehicle access is not available, which contributes to its secluded and pristine nature. The camp is typically accessed via various trailheads along the Superior Hiking Trail. A popular route mentioned by visitors is a beautiful hike from the Finland Community Center Trailhead.

For Minnesota residents, reaching the general area of Finland, MN, is a straightforward journey, often involving a scenic drive along Highway 61 (the North Shore Scenic Drive) if coming from Duluth or other southern points. Once in the vicinity of Finland, trailheads leading to South Egge Lake Camp are well-marked along the Superior Hiking Trail. Detailed maps and guidebooks, often available through the Superior Hiking Trail Association, are highly recommended for planning your hike and ensuring proper navigation to the campsite. This intentional accessibility as a hike-in destination ensures that visitors are genuinely immersed in the wilderness, making the journey to the camp part of the adventure itself.

As a backcountry, hike-in campsite, South Egge Lake Camp offers essential, yet robust, services designed to support a true wilderness camping experience. These services focus on providing fundamental needs while preserving the natural environment.

• Designated Tent Areas: The campsite is spacious, offering ample room for multiple tents, ensuring campers have a comfortable spot to set up their shelter.
• Fire Pit: A great fire pit is available for campers, allowing for safe and contained campfires, perfect for cooking or simply enjoying the warmth and ambiance under the stars.
• Swim Area: The camp features a designated swim area, providing a refreshing opportunity to cool off in the clear waters of South Egge Lake, particularly enjoyable after a long day of hiking.
• Water Source: Water is available at the camp, typically from the lake itself. It is crucial for all campers to be prepared to filter or treat all water from natural sources before consumption to ensure safety.
• Clothesline: A useful clothesline is provided, allowing campers to dry wet gear or clothing, a practical amenity in the backcountry.
• Bear Cable: A bear cable (or bear hang system) is available for safely hanging food and scented items away from bears and other wildlife, promoting responsible food storage and wildlife protection.
• Backcountry Latrine: Like most Superior Hiking Trail campsites, South Egge Lake Camp is equipped with an open-air backcountry latrine, contributing to proper waste disposal and maintaining campsite hygiene.

South Egge Lake Camp boasts several features and highlights that make it a highly sought-after destination for backcountry enthusiasts along the Superior Hiking Trail.

• Beautiful Lake Views: Campers are treated to stunning views of South Egge Lake. The serene waters and natural surroundings offer picturesque backdrops, especially during sunrise and sunset.
• Wildlife Encounters: The natural setting provides opportunities for wildlife sightings. Previous visitors have reported friendly swans, adding to the unique charm and natural appeal of the campsite. The presence of such wildlife underscores the camp's integration with its natural environment.
• Secluded Wilderness Experience: Being a hike-in site on the Superior Hiking Trail, South Egge Lake Camp offers an authentic wilderness experience, far removed from the noise and distractions of developed areas. This solitude is a major draw for those looking to truly escape into nature.
• Accessibility via Superior Hiking Trail: The camp's location directly on the Superior Hiking Trail means it's part of a well-maintained and extensive trail system, offering endless possibilities for day hikes or longer backpacking adventures to other campsites.
• Spacious Layout: Reviews indicate the camp is spacious, providing comfortable individual tent spots and shared common areas, even when other campers are present.

As a backcountry campsite located directly on the Superior Hiking Trail, South Egge Lake Camp does not have a conventional visitor center or direct phone number for reservations in the same way a state park or commercial campground might.

Address: Superior Hiking Trail, Finland, MN 55603, USA

For information regarding the Superior Hiking Trail and its campsites, including South Egge Lake Camp, the best resources are the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA) website, their official guidebooks, and maps. The SHTA website often provides detailed information on trail conditions, campsite amenities, and important safety guidelines. There is no direct phone contact specifically for the South Egge Lake Camp itself, as it operates as a rustic, self-serve campsite within the trail system. Hikers should rely on their own preparation, maps, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles.

South Egge Lake Camp is exceptionally suitable for Minnesota locals, especially those who cherish authentic outdoor experiences and the unique beauty of the Northwoods. Its designation as a hike-in campsite means it appeals to adventurers who are prepared for a true wilderness immersion, away from the typical amenities of car camping. For those living in Minnesota, this camp offers an accessible yet profound escape into the state's iconic landscapes, showcasing the raw beauty of Lake Superior's inland forests and waterways.

The fact that it’s part of the beloved Superior Hiking Trail system means locals can easily plan day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips that include South Egge Lake as a stopping point. The clear lake for swimming, the well-maintained fire pit, and essential backcountry amenities like the bear cable and latrine reflect a thoughtful approach to wilderness camping that respects both comfort and conservation. Moreover, the chance to encounter local wildlife, such as the friendly swans mentioned by previous visitors, adds a magical touch that truly connects campers with the region's natural inhabitants. For Minnesotans seeking to explore their state's famous hiking trails and experience the peaceful solitude of a genuine Northwoods camping trip, South Egge Lake Camp offers an unforgettable and deeply rewarding adventure right in their backyard. It's a reminder of the wild beauty that makes Minnesota so special for outdoor enthusiasts.

South Egge Lake Camp

Superior Hiking Trail, Finland, MN 55603, USA