South Sonju Lake Camp

For those of us in Minnesota who cherish the unique blend of challenge and tranquility that our state's wilderness offers, the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) is a crown jewel. Winding its way along the dramatic North Shore of Lake Superior, the SHT provides an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in breathtaking natural beauty. Among its many well-regarded backcountry campsites, South Sonju Lake Camp stands out as a particularly popular and accommodating destination. It's a place where the sounds of daily life fade, replaced by the symphony of nature, and the vastness of the Minnesota wilderness truly takes hold. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of South Sonju Lake Camp, offering valuable insights for local Minnesotans considering their next backpacking adventure on the SHT.

South Sonju Lake Camp, consistent with other campsites on the Superior Hiking Trail, offers a primitive camping experience, designed for hikers who are prepared for self-sufficiency and appreciate the beauty of a natural, undeveloped setting. However, what sets South Sonju Lake Camp apart, as highlighted by visitor reviews, is its notable size and accessibility for groups. Imagine completing a rewarding day of hiking and arriving at a spacious site with ample room for multiple tents, all while being just steps away from stunning scenery. This campsite provides a unique balance: it offers the solitude of the backcountry while also being capable of accommodating larger parties, making it an excellent choice for families, scout groups, or friends embarking on a shared wilderness journey. For Minnesotans who frequently explore their state's outdoors, this site promises a rewarding and relatively convenient backcountry experience.

The SHT is celebrated for its diverse terrain and stunning vistas, from dramatic overlooks to serene forest paths. Campsites like South Sonju Lake Camp are strategically located along this extensive trail system to provide essential resting points for multi-day treks. This particular site is renowned for its spaciousness, a significant advantage for groups, and its appealing proximity to natural landmarks. While it requires adherence to "Leave No Trace" principles—packing in and packing out everything—the natural beauty and functional layout make it a highly desirable stop. It embodies the essence of a Minnesota backpacking trip: challenging yet rewarding, rustic yet well-situated for an unforgettable immersion in nature.

South Sonju Lake Camp is situated on the renowned Superior Hiking Trail, in the general vicinity of Finland, MN 55603, USA. As a designated backcountry campsite on the SHT, it is important to understand that this site is not accessible by vehicle. Instead, it must be reached by hiking along the trail. The SHT is a continuous footpath that spans over 300 miles from south of Duluth to the Canadian border, and South Sonju Lake Camp is one of the many well-maintained campsites strategically placed along this extensive route. Hikers typically plan their routes using detailed maps and guidebooks provided by the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA), which clearly indicate distances between trailheads and campsites, as well as terrain difficulty. For Minnesotans, reaching a trailhead that leads to South Sonju Lake Camp generally involves driving to a designated SHT parking lot, often located off a county road or state highway in the North Shore region. From these trailheads, the adventure continues on foot, allowing for a true immersion into the wilderness.

A significant aspect of South Sonju Lake Camp's accessibility, as highlighted by reviews, is its relatively "easy hike from the Sonju road parking lot." This makes it an excellent option for those new to backpacking, families with children, or groups seeking a less strenuous entry into the SHT backcountry. The nearby community of Finland, MN, though small, can serve as a vital point for last-minute supplies, parking at designated trailheads, or finding limited amenities for pre-trip preparation or post-hike celebration. Visitors should always ensure they have reliable offline maps and have checked current trail conditions, as cell service can be sporadic in these remote areas. The journey to the campsite itself, through the beautiful North Shore forests, sets the stage for the tranquil and picturesque experience that awaits at South Sonju Lake Camp.

As a backcountry campsite on the Superior Hiking Trail, South Sonju Lake Camp offers a specific set of services designed to support backpackers while maintaining the pristine wilderness environment. Campers should be fully prepared for self-sufficiency, bringing all their necessary gear, food, water treatment methods, and adhering to strict waste management practices. The services typically provided at SHT campsites like South Sonju Lake Camp include:

• Designated Tent Pads: Multiple cleared, relatively level areas are provided for pitching tents. This site is particularly noted for being "huge" with "many decent tent pads," capable of accommodating "15 people with 5 groups."
• Fire Ring: A designated fire ring is usually present for campfires, often equipped with a grate. It is crucial for campers to check current fire restrictions with the Superior Hiking Trail Association or the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources before lighting any fires, as conditions can change rapidly.
• Backcountry Latrine: An open-air latrine is typically available a short distance from the main campsite area. These basic facilities are essential for proper human waste disposal in the wilderness.
• Water Access: As indicated by reviews, there is "great water access" at or very near the campsite, likely from Sonju Lake. However, all water from natural sources must be filtered or treated before consumption to ensure safety.
• Camp Saw (Possible): One review notes the presence of a "camp saw." While not a universal amenity at all SHT sites, this can be a helpful tool for processing firewood if present.
• No Potable Water: There is no treated drinking water available directly at the site.
• No Trash Collection: Campers are strictly required to pack out all garbage and waste they generate, adhering rigorously to "Leave No Trace" principles. This includes all food scraps, packaging, and personal items.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: SHT campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis; no reservations are taken. Campers should plan to arrive early, especially during peak seasons or if traveling with a large group, to secure a prime spot.

The true features and highlights of South Sonju Lake Camp are deeply tied to its natural environment and the type of backpacking experience it facilitates. These aspects particularly resonate with Minnesotans seeking both natural beauty and practical utility in their outdoor adventures:

• Spacious Site: A major highlight is its surprisingly large size, making it "huge" and able to accommodate "multiple tents" and "15 people with 5 groups." This is a significant advantage for group camping, which can be challenging at smaller backcountry sites.
• Proximity to Lily Island: The campsite offers "5 stars for scenery since Lily's Island is about 20 yards down the trail." This close access to a notable scenic landmark enhances the overall beauty and photographic opportunities of the camp.
• Excellent Water Access: The "great water access" from Sonju Lake is a practical highlight, providing a reliable source for filtering water and potentially for swimming or cooling off.
• Relatively Easy Access: The "easy hike from the Sonju road parking lot" makes it more accessible for new backpackers, families, or those seeking a less strenuous entry into the SHT backcountry.
• Scenic Beauty: The camp is nestled within the beautiful Northwoods, offering the classic Minnesota forest and lake scenery that locals cherish.
• Ideal for Group Camping: Due to its size and multiple tent pads, it's particularly well-suited for larger groups, a feature often sought after but rarely found in backcountry settings.
• Backcountry Immersion: Despite its relative ease of access, it still provides an authentic wilderness experience, far from roads and developed areas, promoting solitude and a connection with nature.
• Hammock-Friendly: The presence of "many decent tent pads" and implied tree cover suggests it's also "decent for hammocks," offering versatility for different camping setups.

For contact information regarding South Sonju Lake Camp and the Superior Hiking Trail, it's crucial to understand that direct contact for individual backcountry campsites is not typically available. Instead, all inquiries and planning should be directed to the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA), which is responsible for the maintenance and management of the SHT and its campsites. Their official website (superiorhiking.org) is the primary resource for detailed maps, guidebooks, current trail conditions, important alerts (such as fire bans or trail closures), and general information about camping and hiking on the SHT. While there isn't a direct phone number for South Sonju Lake Camp itself, you can contact the SHTA for comprehensive planning assistance. The Superior Hiking Trail Association is located at: 7332 Gitchi Gummi Trail, Two Harbors, MN 55616. Their main office phone number for general inquiries is typically (218) 834-2700. It is highly recommended to visit their website before your trip for the most up-to-date and accurate information to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.

South Sonju Lake Camp is an exceptionally suitable destination for Minnesotans, particularly those looking for a versatile and accessible backcountry camping experience on the iconic Superior Hiking Trail. Its key advantages—being a "huge site" with "many decent tent pads" and offering "easy hike from the Sonju road parking lot"—make it ideal for a wider range of hikers, including families, first-time backpackers, and larger groups, which can often be challenging to accommodate at other backcountry sites. The proximity to beautiful Lily Island and great water access further enhances its appeal, providing picturesque scenery and essential resources. For locals, this campsite embodies the spirit of Minnesota's outdoor culture: a love for pristine lakes and forests, the joy of group adventures, and the satisfaction of experiencing true wilderness without an overly strenuous approach. It's a highly recommended spot for Minnesotans seeking a memorable, scenic, and accommodating backpacking journey into the heart of their beloved North Shore wilderness.

South Sonju Lake Camp

Superior Hiking Trail, Finland, MN 55603, USA