Stewart River Camp

Nestled along the renowned Superior Hiking Trail, Stewart River Camp offers a quintessential Minnesota wilderness experience for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. This backcountry campsite, located near Two Harbors, provides a rustic and authentic connection with nature, making it a popular stop for those embarking on multi-day treks or seeking a serene escape from the everyday hustle. As part of the extensive Superior Hiking Trail system, Stewart River Camp embodies the spirit of minimalist camping, where the focus is on natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and direct access to one of Minnesota's most cherished long-distance trails.

The charm of Stewart River Camp lies in its simplicity and its deep integration with the surrounding environment. It's a place where the sounds of the forest and the nearby river replace the noises of urban life, offering a genuine opportunity to unplug and recharge. For locals across Minnesota, this campsite represents an accessible yet immersive outdoor adventure, providing a taste of the North Shore's rugged beauty without requiring extensive travel to more remote wilderness areas. It's a testament to the diverse camping opportunities available within our beautiful state, catering to those who appreciate a more traditional, leave-no-trace camping philosophy.

Whether you're a seasoned thru-hiker of the Superior Hiking Trail or a weekend adventurer looking for a quiet night under the stars, Stewart River Camp provides a welcoming spot to pitch your tent or hang your hammock. Its location along the trail network also allows for various hiking itineraries, from a quick overnight stay to a strategic point for longer backpacking trips through the captivating landscapes of the North Shore.

Stewart River Camp is strategically situated on the Superior Hiking Trail, near the charming city of Two Harbors, Minnesota. The official address is listed as Superior Hiking Trail, Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA. This places the campsite directly within the heart of one of Minnesota's most scenic regions, the North Shore of Lake Superior.

Access to Stewart River Camp is primarily by foot, as it is a backcountry campsite integral to the Superior Hiking Trail network. This means that visitors will need to hike into the campsite from a nearby trailhead. The Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA) maintains numerous trailheads along the entire 300+ mile trail, many with designated parking areas. Hikers typically park at a trailhead and then navigate the trail to reach the camp. Specific mileage and directions from the closest trailheads can be found in the official Superior Hiking Trail Guidebook or on the SHTA website, which are essential resources for planning your trip.

Being located on the Superior Hiking Trail means that the campsite is not accessible by vehicle directly. This contributes to its rustic appeal and peaceful atmosphere, as it keeps vehicle noise and traffic at a distance. The trail itself is well-marked and maintained, guiding hikers through diverse terrain, including forests, rocky outcrops, and along rivers. For those coming from Duluth, the drive up Highway 61 towards Two Harbors offers stunning views of Lake Superior and is a scenic journey in itself before even hitting the trail.

It is important for visitors to be prepared for backcountry travel, carrying all necessary gear, food, and water (which will likely need to be filtered or treated from natural sources at the campsite). The "very close and easy access to river" mentioned by a reviewer suggests a convenient water source, but purification is always recommended. While the location provides a secluded feel, its proximity to Two Harbors means that emergency services and basic amenities are within a reasonable distance, offering a balance of wilderness immersion and practical accessibility.

• Tent and Hammock Space: The campsite offers ample space for pitching tents and setting up hammocks, accommodating multiple parties while still providing a sense of individual space.

• River Access: Guests have very close and easy access to the Stewart River, which is convenient for water collection (requiring purification), enjoying the sounds of flowing water, or potentially for fishing (check local regulations and obtain necessary permits).

• Designated Tent Pads and Fire Ring: Like most Superior Hiking Trail campsites, Stewart River Camp is equipped with designated tent pads to minimize impact on the surrounding environment, and a communal fire ring for safe campfires (subject to fire bans).

• Backcountry Latrine: A basic, open-air backcountry latrine is typically available at Superior Hiking Trail campsites for waste disposal, promoting responsible outdoor ethics.

• Proximity to the Stewart River: A major highlight is the campsite's immediate vicinity to the Stewart River. This offers not only a source for water (to be treated) but also adds to the serene ambiance with the sounds of flowing water and opportunities for riverside relaxation.

• Spacious for Tents and Hammocks: As noted by a happy customer, there is "lots of space for tents and hammocks." This ensures that even when multiple groups are present, there's usually room to spread out and enjoy a sense of privacy.

• Integration with the Superior Hiking Trail: Being directly on the SHT means campers have immediate access to world-class hiking. This is perfect for those looking to experience sections of this renowned long-distance trail, whether for a day hike from the camp or as part of a longer backpacking journey.

• Rustic Backcountry Experience: Stewart River Camp offers a true backcountry experience. There are no modern amenities like flush toilets or running water, fostering a deep connection with nature and requiring self-sufficiency, appealing to those who seek an authentic wilderness adventure.

• Secluded and Peaceful (mostly): Despite being a designated campsite, it generally provides a peaceful retreat. While there might be occasional "loud train noise overnight" as noted by one reviewer, the overall environment is typically quiet and immersed in nature, far from urban disturbances.

Address: Superior Hiking Trail, Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA

Please note that as a backcountry campsite on the Superior Hiking Trail, Stewart River Camp does not have a direct phone number or dedicated contact staff on-site. For general inquiries about the Superior Hiking Trail, campsite conditions, trail maps, or guidebooks, the primary resource is the Superior Hiking Trail Association (SHTA).

You can typically find comprehensive information, including FAQs, trail alerts, and contact details for the SHTA, on their official website. It is highly recommended to consult their resources before planning your trip to Stewart River Camp. The SHTA office or website would be the best point of contact for any specific questions about permits (though generally not required for SHT campsites), trail conditions, or safety information relevant to the area.

For Minnesotans, Stewart River Camp on the Superior Hiking Trail offers an exceptional and highly suitable camping experience for numerous reasons, making it a valuable local resource for outdoor recreation.

Firstly, its location within the beloved North Shore region means it's often within a manageable driving distance for a weekend trip or an extended getaway for many residents of the Twin Cities metro area and other parts of Minnesota. The scenic drive up Highway 61 is a cherished journey for many, setting the tone for a refreshing escape into nature. This accessibility encourages more frequent use by locals who might not have the time or resources for more distant wilderness expeditions.

Secondly, Stewart River Camp provides an authentic backcountry experience that is relatively accessible for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts, from seasoned backpackers to those new to rustic camping. The "lots of space for tents and hammocks" noted by a reviewer makes it accommodating for different group sizes and preferences. This type of camping encourages self-reliance, minimal impact, and a deeper appreciation for Minnesota's natural landscapes, aligning well with the state's strong outdoor culture. For locals, it's an opportunity to truly disconnect from urban life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Superior National Forest ecosystem.

The proximity and easy access to the Stewart River is a significant draw. For Minnesotans who enjoy the sounds of flowing water, potential for riverside relaxation, or even small-scale fishing (where permitted and practiced responsibly), this feature enhances the camping experience. It connects campers directly with the natural water systems that are so integral to Minnesota's identity as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes."

Furthermore, as part of the Superior Hiking Trail, Stewart River Camp serves as an ideal base for exploring one of Minnesota's crown jewel hiking trails. Locals can utilize the campsite for a single overnight adventure, or as a strategic stop on a longer multi-day hike, allowing them to experience different sections of the SHT's diverse terrain, from stunning Lake Superior overlooks to dense forests and rocky river gorges. This offers continuous opportunities for physical activity, exploration, and connecting with the vastness of the state's natural beauty.

Finally, while there's a mention of occasional train noise, the overall character of Stewart River Camp is one of peace and quiet. This makes it an ideal escape for Minnesotans seeking solitude and a respite from their daily routines. The lack of modern amenities, while requiring preparation, contributes to a simpler, more grounding experience that many locals actively seek when venturing into the wilderness. It’s a genuine taste of Minnesota’s wild side, easily within reach for those who call this state home.

Stewart River Camp

Superior Hiking Trail, Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA