Trading Post

For Wisconsin residents yearning for an authentic outdoor experience rooted in adventure and natural beauty, the "Trading Post" at Andersen Scout Camp in Houlton offers a truly unique camping destination. While not a typical commercial campground, this site provides an immersive environment perfect for groups, families, and individuals seeking to connect with the wilderness of Western Wisconsin. It's a place where the spirit of exploration thrives, surrounded by stunning bluffs, dense forests, and the majestic St. Croix River, making it an ideal local escape for those who appreciate a more rugged and educational outdoor retreat.

The Trading Post is situated at 186 Andersen Scout Cp Rd, Houlton, WI 54082, USA. This location places it just across the St. Croix River from Stillwater, Minnesota, and easily accessible from major population centers in Western Wisconsin and the Twin Cities metro area. For Wisconsin locals, the drive is convenient, leading you directly into the serene natural setting of Andersen Scout Camp. Accessibility is straightforward: from St. Paul, take Minnesota Highway 36 east, cross the St. Croix Crossing bridge into Wisconsin, and then take exit 4 for Anderson Scout Camp Trail. Turn left at the top of the exit ramp and follow Scout Camp Road north to the camp entrance. This direct route makes it a practical destination for weekend trips or longer excursions without extensive travel. The site itself boasts 150-foot bluffs of solid rock, dividing the property into two levels and encompassing 260 acres of dense forest, open fields, and unique rock formations. This diverse landscape ensures that campers are immediately immersed in a rich natural environment, ready for exploration and adventure.

While known primarily as a Scout Camp, the "Trading Post" area and its associated facilities provide essential services that cater to various camping needs, particularly for groups and those seeking a more rustic experience. The focus here is on outdoor education and robust recreational opportunities. Here's a look at the services offered:

• Primitive Tent Sites: The campground offers various primitive tent sites, providing a back-to-basics camping experience.
• Shelters and Lodges: In addition to tent sites, there are several shelters and lodges available for larger groups. These include open-floor plan shelters perfect for sleeping and group activities, and the newer Swanson Lodge with a large meeting room.
• Camp Store / Trading Post: An on-site "trading post" or camp store is available, offering snacks, souvenirs, craft items, and Scouting literature. This is convenient for picking up forgotten essentials or mementos.
• Restroom Facilities: While not explicitly detailed as modern flush toilets in all areas, facilities are available within the camp. Given it is a scout camp, basic and clean amenities are expected.
• Boating and Canoe Rentals: The camp offers boats, canoes, trailers, life jackets, and paddles for rent, making it easy to embark on river trips on the St. Croix or nearby lakes.
• Program and Activity Areas: The camp is equipped with various program areas for activities such as archery, disc golf, gaga ball, and more, offering structured fun for groups.
• Designated Campfire Areas: Toasty campfires are a focus, with designated areas for cooking, sharing stories, and skits. Each camping area would typically have a fire ring.
• High Adventure Preparation: The facilities are suited for preparing for high adventure trips, indicating robust infrastructure for outdoor training.
• Cross-Country Skiing and Sledding: During winter months, the camp transforms into a winter wonderland, with opportunities for cross-country skiing, tubing, and sledding, making it a year-round destination.

The Trading Post at Andersen Scout Camp offers a wealth of features and highlights that make it an exceptional destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Wisconsin:

• Unique Geological Features: The camp is home to "150 foot bluffs of solid rock," along with "unique rock formations" and features like Friendship Rock and Devil's Basin, providing stunning natural scenery and opportunities for exploration.
• Extensive Trail System: A key highlight is the abundance of hiking opportunities, including the "President's Hiking Trail" and remote backpacking areas. Campers can engage in day or night hikes and learn map and compass skills.
• St. Croix River Access: With its location on the St. Croix River, a National Scenic Riverway, the camp offers prime access for canoeing, kayaking, and enjoying this beautiful waterway. The bluffs provide dramatic river views.
• Rich Wildlife: The 260 acres of dense forest and open fields are home to diverse wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for nature observation and photography.
• Educational and Skill-Building Opportunities: Beyond recreation, the camp provides an environment for learning outdoor skills like fire building techniques, knots and lashings, and even natural rock climbing (with appropriate training and equipment).
• Group-Friendly Facilities: The presence of shelters and lodges makes it ideal for organized groups, scout troops, or large family gatherings, facilitating shared experiences in the outdoors.
• On-Site Store with Outdoor Gear: The Trading Post store offers not just souvenirs but also metal detecting supplies, area maps, rocks and fossils, and fishing tackle, suggesting an emphasis on outdoor pursuits and exploration.
• Year-Round Activities: From water-based activities in warmer months to cross-country skiing and sledding in winter, the camp offers seasonal activities that cater to a full spectrum of outdoor interests.
• Focus on Nature Connection: The overall ethos of the camp is to foster a deeper connection with nature, making it perfect for those looking to disconnect from technology and immerse themselves in the natural world.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about the Trading Post at Andersen Scout Camp, please use the following contact details:

Address: 186 Andersen Scout Cp Rd, Houlton, WI 54082, USA

While a direct phone number for the specific "Trading Post" campground isn't typically listed separately from the main camp, the primary contact for Andersen Scout Camp would facilitate inquiries for camping at this location. It's recommended to reach out to the Northern Star Scouting organization, which manages Andersen Scout Camp, for booking and detailed information.

General contact information for Northern Star Scouting:

Phone: (800) 832-1355 (This number is associated with Northern Star Scouting, which operates Andersen Scout Camp).

Mobile Phone: +1 800-832-1355 (Same as above)

It is highly advisable to visit the official Northern Star Scouting website for Andersen Scout Camp or their reservation portal (e.g., campreservation.com/250/Camps/249) for the most accurate and up-to-date information on booking, specific site availability, and any public access policies for non-scouting groups or individuals.

The Trading Post at Andersen Scout Camp is an exceptional destination for Wisconsin locals, offering a truly distinctive outdoor experience right in their own state. Its location in Houlton provides convenient access from many parts of Wisconsin, making it a practical choice for weekend getaways or longer, immersive trips. For families and groups, the camp’s focus on structured activities and outdoor education provides a rich environment for learning and bonding, far beyond a typical campground stay. The diverse landscape, with its unique bluffs, extensive trail systems, and access to the St. Croix River, ensures endless opportunities for hiking, canoeing, and exploration. While it operates within a scout camp framework, its facilities are well-maintained for outdoor living, offering a robust and engaging environment for anyone seeking an active and enriching outdoor adventure. Whether you're a seasoned outdoors person looking for a challenging hike, a family eager to introduce children to the joys of nature, or a group planning a memorable wilderness retreat, the Trading Post provides a unique and valuable resource for Wisconsin residents to connect with the unparalleled natural beauty and recreational opportunities of their home state.

Trading Post

186 Andersen Scout Cp Rd, Houlton, WI 54082, USA