Wild River State Park "Buck Hill" Backpack Campsite

For Minnesota locals yearning for a true escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, the Wild River State Park "Buck Hill" Backpack Campsite near Taylors Falls offers an authentic and secluded wilderness experience. This "nice little backpacking site" is specifically designed for those who appreciate peace, quiet, and a genuine connection with nature. It's not a drive-up luxury site, but rather a rewarding destination for hikers ready to earn their tranquility. If you're looking to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Minnesota, Buck Hill is an excellent choice.

The reviews from fellow adventurers provide a clear picture of what to expect. One camper described it as "about 45 minute walk from the parking lot," indicating a decent hike in that adds to the secluded feel. They noted, "Not very large but we squeezed four personal tents on the space," suggesting that while cozy, it can accommodate a small group. A pleasant surprise for them was that it was "Not buggy at all which was surprising as there was a swamp nearby," which is always a welcome relief for Minnesota campers! The search for firewood is part of the rustic experience, as you "will have to dig and cut for it," reinforcing the primitive nature of the site.

Another review elaborated on the journey and the site's characteristics: "A decent campsite with a healthy hike in... Not many options for where to set up your tent at this site. Use the mounded spot if you expect rain. It's pretty close to the fire pit btw. The latrine is decent for camping. No running water except the St Croix obviously." This advice is invaluable for anyone planning a trip, highlighting the practicalities of a backpack campsite. The lack of cell service, while not explicitly mentioned for Buck Hill, is a common feature of backpack sites in Wild River State Park, further solidifying its appeal for a digital detox.

Wild River State Park "Buck Hill" Backpack Campsite caters to the adventurous spirit, offering a chance to truly unplug and embrace the Minnesota wilderness. It provides the essential elements for a memorable outdoor experience: a secluded setting, abundant wildlife, and the serene backdrop of the St. Croix River. For Minnesotans seeking a challenging yet rewarding camping trip where nature takes center stage, Buck Hill is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

The Wild River State Park "Buck Hill" Backpack Campsite is located at an address listed as 010012400, Taylors Falls, MN 55084, USA. This numerical address indicates its position deep within the expansive Wild River State Park, near the charming town of Taylors Falls in the picturesque St. Croix River Valley. While Taylors Falls itself is easily accessible, reaching the Buck Hill site requires a commitment to a "healthy hike in."

For Minnesota locals, accessing Wild River State Park is straightforward, typically about an hour's drive northeast from the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Once at the park's main parking area, the journey to Buck Hill begins on foot. Reviewers consistently mention it's "about 45 minute walk from the parking lot" or "a 1.8 miles" hike, suggesting a significant but manageable distance for backpackers. This trek is part of the experience, ensuring a level of seclusion that motor vehicle accessible sites simply cannot offer.

The campsite's location within Wild River State Park means it benefits from the park's vast network of trails. The "Deer Creek Loop," a 3-mile trail, provides access to the "Buck Hill backpack campsite," indicating a well-defined route to reach your destination. While there's "no running water except the St Croix obviously," the site is located "right on the river," providing a natural water source (though purification is always necessary). This direct river access is a significant advantage for backpackers, offering both practical utility and scenic beauty. The remoteness also means "no cell phone service" is common in this area of the park, ensuring a truly disconnected experience. For Minnesotans ready for an immersive outdoor adventure that starts with a good hike, Buck Hill offers an authentic wilderness experience within reach.

• Designated Campsite Space: Provides a specific, established area for pitching tents, even if "not very large."
• Fire Pit: Each site is equipped with a fire pit, though gathering "firewood not super abundant you will have to dig and cut for it."
• Latrine: A "decent" latrine is available, providing basic sanitation facilities.
• Picnic Table: While not explicitly mentioned in all reviews for this specific backpack site, backpack sites in Minnesota State Parks typically include a basic picnic table.
• Access to St. Croix River: The site is "right on the river," offering natural water access (requires filtration/purification for drinking).
• Seclusion: The primary "service" is the remote, quiet, and private camping experience due to the hike-in nature.
• Wildlife Viewing: The secluded location and natural setting offer excellent opportunities for observing local wildlife.

• True Backpacking Experience: Requires a "healthy hike in" (approximately 45 minutes or 1.8 miles from parking), ensuring a more authentic and secluded wilderness adventure.
• Secluded and Quiet: The site offers significant privacy, being "not very large" but accommodating for a small group, and isolated enough for a "quiet, no phone sort of trip."
• Located on the St. Croix River: "Right on the river" provides stunning views and natural water access (for purification).
• Abundant Wildlife: Campers noted "lots of wildlife" and the ability to "hear big packs of coyotes from the quiet trains off in the distance," enhancing the wilderness feel.
• Surprising Lack of Bugs: One reviewer was "Not buggy at all which was surprising as there was a swamp nearby," a welcome highlight for campers.
• Primitive and Rustic Charm: The need to "dig and cut for" firewood and the basic amenities contribute to an authentic backcountry feel.
• Designated Tent Spots: Offers a "mounded spot" for tent setup, which is useful "if you expect rain."
• Deer Creek Loop Access: The campsite is accessible via the 3-mile Deer Creek Loop trail, part of the park's extensive trail system.
• Digital Detox Opportunity: The likely lack of cell phone service allows for a complete disconnect from technology.

Address: 010012400, Taylors Falls, MN 55084, USA (within Wild River State Park)

For specific inquiries regarding Wild River State Park backpack campsites, including reservations and updated park conditions, it is best to contact the Wild River State Park office directly.

Park Office Phone: (651) 583-2125

Minnesota DNR Reservations Line: 1-866-857-2757 (TTY: 952-936-4008)

For Minnesota locals, the Wild River State Park "Buck Hill" Backpack Campsite is an exceptionally suitable destination, particularly for those who genuinely seek a rustic, off-grid experience within a manageable distance from urban centers. While it requires a "healthy hike in" of approximately 45 minutes from the parking lot, this very feature ensures a level of seclusion and tranquility that is increasingly rare to find. This allows locals to truly "disconnect" and enjoy a "no phone sort of trip," a valuable opportunity for mental rejuvenation in today's always-connected world.

The site's primitive nature, where campers might need to "dig and cut for" firewood, appeals to those who embrace the challenges and rewards of backcountry camping. It fosters a deeper appreciation for nature and self-sufficiency. Being "right on the St. Croix River" is a significant highlight, offering not just picturesque views but also practical access to a natural water source (for purification) and opportunities for peaceful contemplation by the riverside. The consistent presence of "lots of wildlife" further enhances the authentic wilderness experience, making it a fantastic spot for nature observation and photography.

Furthermore, the "nice little backpacking site" provides a cozy base for exploring the wider Wild River State Park, which boasts an extensive trail system. For Minnesotans who love hiking, this campsite serves as an excellent starting point for multi-day treks or simply exploring different parts of the park daily. The surprising lack of bugs noted by one reviewer, despite nearby swamp areas, is also a considerable advantage for summer camping.

In essence, Buck Hill Backpack Campsite offers an antidote to the stresses of modern life. It’s a place where Minnesotans can embrace simplicity, challenge themselves physically, and immerse themselves completely in the serene beauty of their state's natural landscape. For the adventurous local seeking peace, privacy, and a genuine connection with the wilderness, this campsite promises a truly unforgettable experience.

Wild River State Park "Buck Hill" Backpack Campsite

010012400, Taylors Falls, MN 55084, USA