I couldn’t believe we were actually doing this. Ever since our very first camping trip in the Superior National Forest we’d been dreaming of the day we’d have the knowledge and gear to start backpacking. I was filled with a sense of freedom as we hiked down that trail with our heavy packs that had way too much gear hanging from them. It was immediately clear that we needed to make some major gear upgrades to be able to travel more comfortably. But for now, we were ecstatic to be spending a couple of nights backpacking in one of our favorite Minnesota State Parks.
My husband, Jer, and I learned so much on that trip. I had spent the entire winter learning about backpacking. But those two nights in that State Park taught us more than the dozens of articles I read. And all these years later I’m still learning something new on each backcountry trip.
Over the years our backpacking trips have become more challenging. But I often wonder if we’d be where we are had we not started in Minnesota State Parks. Keep reading to learn why these parks are the best place to learn how to backpack.
Why go backpacking in northern Minnesota State Parks
Whether you’re new to backpacking or looking to enjoy a weekend of quiet solitude, look no further than Minnesota State Parks. Most backpacking sites are a short hike on well-maintained trails making them perfect for beginners. I found it to be much less stressful being a mile-and-a-half from my vehicle than several miles away on more challenging terrain. Not to mention, the short hike made carrying all of our heavy gear way more manageable. State Park backpacking sites also offer wonderful amenities like fire pits, private latrines, and some even have picnic tables and bear boxes. All of the sites offer exceptional privacy and when you book in advance, you’re sure to have a spot to pitch your tent, which isn’t guaranteed on long trails like the Superior Hiking Trail.
The best State Parks for backpacking
I’m fortunate to have visited every Minnesota State Park and while breathtaking parks are abundant, I’m partial to the pristine parks that dot Minnesota’s arrowhead region. Not every state park in Northeast Minnesota offers backpacking campsites. But Jay Cooke, Split Rock Lighthouse, George Crosby Manitou, Cascade River, Bear Head Lake, and Lake Vermilion all offer wonderful backpacking experiences.
Just outside of Duluth, Jay Cooke State Park is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The park has four backpacking campsites that are anywhere from two to three-and-a-half miles from the parking area. The terrain is challenging but you will be rewarded with unmatched beauty and solitude.
Another one of Minnesota’s most beloved state parks is located just 20 miles northeast of Two Harbors. The four waterfront campsites at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park are among the easiest to get to and are just one-half to two miles from the parking area. You’ll want to book early and pack warm layers to make the most of chilly evenings on the shore of the big lake.
Heading inland, George Crosby Manitou State Park is located 8 miles east of the charming town of Finland. In my opinion, this park is one of Minnesota’s best-kept secrets. The park only has backpacking campsites and boasts 21 secluded sites. The sites are located one-half to four-and-a-half miles from the parking lot. The park’s terrain is some of the most challenging in the state. So, if you’re just starting out, you’ll want to study the map before booking your campsite. The campsites around Benson Lake are the easiest to get to but offer the least privacy. Campsite 16 at the end of the trail offers the most seclusion but is a challenging hike.
Less than 10 miles past Lutsen, you’ll find Cascade River State Park. A popular stop along Minnesota’s North Shore, the park is known for its unique cascading waterfalls that tumble dramatically toward the world’s largest freshwater lake. Cascade River offers five campsites for backpackers that range in distance from one-half to one-and-one-half miles from the parking area. You will need to carry water into most of the campsites in this park but they are all very private.
Seven miles past Tower, Minnesota lies one of Minnesota’s newest State Park campgrounds. Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park offers five backpacking campsites. These sites are all less than a mile from the parking area, making it easy to carry in your water and other supplies.
Just 14 miles down the road you’ll find one of my favorite state parks in the country. Bear Head Lake State Park will always hold a special place in our hearts as it was the first place we “camped” in a camper cabin. Bear Head Lake has four campsites you can only access on foot and one that can be reached by foot or canoe. These sites are located between three-quarters to two miles from the parking area. The terrain isn’t nearly as challenging as George Crosby Manitou, but getting to these campsites is definitely a workout. The secluded waterfront campsites make it well worth the effort.
State Park backpacking pro tips
Plan ahead
Every campsite in Minnesota’s State Park system requires a reservation, even backcountry sites. If there is a specific park, campsite, or date you’re looking for, you’ll want to plan in advance. At the time of publication, campsites are available for booking 120 days in advance. If your schedule is flexible, last-minute cancellations can often be found.
Know before you go
Each of these 44 backpacking sites is unique. Some have access to water sources so you can filter water for drinking and others require you to carry it in. We’ve found easy to carry one-gallon jugs in grocery and convenience stores. I’ve found that one gallon per person per day is a good place to start. Some of the sites offer shelters to keep you dry during surprise rainstorms. And they’re all varying distances and difficulty from their designated parking area. Many of the details can be found on the state park’s website and booking system. I always find park staff to be knowledgeable and helpful when I call with specific questions.
Leave enough daylight
It can be tempting to head up to these state parks on a Friday after work to get an extra full day in the Northwoods. But I know all of these trails well and wouldn’t want to do most of them in the dark. Be sure and plan accordingly so you have enough daylight to safely navigate the trail and get camp set up.
Start with what you have
If you’re just getting started backpacking begin with the gear you have. I’m so grateful we got out on the trail and learned what we really needed before we went out and invested in all of the expensive lightweight gadgets. Keep in mind that renting from an outfitter or outdoor retailer is also a great option. Replacing and upgrading outdoor gear is never ending so before you go and drop a bunch of money, try it out and see what you like. Below are some basics you’ll need to get started.
- A pack to carry your gear
- Weather-appropriate shelter and sleep system
- Water filtration
- Cookware, nutrition, and food storage
- Maps and navigation
- Lighting
- First-aid kit, sun protection, bug repellant, and toiletries
- Small repair kit, knife, and a way to start a fire
- Weather-appropriate clothing and rain gear
- Comfortable footwear that you’ve put some miles on
Take only what you need
One of the cool things about backpacking in Minnesota State Parks is that you get a beautiful private campsite that’s as close as half of a mile from your vehicle. If you’re starting out with heavy packs as we did, why not pick through your pack before you hit the trail and see if there’s anything you can leave behind? If you end up needing it, your vehicle is just a few minutes away.
Leave it better
If you pack it in, you pack it out. Never leave trash in the firepit or latrine. Before you head out on your backpacking adventure, get your party together to study the seven principles of Leave No Trace. You can find a free online course here.
Minnesota State Parks are a great way to hone your backpacking skills before hitting the trail for a longer trip. They’re also a wonderful place for more experienced outdoors people to enjoy the peaceful solitude of Minnesota’s Northwoods. Whether it’s your first or one-hundred-and-first backpacking trip, you’re certain to fall in love with what these six remarkable parks have to offer.
Holly Scherer is a Minnesota-based writer, photographer, outdoorswoman, and guide. She’s most at home in the great outdoors; camping, hiking, paddling, cycling, and gardening. When she’s not on an adventure, she and her husband live in the Twin Cities where they’re fond of saying, “home is where we store our outdoor gear.”