Backpack Campsites - Long Branch State Park
Jon B.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Apr. 2, 2024

Awesome Backpacking Campsite

This was my first time out on Bee Trace Trail and I had a great time. Both the hike into the campsite and out the next morning were pretty easy; the back half of the brown loop, specifically the stretch between the backpack camping site and the kayak camping sites, was sometimes frustratingly difficult to follow. I had to pull out my phone several times to get reoriented. That being said, that stretch isn't very long and the rest of the trail presented zero issues for navigation. 

The campsite for backpacking is located at the very tip of the peninsula and it's a great spot. There is a camper-made fire ring here, but the regulations(and posted signs) state no fires, so I would be cautious with what you choose to do. The kayak sites are a little more developed, with picnic tables, trash hooks, and iron fire pits/grills, but I'm not sure how they feel about backpackers using those. On the day(s) I went through, I saw only two other people on the blue loop and nobody on the brown. However, I saw tons of boats out on the lake going by and they all had full view of the campsite(I think it would be pretty clear even once the trees are full); something to be aware of if you're looking for a super isolated camp. There is plenty of space to pitch a tent and many trees to choose from for hanging a hammock. 

If you're looking to get your feet wet with backpacking(as I was), this is a great spot to do it. If you're a seasoned backpacker and are just looking for a quick out-and-back, I think you would be equally pleased.

SiteBackpack Site 1
Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Backpack Campsites - Long Branch State Park by Jon B., April 2, 2024
  • Review photo of Backpack Campsites - Long Branch State Park by Jon B., April 2, 2024
  • Review photo of Backpack Campsites - Long Branch State Park by Jon B., April 2, 2024
  • Review photo of Backpack Campsites - Long Branch State Park by Jon B., April 2, 2024
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