This was our first visit to Crosby - Manitou, and we will definitely return. The hike to the river backpack sites is challenging with constant rocks, roots, mud and steep hills. You'll definitely earn your site on the hike in.

Site 13 sits on a ridge about 15 feet above a curve in the river and has an easy path down to the water. It's completely secluded, and the breeze off the river keeps the bugs at bay.

No showers or flush toilets, no cell service, no store within 20 minutes. But if you want seclusion -- we only met a couple of hikers over the course of 2 full days -- this is the park for you. Just avoid the parking lot on weekend afternoons as day hikers descend to do the short loops by the entrance.