This is one if my favorite campsites along the Mississippi River Headwaters. It is a special place, and a well kept secret…as a primitive river recreation managed by the local county, it doesnt appear on the Mississippi River headwaters Water Trail map as that map only include campsites designated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Although it is indeed a primitive site—not even a pit toilet, and no pitable water—there is a gorgeous high bluff with plenty of room under tall pines for a whole scout troop or family group to set up a number of tents. There is a good fire grill, county-supplied wood at the site, access and a landing from the river (located in between Fox Trap landing and Pine Pount landing in the water trail), but you can also hike in, or drive through a locked gate on a county road near Bear Den landing. You dont pay to camp here, but you Must get a county permit first, from the county parks department, and then they will give you the instructions for location, plus access through the gate.
For more info on the permit process and rules for this campsite, check this link:
https://www.co.beltrami.mn.us/departments/nrm/Mississippi%20High%20Banks.html
The site is impeccably maintained and has a breathtaking view of a wild and scenic part of the river, and the gated entrance and ling drive ir hike in from there ensures your privacy at the site. Also, if you happen to be paddling the Headwaters water trail, this is the campsite i would recommend rather than the DNR site just downstream at Pine Point, as that one is in awful condition!
