The St. Croix National Scenic Riverway spans 252 miles along the St. Croix and Namekagon Rivers with elevations ranging from 675 to 950 feet above sea level. The riverway crosses through dense northern forest ecosystems where summer temperatures average 70-85°F during peak camping season. Winter camping options are limited as temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Canoe rentals for river exploration: At Old Logging Trail Campground in St. Croix State Park, visitors can rent canoes directly from park outfitters during summer months. "Canoe outfitters in park during most of the summer. A great way to spend a weekend," notes Tony J. from Old Logging Trail.
Climb the fire tower: The 100-foot observation tower provides panoramic views of the entire forest. "There is also a 100' fire tower you can climb up and get an epic view," explains Scott G. who stayed at Old Logging Trail. The tower is accessible via a moderate hiking path from the main campground.
ATV trail riding: Multiple trail systems connect to campgrounds throughout the region. "Lots of ATV and Hiking trails," reports Daniel G. who visited Saint Croix State Forest Boulder Campground. The trails are typically open from May through November, weather permitting.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings and evenings offer the best chances to spot local wildlife. "We biked from the campground to Lake Clayton and even saw a bear on our ride!" shares Stephanie H. Many trails feature observation points overlooking wetland areas.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Boulder Campground in St. Croix State Forest offers notably private sites. "There are some great secluded spots and the campground is always empty. It is definitely more primitive with pit toilets and hand pump wells," explains Craig B.
Clean facilities throughout the region: Newer bathroom facilities are being installed at several campgrounds. "The men's bathroom/showers were designed and built well and is very clean. Bath building has a large 'family/handicap' bathroom shower room," reports Tom from Paint Rock Springs Campground.
Free dispersed camping options: For those seeking no-fee camping. "This spot was super nice and peaceful! Lots of different dispersed spots. Go down Tamarack Forest Road, which is a little further than the location on here," advises Julia D. who stayed at Grace Lake Road Dispersed.
Fishing access: Multiple spots along the riverway provide shore fishing opportunities. "You're about 20 foot from the water and fishing is good," notes Michael S. about Grace Lake Road. The area supports populations of smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye.
What you should know
Mosquito intensity varies by location: Bug populations are significant throughout the region but especially near water. "We had an all around great time. The campsites were all pretty secluded...Lake was clean. The road to the park had water access to the river as well," shares Daniel G. about Boulder Campground.
Varying levels of cell service: Most campgrounds have limited connectivity. "Cell service was incredibly spotty on Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Depending on where you're at, you'll get a low signal, but often it was only enough for texting," warns Ari A. from Riverview Campground.
Site exposure differences: Many campgrounds lack substantial tree cover. "The sites in the Old Logging Campground were close together but many had vegetation between them offering some privacy. Site 207 was especially tucked in but it's a tight spot, so probably best for a van or tent," notes Ari A.
Water quality concerns: Some water sources require filtering. "There's a hand pumped well, but the water is fairly brown. $17 per night. You can pay with an QR, or they have envelopes to mail the payment after you leave," explains Michael U. who rated Boulder Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "There is a nice playground for the kids and there are some nice trails. You are able to go tubing down the river when the water is low enough," explains Joe S. about St Croix River Resort.
Beach activities: Swimming areas provide relief during hot summer days. "The swimming beach is a couple mile drive but the water was nice and cool. There is a playground but we didn't use it. We fished right off the shore and were catching very small catfish and river chub faster than we could set our reels which was great for the kids!" shares RK M.
Nature programs: Ranger-led activities are available during summer months. "We DID have fun doing some of the activities like hunting for insects/animals in the pond with the ranger, hiking to the ranger tower, playing at the playground, and trying to catch butterflies with the ranger," reports Sara P.
Dog friendly campgrounds St. Croix National Scenic Riverway: Most campsites welcome pets but require leashes. "Very nice campground. Can't stress enough how CLEAN the restrooms and showers are. Cleaned 3x daily due to COVID. Site drained VERY well during and after heavy rain," notes Dave T. about St Croix River Resort.
Tips from RVers
Access road considerations: Some forest roads have narrow gates or rough conditions. "There is about 6 miles of dirt road back to this campground, but it is a decent dirt road and my trailer was in good shape inside when we arrived," explains Suzann A. about Boulder Campground.
Electric site availability: Power hookups are concentrated in specific areas. "This loop is where 90% of the electric sites are, but it is also a very open campground. There is a modern restroom and shower, it is also located near a nature store," notes Amber Z. about Riverview Campground.
Seasonal site options: Some campgrounds offer long-term arrangements. "If you looking for a great ATV campground or looking for a campground under $1500, this is the place to go! Lots to do near by Legion 1.3 miles away and a great cafe as well across the street," shares Shelli A. from Pardun's Jack Pine Campground.
Limited pet-friendly cabins: For those seeking solid shelter with pets, options exist but book early. "We stayed here with my extended family in a couple of cabins. It is nice and wooded. The pool is indoors which is nice and has drawbacks," reports Joe S. about accommodations at St. Croix River Resort.
