This was the first time I canoe camped and it became one of my favorite ways to travel and pitch a tent!

A group of friends and I launched from a public launch 20 miles up river with the help of Jack's Canoe for shuttle drop off. Right away there were some nice riffles to paddle and we paddled for 12 miles occasionally encountering some class one rapids, rocks and shallow sandbars. For the most part, the water rarely was over 8 feet and often averaged only a couple feet deep, enough for a loaded canoe and two passengers to easily navigate.

We found an excellent group camp site with several tent pads, picnic table, fire ring and latrine. It was heavily wooded and the mosquitos in July were in full force!

The Namekagon is a gorgeous river and worth the paddling adventure. The 2nd day we paddled 8 miles to the St Croix junction and met the shuttle. That last section was far more challenging rapids. When canoeing, you should have a good steering partner to avoid the rocks and potential spills!