Itasca State Park Remote Campsites

About

Itasca State Park, Minnesota's oldest state park established in 1891, offers 11 backcountry campsites for backpackers seeking primitive wilderness experiences. These remote sites are located at scenic spots throughout the park's 32,000+ acres, including shores of Hernando DeSoto Lake, Deer Park Lake, and Iron Corner Lake. Each site sits at least a half mile from parking, accessible only on foot via the park's extensive trail network including a section of the North Country Trail. Each backcountry site features a cleared tent pad, in-ground fire ring, primitive pit latrine, and bear-proof food locker. The sites offer total tranquility deep in the Itasca wilderness, with opportunities to wake to trumpeter swans and explore over 100 lakes within the park boundaries. Reservations are required year-round and can be made up to 120 days in advance through the Minnesota DNR reservation system. The park is open year-round, including winter backpacking with proper reservations.

Directions

From Park Rapids, head north on US-71 for approximately 21 miles. The park entrance is on the left. Remote campsites require hiking at least a half mile from designated parking areas within the park.