Backpack Campsites
Open for the season. Reservations available up to 120 days in advance via reservemn.usedirect.com or by calling 866-857-2757. Check-in and check-out are both at 4 p.m. A state park vehicle permit is required in addition to the campsite reservation.
Air Quality Alert issued June 6 at 12:28PM CDT by NWS Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
* WHAT...The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued an Air Quality Alert for ozone pollution. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is expected to reach the Orange or Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups category. * WHERE...Southern, central, and western Minnesota. * WHEN...Until 11 PM CDT Sunday. * IMPACTS...Sensitive groups, such as people with lung disease (including asthma), heart disease, children and older adults, and people who are active outdoors, may experience health effects. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Ground-level ozone is expected to be high Saturday and Sunday afternoon across much of Minnesota. Mostly sunny skies, warm temperatures, and low humidity will provide a favorable environment for two types of pollutants (volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides) to react with sunlight in the air to produce ground-level ozone. The ozone levels will decrease after sunset Saturday and be lower Sunday morning before increasing again Sunday afternoon. Consider moving outdoor activities outside of the afternoon hours.
About
Situated deep within Mille Lacs Kathio State Park, the Backpack Campsites offer a true backcountry experience at Black Bass Lake, designated as a Heritage Lake by the Minnesota DNR. The sites are accessible only by foot, located over a mile from the nearest parking area, making them ideal for campers who value solitude and a primitive outdoor experience. The campsite features a tent pad, picnic table, and fire ring for cooking. As with all Minnesota state park backcountry sites, primitive toilet facilities are available. The Heritage Lake designation means special restrictions apply: power augers and fishing electronics are prohibited, ensuring a peaceful natural setting for all visitors. Mille Lacs Kathio State Park itself encompasses over 10,000 acres along the southwestern shore of Mille Lacs Lake, with significant archaeological and cultural history tied to the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. The park offers extensive hiking trails that lead to the backpack sites, providing opportunities to explore diverse habitats from wetlands to hardwood forests.
Directions
From Onamia, take US-169 north approximately 8 miles. Turn west onto County Road 26 (Kathio State Park Road) and follow signs to the park entrance. The park office is at 15066 Kathio State Park Road. From there, follow park directions to the backpack campsite trailhead.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | — |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $23 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (320) 532-3523 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
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