Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

If I could camp every weekend of the summer, I so would, but my life as a photographer prevents it. So every year, my husband and I commit to 5 weekends a year to do what we love to do, get deep into the woods, sleep in a tent and be alone.

This year, we booked a backpack site at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. It was both of our first times here, and I would have to say, we had the best campsite in the park!

The problem with reserving camp site on the North Shore is that they book up all too quick. You have to go on at midnight the night of to get a prime spot. It’s worse then getting tickets to Dead and Co, David Byrne, and Widespread Panic at Red Rocks. If you know these references, you are on my level, let’s be friends.

I was not as prepared, so when we looked into campsites at Split Rock only to find the backpack ones available. Our remote campsite was an absolute dream, and we will be back.

The good and bad thing about the site backpack 4, is that it’s the furthest away from the visitor center. We were able to park in a lot .3 miles away to hike in our packs and our first round of gear. It only took about 15 minutes to get to our site, and after we set up and walked back to the car, it was nearing sunset. We drove to the cart in campground to park our car, and hiked 1.3 miles with a few loads of fire wood to our site.

We arrived after dark, made some dinner, then walked out to our private beach to watch the stars. We were both tired, so when our fire was out, we headed into our tent for the night.

The next morning we woke up early to the sun hitting our tent. Sunrise was around 7am off the lake, and it was golden and magical. It was a warm, sunny day on the North Shore, and we wanted to make the most of it. After breakfast, we packed a day bag and headed down the shore towards the lighthouse.

We took the long trail, which weaved us around the shore and to a beautiful beach. We took a moment to enjoy the view and peace and quiet. There was no one around. Zelda went for a swim, then a roll in the sand before we moved again.

The trail took us to several overlooks where we could spot the rocks of our campsite, and finally to the lighthouse. No dogs, food or drink are allowed near the lighthouse. We were able to see it from a distance, but as you approach, the staff will ask you to purchase a wristband. Since we had our dog, this wasn’t an option, but something I would like to save for the future.

By about 1pm we had seen most the park had to offer, so we headed back to our campsite for a nap in the hammock. When we woke up, we dipped our toes into Lake Superior to fully wake us up. It was cold.

We spent the rest of the night relaxing at our campsite on the rocks, listening to the waves hitting the shore.

The next morning, we woke to a pink sunrise. It rained most of the night, and the clouds made the sky look like a painting.

Camping Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is a must for any North Shore lover. But plan ahead, or opt for one of backpack sites. We already have backpack 3 reserved for next summer. We are crossing our fingers for another trip with near perfect weather.

Love camping? Me too! Here is another blog from another one of my favorite spots on the North Shore!

Tettegouche State Park