mm 60.0 + George H. Crosby-Manitou State Park

The quiet park; off the beaten path of Highway 61, Manitou is more primitive, offering fewer amenities but more-secluded camping and picnic sites. From its inception in 1955, Manitou was designated as a park with limited development, and the camping areas remain backpack-only. Several trails approach the river, offering campers a choice of sites. An easy walk-in picnic area is available for day-hikers, too. Wildlife sightings are frequent. Parklands encompass the area around the river down near the shores of Lake Superior, but do not include access to the mouth of the river.

Manitou State Park is 14 miles from Highway 61, about 7 miles north on either MN Hwy 1 or Lake Co Rd 6, then east on Co Rd 7.

covid-19 update

Park is open daily; buy a vehicle permit online, record your confirmation number and place it on your car’s dashboard.

Be prepared. Buildings and warming shelters may not be open. Dress appropriately for the weather, and bring extra supplies with you.

Parks are getting extremely busy every day and it may not be possible to practice good social distancing. Be extra careful in parking areas, around signs and toilets, and on narrow trails, fishing piers and bridges where people tend to cluster. If you see a lot of cars in the parking lot or at the trailhead, turn around and find someplace else for outdoor recreation.

Vault toilets are available at the trailhead and picnic area.