Backpack Campsites Campground

Star0
4 reviews
15066 Kathio State Park Road, Onamia, MN 56359

Quick Facts

1,289 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

Opens Minnesota State Parks (Minnesota DNR) site

Official Website
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Backpack Campsites Campground
No fees available
Campsite Fees
Vehicle permit required for park entry. A non-refundable reservation fee is charged for advance campsite reservations ($10 by phone / $8 online)....
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Minnesota State Parks
Provider
320-532-3523
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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 4 reviews

2 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsprivacylake

Some mention

noiseroad noise

"Reviews and available reports are generally positive, highlighting scenic, private sites, strong fall color and lake views. Reviewers note some access challenges to backpack sites and basic restroom facilities."

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Campground Map

15066 Kathio State Park Road, Onamia, MN 56359

Backpack Campsites Campground

15066 Kathio State Park Road, Onamia, MN 56359


Best Time to Camp at Backpack Campsites Campground

Summer brings warm days perfect for paddling and swimming, while fall ignites the forest canopy in brilliant oranges and reds that reflect off still lake waters. When snow arrives, the park transforms into a quiet wonderland ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing along the same trails you hiked in warmer months. Always check current conditions before your trip—each season offers distinct rewards for backpackers willing to experience this ancient landscape year-round.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5
Below Average

Trails, lakes and shady hardwoods make summer appealing; specifics sparse.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5
Below Average

Maple and aspen stands imply good fall color and scenic value.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5
Below Average

Wetlands and bird activity likely; spring conditions and access not detailed.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5
Top 18% in MN

No winter details; Minnesota winter allows potential but not documented.

Planning Tips

    About Backpack Campsites Campground

    Pitch your tent where Native peoples camped for 9,000 years at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park's backpack-in sites. This National Historic Landmark pairs authentic backcountry solitude with remarkable features—a century-old observation tower, interconnected trail systems, and waterways that have guided travelers for millennia.
    Named backpack campsites are offered at the park. Specific campsite type details (hookups, number of sites, reservation categories) are not listed on the official park page.
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    Amenities available

    Vault toilets

    Activities you can enjoy

    The park offers interpretive/nature programs, hiking on a varied trail system, a 100-foot fire tower to climb, a swimming beach, canoe and rowboat rentals for trips on the Rum River and Ogechie and Shakopee lakes, and winter activities including cross-country skiing and sledding. The river, lakes, and trails provide strong wildlife-viewing opportunities.
    HikingVaried trail system for day hikes and interpretive walks; trails are used year-round for hiking and cross-country skiing.
    SwimmingPark has a swimming beach.
    Boating
    Wildlife viewing
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    Policies & Safety

    Hazards & AlertsOfficial guidance stresses not moving firewood to prevent spread of tree-killing insects; purchase and use approved/local firewood (available at the office or via the Yodel app). Visitors report seasonal biting insects (deer flies) and some trails/backcountry approaches may include wet or difficult terrain. Follow park alerts and notices for current hazards.
    No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
    No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

    Weather at Backpack Campsites Campground

    Reviews

    0.0
    4 reviews
    Limited Reviews
    Limited Reviews
    Backpack Campsites Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
    Reviews and available reports are generally positive, highlighting scenic, private sites, strong fall color and lake views. Reviewers note some access challenges to backpack sites and basic restroom facilities.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 4 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Scenic lake views and privacy; strong fall colors; proximity to trails, interpretive programs and the fire tower; good wildlife viewing opportunities.
    Based on 4 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Make reservations in advance. One reviewer reports parking for backpack sites at the sanitation station just past the park office; expect to carry gear on potentially wet/uneven trail sections and...
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    Based on 4 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    Beautiful campsite... parking is located at the sanitation station, just past the park office. The campsite does have a vault toilet. | Gorgeous lake and fairly private! About 2 mi from civilization.
    Based on 4 reviews

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    Last updated January 5, 2026
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