CampgroundGovernment

Pine Point Watercraft Campsite

Jones Township, Minnesota

About

The Mississippi River State Water Trail begins its 2,350-mile journey in Itasca State Park. The first 50 miles are narrow, sometimes just five to 10 feet wide, and have few signs of development. You will pass white and red pine, oaks, maples, birch, and aspen that support diverse wildlife. You may also notice the past effects of glaciers, where deposited rock and sand formed hills or melting ice flattened plains. As you travel toward Bemidji, the river’s banks become more defined, and you’ll begin to notice farms and homes. Wetlands throughout this stretch have dense, maze-like vegetation, which may lead you astray or prove to be an obstacle. In most cases, follow the downstream flow to stay on the main channel. The river falls an average of four feet per mile. You will find riffles and Class I rapids throughout this stretch. Class I rapids are usually small waves with few obstructions. Hazards include dense vegetation, log jams, and large, open water, which can produce powerful waves. The river meanders through dense wetlands. Camp only in designated campsites, which are often available on a first-come, first-served basis. State and national forests do allow dispersed camping. Be sure to check regulations before your trip. Riverbed camping next to private property is not permitted. Stay off private property. Stop only at designated sites; much of the shoreland is private property. Be sanitary! Use designated toilet facilities or bury human waste away from the river. Follow the rules for firewood. State forests allow you to gather dead wood for a fire, but state parks do not. This stretch starts off wooded and intimate. Expect to lift the watercraft over beaver dams during lower water levels, or around road culverts during high water levels. To take a break, pull over at Wanagan. The stretch between Vekin’s Dam and Co. Road 2 has Class I rapids, which can be challenging for new paddlers. Conclude at Coffee Pot Landing. Itasca State Park offers the headwaters of the