Little Todd Harbor Campground

Overview

Little Todd Harbor Campground is a primitive, hike-in backcountry spot tucked on the island’s north shore along the Minong Ridge corridor. With just four tent sites and a rugged, rocky shoreline, it’s built for backpackers who want real solitude and big-water scenery. There’s a two-night limit between June 1 and Labor Day, which keeps turnover steady and the vibe quiet.

Setting and Access

You reach Little Todd by foot via the Minong Ridge Trail and a short access spur. There’s no road, no parking, and notably no public dock here—unlike nearby Todd Harbor—so plan on hiking in or paddling and landing carefully along the natural shoreline. Expect forest cover, ancient volcanic rock underfoot, and a front-row seat to Lake Superior.

Why It’s a Key Stop on the Minong

Heading east from Little Todd toward North Desor is under six miles on paper, but the terrain is slow and typically takes hikers most of the day. There’s also no easy water on that stretch. In other words, Little Todd is your strategic refill point: treat lake water here and leave camp topped off so you’re not rationing on the ridge.

Amenities and Limitations

Facilities are minimal by design: pit toilet, designated fire ring(s), and four primitive tent pads. There’s no potable water, showers, picnic tables, stores, or power. You’ll be filtering from the lake, packing out your trash, and relying on your own kit—exactly what many Minong hikers come for.

What You’ll See

The payoff is a classic north-shore panorama: cold-blue Superior, wave-polished rock, and a dark spruce–fir backdrop. The remoteness pays dividends after sunset too—starry skies are a regular feature on clear nights. Wildlife is possible around camp and along the trail (think moose, foxes, hares, and plenty of birdlife), so keep your distance and store food properly.

Best Time to Visit

Backpackers time this stop to their Minong itinerary rather than a specific hour, but a few patterns help: mornings are calmer for shoreline water collection and an early start on the ridge; evenings bring soft light and quieter conditions for camp. Summer offers the warmest temperatures—and the most biting insects—while shoulder-season nights can turn chilly on the lake. Crowds are naturally light due to the effort required to get here.

Tips

• Treat all water at camp and tank up before tackling the ridge toward North Desor.
• Start that segment early; plan your day as if the miles will hike longer than they read.
• Fires are permitted only in established rings—follow current regulations and Leave No Trace.
• Expect bugs in summer; bring repellent or head nets.
• There’s no dock—if paddling, plan for a natural landing and variable surf.