Camping on the Namakagan

As part of our July 4th tradition, we try to get as far away from the crowds as possible. Especially now that we are living in the Brainerd Lakes Area, a prime summer tourist location for people with boats and jet skis, we decided to drive over to the Namakagan/St. Croix River Area to find a quiet location for some some paddling and camping.

The first day (Friday), the weather was ideal and the paddling was great. On the shuttle ride up to our starting location, we saw a large coyote and several wild turkeys. Once on the river, we saw many bald eagles, an otter, lots of songbirds, about a dozen deer, hundreds of redhorse (a type of bottom-feeder fish), and a handful of 4-5 foot long sturgeon sitting on the bottom of the river. We found a great campsite and if not for the mosquitoes, it was a perfect day.

The second day (Saturday), it was windier and the river got much busier, but we still had the unique experience of seeing a porcupine up close on a large tree lying in the river, and a pine marten that ran down a hill to catch a mouse/small rodent on the river bank. Unfortunately, the fishing was poor, although I did catch one decent smallmouth bass and John broke off a big fish (not sure what it was). We decided not to camp the second night because the river was so busy and there were lots of "yahoos" around, as Grandpa George used to say.

Campsite on the Namakagan

Nora exploring the river

Campsite panorama

Taking a nap

Loving the hammock

John snorkeling to identify a bunch of chubs, darters, and other minnows. Nora trying to figure out what the heck he's doing.

Nora and John playing in the water

Crazy wild dog

Fish on! Unfortunately, it slipped out of my hands before John could snap a photo