Howell Landing - St. Croix National Scenic River

The early morning mist lifts gently off the Namekagon River as a canoe slides quietly from Howell Landing’s west side. The air carries the crisp scent of pine and damp earth, punctuated by the soft calls of nearby songbirds. Sunlight filters through a canopy of mature hardwoods, dappling the riverbank where tents peek through the underbrush. This landing whispers of tranquil paddling days and campfires shared beneath wide Wisconsin skies, drawing visitors who return season after season to this riverside refuge.

The stretch of the Namekagon here invites slow exploration, with the west landing offering a shaded, sheltered campsite perfect for a midday break or an overnight stay. Paddlers often pause at the large group camp area, where multiple fire rings circle welcoming picnic tables—ideal for swapping stories or stirring a pot of stew after a day on the water. A water fountain with spigot nearby lets campers top off their bottles, while pit toilets stocked with fresh toilet paper provide simple comfort. The boat ramp’s gentle slope eases launches and landings, accommodating canoes and kayaks with equal grace. For those keen on a full day’s paddle, the landing serves as a launch point or a final rest stop before pulling off the river.

Howell Landing maintains a quiet efficiency that belies its popularity. The campsites on the west bank offer generous tree cover, soft ground, and enough privacy to feel tucked away despite the communal group area. Parking spaces sit close enough for easy gear unloading but far enough to keep engines and headlights at bay once night falls. The bathrooms, praised by campers for their cleanliness, stand ready after long river miles, while the boat ramp’s sturdy construction supports repeated use without fuss. Weekend visits can bring a lively crowd, but the river’s stretch nearby offers pockets of solitude for those willing to paddle a little further.

As the day fades, the river’s surface mirrors the darkening sky, and the crackle of firewood fills the quiet. Campers linger by their rings, watching stars emerge through the leafy ceiling. Howell Landing holds a rhythm of riverside calm and shared adventure that keeps paddlers coming back, eager to catch the next sunrise sliding across the water’s edge.