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Copper Falls Backpack Campsite permit

Copper Falls Gear Checklist

What to carry on Copper Falls, and why. 6 more are worth the pack space.

6Total Items
6To bring

What to bring on Copper Falls

Specific to this permit, not a generic camping list.

  • Bring

    All your water for the stay, plus a means to treat river water if you plan on more

    DNR states there is none at the site

  • Bring

    Toiletries and hand sanitizer for a primitive latrine

  • Bring

    A stove; the site has a fire ring and nothing else

  • Bring

    A way to navigate without a signal

  • Bring

    Paper map or an offline track

    DNR flags limited-to-no cell service

  • Bring

    Microspikes if you are walking the gorge trails in winter, when DNR closes part of the Doughboys route because the rock stairs ice over

Going as a group? Split this list between you so nobody carries two stoves.

Build a shared list

General backcountry gear

Kit we recommend for backcountry trips in general. This is not a checklist specific to Copper Falls — the Copper Falls State Park (WI) rules for this permit are above.

🎒
Recommended
Wild Ideas

Bearikade Weekender

Ultralight carbon fiber bear canister. IGBC certified.

1 lb 15 ozultralightcarbon-fiber
$325
🎒
Recommended
Katadyn

BeFree 1L

Ultralight collapsible filter system.

2 ozultralightfast-flow
$44.95
🎒
Recommended
BearVault

BV500 Bear Vault

The most popular bear canister for Sierra backpacking. Fits 7 days of food.

2 lbs 9 oz7-day capacityapproved
$89.95
🎒
Recommended
Black Diamond

Distance Carbon Z

Lightweight folding carbon poles.

1 lb 1 ozcarbonfolding
$169.95
🎒
Recommended
Sawyer

Sawyer Squeeze

The most popular water filter for backpacking.

3 ozpopularreliable
$37.95

Gear Tips for Copper Falls

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Weigh your pack before you go. A lighter pack makes for a happier hike.
  • •Rent expensive gear if you are trying a new activity for the first time.
  • •Test all new gear at home before hitting the trail.
  • •Check current regulations as some items may be required seasonally.

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