Best Dispersed Camping near Altura, MN

Several state forest areas around Altura, Minnesota provide free dispersed camping opportunities. Zumbro Bottoms State Forest offers sites off a low maintenance dirt road, with best access from the south as the northern river bridge gate is sometimes closed. A parking area connects to a dispersed site with vehicle access, intersected by hiking trails. The Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest contains multiple dispersed camping options, with the Isinours Management Unit featuring both drive-in and walk-in sites with picnic tables, toilets, and drinking water.

The Reno Unit of Richard J. Dorer Memorial State Forest provides more secluded hike-in camping with spectacular views. According to one visitor, "This is a hike in camping spot with steep trails and drop offs. Not for those scared of heights." The area offers "beautiful hikes overlooking the driftless and Mississippi." For paddlers, the Root River Canoe Campsite and Crater Island provide boat-accessible primitive camping. The Root River site features pit toilets, picnic tables, and a fire ring, though recent reviews note the river has changed course, moving further from the campsite than in past years.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Altura, Minnesota (5)

Show More
Showing results 1-5 of 5 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Altura, MN

2 Photos of 5 Altura Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Altura, MN

5 Reviews of 5 Altura Campgrounds


  • Michael V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2022

    Root River Canoe Campsite

    Old Boy Scout Campsite

    This was used and built by Boy Scouts ages ago. It’s still exist, however the river changed course and is further away than it once was. There is a bike trail that had a fork in the road that leads right to it someone could walk, hike, canoe or kayak to access this campground. I haven’t camped here since the 90’s, but have visited it in the last 5 years via bike, walking, and kayak. It’s free to stay here, and doesn’t seem like people really camp here anymore. Has a pit toilet, picnic tables, and a fire ring. Ideal for tent camping via bike, kayak or canoe.

  • Stephanie K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2020

    Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest Isinours Management Unit

    Best Hike In sites around

    The hike up the hill to the overlook is a daunting one. We used a collapsible wagon to haul all the supplies up the hill. There are two hike in sites here at overlooks that give spectacular views. The site has a shelter for the tent as well as other places outside for it. A fire spot and picnic table. Worth the hike.

  • Michael V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2022

    Richard J Dorer Memorial State Forest Reno Unit Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful hikes overlooking the driftless and Mississippi

    This is an awesome place to hike, not a very long hike but it’s steep with drop offs. Not for those that are scared of heights.

    This is a hike in camping spot, camp spots are not well marked I stayed in the old rock Cory when I camped here, years ago.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest Isinours Management Unit

    Lovely space

    There are a few spaces with views you can hike in to but I opted for a spot next to my car. And ideal spot for a one nighter. I stopped here after a 12 hour drive got set up and even walked the trails for a few miles before bed.

  • Michael V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2022

    Crater Island

    Great place for camping via Boat

    Big parties in the cove. No bathrooms no showers, just sand and water. Very busy on weekends in the summer, as long as there is no dredging operations going on, otherwise it’s closed. If it is closed, there are plenty of islands and beaches near by to set up for camping.


Guide to Altura

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Altura, Minnesota, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Altura, Minnesota

  • For those seeking a unique experience, the Root River Canoe Campsite offers a historic setting that was once a Boy Scout campsite, accessible by bike, hike, or kayak.

Dispersed campers should check out Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest Isinours Management Unit

Scenic hikes for dispersed campers in Richard J Dorer Memorial State Forest Reno Unit

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Altura, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Altura, MN is Zumbro Bottoms State Forest with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Altura, MN?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Altura, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.