Tent camping near Annandale, Minnesota offers outdoor experiences within the Crow River watershed area at elevations ranging from 980 to 1,100 feet above sea level. The region features glacial moraines and scattered kettle lakes formed during the last ice age, creating diverse terrain for backcountry camping. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during the day with overnight lows in the 50-60°F range, making spring and fall ideal for tent campers seeking mild weather.
What to do
Water activities on connected lakes: At Cozy Corners on Long Lake, campers can access the Horseshoe Chain of Lakes, which connects multiple bodies of water for extended paddling routes. "This place was great! Located on long lake on the horseshoe chain if you like to fish!" notes reviewer Tori K.
Dog-friendly hiking: Crow Hassan Park Reserve features a dedicated dog park area along the Crow River with extensive trail systems. "I never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!" shares Alison O.
Mountain biking: The single track trail at Lake Rebecca Park Reserve offers 13.25 miles of routes with varying difficulty levels. "Sweet single track for mountain biking," reports Daniel R., while Krista T. adds that the "newly developed trail is 13.25 miles long, so a nice option close to the city for those who are inclined to adventurous biking."
What campers like
Secluded backpacking sites: Lake Maria State Park Campground features multiple hike-in sites that provide true wilderness feel without driving far from the Twin Cities. "Backpack sites only. Love this park as it offers many backpacking sites with some being very short hikes in and some being longer hikes. Some are lake front and some are more woodsy sites," explains Tori K.
Waterfront tent spots: Many sites at Lake Maria provide direct water access. "Only about a mile from the parking lot. This site was nearly surrounded by a lake which lended to a lot of bugs, but was absolutely gorgeous!" reports Lydia N.
Boat-accessible camping: Oak Island Watercraft Campsite on the Mississippi River provides paddlers with a strategic rest point. "This island on the Mississippi has a picnic table and a very primitive toilet. It's a great spot to take a rest while cavorting the Mississippi," notes LaMina H.
What you should know
Insect preparation required: Black flies and mosquitoes can be intense during summer months, particularly at Lake Maria. One camper reported, "First step onto the grassy trail exploded in a cloud of mosquitos. Walking along the kids all looked like Pig-Pen from Peanuts."
Pack-in requirements: Many of the best tent sites require carrying gear. At Lake Maria State Park, "BP7 didn't have much dead wood around so we had to reserve the firewood we purchased. Carrying firewood, food, water, gear, on a hilly trail through the woods can become real tough real fast for anyone that isn't physically active," warns cheeming Y.
Water access limitations: Many tent sites have limited water access. "The pump for the water was very slow," notes Brian C. about Lake Maria, while another camper advised that water points may require separate hiking trips from some sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Choose campsites with family-friendly amenities like those at A J Acres Campground. "The best playground is at the top of the hill from office," notes Nettie W., though she cautions about navigating around trees with larger vehicles.
Beach and swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas for children. "This has an amazing beach. Great Trails... The best kids park at any campground I've been to," shares Daniel R. about Lake Rebecca Park Reserve.
Private tent sites: For families seeking seclusion, consider backpacking options. "We could see one other camper in a different site, but it still felt like you were in the wilderness," describes Lydia N. about her Lake Maria experience, providing enough separation for families who worry about disturbing neighbors.
Tips from RVers
Tree navigation challenges: A J Acres Campground features mature trees that provide shade but require careful maneuvering. "Navigating around trees was not so fun with our 5th wheel. We got the slideouts to fit in between the trees," reports Nettie W., who also notes that "limited availability to sewer hookups, only about 5 true pull thrus, taken by seasonal."
Seasonal site considerations: Many area campgrounds have a high percentage of seasonal residents. "A drive around showed many seasonal, if not permanent, trailers and campers. A golf cart would be best for getting around," advises Nettie W., while Joe S. adds "The majority of the campsites are seasonal campsites" and "the campsites are a little bit on top of each other."
