Top Free Dispersed Camping near Balsam, MN

Want to go dispersed camping near Balsam? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Minnesota excursion.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Balsam, MN (4)

    Camper-submitted photo from Hill River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Hill River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Hill River State Forest

    1. Hill River State Forest

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    14 Saves
    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose River ATV - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose River ATV - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose River ATV - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose River ATV - Dispersed Camping

    2. Moose River ATV - Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    6 Photos
    7 Saves

    Dispersed camping is allowed in Minnesota state forests. Dispersed camping is different from camping in a designated campground. It is a wilderness experience for campers who enjoy camping far from others and do not need any amenities. There are no amenities. No bathroom, pit toilet, water pump, fire grate, trashcan, or picnic table. State forest maps are a great guide; many are available as downloadable geopdfs. No fee. First-come, first-served. Where to disperse camp You must camp at least one mile outside of designated campsites or campgrounds on state forest land. Park vehicles in parking lots or safely on the full shoulder of a road. Do not block road or trail traffic with your vehicle. You cannot camp at parking lots or trailheads. Campsite selection Dispersed campers can camp in any suitable site that already exists or any opening in the woods - such as a natural clearing, meadow, or timber sale landing. You cannot create new campsites by cutting trees or vegetation. Pick a location that has level ground with good drainage. Place camping equipment to avoid damage to plants and do not camp within 100 feet of any water source. Dispersed camping rules All dispersed campers are responsible for obeying state forest rules and regulations in Minnesota Rules. State forests are open to dispersed camping unless otherwise posted. Do not dig or trench the ground around your tent. Bury human waste (if vault toilets are not available) and animal parts, such as fish guts, at least 150 feet from a water body and away from areas where it could cause a nuisance or hazard to public health. Collect only dead wood lying on the ground for campfires within the state forest. Do not block trails, roads, or gates with your vehicle. Building permanent structures of any kind is prohibited. You must remove all garbage. Summer dispersed camping is limited to 14 days. Dispersed camping is limited to 21 days between the second Sunday in September and first Saturday in May.

    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • No image available
      • No image available

        4. Middle St. Croix — Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway

        Be the first to review!
        7 Saves

        57, primitive, Leave No Trace campsites are located on the St. Croix River from Riverside Landing to Highway 8 at St. Croix Falls - Taylors Falls. All sites are free. No permit required. Camp only in designated sites marked with brown camping sign and metal fire ring. Sites are available first-come, first-served.

        • Fires
        • Reservable
        • Tents

      Recent Dispersed Reviews In Balsam

      3 Reviews of 4 Balsam Campgrounds


      • samuel C.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Hill River State Forest
        Jul. 18, 2024

        Hill River State Forest

        Okay

        There were a good amount of spots, and I seemed to be the only person. Was a good and secluded. I did hear some weird noises throughout the night, but all was well. It is your average dispersed site. I made it fine with 2wd, just take it slow.

      • S
        Camper-submitted photo from Hill River State Forest
        Jan. 17, 2024

        Hill River State Forest

        Quiet dispersed sites

        You'll want to come in on 640th lane. The road does a lot of winding, and sections aren't always in the best shape. I wouldn't recommend any trailers unless you have 4x4 and the trailer is set up for offroad. Ideally, this is a better straight vehicle spot. There are numerous spots off the road to camp. I stayed over at the very dead end, which, on Google, is labeled "deer camp." It's quiet and deep in. Good luck. No amenities.



      Guide to Balsam

      Camping near Balsam, Minnesota, offers a great mix of nature, fun activities, and family-friendly spots. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

      What to do:

      • Hiking and Nature Trails: Explore the beautiful trails at Savanna Portage State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "I have hiked several of the trails and always see lots of wildlife. It is a great place to go and get lost in the woods...on some trails of course."
      • Fishing and Water Activities: Enjoy fishing at Big Sandy Lake. A camper shared, "The campground is wooded and shady and the lake is very pristine, and very large so you have options for all kinds of boating and water activities."
      • Family Fun: Check out the playground and beach area at Cloquet-Duluth KOA. One family noted, "Great family camping. Kwik Trip down the road has everything you forgot to bring."

      What campers like:

      • Privacy and Space: Many campers appreciate the spacious sites at Savanna Portage State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "Lovely sites with plenty of trees so most sites are quite private."
      • Clean Facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. One visitor at Moose Lake State Park Campground remarked, "Showers and restrooms were super clean!"
      • Helpful Staff: The friendly staff at Cloquet-Duluth KOA gets high marks. A camper noted, "Staff here very helpful. Provided good information for our day trip to Lake Superior."

      What you should know:

      • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially at Savanna Portage State Park Campground. One camper warned, "Mosquitos are terrible—come prepared!!!"
      • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Moose Lake State Park Campground, have limited amenities. A visitor mentioned, "The campground is a little cramped and rustic."
      • Road Noise: Campers at Pokegama Dam Campground noted that highway noise can be an issue. One review stated, "Road noise from Hwy 2 is a downside."

      Tips for camping with families:

      • Choose the Right Site: Look for sites that are spacious and have easy access to amenities. A family at Cloquet-Duluth KOA found, "The sites were also very small and very close together."
      • Pack Bug Spray: Given the mosquito situation, it's wise to bring bug spray. A camper at Savanna Portage State Park Campground emphasized, "We were thankful to have a screen tent for this visit."
      • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep the kids entertained. One camper at Moose Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "There are several trails near the area and some connected to the campsite."

      Tips from RVers:

      • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Cloquet-Duluth KOA noted, "Sites are mostly level and some are a bit tight and close to your neighbors."
      • Bring Extra Cords: If you're using electric hookups, bring extra cords. A camper at Minnesota National RV Park mentioned needing "20+ feet of electric, sewer, or water cord/hose depending on your rig’s configuration."
      • Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of nearby attractions like Jay Cooke State Park. One visitor shared, "We rode the Gitchi Gami trail up along the north shore of Lake Superior."

      Camping near Balsam, Minnesota, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to prepare for the bugs and enjoy the beautiful nature!

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Balsam, MN?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Balsam, MN is Hill River State Forest with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

        TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Balsam, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.