Best Dispersed Camping near Blaine, MN
Dispersed camping near Blaine, Minnesota centers around several primitive sites within an hour's drive of the city. South of Sand Dunes State Forest offers free, legal dispersed camping with sites located along gravel roads south of Ann Lake. Additional options include Sandy Cove on the St. Croix River in Wisconsin and two dispersed camping areas within Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway: County Road O Landing and Sandrock Cliffs. These areas provide primitive camping experiences with varying levels of accessibility and minimal amenities.
Access to South of Sand Dunes State Forest involves navigating gravel roads with pull-off areas for camping. Many sites accommodate tents and small trailers, though some roads may be closed to motor vehicles. County Road O Landing features drive-in access suitable for various vehicles including RVs, while Sandrock Cliffs requires a hike up stairs to reach campsites along a trail. Camping duration limits typically allow stays up to 14 days in summer and 21 days in cooler seasons at Sand Dunes State Forest. Most sites lack amenities such as drinking water, with County Road O Landing and Sandrock Cliffs being exceptions that provide toilets and picnic tables.
The camping experience varies across these locations. South of Sand Dunes State Forest provides quiet, secluded spots with minimal traffic, though poison ivy is prevalent and cell service is unreliable. The area attracts wildlife, including protective sand hill cranes. Sandrock Cliffs offers scenic views along the Saint Croix River with hiking trails, though site conditions can vary. County Road O Landing provides river access via a boat ramp. "Quiet with lots of different bird sounds," noted one camper about Sand Dunes State Forest. Another visitor to County Road O Landing mentioned, "Pretty campsite with boat ramp to St Croix river." Mosquitoes are common throughout the region, particularly during summer months.
