Best Tent Camping near Clearwater, MN

Tent camping near Clearwater, Minnesota centers around several backcountry and water-accessible sites within a short drive of town. Lake Maria State Park in nearby Monticello stands out with its exclusively walk-in tent sites, offering a true backcountry experience without venturing far from the Twin Cities. For water enthusiasts, several primitive tent-only sites are accessible by boat, including Oak Island Watercraft Campsite, Boy Scout Point Watercraft Campsite, and Putnam's Pasture Canoe Campsite along the Mississippi River water trail.

Most tent campsites in the Clearwater area require some preparation for primitive conditions. Lake Maria's backpacking sites involve hikes ranging from 0.25 to 1 mile from parking areas, with each site featuring a level tent pad, fire ring, picnic table, and bear box for food storage. The watercraft campsites are more rustic, typically offering only fire rings and primitive toilets. Water access varies significantly between sites - Lake Maria provides drinking water at the parking area, while boat-in sites require campers to bring their own water supply. Seasonal considerations are important, as summer brings heavy mosquito activity while fall offers spectacular foliage with fewer insects.

The backcountry tent camping experience around Clearwater provides notable solitude despite proximity to urban areas. According to reviews, Lake Maria's Site B6 offers "a private, quiet, and wonderfully shaded" setting with "just enough open sky for stargazing by the fire." Campers noted the abundance of wildlife, with one visitor reporting pileated woodpeckers, red squirrels, and chorus frogs near their tent site. First-time backpackers should prepare carefully - one camper advised bringing a cart for gear transport, noting: "We made way too many trips back and forth and less time enjoying the amazing state park." Winter camping is also possible at Lake Maria, with several sites accessible by snowshoe, offering a rare opportunity for year-round primitive tent camping in central Minnesota.

Best Tent Sites Near Clearwater, Minnesota (21)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Clearwater, MN

383 Reviews of 21 Clearwater Campgrounds



Guide to Clearwater

Tent camping near Clearwater, Minnesota offers a blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, perfect for those looking to escape into the wilderness.

Affordable Tent Camping Options

  • Prices for tent camping typically range from $20 to $40 per night, making it an economical choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • At Lake Maria State Park Campground, campers can enjoy spacious backpacking sites that provide privacy and scenic views.
  • A J Acres Campground offers a mix of seasonal and transient sites, with plenty of mature trees for shade.

Outdoor Activities for Everyone

  • Enjoy hiking and birdwatching at Lake Maria State Park Campground, where trails lead to beautiful lakes and wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Fishing enthusiasts can take advantage of the dock and rental boats available at A J Acres Campground.
  • Cozy Corners features a park and baseball field, making it a great spot for family-friendly activities.

Unique Features and Amenities

  • Lake Maria State Park Campground provides essential amenities like drinking water, picnic tables, and fire pits for a comfortable camping experience.
  • At A J Acres Campground, campers can enjoy electric hookups and a swimming beach, perfect for a hot summer day.
  • Cozy Corners offers a lodge and fish cleaning building, catering to those who love fishing and socializing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Clearwater, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Clearwater, MN is Lake Maria State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 34 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Clearwater, MN?

TheDyrt.com has all 21 tent camping locations near Clearwater, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.