Best Dispersed Camping near Cotton, MN

Searching for a dispersed campsite near Cotton? Dispersed camping gets you off the grid so you can disconnect from the hecticness of everyday life. Find dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Cotton, MN (3)

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Showing results 1-3 of 3 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Cotton

7 Reviews of 3 Cotton Campgrounds


  • Carissa J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Danger
    Aug. 13, 2024

    Castle Danger

    Well hidden dispersed spot

    This area is definitely off the beaten path. Super skinny road with lots of rocks/hills and puddles coming in. I would recommend a car with 4WD for it and would not suggest pulling a camper unless you have experience bringing it over rough terrain. The sites themselves appeared to not be visited often. I went in early August and a lot of the places were over grown with plants! It was nice to be right by the north shore but in a spot that felt very much secluded. There was also no bugs here which was amazing! Great spot to hang out by a campfire without getting swarmed. You’ll be able to find plenty of wood from the nearby trees for a fire as well.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Carrol Truck Trail
    Jun. 5, 2024

    Carrol Truck Trail

    Arrived after dark

    Easy to access, trails are all obvious, and near a water supply. We decided to go off the cuff, and the only thing we weren’t ready for was the damn mosquitos! Will be bringing repellent next time. BEAUTIFUL SPOT.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Danger
    Jan. 18, 2024

    Castle Danger

    Great dispersed camping!

    This spot is pretty well hidden in the woods with a tight trail in. There are a few spots you could camp with stone firepits. Didn't look to be visited often, but I came in winter. There are low sites, and if you have 4x4, you can drive up to another plateau of sites. There's plenty of wood, but depending on location, you'll have to walk for it.

  • Jasmine L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Carrol Truck Trail
    Oct. 8, 2023

    Carrol Truck Trail

    Hidden Gem!

    Beautiful! Absolutely dispersed, we went all the way down the gravel road 5 miles in by SUV to the landing. Couple spots where you could clearly tell people were here before. (garbage, but we picked up as we came across) no one else out there but us! Couple fire pits already built. No bugs! Lots of wildlife for sure. But a pack of yoties or wolves was making our dog very alert they ran right next to us when we had our fire going. We had to pack up and take off they were not scared of the car horn or anything. Our dog wouldn’t sleep so had to take off. Otherwise definitely going back again!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rice Lake
    Sep. 9, 2023

    Big Rice Lake

    Peaceful location

    Campground is small with 3 free campsites, all of which can fit a small Rv or travel trailer. There is a boat landing with a vault toilet that was clean. Verizon cell reception of 2 bars. I was able to stream YouTube video.

  • Chelsea N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Carrol Truck Trail
    Jul. 8, 2023

    Carrol Truck Trail

    As advertised

    No marked sites or mowing/trimming done that we could find. There's a shooting range that is not marked as such and we didn't realize that's what it was until we had already camped. Easy to find if out of the way quite a bit. Very quiet.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Carrol Truck Trail
    Jun. 9, 2023

    Carrol Truck Trail

    Hidden Gem for Hike in/Drive in

    Upon reaching the end of the trail, there is a small dirt road that leads to a public Canoe/Kayak launch. No amenities, but you can filter your water. Surrounded by woods, so there is no shortage of wood for a campfire. Service is a measly 2 bars through ATT. Overall, a lovely hidden gem if you pack accordingly. Recovery gear would be beneficial.



Guide to Cotton

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Cotton, Minnesota, where nature's tranquility meets adventure. With a variety of spots to choose from, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a unique camping experience away from the crowds.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Cotton, Minnesota

  • Be prepared for a rustic experience; for instance, Carrol Truck Trail offers no amenities like drinking water or toilets, so pack accordingly.

Wildlife encounters for dispersed campers

  • If you're keen on wildlife, Big Rice Lake is a peaceful location where you might spot various animals while enjoying the serene surroundings.

Hiking adventures while free camping near Cotton

  • For those who love hiking, Castle Danger provides access to beautiful trails, but be ready for a rugged drive to reach this hidden gem.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cotton, MN is Carrol Truck Trail with a 4.3-star rating from 4 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Cotton, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.