Tent campsites near Deerwood, Minnesota concentrate around the Mississippi River watershed with numerous water-accessible sites along established paddling routes. The region sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation in the Central Lakes region, where the landscape transitions from prairie to northern forest. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during the day, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with highs in the 50-60°F range.
What to do
Hiking observation towers: At Mille Lacs Kathio State Park, climb the fire tower for panoramic views. "They have a lot of hiking trails and a really cool fire tower that you can climb and see all of the surrounding area. Definitely recommend, but in the spring or fall months," notes Jen H.
Paddle river water trails: The Pine River Water Trail offers excellent kayaking access to remote tent sites. "This site is about an hour and a half - two hours downstream from the Pine River Damn access. It's about an hour to the next access, on why 15," explains HollyRose M. about South Bend Watercraft Site.
Wildlife watching: Scan for birds and mammals throughout the watershed. "We saw so much wildlife on this kayak trip, and enjoyed a great swim in the river. It's never super deep or too strong a current, and in front of this site it's sandy and great swimming!" reports a paddler at South Bend Watercraft Site.
What campers like
Secluded riverside camping: Riverside tent sites offer privacy and natural ambiance. "Hands down, one of the all time best campsites I've ever been to. Not many places you can camp and wake up to the sound of water babbling on the Mississippi River," writes Amy G. about Baxter Canoe Camp.
Walk-in tent sites: The walk-in sites at Ogechie Campground provide more seclusion than drive-in alternatives. "We chose one of the dispersed sites so had to walk aways but worth it! We had a pretty nice spot on bottom of hill away from everyone. It was nice and secluded," shares Jordan L.
Free camping options: Several water-access sites along the rivers have no fees. "This hidden gem is on the Mississippi water trail around mile 996. It is called 'Overlook Park' and owned/maintained by the city of Baxter, but is part of the DNR's state water trail," notes HollyRose M. about Overlook Park Canoe Campsite.
What you should know
Seasonal insect considerations: Mosquitoes can be extreme during summer months. "Beautiful state park, but WAY too many mosquitos in the summer. We had at least 100 bites after our trip," cautions Jen H. about camping at Ogechie Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Bear activity occurs around riverside campsites. At Baxter Canoe Camp, Amy G. reports: "We did have a nighttime visitor in the form of something big and black and furry... heard the sounds of a bear. It never approached the tent, we never had to yell, and it never threatened."
Rodent awareness: Secure food and gear from mice at some locations. "Mice essentially had their way with every part of my vehicle in one night!!! I have a topper and a built-out bed in the back. It was chilly and I had the truck shut—the cab as well as the tailgate and all windows. Still, when I woke the next morning... I found mouse poop EVERYWHERE," warns Annie V. about Crow Wing State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Secure watercraft properly: For riverside camping, take extra precautions with boats. "Make sure to pull your watercraft ALL the way up the hill or secure it tightly! One of our Kayaks slide back down the hill into the river, got caught in a branch so we were lucky!" advises a camper at South Bend Watercraft Site.
Consider sibling-friendly sites: Some locations work well for multi-child trips. "Took my 3 little brothers camping here. We chose one of the dispersed sites so had to walk aways but worth it! We had a blast and took them up to observation tower as well!!!" reports Jordan L. at Ogechie Campground.
Try biking and camping combos: The Paul Bunyan Trail connects to camping options. "We were bike riding the Paul Bunyon Trail and rode into Crow Wing in the dark. I self registered because the office was closed," shares Brittany about her family camping experience.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle protection strategies: Take precautions against rodents with any vehicle. "My friend who has a 2019 Tacoma said he heard them scampering around in the wheel wells of his truck and crawling all over trying to find a way in, but they did not succeed. I guess because my truck is older and has more tiny spaces they can crawl through, it got the treatment," shares Annie V. about parking at Mille Lacs Kathio.
Alternative accommodations: When tent camping fails, improvise. "Pictured is my son at the site with our tent that we forgot to pack poles for," explains Brittany about her experience at Canoe Landing Campsite, demonstrating the need for backup plans.
Self-registration protocols: For late arrivals, follow proper procedures. "I self registered because the office was closed (wrote in canoe site since you can't reserve it online)," advises Brittany about the Canoe Landing Campsite at Crow Wing State Park.