Tent camping around Dent, Minnesota centers on forested lake regions with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 1,400 feet above sea level. The area sits within Minnesota's lake country, featuring dozens of small to medium-sized lakes within a 20-mile radius of Dent. Summer temperatures typically range from 55°F at night to 85°F during daytime, with mosquitoes most active from June through August.
What to do
Fishing without motors: At Glendalough State Park Campground, non-motorized Annie Battle Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities. "Small park but still a great place to get outdoors for the day. No motors allowed on the lakes, so canoeing, kayaking and fishing are great," notes Dan C.
Hiking with children: The 400th Ave Camp offers beginner-friendly trails for families new to backpacking. "A glorious little site nested in the trees. So close to the parking area it's a breeze to get to, yet far enough away you'd never guess you were near your car. Great place to camp with kiddos to get them used to the woods!" explains Amy G.
Water sports variety: Swan Lake Resort & Campground provides multiple water activities in one location. "From the sandy beach and wooded trails to the games and activities, there was energy and thought behind every corner," reports Lagos C. The resort offers kayak and canoe rentals during summer months.
What campers like
Non-vehicle camping atmosphere: Glendalough State Park Campground receives praise for its vehicle-free environment. "Quiet, wooded, walk in campground on a non-motorized lake, great for canoe or paddle board, paved bike trail around the park, rentals for bikes and watercraft available, sand beaches," shares Michael N.
Privacy between sites: At Swan Lake Resort & Campground, site spacing provides more seclusion than typical campgrounds. "Spaces are wooded and farther apart than most campgrounds. I wish we could have stayed longer than one night," notes Amy J.
Backpacking accessibility: Beers Hike-In Site offers an easy introduction to backpacking. "Take the Maplewood church road into the site. There is enough room to park 1 (maybe 2) vehicles. The walk is an easy walk. There is a nice fire pit and good area for fishing right at the site," explains Shawn A.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Tent camping near Dent requires preparation for rapid weather changes, particularly in spring and fall. Waterproof tents with proper stakes are essential, as afternoon thunderstorms occur regularly from June through August.
Reservation timing: Most established campgrounds fill quickly from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Glendalough State Park Campground often books 3-4 months in advance for summer weekends.
Wildlife awareness: 400th Ave Camp and surrounding tent camping areas near Dent require proper food storage. "You could even haul your food back to the car instead of hanging it if you wanted to," suggests Amy G. Black bears occasionally visit campsites in this region.
Tips for camping with families
Start with cart-in camping: Glendalough State Park offers an excellent introduction to tent camping for children. "What a wonderful park for families and first time campers. All sites (except one handicapped site) are tent only and cart-in sites. That being said, the trip from the (assigned) parking spot to your site is very short and very flat," shares Pete T.
Consider alternative accommodations: For families new to outdoor sleeping, Glendalough's structures provide middle-ground options. "My friend & I stayed in their Osprey yurt, and it was perfect for our first camping trip together. I recommend yurts if you're not 100% comfortable with/enjoy staying in a tent," advises Isabelle P.
Nature observation opportunities: Swan Lake Resort & Campground provides educational wildlife viewing for children. "Great experience for the family. Loved our stay! Super easy setup for our camper and tons of activities to do as a family!" reports Gabe C.
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives: Tent campers experiencing inclement weather can find last-minute cabin rentals at several locations. "We intended to stay at the tent site but when we arrived we saw a lovely cabin overlooking the lake and decided to give ourselves a treat. It was very clean and comfortable," shares Kathy D. from Swan Lake Resort & Campground.
Restroom access: Most tent sites around Dent have limited bathroom facilities, with vault toilets being standard. Beers Hike-In Site surprisingly maintains supplies: "There is a picnic table and a vault toilet. Surprisingly there was toilet paper there!" notes Shawn A.
