Best Tent Camping near Edina, MN
Tent campsites within driving distance of Edina, Minnesota range from walk-in backcountry sites to established tent campgrounds at state parks. Lake Maria State Park offers exclusively hike-in tent sites about a mile from parking areas, while Afton State Park provides secluded backpacking sites approximately 30 minutes east of the Twin Cities along the St. Croix River. Crow Hassan Park Reserve and Nerstrand Big Woods State Park also maintain tent-specific camping areas accessible to Edina residents within a reasonable drive.
Most walk-in tent locations require carrying gear between a quarter-mile to just over a mile from parking areas. Sites typically include fire rings, picnic tables, and designated tent pads, with some featuring food storage lockers. According to one visitor, "Backpacking to the top hill sites at Afton has gotten easier as the park has curved the new wide groomed and wood chipped trail to spiral around the hill instead of a straight climb." Water access varies significantly between campgrounds—Lake Maria provides water pumps at trailheads, while Afton offers a solar-powered drinking water station near the campsites. Vault toilets are available at all locations but may not be immediately adjacent to every tent site, and campers should bring their own toilet paper.
Tent campgrounds near Edina feature varying levels of privacy and terrain. Afton's tent sites are positioned along bluffs with some offering valley views, while others are tucked into meadows or partially shaded areas. One camper described their Lake Maria experience: "The site was secluded and absolutely beautiful. Campsite included two tent pads, a few areas to hammock, fire ring with large grill, small bench, picnic table, bear box and latrine." The tent-only nature of these campgrounds typically results in quieter, more peaceful experiences compared to mixed-use campgrounds. Nerstrand's walk-in tent sites are nested within trees, offering privacy without requiring extensive hiking with gear. Most tent sites in the region are positioned to maximize access to hiking trails while maintaining some distance from parking areas and roads.