Tent camping near Faribault, Minnesota offers several primitive and backpacking options beyond established campgrounds. The region sits at elevations between 960-1,080 feet above sea level, with seasonal temperatures ranging from highs around 83°F in summer to below freezing in winter. The area's oak savannas and riverine landscapes provide camping opportunities with varying amenities and accessibility, typically busiest during the May-September camping season.
What to do
Hiking to Hidden Falls: Nerstrand Big Woods State Park features a short 1-mile trail leading to a scenic waterfall. "The trails were great and at the end of the trails there were beautiful falls. The falls weren't huge but there were pretty. A lot of things to photograph," notes one visitor to Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground.
Paddling the Cannon River: Set up camp at Cannon River Wilderness Area and enjoy direct river access for kayaking or canoeing. The sites positioned along the water make for convenient launching. According to one camper, "For free the area is awesome right by the river... The hike from parking is not bad at all about a 10 minute walk from parking to the farthest site."
Winter camping: For year-round camping options, check out the yurts at Afton State Park, approximately 50 miles from Faribault. "Minnesota State Parks have just started to build Yurts for 3 campgrounds around the state; Afton, Cuyuna and Glendalough State Parks. These have some great amenities and are perfect for family camping, especially in Fall, Winter and Spring."
What campers like
Diverse terrain: Afton State Park offers varied landscapes within a single park. "Great park with lots of elevation," notes one camper, while another mentions, "Lots of trails with a wide variety of landscapes. Prairie, forest, river, it's got it all."
River proximity: At Rapidan Dam Co Park, campers enjoy the water access. "This camp ground is great. Beautiful location in the woods with a stream next to it. There are a few water pumps and some outhouses. All sites have a picnic table and fire ring."
Secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy found at primitive sites. "Lots of sites all separated by trees," reports one Rapidan Dam visitor, while another notes, "Great primitive only sites. Cycling into sites can be difficult because some have lots of sand on the path."
What you should know
Site accessibility: Many tent camping areas near Faribault require some hiking to reach. At Cannon River Wilderness Area, "The 2 camp sites are a good little hike in and you have to backpack everything you need in."
Seasonal closures: Check park status before planning your trip. Some campgrounds close due to environmental conditions, as one camper reported about Rapidan Dam: "Closed due to flooding."
Bathroom facilities: Amenities vary widely between locations. Nerstrand Big Woods offers modern facilities, with one camper noting, "The bathrooms and showers were clean and well lit." Meanwhile, primitive sites at other locations may only provide vault toilets or no facilities at all.
Cell service limitations: Coverage can be spotty in the area. One camper at Nerstrand Big Woods reported, "Cell service (both AT&T and TMobile) was terrible. There's WiFi at the office, which is just a short hike from the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: For first-time family camping, consider established campgrounds. "Great place to take kids, good 1st camping experience for bonfires and single night camping," suggests a visitor to Camp Sacajawea Retreat Center.
Consider camper cabins: For families wanting comfort with outdoor access, Afton State Park offers camper cabins. "Perfect little cabin nestled in the southern half of the park! Screened in porch, heated with electricity, and two double bunk beds!" reports one visitor.
Pack for varied weather: Minnesota's climate can change quickly. One camper at Nerstrand Big Woods shared their experience: "Did a overnight in the rain at one of the walk ins. Great area. Everything you need close at hand."
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: Some RV sites at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park present backing difficulties. "There's some sites that are tricky to back a trailer into, which would have been helped by some maintenance - there were LOTS of branches that needed to be trimmed back," warns one RVer.
Limited RV facilities: Many tent camping areas near Faribault have minimal RV accommodations. One camper noted about Rapidan Dam, "Not trailer friendly. Small vehicles only."
Plan for dump stations: RVers should note which parks have sanitary dumps. "Nice dump station," mentions an RVer about Nerstrand Big Woods, which is important information for planning longer stays.
