Best Tent Camping near Faribault, MN
Tent camping options near Faribault, Minnesota include several established campgrounds within a short drive of town. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park offers tent sites with both drive-in and walk-in options, while Cannon River Wilderness Area provides more primitive tent camping experiences with hike-in and walk-in access. Both locations are within 15 miles of Faribault, making them convenient options for weekend tent camping trips.
The tent sites at Nerstrand Big Woods feature pea gravel tent pads that provide level surfaces for setting up tents. Most sites include fire rings with grates, picnic tables, and access to drinking water. The walk-in tent sites require minimal hiking, with some just a short distance from parking areas. A camper noted that the "walk-in sites are nested within the trees, far enough away from group sites for privacy but without a long distance to carry gear." Vault toilets are available throughout the park, and shower facilities are located near the campground host site. The campground is typically open from April through October.
Tent campers at Cannon River Wilderness Area experience more secluded camping with fewer amenities. The tent sites are accessible via a short 10-minute hike from the parking area, with some sites positioned along the river. According to one visitor, "We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. We set up hammocks right next to the river." These free tent sites include basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. The area offers hiking trails through wooded terrain and access to the Cannon River for paddling opportunities. The primitive nature of these tent sites appeals to campers seeking a more natural experience without the crowds often found at developed campgrounds. The camping season typically runs from May through October.
