Public lands surrounding Harris, Minnesota feature a diverse mix of established campgrounds and more primitive options along the St. Croix River corridor. Wild River State Park Campground and Interstate State Park provide developed facilities with electric hookups, showers, and camping cabins approximately 15-20 miles east of Harris. The area also includes more rustic options like County Road O Landing Dispersed River Camp within the Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway, where primitive camping is available. Smaller private campgrounds such as The Jubilee Homestead and Kozy Oaks Kamp offer family-friendly alternatives with amenities like swimming pools and farm experiences.
Camping availability varies seasonally, with most established campgrounds operational year-round while dispersed sites may have seasonal limitations. Sites at Wild River State Park and Interstate State Park require reservations, especially during summer weekends. Water and electric hookups are common at developed campgrounds, while dispersed sites offer minimal facilities beyond pit toilets. Cell coverage varies significantly throughout the region, with several campers reporting limited service. Weather considerations include heavy mosquito activity in summer months and variable spring conditions. According to one camper at County Road O Landing, "We ended up staying in the parking lot near the boat ramp and woke up to amazing bird calls. Pretty campsite with boat ramp to St Croix river."
Riverfront camping locations receive particular attention in visitor reviews, with many highlighting the peaceful setting along the St. Croix River as a key attraction. Family-friendly amenities at private campgrounds near Harris provide alternatives to the more rustic state park experiences. Several visitors mentioned appreciating the solitude at more remote sites, though some noted challenges with bugs and muddy conditions. As one camper at The Jubilee Homestead shared, "We spent two wonderful nights at this homestead farm. We loved the goats, chickens, geese, and the cats. It was so nice having a fire in the fire pit with limitless amounts of firewood." Campground density varies considerably, with state parks offering more organized camping experiences while dispersed sites provide greater privacy but fewer amenities.
$23 - $90 / night
"Stayed for two nights at a drive-in double site here and found it ideal for autumn camping."
"We stayed in campsite 29 in the drive in campsite over Labor Day weekend."
$24 - $50 / night
"This is a state park on the Wisconsin side of the St Croix River, which is mirrored by a comparable but smaller state park in Minnesota on the wrst side of the river, both being part of the wild and scenic"
"Interstate State Park is situated along the St Croix River just outside the small town of Taylor Falls, MN."
$35 - $100 / night
"We decided to try out our new tow vehicle by going somewhere close to home. We found Jubilee and we’re we pleasantly surprised! We happened to be the only one there that weekend late in the summer."
"In the morning, we walked around briefly to say hello to the goats and chickens and to pick a few apples."
$22 - $38 / night
"Nice pool and a lake. Room between campsites and some tree coverage. All in all a nice place to camp."
"Great little family camp non-motorized lake great for kayaks or canoes couple decent spots for group camping, new owners only four years inand working hard to make it better"
"We were visiting family nearby and they could come visit us for picnics with no problems and no extra cost. Very friendly grounds keepers. Will be back again when in the area."
"We arrived in the late afternoon and drove all the way down the road, there are a few spots near the boat ramp and bathroom, but we parked near the trailhead and it was perfect!"
$25 - $90 / night
"Easy walking trails surround the park which is nice and convenient. Close proximity to Stillwater which made for a nice day trip. Camp sites were very clean and easy to access."
"We O'Brian has some of the best groomed trails that I have been on."
$40 - $75 / night
"Nice river nearby canoeing swimming pool fireplaces and little store for treats."
"Lots of hiking and close to the river for some kayaking etc."
TravelerWe stayed here with a group of hot tent campers in early January. The site is large and had a couple of fire pits. Includes a few picnic tables, and a pit toilet. It's a beautiful open area not far from the parking lot with a gorgeous view of the St. Croix River.
ScoutWe visited Avatan Nudist Campground last July with our two kids (ages 8 and 11) for what was supposed to be a wholesome, body-positive family getaway. The website and brochures paint a perfect picture: serene woods, a sparkling pool, family activities, and a "welcoming community" vibe. And on the surface? Yeah, the grounds are stunning—pristine trails, a well-maintained pool. The facilities are clean, the staff (mostly) polite, and the natural setting is genuinely relaxing. If you're just looking for a quiet spot to shed your clothes and unwind in nature, it checks those boxes.
But dig a little deeper, and Avatan reveals itself as something else entirely—a place that's quietly optimized for adult fun, with kids as an inconvenient footnote they have to tolerate to keep the "family" label. From the moment we arrived, it was clear the real energy was elsewhere. Evenings around the fire pits and at the "Squirrel's" (code for the bar area) had this unmistakable swinger-party undercurrent. Lots of lingering glances, couples disappearing into the woods or private cabins, and a vibe that felt more like a discreet resort for the lifestyle crowd than a spot for building sandcastles with the little ones. Our kids picked up on it fast—whispers about "grown-up games" and awkward questions we had to deflect. The camp "tolerates" families, sure, but it's obvious the core membership would prefer a child-free zone. Activities for kids are minimal: a basic playground and the occasional nature hike, while the adults get themed nights, "sensual yoga," and late-night mixers that go until dawn.
What really soured the experience was the toxic underbelly of the community itself. This place is a powder keg of power struggles, with a small cadre of long-time board members and "elders" locked in a perpetual cold war. Gossip flows like the creek itself—endless whispers about who's sleeping with whom, who's "stealing" prime cabin spots, or who's cozying up to the President for favors. We overheard more drama in one week than in a season of reality TV. Cliques form fast: the "party crew" vs. the "purists," the swingers vs. the swingers-who-pretend-they're-not. As newcomers (and parents, no less), we felt like outsiders crashing a private club. Smiles were surface-level; the second you stepped away, the backstabbing started.
And then there's the elephant in the (clothing-optional) room: the camp's ugly history with sexual predators. We didn't know it going in, but after a few days, the stories trickled out from sympathetic members—multiple incidents over the years involving members who turned out to be registered offenders or worse, preying on the vulnerable in this "trust-based" environment. The rules around anonymity are ironclad: no photos, no last names, "what happens at Avatan stays at Avatan." It's sold as protecting privacy in a nudist space, which sounds noble until you realize it shields the creeps. Anyone who dares speak up—whether it's a parent noticing a sketchy guy lingering too long near the kids' area or a survivor sharing a red flag—is immediately branded a "troublemaker," "paranoid," or "anti-community." We've heard of families getting shamed in group meetings, then quietly asked to leave for "disrupting the harmony." Evictions happen fast if you rock the boat, all in the name of keeping the peace and the paying members happy.
Look, we're no prudes. Nudism can be liberating, and we've been to other resorts where it felt truly inclusive and safe. But Avatan? It's a divided house built on denial. The adult-party atmosphere thrives because the kids are an afterthought, and the predator problem festers because calling it out gets you exiled. If you're a child-free couple into the full swinger scene, this might be your paradise—plenty of like-minded folks and zero judgment. But if you're a family hoping for that advertised "safe, empowering space"? Steer clear. Your kids deserve better than being tolerated in a place where silence is golden and the wrong questions get you blacklisted. We won't be back, and I hope this review saves someone else the regret.
GuideNice spot with plenty of space between sites, which gives you some privacy. It’s right off a busy road, so you’ll hear some traffic noise. The hunters were out during my stay, so there were gunshots throughout the day, but that’s to be expected this time of year. Overall, a good spot for a quick overnight stay and it’s conveniently close to the cities.
RangerI was looking for a secluded backpack in site where I could have a peaceful 48 hours of prayer and solitude, and this site was perfect! I also wanted one that wasn't too far remote, since I hadn't been on a proper backpacking trip since the pandemic hit. And as a solo female camper, I wanted a reserved site so that there would be a record of my location for safety reasons. I'm so glad I chose the Deer Creek site, and will almost definitely stay here again at some point!
This site is accessible by either hiking or canoe. It took me about 30 minutes to hike in from the visitor center parking lot. There is easy access to river water to boil or filter from the canoe landing.
This site was incredibly spacious. It includes a fire ring and picnic table overlooking the creek and river. It also includes 2 large tent pads (look out for widow makers, one of the tent pads is under a dead tree!). It also has a spot nestled in some pine trees that could fit a smaller tent, canoe storage, or I found it to be the perfect spot to hang my hammock! (This would be a great site for hammock camping.) So if you're camping with a small group of people this would be a great site. It also includes a trail to a fairly private latrine, and a bear box (the park ranger warned me that there are bears in the park although I did not see any.) I also found plenty of dead down and dry wood and birch bark on the ground for building fires.
This site is great for a one nigjt stay on a longer backpacking or canoeing trip, but also great for camping out at for a couple of nights. I stayed for two, and it connects to all the major trails in the park, so I was able to use it as a great base for hiking and seeing the beautiful changing leaves. In the morning I hiked North to do the Riverside trail and looped back through the woods. Then in the afternoon I did the Deer Creek loop, which is a shared horse and hiking trail. It was so nice to he able to hike out to some of the best trails in the park directly from my site.
This site felt remarkably remote for being only an hour from the twin cities and a mile from the parking lot! I stayed there Thursday -Saturday, and after leaving the parking lot on Thursday did not see another human being for the rest of the day, and Friday not until I hit the main trails! There was no one else staying within at least a mile of me. I was even able to see fantastic stars Friday night. There was amazing wildlife - a blue heron frequented the site, and I heard all types of owls. Two bald eagles had a nest across the river so I got to see and hear them the whole trip, too- it was absolutely magical!
This site has a great view of both sunrise and sunset. Thursday night there was a gorgeous sunset over the woods reflected in deer Creek. Both mornings I woke up to watch the sunrise while drinking my coffee next to the fire (it was freezing!!!). Watching the sun rise over the river and fog roll over th water and evaporate while eagles soared was truly magical. Having an easy backpack in site surrounded by water on two sides and with views of the sunrise and sunset like this was so incredible!!!
TravelerNever again, $81 for an electric only site. Come on Wisconsin let's jab the out of .staters. Entry fee to parks, extra for out of staters. The site was secluded but not close to level. Not close to the facilities. I am going back to SD. They don't add fees because you are from out of town, they actually encourage out of state tourists. Last trip to a Wisconsin state park . And the showers were closed for the season, this is 10/9/25. But still full price and just an electric only site. No thanks Wisconsin
GuideInterstate State Park has some nice features, but overall it wasn’t my favorite. Many of the exterior loop sites have river access, which was a highlight, and we didn’t have to deal with mosquitoes thanks to being right on the water. The nearby towns are also very charming and worth exploring.
That said, the campground is small and very crowded, likely because it’s so close to the Cities and popular with canoe rentals. Expect a lot of traffic noise, and in the fall, migrating geese can be very loud (which didn’t bother me, but might for some). The ranger office had limited hours, and since firewood is locked up, there’s no self-serve option. Another downside: a riverboat cruises by frequently, blasting music in the evenings and giving tours during the day.
The sites are close together, with RVs and tents mixed on one loop, so generator noise is common. It wasn’t a terrible stay, but just too small and busy for my preference—I don’t think I’d return.
Best sites seemed to be 21 (great river views, less private), 23 (fun detached tent pad), and 18 (most private). Sites 4–5 were also lovely but close to the bathrooms and camp host, so expect more foot traffic.
ScoutJust a quick one night trip but a perfect getaway close to home. Very quiet. Camp host was nice . Found a tucked away site that we could park Infront of for more privacy
RangerNo potable water, grey dump, nor trash cans, but it's rugged wilderness along a gravel road with plenty of space to park.
TravelerOwners are very nice, greet you upon arrival, very helpful. Bathroom/shower is very nice. Trampoline & playground on site. Close to the highway so a lot of traffic noise until about midnight. People fly down the road even though the speed limit is 20mph. 3 minutes from Willow River, 45 minutes to Cloquet & Pine City.
The forests and wetlands surrounding Harris, Minnesota sit at approximately 900 feet above sea level in the transition zone between hardwood forests and prairie lands. The St. Croix River forms the eastern boundary of the camping region, with seasonal water levels fluctuating up to 10 feet between spring and late summer. Winter camping remains available at several locations, though water systems typically shut down from November through April.
Stargazing opportunities: Wild River State Park offers designated star viewing areas away from light pollution. The park's open spaces create ideal conditions for night sky observation. "The star gazing area was great! Intermittently had 1-2 bars of T-Mobile with LTE Internet. Wi-Fi is available at the park entrance," notes Katherine T. from Wild River State Park Campground.
Winter recreation: Several parks maintain groomed winter trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. "We planned on attending their candlelight ski and decided to camp. The campground was fully reserved but was empty, the low was 10 so people must have bowed out. The campsite was plowed out and had a nice spot for the tent," writes Joanna B. about her winter camping experience.
River activities: The St. Croix and Rum Rivers provide water recreation from spring through fall. Canoe and tube rentals are available at several locations. "You can either relax in the pool or even take a ride down the rum river in a rented canoe, tube, or kayak," explains Spencer C. from Country Camping Tent & RV Park.
Historic exploration: Several parks feature remnants of old settlements and dams. "The hike to the former Dam site is the neatest thing about the park. I recommend reading the historical information at the site of the dam," shares Erik R. about Wild River State Park.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing and vegetation at certain campgrounds. "The campground was very nice. The sites are private, couldn't see any neighbors as there are a lot of trees. The park rangers were very helpful and informative," writes Stephanie H. about her experience at Wild River State Park Campground.
Riverfront camping: Sites along the St. Croix River offer direct water access and views. "Backpack site Buck Hill is right on the river, beautiful view to the east. Circled by flowers (goldenrod in the late summer), brush and trees. End of the path so zero foot traffic / passersby," describes amber N. about her stay at Wild River State Park.
Farm experiences: Some private campgrounds offer unique agricultural settings. "We spent two wonderful nights at this homestead farm. We loved the goats, chickens, geese, and the cats. We are not cat people but they had a newly acquired kitty that stole our hearts and entertained us," shares Alice S. from The Jubilee Homestead.
Wildlife encounters: Multiple campers report seeing deer, birds, and other animals. "We saw sooooo many deer some even walking right through campsites! You can hear coyotes, raccoons and very loud owls," mentions Kate H.
Seasonal mosquito intensity: Harris area campgrounds report heavy insect activity in summer months. "The only problem was the mosquitoes," noted Marie G. about her June visit to County Road O Landing, a dispersed camping area.
Cell reception variability: Coverage changes dramatically between campgrounds and even within individual parks. Katherine T. reports: "Intermittently had 1-2 bars of T-Mobile with LTE Internet" at Wild River State Park, while remote sites often have no service.
Campground crowding patterns: Sites fill quickly on summer weekends but midweek and shoulder season availability improves substantially. "We arrived on a Sunday afternoon was a dream—very few people in the campground loop (especially the non-electric ones), but still able to take advantage of a weekend day," explains Dani K.
Varying amenities: Facilities range from fully developed to primitive. "Sites at Country Camping Tent & RV Park have 30amp and 50amp hook ups and has pull through spots and sewer sites. Max trailer length that I've seen here is 70'. Anyone can fit in here!" reports Spencer C.
Pool and water play areas: Several private campgrounds offer swimming facilities. "The campground is nice and clean. Good size spaces. The tubing is a plus. Pool was small but nice. Splash pad was even nice for adults," notes David G. about Country Camping Tent & RV Park on the Rum River.
Playground access: Family-friendly campgrounds provide play equipment for children. "This campground is great for everyone! It has a heated pool, splash pad area, BIG playground area, indoor game room, HUGE sites!" explains Spencer C.
Proximity to bathrooms: For families with young children, bathroom access matters. "We had to drive there, the primitive toilet smelled so bad it burned!! It needed to be emptied and wasn't the entire time we were there," warns Kate H. about more remote sites at Wild River State Park.
Animal interactions: Farm-based camping offers unique experiences for children. "Spending time with the goats was a therapeutic experience and I had half the mind to take one with me," shares Meesh M. about The Jubilee Homestead.
Site size considerations: RV sites vary significantly between parks. "Interstate State Park has some nice features, but overall it wasn't my favorite. The sites are close together, with RVs and tents mixed on one loop, so generator noise is common," warns Maria D. about Interstate State Park.
Electrical hook-up availability: Most developed campgrounds offer at least 30-amp service, with some providing 50-amp options. "This place does have 30amp and 50amp hook ups and has pull through spots and sewer sites," confirms Spencer C. about Country Camping.
Seasonal access changes: Many RV facilities reduce services during colder months. "It was cold, rainy, and that turned into 5 inches of snow. Like many MN State Park campgrounds, you are close to your neighbors with no real private offerings," reports Erik R. about spring camping at Wild River State Park.
Fairgrounds option: The Isanti County Fairgrounds offers an alternative to traditional campgrounds. "Very nice clean well kept grounds. Always things going at the fairgrounds. We had a nice view of the little lake," reports gary W. from Isanti County Fairgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Harris, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Harris, MN offers a wide range of camping options, with 151 campgrounds and RV parks near Harris, MN and 11 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Harris, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Harris, MN is Wild River State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 45 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Harris, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 free dispersed camping spots near Harris, MN.
What parks are near Harris, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Harris, MN that allow camping, notably Saint Croix National Scenic River and St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.
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