Top Free Dispersed Camping near Hopkins, MN

Planning a dispersed camping trip near Hopkins? With The Dyrt, it's easy to find peaceful dispersed camping near Hopkins. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Hopkins, MN (2)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Hopkins

9 Reviews of 2 Hopkins Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from South of Sand Dunes State Forest
    July 18, 2024

    South of Sand Dunes State Forest

    Good forest road, nothing special

    For the proximity to the city and nearby highways, this was a good spot. Didn’t expect to see as many campers as I did, but all seemed to be friendly. I stayed here for one night and roads were totally fine for any vehicle. Most spots are like the pictures shown. There are a few spots that have great views or pull-through areas, and there are limited spots that are big-rig friendly. Saw lots of dogs, and mine had a blast, even had what seemed to be a stray husky quickly roll through camp around dusk. Something to keep on your mind. The road goes for a long ways, I parked near the front and closer to numbers, always like to be safer. Overall there was some shouting and yelling but for the location I was happy.

  • Camper-submitted photo from South of Sand Dunes State Forest
    July 17, 2024

    South of Sand Dunes State Forest

    Very Quiet

    There’s lots of little spots off the main gravel road. Nothing allowed further into the forest. One pull through area that I found. Couple vehicles pass a day. Stand storks are very protective. Stay away from them. They attack. 🤣

  • Camper-submitted photo from South of Sand Dunes State Forest
    July 2, 2024

    South of Sand Dunes State Forest

    Quiet with lots of different bird sounds

    this is a nice quiet area. Some younger people coming through sporadically playing with their trucks but nothing serious and not often. Be aware if you have an rv though. I had a county sheriff person tell me it's not lawful to park a trailer and they kicked me out. I called the dnr and they said that wasn't right but I decided to leave anyway. County sheriff's not pleasent around here.

  • Camper-submitted photo from South of Sand Dunes State Forest
    January 29, 2024

    South of Sand Dunes State Forest

    Came back for round two

    Came back on a warm weekend. A bit more traffic, but after 12 p.m., not much of anything. I really recommend this for an easy stop if you're looking for a place to put up. It's peaceful and tons of spots to park.

  • Camper-submitted photo from South of Sand Dunes State Forest
    July 23, 2023

    South of Sand Dunes State Forest

    Good easy access. Clean spots to camp

    I just did an overnight camp one night in a truck camper and it was very easy to navigate and it was cleaned quiet area to spend the night. The bad part a lot of the side roads are closed to motor vehicles due to some issues they had a couple years ago but are now taken care of like people dumping

  • Camper-submitted photo from South of Sand Dunes State Forest
    May 16, 2023

    South of Sand Dunes State Forest

    Quiet and off the beaten path

    Drove past several sites, most of which were by water. We did find one we thought we liked, but branches over hung, and rested on our camper (8ft high) and in fact most sites were shaded. As to be expected, mozzies were present, but after 5mins of the door being opened and several flying in, we decided the area wasn't for us. There were other branches of the road that could be explored as well.



Guide to Hopkins

Camping near Hopkins, Minnesota, offers a great escape into nature with plenty of options for outdoor fun. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are campgrounds nearby that cater to all kinds of campers.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Willow River State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Lovely trails, the beach is a large area with a nice park and picnic area." The park is perfect for both casual strolls and more challenging hikes.
  • Water Activities: Check out Interstate State Park for canoeing and kayaking. A reviewer shared, "Canoe and kayak rentals for more adventures on the river" make it a great spot for water lovers.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Wild River State Park Campground, you can enjoy spotting deer and other wildlife. One camper noted, "The woods surrounding dense enough to obscure others while still feeling open."

What campers like:

  • Privacy: Many campers appreciate the spacious sites at Lebanon Hills Regional Park. A visitor said, "We were very surprised at the privacy of our site."
  • Clean Facilities: Campers at Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve often mention the cleanliness of the restrooms. One review stated, "Shower facilities are very nice."
  • Convenient Location: The proximity of William O'Brien State Park Campground to the Twin Cities is a big plus. A camper remarked, "Close proximity to Stillwater which made for a nice day trip."

What you should know:

  • No Alcohol Allowed: If you're planning to enjoy a drink while camping, be aware that some parks, like Afton State Park Campground, have a strict no-alcohol policy. A reviewer noted, "NO alcohol allowed."
  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Lake Elmo County Park Reserve lack showers and toilets. One camper mentioned, "Only portapotties" are available.
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A visitor at Lake Maria State Park warned, "The mosquitos were awful."

Tips for camping with families:

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: RV campers at Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve appreciate the spacious sites. One RV owner said, "It’s the bees knees."
  • Look for Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Lebanon Hills Regional Park, offer electric hookups, which can be a game changer for RVers. A visitor noted, "RV portion has full hook ups."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Campers at Interstate State Park mentioned that noise can be an issue. One review stated, "People in RVs tend to not recognize their voices penetrate tent walls."

Camping around Hopkins, MN, provides a variety of experiences, from serene nature walks to family-friendly activities. Just remember to plan ahead and be prepared for the local conditions!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Hopkins, MN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Hopkins, MN is South of Sand Dunes State Forest with a 4.4-star rating from 9 reviews.