The Crow Wing River runs through the heart of Wadena County near Horton, Minnesota, creating a network of waterways that attract paddlers and tent campers. Located in the transition zone between prairie and northern forest, this region features glacial lakes, pine forests, and moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Most primitive campsites in the area remain accessible from May through October, though spring can bring high water levels at riverside camping locations.
What to do
Paddle the Crow Wing River: The state-designated Crow Wing River Water Trail offers multiple access points for canoe campers. Andersons Crossing provides both a launching point and overnight camping. "This is a good paddle-in stop or primitive camping destination... The outhouses are decent and seem relatively new. Plenty of firewood provided," notes Janet R.
Hike the North Country Trail: This national scenic trail offers tent campers primitive sites with minimal amenities. Flooded Woods Campsite is "a bit off the trail, which is nice, but very well marked by a wooden sign with its name carved in it. A 30 yard walk perhaps. Some sites are right on the trail. This one is not, and it keeps it a bit more private," according to Amy G.
Explore pristine lakes: Beyond the rivers, the area offers secluded lake camping opportunities. The backcountry areas provide solitude even during peak season. "The campsite overlooks a lake. Water is weedy, but is filterable for boiling water. Woke up to trumpeter swans each day," reports Brent G. about his experience camping near lakes in the area.
What campers like
Wilderness-like experience close to towns: The remote backcountry sites offer seclusion without requiring long travel distances. Deer Park Lake Backcountry Campsite earned praise from Diane R.: "I stayed for 2 nights. It was beautiful and serene. There is a bear box which was helpful to store food and supplies since I was Hammocking."
Easy access primitive sites: Many sites balance wilderness feel with relatively easy approaches. At 400th Ave Camp, Amy G. found "a glorious little site nested in the trees. So close to the parking area it's a breeze to get to, yet far enough away you'd never guess you were near your car."
Wildlife viewing: The wetlands and forests support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities directly from campsites. "Woke up to trumpeter swans each day. Loved it. There is a little trail that brings you down to the lake to view the bird life," reports Brent G. about his backcountry camping experience.
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Tent camping near Horton requires flexibility as sites range dramatically in quality and maintenance. Frames Landing Campsite illustrates this variability: "The campsite is rustic, and the canoe launch a bit muddy, but the campsites themselves are large and the pit toilets in good shape," according to Janet R.
Bathroom facilities range widely: From maintained vault toilets to primitive outhouses without doors. "The outhouses are decent and seem relatively new," notes a camper at Andersons Crossing, while at more remote sites, facilities might be "a clean three-sided outhouse with a scenic view toward the lake. (No need for a door—its the wilderness!)"
Firewood availability: Some sites provide firewood as part of the camping fee while others require campers to forage or bring their own. At Frames Landing, a camper noted "plenty of fire wood provided as part of your campsite fee," but this varies considerably by site.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with minimal hiking: For younger children, sites with short approaches work best. Gulch Lake offers family-friendly options: "Site 7 was a short hike in from the parking lot and the site was large enough for multiple tents. We had a 3p and 2p backpacking tent," reports Tori K.
Bear preparedness: Many sites now provide bear boxes for food storage. "There is a bear box which was helpful to store food and supplies," notes a camper at Deer Park Lake. Sites without bear boxes require hanging food or storing it in vehicles if parking is nearby.
Water access considerations: For families with water toys or small watercraft, some sites offer direct lake access. At Gulch Lake, one camper shared: "Stayed right next to the lake! Had easy access for kayaking and had a fun girls weekend! We had an inflatable kayak, traditional kayak, and inflatable paddleboard between the three of us!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options at primitive sites: Most tent camping sites near Horton cannot accommodate RVs, but a few exceptions exist. At Frames Landing, a reviewer noted, "Although there is a dirt road access, in dry weather you could get an RV into the campground if you don't mind no hookups."
Road conditions vary: Access roads to more remote tent sites can be challenging for larger vehicles. "The road can also be pretty tough so be prepared if you're pulling a trailer," warns Stephanie W. about her experience at Gulch Lake.
Consider basecamp options: Some RVers use established campgrounds as basecamps while tent camping at remote sites. Stephen L. found Andersons Crossing worked well: "I stayed here with my family over the weekend. It was located right on the river. This was a great campsite for the 7 of us!"
