Tent campsites near Houston, Minnesota are located within the southeastern bluff country, characterized by deep valleys cut through limestone bedrock by small streams and rivers. The region sits at elevations ranging from 650 to 1,300 feet with cool summer nights dropping into the 50s even during July and August. Most primitive campsites in the area require moderate hiking with elevation changes of 200-400 feet from parking areas to camping locations.
What to do
Hiking the bluffs: At Yellow River State Forest, backpackers can explore multiple trail loops with serious elevation changes. "I've done this loop several times, and have never been disappointed. Lots of quiet, and many more great views on the upper trails. There are some thin trails down steeper hillsides, so make sure to take it slower if the ground is muddy," notes Kevin C.
Fishing nearby streams: The streams around Houston provide excellent trout fishing opportunities. Chimney Rock County Park serves as a canoe landing with basic facilities. "This is just a parking lot for the canoe landing, but have car camped for the night. They have pit toilets," explains David, highlighting the minimal but functional amenities.
Biking the Root River Trail: Northend Campground provides convenient access to biking opportunities. "Small lil park that they allow people to camp in. I've seen RV's and tents here. Nice sand bottom creek to swim in right behind campground, pool is a few blocks away. The town of Rushford is cute, the creamery has great pizza and good ice cream," writes Michael V.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Schmidt Farm by Forestville offers genuinely private camping experiences. "Secluded campsites so you are not camping side by side with others. Site locations offer ample space for multiple tents. The native wildflowers are a special treat," reports Karen S. This tent-only camping area provides the peace many campers seek.
Natural soundscapes: Many campers appreciate the quiet natural environments. Amos K. shares that at Schmidt Farm, "The peace and quiet allowed me to have one of the best nights of sleep while camping that I've had, I didn't hear a person or a vehicle the whole night and the crickets, frogs, and occasional hooting owl just added to the nighttime experience."
Low-cost options: Primitive camping in state forests is budget-friendly. About Yellow River State Forest, Lindsey R. notes it's a "Very secluded with good fishing opportunities and great fishing in the area!" Another camper added, "This site fills up really fast because of the cheap price of only 9 dollars. This is the cheapest but one of the best campsites I've been to."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many primitive sites require hiking in. At Aefintyr, "The hike to the site is steep but worth it once you get up there. I stayed at the Talia bell tent site so I didn't have to bring much so it made the hike a lot easier," explains Mike L.
Limited facilities: Most backcountry sites lack modern amenities. At Oak Ridge/Wet Bark Recreation Area, Michael V. reports, "Small campground, usually no one here except during hunting season. Not much to this place." Prepare to bring all necessary supplies.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations. At Yellow River State Forest, one camper noted, "There is snow in the winter," highlighting the seasonal variations campers should prepare for.
Tips for camping with families
Cart-in options: Gooseberry Glen Cart-in Campground provides an excellent middle ground between car camping and backpacking. "Right when you park you see the push carts and it is a very short walk to the campsite. You are able to slightly see 1 cart-in site neighbor, but besides that it was very private and quiet," reports Molly Y.
Playgrounds nearby: Some campgrounds offer kid-friendly amenities. About Houston Nature Center, Alison notes, "Even though I'm not a kid, I thought the park was AWESOME. They litterally have a tree house to play in!!!!"
Educational opportunities: The Houston area offers learning experiences for children. Michael V. mentions, "The town of Rushford is cute, the creamery has great pizza and good ice cream. Shawnees Bar is awesome. Lots to do in the area, from biking to hiking and tubing down the root river to kayaking."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup sites: Most camping options near Houston are primitive. At Shady Rest Acres, which offers both tent and cabin options, Amy G. explains the setup: "There are 2 campsites, if you wish. One is in the middle of the pasture (that's right...near the goats) They will pen up the larger animals if you stay at that site, but it's perfect for stargazing! The other is nestled in the woods."
Parking considerations: At Northend Campground, Michael V. noted, "I've seen RV's and tents here," indicating some RV accessibility, though details on size limitations aren't specified.
Alternative accommodations: Some locations offer cabins as alternatives to RV camping. Amy G. describes Shady Rest Acres' cabin as "delightfully lovely with beautiful decor, two full sized beds, space for a few kids to crash, small kitchen items (microwave, mini fridge, coffeemaker) as well as a wood stove for cool nights and some A/C for warm days."
