Tent campsites near Jordan, Minnesota range from lakeside clearings to wooded retreats within a 25-mile radius of town. The area sits at approximately 900 feet elevation in Minnesota's deciduous forest zone, creating seasonal camping environments that shift dramatically from humid summers to colorful fall conditions. Water levels at riverfront sites can fluctuate significantly following rainfall, requiring campers to check conditions before arrival.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground, trails guide visitors through one of Minnesota's last remaining stands of the "Big Woods" ecosystem. "Hidden water falls and some what secluded sites. Beautiful weekend with nice trails," notes Kerri N. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding during spring migration from April through May.
Paddleboarding on quiet waters: Rapidan Dam Co Park offers direct river access with calm sections perfect for beginners. "The river is perfect for paddle boarding," explains Nick G. Launch points are located 200 feet from most sites, though current strength varies seasonally.
Winter activities continue: Lake Maria State Park remains open year-round with winter camping options. "Great park with lots of elevation. Right on the river," reports Timothy S. Cross-country ski trails wind through 14 miles of terrain with varying difficulty levels accessible directly from the campsites.
What campers like
Fall color displays: The forests surrounding Afton State Park Campground showcase exceptional autumn foliage. "This is a great campground for Fall camping. The color's are amazing. Nice hiking trails," says Tim B. Peak color typically occurs from late September through mid-October.
Privacy between campsites: The walk-in sites at Lake Maria provide natural separation with mature trees and undergrowth. "The walk in site was great - close to parking with plenty of tree shade," shares Matt C. Sites require a moderate 0.5-1 mile hike from parking areas.
Clean facilities in accessible locations: Newer shower buildings enhance comfort at established campgrounds. "The bathroom/shower building was new and clean, the camp host was friendly and helpful, and the hike to the hidden falls did not disappoint," notes Deb M. about her stay at Nerstrand Big Woods.
What you should know
Bug pressure varies seasonally: Lake Maria State Park Campground can have intense insect activity during summer months. "When we pulled up to the parking lot we knew we were in trouble. The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon," warns Steph H. Mid-to-late fall offers relief from mosquitoes and flies.
Cell service limitations: Coverage can be spotty throughout the region. "Cell service (both AT&T and TMobile) was terrible. There's WiFi at the office, which is just a short hike from the campground," reports Deb M. Download maps and information before arrival.
Varied campsite spacing: Site proximity differs dramatically between locations. "The sites have quite a few trees separating them, but most of the sites on the C loop back up almost into the sites on the right side of the B loop," explains a Nerstrand visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and beaches: Lake Rebecca Park Reserve features exceptional recreation areas. "This has an amazing beach. Great Trails. Sweet single track for mountain biking. The best kids park at any campground I've been to," according to Daniel R. The playground includes equipment suitable for children ages 2-12.
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Lake Maria offers an accessible introduction to backcountry camping. "Backpack sites only. Love this park as it offers many backpacking sites with some being very short hikes in and some being longer hikes," writes Tori K. Site 1 sits closest to parking, making it ideal for families new to backpacking.
Water safety considerations: Swimming areas lack lifeguards. "There are two water access points- one for Lake Rebecca and one for the nearby Crow River. There are also boat rentals available," notes a visitor. Life jackets should be brought for children as rentals may not include them.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Cannon River Wilderness Area has restrictions on vehicle sizes. "This park is great for hiking and winter snowshoeing and cross country skiing. The 2 camp sites are a good little hike in and you have to backpack everything you need in," explains Tim B. Most sites accommodate smaller trailers under 25 feet.
Backing challenges at some sites: Nerstrand's site layout requires maneuvering skills. "There's some sites that are tricky to back a trailer into, which would have been helped by some maintenance - there were LOTS of branches that needed to be trimmed back," advises a camper. Requesting specific sites can help avoid the most difficult backing situations.
Hook-up availability varies: Electric service may be limited to certain areas or loops within campgrounds. "Sites are good and some can handle bigger RV's. Some Electric sites. Nice dump station," reports a visitor about Nerstrand Big Woods State Park.
