The tent camping areas around Lauderdale, Minnesota span across 1,200 acres of mixed hardwood forest and restored prairie. Most backcountry sites sit at elevations between 850-950 feet above sea level, creating natural drainage during spring's wet conditions. Fall camping season typically runs September through late October with nighttime temperatures dropping to 35-45°F, requiring appropriate sleeping gear.
What to do
Hiking network exploration: Multiple interconnected trails at William O'Brien State Park offer terrain variety through river valleys and forested hills. "There are also miles of walking and hiking trails throughout the park. The surroundings were stunning, and really unexpected for a park so close to the Twin Cities," notes Jason S.
Beach access: Shoreline swimming areas provide summer cooling options with temperature-regulated depths. "Highlight of this location is beach which is nice for swim and sun bath. But beach isn't motor vehicle accessible so expect 5-10 min walk," writes Alison at Afton State Park.
Winter recreation: Several parks maintain groomed trails for cold-weather activities when tent camping season ends. "I visited William O'Brien in the middle of February with two college roommates. The moon was very bright that night so visibility was excellent. We walked some trail through a frozen marsh landscape," reports David K.
What campers like
Secluded prairie sites: Some backcountry areas offer distinctive prairie camping environments. "The terrain is just hilly enough - and in August - the grass long enough to give the sites a sense of privacy and seclusion," shares Andrew C. about his experience at Afton State Park.
Diverse ecosystems: Lake Maria State Park tent sites showcase environmental variety. "Once you arrive, B6 feels like a secret woodland sanctuary — set up on a slight rise, tucked beneath a cathedral of towering oaks and maples... just a short walk to the lake itself, where you can sit on a log and watch wood ducks paddle past and listen to the frogs in full chorus at night," says Alison O.
Proximity to cities: Tent sites remain accessible for urban residents seeking quick nature retreats. "We planned this weekend with friends to camp in our matching teardrop trailers. We have never really camped with friends before, so the point was to just go, not to really travel far," writes Karla J.B. about William O'Brien State Park.
What you should know
Water access varies: Water availability changes seasonally and can be unavailable at expected locations. "This may be an ongoing issue but none of the water faucets or water pumps on the trails at Afton State Park are working. The good news is you can fill up on cold drinking water at the visitor center before trekking around the park's beautiful hiking trails," reports Warren H.
Site access difficulty: Many campgrounds require physical exertion to reach sites. "The hike to the campground is short and grueling," explains Andrew C. about Afton, while at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, George W. notes, "Did a overnight in The rain at one of the walk ins. Great area. Everything you need close at hand."
Trail closures impact access: Weather conditions can limit trail availability. "Sites were great but a little wet. Some of the south trails are closed because its too wet," notes Timothy S. about spring conditions at Nerstrand Big Woods.
Tips for camping with families
Park amenities for children: Lake Rebecca Park Reserve stands out for kid-friendly facilities. "This has an amazing beach. Great Trails. Sweet single track for mountain biking. The best kids park at any campground I've been to," states Daniel R.
Cabin alternatives: Family camping doesn't require tents only. "Camper Cabin (Eastern Bluebird) - Perfect little cabin nestled in the southern half of the park! Screened in porch, heated with electricity, and two double bunk beds!" describes Alison O. at Afton State Park.
Seasonal pest planning: Insect activity requires strategic timing for family comfort. "I would like to come back to this park in late fall and try out a camper cabin. There are three of them all on lakes so if you can get past buggy season it has the potential to be a great experience," suggests Steph H. after a challenging summer experience at Lake Maria State Park.
Tips from RVers
Weight restrictions for carry-in sites: Crow Hassan Park Reserve accommodates certain equipment types. "The information for this site states you can put 10 horse trailers on this lot, but I have definitely seen groups camp here with more. The barn stalls are available for use, otherwise there are overhead horse hitch lines," explains Krista T.
Site selection for trailers: Some locations present backing challenges for RV campers. "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," warns Deb M. about Nerstrand Big Woods State Park.
