Tent camping near Lent, Minnesota centers around the St. Croix River Valley, where elevations range from 700 to 1,100 feet above sea level in a landscape characterized by glacial deposits and river bluffs. The region experiences warm summers with average July temperatures reaching 83°F and winter lows dropping to 4°F, creating a distinct four-season camping experience. Mosquito season typically peaks in June and July, with campers reporting heavy populations particularly in wooded camping areas.
What to do
Paddling on the St. Croix River: Access points near William O'Brien State Park provide launch sites for canoes and kayaks. "The surroundings were stunning, and really unexpected for a park so close to the Twin Cities. There are also miles of walking and hiking trails throughout the park," notes camper Jason S.
Explore secluded hiking trails: The trail system at Lake Maria State Park offers varied terrain through maple-basswood forest. "This hike-in site is about a half-mile from the parking area, and the journey in is half the magic: winding wooded trails, wildflowers, and glimpses of the lake through the trees," shares Alison O.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer prime opportunities for spotting wildlife. "We saw pileated woodpeckers, red squirrels, and a chorus of chorus frogs. Nature feels close here — in the best way," reports a Lake Maria visitor.
Winter activities: The region maintains several trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing when snow conditions permit. "I visited William O'Brien in the middle of February with two college roommates. As you can imagine, this meant snow was everywhere in the heart of winter in Minnesota," recounts David K.
What campers like
Weekday solitude: Mid-week camping offers significantly quieter experiences. "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. We loved the trails," explains Karla J.B. at William O'Brien State Park.
Varied camping options: Afton State Park Campground features walk-in sites with varying levels of privacy. "The hike to the campground is short and grueling. A few of the sites are in wooded areas, but we stayed in one of the prairie sites. The terrain is just hilly enough - and in August - the grass long enough to give the sites a sense of privacy and seclusion," describes Andrew C.
Lake proximity: Some campsites offer water views or access. "Only about a mile from the parking lot. This site was nearly surrounded by a lake which lended to a lot of bugs, but was absolutely gorgeous! We could see one other camper in a different site, but it still felt like you were in the wilderness," reports Lydia N. about Lake Maria State Park.
Forest immersion: Wooded sites provide shade and habitat for birds. "Walking into the White Pine Meadow campsite felt magical. Also buggy. The pines tower over you, and the understory is full of beautiful ferns," notes Krista T.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Bug pressure varies significantly by season and location. "If you love seclusion and don't mind zero amenities, bugs, mud and brush, go for it! It is a survivalist's dream," warns Kim about Trade River Equestrian Camp in Governor Knowles State Forest.
Campsite privacy concerns: Site spacing varies considerably at many area campgrounds. "Compared to Wild River State Park, the sites at Savannah are pretty cramped with inconsistent vegetation between sites. I wouldn't want to stay here when the loop is fully reserved," notes a William O'Brien visitor.
Water access logistics: Potable water access varies by location. "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!" advises Warren H.
Winter camping preparation: For cold-weather tent camping, prepare for temperatures regularly dropping below freezing. "The cabin we stayed in felt very welcoming. Unknown at the time I booked it, the cabin offered Wi-Fi access that ended up not working for us anyway, so that at least allowed for a bit more of a rustic experience in the end," shares David K.
Tips for camping with families
Shorter hike-in options: Look for beginner-friendly backpacking sites. "Backpack sites only. Love this park as it offers many backpacking sites with some being very short hikes in and some being longer hikes. Some are lake front and some are more woodsy sites," recommends Tori K. at Lake Maria State Park.
Child-friendly wildlife opportunities: Elm Creek Horse Camp offers animal encounters and accessible trails. "Tucked away near the archery range, this campsite offers a solid patch of peace where dogs can sniff, stretch, and settle in by the fire," describes Alison O.
Backup activity plans: Weather changes quickly in the region. "Less than an hour drive from Minneapolis this is a good get away. As expected it has many walk trails. Highlight of this location is beach which is nice for swim and sun bath," notes Alison about Afton State Park.
Cabin alternatives: Several parks offer cabin options for families new to camping or during shoulder seasons. "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!" shares Alison O. about Afton State Park.
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup availability: Lily Springs Regenerative Farm offers unique settings with some electrical access. "Both the White Pine Meadow and the Lakeside Serenity sites are amazing and large. The fire ring had plentiful stacks of firewood closeby, and there was also an electrical outlet which was an unexpected surprise!" reports Krista T.
Compact RV considerations: Smaller trailers work best at most area campgrounds. "We planned this weekend with friends to camp in our matching teardrop trailers. We loved the trails. It was easy to takes hikes of varying lengths," shares Karla J.B.
Parking logistics: Many sites require equipment transport from parking areas. "The campsite was pretty awesome. Like others said, nice and secluded. If you're new to hiking, I suggest doing some research if you're going to attempt stuff like this. Overpacked, along with not packing the right gear and didn't have a cart," warns cheeming Y. about Lake Maria State Park.
Firewood availability: Policies and availability vary between parks. "Wood was $8 bundle. This was steep in my opinion. They do not all any gathering of firewood," notes Tim about William O'Brien State Park.
