Dispersed camping near Longville, Minnesota provides rustic outdoor experiences within Chippewa National Forest and surrounding areas. This region sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation, creating a landscape dominated by mixed pine and deciduous forests interspersed with numerous lakes and waterways. Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping conditions, with May-September offering optimal weather but higher mosquito activity, particularly in June and July.
What to do
Paddle the water trails: Access backcountry campsites along the Mississippi River Water Trail near Crazy James Water Trail - Campsite for Paddlers. "This is a paddle-in only campsite within the Chippewa National Forest, and is an official campsite on the Mississippi River State Water Trail in Minnesota. It is located downstream from the Lake Winnie Dam," notes Janet R.
Mountain biking or hiking: The Paul Bunyan Trail connects to Paul Bunyan Trail Canoe Campsite, offering multi-use recreation options. One camper reports, "My middle son and I did a bike packing trip on the Paul Bunyon Trail, we rode up from Crow Wing and stayed at this little gem for the night. Got there around 3PM, set up camp and then rode into Pine River for his birthday dinner."
Lake fishing: Several dispersed sites offer water access, with some including sandy launch areas for small watercraft. At Mabel Lake State Dispersed, "This is a free dispersed camping site in the state forest with lake access. Large enough for multiple campers or a small group. There are four rings and a picnic table as well as a sandy boat launch."
What campers like
Secluded forest spots: Waboose Lake - Paul Bunyan SF provides quiet camping without crowds. As Brent G. describes, "The campsite was perfect. There is a bench, firepit, latrine and multiple campsites. Very scenic view with the sounds of loons and frogs in the background. I have camped there twice and have never come across another hiker."
Waterfront access: Many campers appreciate sites directly on lakes or rivers. At Mabel Lake State Dispersed, one camper shared, "What a gem! I was able to back to the water to have a gorgeous view from bed! It was so quiet last night, although the beaked neighbors get pretty chatty early."
ATV trail access: Some sites connect directly to motorized trail systems. At Paul Bunyan State Forest Dispersed, campers note the "Very large easy to access camping area. Could easily get 4-5 campers in this one. It is a bit rocky and not extremely level but open and better for less bugs. ATV trail leads right off camping area."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many forest roads require careful navigation and appropriate vehicles. At Hill River State Forest, a camper advises, "You'll want to come in on 640th lane. The road does a lot of winding, and sections aren't always in the best shape."
Cell service is limited but possible: Coverage varies by location and carrier. One camper at Mabel Lake noted, "ATT is usable enough that I probably won't try Starlink, but there may be enough clear sky," while another mentioned, "My signal rating may be higher than normal as it's on an Intsy Connect antenna. My phone is getting 1 bar ATT."
Seasonal insect activity: Bugs can be intense, particularly in early summer. One camper at Mabel Lake observed, "There is a large puddle and so many mosquitos," while at Hill River State Forest, campers appreciated breezier sites that were "open and better for less bugs."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with shorter hiking distances: For younger children, select campsites with minimal hiking required. At Shingobee Recreation Area, one reviewer noted it's "a very short walk from a parking area/trailhead. Because it's on the NCT, the trail that passes the camp is extremely well maintained and groomed, not to mention super wide! If you have little ones that you are trying to 'wean' into camping, this would be a great place."
Look for level tent pads: Sites with established, flat tent areas provide easier setup. At Waboose Lake, "The tent pad isn't huge, but could easily accommodate a 2 or 3 person tent. Maybe larger if you wanted to try. And there are some great hammock trees too!"
Consider proximity to amenities: Some sites offer basic facilities that make family camping more comfortable. Shingobee Recreation Area provides "a picnic table, a fire grate (lots of cement blocks around the grate that while are not terribly attractive, actually make great flat surfaces for camp stoves)."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions matter: Many forest roads aren't suitable for larger rigs. At Hill River State Forest, campers advise: "I wouldn't recommend any trailers unless you have 4x4 and the trailer is set up for offroad. Ideally, this is a better straight vehicle spot."
Look for big-rig friendly sites: Some designated areas can accommodate larger vehicles. Shingobee Recreation Area is noted as big-rig friendly with basic amenities including toilets, fire rings and picnic tables.
Level parking is limited: Many areas have uneven terrain. Paul Bunyan State Forest Dispersed camping is described as "a bit rocky and not extremely level but open and better for less bugs." RVers should bring leveling blocks and be prepared to search for the flattest spots.
