Best Dispersed Camping near Maplewood, MN
Dispersed camping near Maplewood, Minnesota centers around South of Sand Dunes State Forest and nearby areas like Sandy Cove on the St. Croix River. The Sand Dunes State Forest area allows free primitive camping for up to 14 days during summer months and 21 days in cooler seasons. Campsites are typically found along gravel roads south of Ann Lake, particularly on County Roads 233-237, where pull-off areas create natural, secluded camping spots between pine stands and sandy stretches.
Access to these dispersed sites requires navigation via unpaved forest roads. Most spots accommodate standard vehicles, though some areas may benefit from vehicles with higher clearance. The sites are entirely primitive with no amenitiesāno restrooms, drinking water, trash receptacles, or hookups. Fires are permitted in existing fire rings, but campers must practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all waste. Cell service is minimal throughout the area, with reviewers noting "unreliable cell coverage, even for Verizon." This makes advance planning essential for safety.
The dispersed sites provide quiet, secluded camping experiences within reasonable distance of the Twin Cities. "Plenty of spots fairly far apart," notes one camper, while another mentions it's "quiet and off the beaten path." Wildlife sightings are common, with numerous bird species noted by visitors. Potential challenges include poison ivy, which reviewers warn is "nearly unavoidable" in some areas, and seasonal mosquitoes that can be intense at dusk. Traffic on the main forest roads can sometimes disrupt the peace, as one visitor reported: "This road is pretty busy for a dirt forest road and people fly down it." Sandy Cove on the St. Croix River offers an alternative experience with hike-in access, featuring an open-air vault toilet, fire ring, and picnic table overlooking the river.
