Tent camping areas near McGregor, Minnesota occupy a unique region where northern forests meet lake country at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,350 feet. The Mississippi River provides water-accessible campsites that experience average summer temperatures of 75-85°F, with nights typically cooling to 50-60°F. Mosquito activity peaks from June through August, requiring appropriate preparation for comfortable camping.
What to do
Hiking trails and observation towers: At Ogechie Campground — Mille Lacs Kathio State Park, visitors can access numerous hiking trails and an observation tower with panoramic views. According to one camper, "Lots of trails, close fishing, and an awesome lookout tower!!" Another visitor mentioned, "We had a blast and took them up to observation tower as well!"
Rock climbing: Robinson Park Camping offers access to premier rock climbing locations. One reviewer noted, "This campground is really great... Things to do around the park: Hiking trails to Wolf Creek Falls, Boating and fishing, Rock climbing including the state's best 12a/b!!!" The park's former sandstone quarry has become "a primo rock climbing destination for folks from throughout the Midwest."
ATV and dirt biking: Garfvert provides extensive trail networks for off-road vehicles. A reviewer explained, "My family has stayed here many times to use the dirt bike and atv trails. There is a lot of variety for different levels of difficulty." Another camper added it "Offers hundreds of miles of 4 wheeling and snowmobiling. Can't forget dirtbikes and UTV as well."
What campers like
Riverside camping: Campers appreciate waterfront sites that offer both scenic views and soothing sounds. At Jacobson County Campground, one visitor reported, "Some sites that are closest to the river are close together but okay view. Vaulted toilet and recycling/dumpster close proximity." Proximity to water enhances the camping experience throughout the region.
Natural water sources: Access to springs and rivers provides both practical benefits and natural ambiance at several campgrounds. According to one camper at Jacobson County Campground, "It's a bit out there from the ATV trails so we won't be stopping again but it worked well for us." Sites with natural water features tend to be popular despite sometimes being remote.
Secluded tent sites: Many campers seek out more isolated spots for privacy. At Robinson Park Camping, one visitor noted, "I enjoyed this little spot in early April. I wanted to be close to Banning State Park without the reservations... We camped at spot 4 right along the river. Picnic tables, fire rings, and a tent pad at every spot."
What you should know
Seasonal bug activity: Insects, especially mosquitoes, can be intense during summer months. One Ogechie Campground visitor warned, "Beautiful state park, but WAY too many mosquitos in the summer. We had at least 100 bites after our trip." Plan to bring ample bug spray and consider camping in spring or fall when mosquito populations are lower.
Primitive facilities: Most tent sites offer basic amenities only. At Blackberry Campsite, facilities include "bear locker, pit toilet, equipment to cut wood." Another camper described it as having "a pile of firewood in a useful 'shelter' with a little roof to help keep it from the rain. There was also a peg hook with a saw!"
Water level considerations: Boat-in sites can be challenging to access during certain conditions. A Blackberry Campsite visitor noted, "You have to tie your kayak to the shore - it's quite muddy and there is no place to pull it up (without considerable effort)." Water levels on the Mississippi and connected waterways fluctuate seasonally.
Wildlife encounters: The area supports diverse wildlife that campers should be prepared to encounter. Mice can be problematic at some sites, with one Ogechie camper reporting, "They got into plastic bins, duffel bags, backpacks, stuff sacks, etc. Their nasty little feces were found in food, on towels, in the cab, in the bed, in ONE OF MY HIKING BOOTS!!!!"
Tips for camping with families
Look for secluded group sites: Family groups can find appropriate accommodations at certain campgrounds. A Robinson Park visitor recommended, "There are two group campsites that are very nice, very well maintained, and very conveniently located to both rock climbing areas and water access, and are reasonably priced at $30 a night."
Consider amenity needs: Families may prefer campgrounds with more facilities. At Cloquet-Duluth KOA, one camper noted, "Came in August for Thomas the train in Duluth. This campground is great. Tons of trees for shade. Everything you Need to enjoy a weekend away. Pool, hot tub, WiFi, showers, arcade, laundry, c store, and lots more."
Plan for noise levels: Some campgrounds have more activity than others, which may affect family comfort. A Cloquet-Duluth KOA visitor observed, "This is your standard KOA with RVs and tents on top of each other. If you are just looking for a place to stay for the night, this campground will work great. If you're looking for peace and quiet over a weekend, look elsewhere."
Tips from RVers
Check campsite size before booking: RV sites vary significantly in size and privacy. At Cloquet-Duluth KOA, a reviewer noted, "It has all of the amenities, including a fenced in dog area, but the RV sites are close with no privacy. The cabins and tent area looked better."
Consider full hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer complete RV services. A Cloquet-Duluth KOA camper shared, "This KOA offers full hookups in some parts of the campground but our site was only water/electric so they offered a complimentary pump-out with a mobile truck during our stay."
Plan for dump station wait times: On busy weekends, dump stations can become congested. According to one camper, "Dump station is conveniently located on your way out of the grounds but can get backed up at the end of a busy weekend and can make it difficult to exit the campground."
