Best Dispersed Camping near Minneapolis, MN
Scattered around the outskirts of Minneapolis are several dispersed camping areas for campers who prefer basic, rule-following wilderness stays. The rough dirt roads leading to Minneapolis City Park Campground's remote spots require good vehicle clearance and complete self-sufficiency since no facilities exist there. Minneapolis Area State Park allows wild camping in certain undeveloped sections, but you'll need to follow Leave No Trace practices and camp away from main areas. The backcountry sites in nearby National Forest land come with specific rules about how far you must camp from roads and water. When staying at Minneapolis Recreation Area, remember that everything you bring in must go back out with you. Fire bans happen frequently, especially in dry months, so check current rules before your trip. Many of these sites sit at the end of rutted roads that small cars can't handle. Since you won't find bathrooms, water spigots, or garbage cans, pack accordingly with water containers and waste bags. Most areas limit stays to 14 days before you need to move on. Weather can be tough in winter and mid-summer, making spring and fall the better times to go. Double-check land boundaries on maps since rules change depending on whose land you're on.
