Tent camping near Mora, Minnesota features wooded sites situated within mixed coniferous and hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 900 to 1,200 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during daytime hours, with significant cooling at night even in July and August. Most primitive sites require campers to navigate unpaved forest roads that can become challenging after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Hiking to observation points: At Lake Maria State Park Campground, trails lead to scenic viewpoints and wildlife observation areas. "Great trails and a fun experience. Good trails and a really cool fire tower that you can climb and see all of the surrounding area," notes a visitor who recommends spring or fall visits to avoid peak mosquito season.
Rock climbing: Robinson Park Camping offers access to former sandstone quarry sites now used for climbing. "This campground is really great... Rock climbing including the state's best 12a/b!!! Sigma lives up to the hype," shares one camper. The park includes information boards about the quarry's history near the river portage.
Fishing and paddling: Multiple water access points allow for fishing and paddling opportunities throughout the region. "Robinson Park encompasses much of what was once a sandstone quarry... The park also has picnic area, boat launch, canoe launch and portage around nearby rapids, and the end of a white water rafting route," explains a visitor detailing the park's recreational options.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Most campers appreciate the seclusion offered at tent sites near Mora. At Ogechie Campground, one camper shares: "We chose one of the dispersed sites so had to walk aways but worth it! We had a pretty nice spot on bottom of hill away from everyone. It was nice and secluded."
Secluded forest settings: Tent sites are typically set back in forested areas with natural screening. "The spot I stayed in was the most secluded I could find. It was through a ditch and up a small hill and set back in the woods," explains a visitor describing a primitive site at Rum River State Forest.
Proximity to wildlife viewing: Many sites offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Lake Maria State Park, a camper notes: "We saw pileated woodpeckers, red squirrels, and a chorus of chorus frogs. Nature feels close here — in the best way."
What you should know
Seasonal bug considerations: Insect activity varies dramatically by season. "Beautiful state park, but WAY too many mosquitos in the summer. We had at least 100 bites after our trip," reports one camper at Ogechie Campground, suggesting spring or fall visits instead.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas have minimal or no facilities. "No potable water, grey dump, nor trash cans, but it's rugged wilderness along a gravel road with plenty of space to park," explains a camper at Rum River State Forest.
Water sources: Reliable drinking water is scarce at primitive sites. At Governor Knowles State Forest, a camper notes: "You might be able to get enough to filter but don't count on it in later summer months." Most dispersed campers need to bring all water from home.
Wildlife concerns: Some campers report wildlife issues, particularly at established campgrounds. One Ogechie Campground visitor warns: "Mice essentially had their way with every part of my vehicle in one night!!! 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
Choose walk-in sites wisely: Family camping with younger children works better at sites with shorter hike-in distances. "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!" reports a camper at Lake Maria State Park.
Pack appropriate gear: Family camping requires careful preparation, especially for remote sites. "If you're new to hiking, I suggest doing some research if you're going to attempt stuff like this. I camped here back in 2020 of November. Overpacked, along with not packing the right gear and didn't have a cart," advises a Lake Maria camper.
Consider camping cabins: For families seeking more structure, cabin options exist. At Trade River Equestrian Camp, a camper notes: "Just a nice quiet campground and the sites are fairly private. Lots of hiking and close to the river for some kayaking etc."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most tent sites near Mora cannot accommodate larger vehicles. At Robinson Park, a reviewer explains: "Realistically, each site was only big enough for one tent. I was a little nervous that I wouldn't get my peace and quiet with the campground being so close to town but it did not disappoint!"
Road conditions: Forest access roads present challenges for vehicles. "The hike in was not easy. Downed trees over uphill sections, large sections of mud and some overgrown brushy spots," reports a camper at Trade River, highlighting why tent camping is more practical than RV access in many areas.
Plan for tent-only areas: Most primitive sites are designed specifically for tent camping with no RV hookups. "The road back to the sites was a small two track with giant pot holes and lots of overgrowth," notes one Robinson Park visitor, indicating why these areas are generally unsuitable for recreational vehicles.
