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Best Dispersed Camping near Palisade, MN

7 Reviews

Hill River State Forest provides several free dispersed camping options near Palisade with sites accessible via 640th Lane. The forest road winds considerably with sections in poor condition, making it unsuitable for trailers unless equipped with 4x4 and off-road capability. A visitor commented, "I wouldn't recommend any trailers unless you have 4x4 and the trailer is set up for offroad." 2WD vehicles can navigate the area with caution. Multiple camping spots are available off the main road, including a secluded area at the dead end known locally as "deer camp."

Mabel Lake State Dispersed camping area offers lake access with room for multiple vehicles or small groups. The site features four fire rings, a picnic table, and a sandy boat launch. The access road is generally good but narrows after turning toward the camping area. According to one camper, "I was able to back to the water to have a gorgeous view from bed." For those seeking a different experience, Paul Bunyan Trail Canoe Campsite provides free camping along the Pine River, accessible by foot, bicycle, or paddle craft. This site includes fire rings, picnic tables, and toilet facilities, making it somewhat more developed than other primitive camping options in the area.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Palisade, Minnesota (6)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Palisade, MN

6 Photos of 6 Palisade Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Palisade, MN

7 Reviews of 6 Palisade Campgrounds

  • Joni Z.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2025

    Mabel Lake State Dispersed

    Large clearing in the woods

    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.

    ATT is usable enough that I probably won't try Starlink, but there may be enough clear sky.

    The road in is good, but gets narrow after you turn off for the spot.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 17, 2024

    Hill River State Forest

    Quiet dispersed sites

    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. 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. There are numerous spots off the road to camp. I stayed over at the very dead end, which, on Google, is labeled "deer camp." It's quiet and deep in. Good luck. No amenities.

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2021

    Paul Bunyan Trail Canoe Campsite

    Pristine spot on the Pine River!

    This is a beautiful deeply wooded double campsite along the scenic Pine River. It is accessible only by foot, bike or paddle, for trekkers on the Paul Bunyan Bike Trail or the Pine River Water Trail. For paddlers, the campsite is right on the river between River Mile 35 and 36, just south of the town of Pine River. For bikers or hikers, it is about a half mile south  down the trail from the Bites Bar and Grill  to the turn off west on a dirt trail about a half mile down to the river. There are two campsites avaialble, for separate campers or for a group to encompas the whole camping area. Fire ring, picnic table, tent clearings available. There is no cost to camp here, but also no way to reserve either of the sites, and in accordance to trail etiquette if you show up on your bike or in your canoe ready to camp but someone else is there, they should share the camping space with you. 

    Map of the water trail is here: 

    https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/maps/canoe\_routes/pine.pdf

    General info on the water trail is here: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/watertrails/pineriver/index.html

    Map of the Paul Bunyan Bike Trail is here: https://files.dnr.state.mn.us/maps/state\_trails/paulbunyan\_heartland.pdf

    General info on the bike trail is here: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state\_trails/paul\_bunyan/index.html

  • samuel C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Hill River State Forest

    Okay

    There were a good amount of spots, and I seemed to be the only person. Was a good and secluded. I did hear some weird noises throughout the night, but all was well. It is your average dispersed site. I made it fine with 2wd, just take it slow.

  • Brittany
    Sep. 15, 2020

    Paul Bunyan Trail Canoe Campsite

    Loved it!

    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. The trail in to the site was fun to ride on bike, there was plenty of down wood for a fire and would love to return!

  • Tracy M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 25, 2024

    Moose River ATV - Dispersed Camping

    Dirt Parking Lot

    Absolutely nothing interesting about this place. It’s just a standard issue dirt lot with a slight incline. Open parking, no sites.

  • Joni Z.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 17, 2025

    Mabel Lake State Dispersed

    Beautiful on the lake

    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.

    There is a large puddle and so many mosquitos.

    Is say there's comfortly room for eight campers or a small group.

    My signal rating may be higher than normal as it's on an Intsy Connect antenna. My phone is getting 1 bar ATT.

Guide to Palisade

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Palisade, Minnesota, where nature lovers can find secluded spots to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. With a variety of options available, campers can enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness without the distractions of modern amenities.

Secluded Spots for Dispersed Campers

  • For those seeking solitude, Hill River State Forest offers numerous secluded sites where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Unique Activities While Free Camping Near Palisade

  • If you're an outdoor enthusiast, the Paul Bunyan Trail Canoe Campsite provides access to scenic canoeing opportunities along the Pine River, perfect for a day of paddling and exploration.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Palisade, Minnesota

  • When planning your trip, consider the winding roads leading to Moose River ATV - Dispersed Camping, as they may require a vehicle suited for off-road conditions to ensure a smooth arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Palisade, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Palisade, MN is Hill River State Forest with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Palisade, MN?

TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Palisade, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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