Tent camping options near Pine Island, Minnesota range from wooded settings to lakeside views within a 30-mile radius. The area experiences warm summers with average highs in the 80s and cold winters, making May through October the primary camping season. While the region is relatively flat with rolling hills, many camping areas feature diverse terrain with woodland trails and waterfront access.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, trails lead to the park's hidden waterfall, a popular destination for photographers. "We went there last July just go hiking for the day. The trails were great and at the end of the trails there were beautiful falls. The falls weren't huge but there were pretty. A lot of things to photograph," writes Halie B.
Winter activities: Several state parks remain open year-round, allowing for cold-weather camping and recreational opportunities. "Minnesota State Parks have just started to build Yurts for 3 campgrounds around the state; Afton, Cuyuna and Glendalough State Parks. These have some great amenities and are perfect for family camping, especially in Fall, Winter and Spring," notes Jason S. from Afton State Park Campground.
Water recreation: Lake access for swimming and paddling is available at Hok-Si-La City Park & Campground in Lake City. "The campground is very green and luscious, full of beautiful trees, plants and wildlife, we heard bullfrogs, owls, woodpeckers and more. This campground is a tent only campground with a couple cabins as well, which adds to its secluded feel," explains Beth W.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Gooseberry Glen Cart-in Campground, campers appreciate the secluded feel while still having amenities nearby. "We stayed in one of the cart-in sites. Right when you park you see the push carts and it is a very short walk to the campsite. You are able to slightly see 1 cart-in site neighbor, but besides that it was very private and quiet," reports Molly Y.
Riverside camping: Some of the best tent camping near Pine Island offers water views and sounds. "We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. We set up hammocks right next to the river. The hike from parking is not bad at all about a 10 minute walk from parking to the farthest site," says Nick G. about Cannon River Wilderness Area.
Diverse landscapes: The terrain around Pine Island provides varied camping environments from prairie to forest. "The hike to the campground is short and grueling. A few of the sites are in wooded areas, but we stayed in one of the prairie sites. The terrain is just hilly enough - and in August - the grass long enough to give the sites a sense of privacy and seclusion," describes Andrew C. about his Afton State Park experience.
What you should know
Site access considerations: Many of the best tent camping sites near Pine Island require some hiking to reach. "My campsite was perfect. The woods made it very secluded. It was close enough to water and bathrooms so it wasn't bad if you planned. They do have firewood available however it is long slab wood, so you do need to cut it yourself. Hand hacksaws are provided, but we're not great quality which made cutting the wood difficult," explains Adam P. about Afton State Park.
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds close during winter months or limit their operations. "This is a great campground for Fall camping. The color's are amazing. Nice hiking trails. Little area to get wet but not swimming. Sites are good and some can handle bigger RV's. Some Electric sites. Nice dump station. Closed all 2020 camping season for Covid," notes Tim B. about Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground.
Weather challenges: Spring camping can be wet in many areas. "Did a overnight in The rain at one of the walk ins. Great area. Everything you need close at hand. Wonderful trails and waterfall too," shares George W. about his experience at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Security features: Some campgrounds offer enhanced security measures. "This campground is a bit more spendy than state parks and regional campgrounds, but the security and family friendly atmosphere make it worth the extra cash. Stay in the N sites, they are a little more private, and a few offer great views of Lake Pepin," advises Emily H. about Hok-Si-La City Park.
Check bathroom facilities: Campground restroom quality varies significantly. "The bathroom/shower building was new and clean, the camp host was friendly and helpful, and the hike to the hidden falls did not disappoint. It's so close to the Twin Cities that it's very convenient for a weekend, or maybe a commute-to-work midweek getaway," writes Deb M. about Nerstrand Big Woods.
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping or during shoulder seasons, cabin rentals provide comfort. "We went to Aefintyr for a overnight with two friends. The cabin was cozy even during winter. The space was perfect for us. If you are up in the bluff, be sure to wear good shoes for the hike up," recommends Tiffany B. about Aefintyr.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: While tent camping opportunities abound near Pine Island, RV sites are more limited. "The sunsets were spectacular at the private beach, boat rental availability for a whole day, flexible and friendly. Hook ups a bit squished together and as always we rolled in late, and Saturday night had a very thick smoky haze due to the density and humidity," explains Jaime N. about Roberds Lake Resort and Campground.
Site selection for larger vehicles: Some parks accommodate bigger RVs, but access can be challenging. "This park has a nice, small campground. The sites have quite a few trees separating them, but most of the sites on the C loop back up almost into the sites on the right side of the B loop. Also, there's some sites that are tricky to back a trailer into, which would have been helped by some maintenance - there were LOTS of branches that needed to be trimmed back," notes Deb M. about her experience at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park.
