Plainview, Minnesota's surrounding state forests and waterways provide natural dispersed camping opportunities in southeastern Minnesota. The region's elevation ranges from 900 to 1,300 feet with terrain featuring steep bluffs and river valleys. Most free camping near Plainview can be found within the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest, offering rustic sites with minimal facilities across its 40,000 acres of public land.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: The Zumbro Bottoms State Forest includes hiking trails passing directly by dispersed camping sites. Access requires navigating dirt roads, with southern approach recommended as "sometimes the gate on the river bridge to the north is closed," according to camper T S. at Zumbro Bottoms State Forest.
Bike trail access: The Root River State Trail connects to several camping areas, making cycling a practical way to reach campsites. One visitor notes that at Root River Canoe Campsite, "there is a bike trail that had a fork in the road that leads right to it someone could walk, hike, canoe or kayak to access this campground."
Water activities: Kayaking and canoeing are popular ways to reach some camping areas. The Root River provides water access to Root River Canoe Campsite, though be aware that "the river changed course and is further away than it once was," according to Michael V.
What campers like
Convenient car camping: Not all free camping near Plainview requires hiking. At Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest, Demeri C. found "a few spaces with views you can hike in to but I opted for a spot next to my car. And ideal spot for a one nighter. I stopped here after a 12 hour drive got set up and even walked the trails for a few miles before bed."
Free site availability: No-cost camping is consistently available in the area without reservations. The Zumbro Bottoms area offers designated dispersed sites that are free to use year-round, providing budget-friendly alternatives to commercial campgrounds.
Solitude options: Many sites in the region see limited use. For instance, at Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest Isinours Management Unit, campers can find walk-in sites that offer more privacy than drive-in locations, with some offering shelter structures for tents.
What you should know
Water planning: Drinking water availability varies significantly between sites. While Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest provides water hookups at some locations, most dispersed camping sites near Plainview require campers to bring their own water supply.
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed camping can be challenging, particularly after rain. The low-maintenance dirt roads leading to Zumbro Bottoms sites may become difficult for standard vehicles during wet weather.
Historical changes: Some sites have evolved over time. The Root River Canoe Campsite was "used and built by Boy Scouts ages ago," but Michael V. observes that while "it's still exist...it doesn't seem like people really camp here anymore. Has a pit toilet, picnic tables, and a fire ring."
Tips for camping with families
Transport solutions: When camping with children at sites requiring hiking, consider equipment to transport gear. At Richard J Dorer overlook sites, one solution is using "a collapsible wagon to haul all the supplies up the hill."
One-night options: For families testing camping with young children, choose accessible sites. Demeri C. recommends Richard J Dorer as "an ideal spot for a one nighter" where you can quickly set up near your vehicle and still access hiking trails.
Facilities assessment: Check recent reports on toilet facilities before visiting with families. Root River Canoe Campsite maintains a pit toilet, but conditions may vary seasonally as this site receives limited maintenance.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed camping near Plainview is unsuitable for larger recreational vehicles. None of the forest sites are considered big-rig friendly, and access roads often have clearance limitations.
Alternative options: RV campers should consider developed campgrounds within driving distance of Plainview rather than dispersed sites. The forest service roads leading to most free camping areas aren't maintained for larger vehicles and lack hookups.
