The terrain surrounding Preston, Minnesota features forested river valleys, limestone bluffs, and rolling farmland at elevations ranging from 800-1,300 feet. The Root River and tributaries cut through the region, creating distinct microclimates where tent campers can find cooler temperatures in valley bottoms during summer months. Most primitive campsites in the area remain open from May through October, with limited winter accessibility.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Many tent campsites near Preston, Minnesota sit near Class 1 trout streams. At Aefintyr, campers can find "short drive to White Water State Park. A lot of great trout fishing spots along the river," according to Mike L.
Root River cycling: The Root River State Trail connects multiple camping areas. Houston Nature Center offers tent sites at the trailhead. "This campsite is at the trailhead for the Root River Bike Trail. This bike trail is so awesome and by far the best in the tri-state area!" notes Alison.
Wildlife observation: Preston area campgrounds provide opportunities to view native species. The Houston Nature Center campground connects to the International Owl Center. One camper mentioned the added benefits: "Spacious, level, well kept, quiet. $10/night, which is great. Spotless showers and bathrooms, access to drinking water. The International Owl Center was a welcome discovery."
What campers like
Dark sky viewing: Many rural tent sites offer minimal light pollution. Schmidt Farm by Forestville provides "the opportunity to explore both private trails and less traveled areas of Forestville State Park. Secluded campsites so you are not camping side by side with others," writes Karen S., who specifically mentioned "dark skies" as an attraction.
Water features: Streams enhance many camping locations around Preston. Tent sites at Gooseberry Glen Cart-in Campground in Whitewater State Park offer stream proximity. Molly Y. describes the experience: "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."
Fall colors: The bluff country around Preston provides excellent fall foliage viewing. One camper at Gooseberry Glen noted, "We were looking for beautiful fall colors a short drive from the twin cities for a one night camping trip... The hiking at Whitewater State Park is great. We did the 4 mile loop and it was perfect for us- a beautiful and challenging hike that wasn't too punishing."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary: Several tent camping areas have limited facilities. Reno Horse Campground in R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest offers primitive camping with no toilets or water. One visitor noted, "We backpacked to the quarry and found a large open area, perfect for multiple tents. The sandstone bluffs were in the background. There are multiple handmade rock fire pits, some rock chairs, tables and lots of space."
Reservation requirements: Most state park campgrounds require advance booking, while some forest service sites operate first-come, first-served. Houston Nature Center operates on a first-come basis with self-registration. "You can pay inside the Nature Center or at the slot between the restroom mirrors. The sites are first come, first serve."
Seasonal limitations: Many primitive camping areas close or reduce services after November. Oak Ridge Recreation Area in R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest typically operates May through November with no services during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Natural playgrounds: Several campgrounds include child-friendly natural features. Houston Nature Center offers a 1-acre natural playground near its tent sites. One reviewer described, "Trail Head Park has a 1 acre natural playground near the campsite. When I visited during the week, I only saw a small group of people using the playground. The playground has a zip line, tree house, small rock wall, and more."
Cart-in convenience: Families with younger children can utilize cart-in sites for easier gear transport. At Gooseberry Glen, "Right when you park you see the push carts and it is a very short walk to the campsite," making it accessible for families with children.
Educational opportunities: Combine camping with learning at Shady Rest Acres, where children can observe farm animals. "They have donkeys, Scottish Highland cows (a family of them), sheep, goats, chickens (and they'll even pick the bugs off your car), bees, horses, ducks, cats and dogs," notes Amy G.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV facilities: Most tent campsites near Preston lack hookups. Northend Campground offers basic electric access for small RVs. "Never stayed here, but drive by occasionally. Small lil park that they allow people to camp in. I've seen RV's and tents here," notes Michael V.
Alternative options: RV campers often bypass Preston for larger facilities along the Mississippi. Island Campground in Merrick State Park offers larger sites accessible to RVs with a short distance to carry gear. "These sites are in 1 of 3 campgrounds in the State Park. They are technically 'hike-in' or 'cart-in' but have a very short hike to get to."
