Best Dispersed Camping near Prior Lake, MN
South of Sand Dunes State Forest offers primitive dispersed camping approximately one hour from the Twin Cities metropolitan area, near Prior Lake. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources manages this area, where campers can establish sites along gravel roads south of Ann Lake. Pull-off spots are positioned between pine stands and open sandy areas, providing a wilderness experience without designated facilities or infrastructure. This free camping area follows DNR guidelines for dispersed camping on public forest land.
Access to camping areas comes via County Roads 233-237, with multiple small parking spots available along the main gravel road. Vehicles can reach most sites, though some areas better accommodate smaller vehicles and trailers rather than large RVs. According to DNR regulations, camping is permitted for up to 14 days during summer months and 21 days in cooler seasons. The area features no amenities - no toilets, drinking water, trash receptacles, or other facilities. Cell service is minimal throughout the forest, with most carriers reporting weak to no signal coverage.
The dispersed sites offer a quiet camping experience with opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and complete immersion in nature. Visitors should be prepared for various environmental challenges, including prevalent poison ivy and seasonal mosquitoes. Most camping spots provide adequate space between sites for privacy. "Great spot with plenty of parking, best for straight vehicles or very small trailers," noted one camper. While generally peaceful, some reviewers mention occasional traffic along the main forest road, with one reporting: "Fairly small spots. This road is pretty busy for a dirt forest road and people fly down it." Wildlife sightings include various birds, and some campers report encounters with sand hill cranes that are "very protective."
