Free dispersed camping along the Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway provides wilderness access across northern Wisconsin and Minnesota. The riverway extends 255 miles through forested landscapes with seasonal water levels fluctuating up to 10 feet between spring and late summer. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Grace Lake Road Dispersed offers productive fishing spots with easy water access. Michael S. notes, "You're about 20 foot from the water and fishing is good." Some sites provide direct river or lake frontage for convenient shore fishing.
Hiking trails: The Ice Age Trail connects to camping areas like Sandy Cove, offering both day hikes and backpacking options. According to Travis B., "Well managed gravel trail to the south and single wide footpath to the north" provide different hiking experiences for various skill levels.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at County Road O Landing present excellent bird watching. One camper mentioned waking up to "amazing bird calls" before 6am. The riverway supports over 100 bird species including eagles and herons.
What campers like
Remote quietness: Dago Lake camping areas provide exceptional solitude for tent campers seeking a primitive experience. Christine H. describes it as "Free dispersed camping off Dago Lake Road between Willow River & Sturgeon Lake. Quiet aside from the occasional car. Pitch black at night."
River access: County Road O Landing features boat launch facilities directly into the Saint Croix River. Jennifer H. reported, "We arrived in the late afternoon and drove all the way down the road, there are a few spots near the boat ramp and bathroom, but we parked near the trailhead and it was perfect!"
Natural settings: The surrounding landscape offers scenic camping with minimal development. Some sites feature sandstone cliff views while others provide riverside settings. At Grace Lake Road Dispersed, Julia D. found "super nice and peaceful! Lots of different dispersed spots."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some riverway campsites require permits while others don't. One camper reported, "I first went to the National Park Service Scenic Riverway Visitor Center in St. Croix Falls to obtain a permit and learned that I don't need one for Sandrock Cliffs."
Seasonal challenges: Early summer brings intense mosquito activity at riverfront locations. At County Road O Landing, Marie G. mentioned, "The spot itself was good and had restrooms. The only problem was the mosquitoes."
Site variations: Quality and amenities vary significantly between locations. Sandy Cove includes accessibility features as Travis B. notes, "The table has an extra long side for those in a wheelchair. The crushed gravel path to the south makes travel to the nearby Lions park easy."
Off-season advantages: Fall camping offers reduced crowds and fewer insects. Hunters may be present during autumn as Jennifer H. observed, "There were a few hunters out but they weren't anywhere near us."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Some sites have better supervision options than others. For Chinty Lake Roadside Camp, one reviewer cautioned, "This is literally just a roadside pull off not really a campsite (and the road was kinda busy), two girls traveling did not feel comfortable spending the night here."
Accessibility factors: Consider hiking distance to campsites when bringing children and gear. Some areas require significant walks from parking areas, while others allow direct vehicle access.
Facilities planning: Most dispersed sites lack running water and modern facilities. County Road O Landing provides vault toilets near the parking area, which families appreciate during longer stays.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many forest roads have narrow clearances that restrict larger vehicles. At Grace Lake Road, Michael S. warned, "gate is very narrow had to fold the mirrors on my Tacoma to squeeze through but if you park at the entrance it's a short walk."
Alternative parking: When RV access is difficult, consider parking at trailheads and walking to campsites. This strategy works at several riverway locations with limited vehicle clearance.
Site selection: County Road O Landing accommodates both tents and RVs with more level parking areas. Jennifer H. suggests driving "all the way down the road" to find the best spots for vehicles.
