Saint Croix National Scenic River, MN is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Saint Croix National Scenic River is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
"You have to walk upstairs to get to it, but there were quite a few campsites as you walk along the hiking trail."
"Good location"
"Lots of different dispersed spots. Go down Tamarack Forest Road, which is a little further than the location on here."
"Stayed a night here on our way up to the boundary waters 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 You’re about 20 foot"
"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!"
TravelerI absolutely love this campground. You have to walk upstairs to get to it, but there were quite a few campsites as you walk along the hiking trail. Each one has a fire pit and a picnic table, and you could probably fit three or more tense at each site. We were there in June and there was only one other group there. The hiking trail was awesome also, you hike along the Saint Croix river. We had some cell service. There is a pit toilet by the parking lot. No trash, showers or water that we saw. 
ScoutThis spot was super nice and peaceful! Lots of different dispersed spots. Go down Tamarack Forest Road, which is a little further than the location on here.
TravelerPublic water access. No camp sites at this location
GuideWe 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! There were a few hunters out but they weren’t anywhere near us, I’d definitely recommend this spot
TravelerThe spot is along the ice age trail. Well managed gravel trail to the south and single wide footpath to the north.
There is a pad at the bottom of the path up to the open air vault toilet, a fire ring, and a table. 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.
The ease of access probably makes this a hangout spot as we saw a good amount of refuse around the pad. The pictures are probably worst case scenario. We visited in April after historic snowfall and thaw causing the river to flood. I'd imagine when the river is lower with the fire ring and table where they're supposed to be this would be a nice place for the night. Right on the beautiful st.croix river.
TravelerNice place for camping, on the sandstone cliffs, beautiful area. Good location
GuideThis campsite is about an hour away from where I live. The listing here on The Dyrt seemed promising, and I hoped that by getting out there early I would find a nice spot. 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, I was already there so I got one anyway. About 40 minutes later I arrived at Sandrock Cliffs. The campsites all have a fire ring and are decently spaced apart, but most of the sites were full of trash and broken tent poles. There was a large group of kids that arrived by canoe/kayak just after I did. Soon the parking lot was also full of cars of some shady looking people who appeared to be looking for a spot to party. The kids seemed to have deterred these people from staying. I set up my camp and started to read a book. The kids began running through my campsite and upset my dog. After 3 times of them running through my campsite I just packed up and went home. Since this spot is accessible by road I'm assuming that its best not to visit in the summer, it seems to be a place that gets abused by the locals as a party area. I may consider visiting again in the fall when it is hopefully less busy.
GuideThis 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 and went somewhere else
ScoutStayed a night here on our way up to the boundary waters 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 You’re about 20 foot from the water and fishing is good
Dispersed camping near the Saint Croix National Scenic River in Minnesota offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of locations to choose from, adventurers can find spots that cater to different preferences and experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Sandrock Cliffs campground on the St. Croix River?
Sandrock Cliffs offers basic amenities for a rustic camping experience. Each campsite features a fire pit and picnic table with space to accommodate three or more tents. The campground is located on scenic sandstone cliffs overlooking the river, requiring a walk up stairs to access. The site provides beautiful views of the surrounding area. While the amenities are minimal, the natural setting is the main attraction. The campground can be accessed via hiking trail with multiple sites distributed along the path. Be prepared for a true rustic camping experience without modern facilities like running water or electric hookups.
Where is dispersed camping allowed along the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway?
Dispersed camping is allowed at several designated sites along the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. County Road O Landing Dispersed River Camp offers camping near a boat ramp with bathroom facilities and trail access. Grace Lake Road Dispersed provides waterside camping spots, though note the narrow gate entrance may require folding mirrors on wider vehicles. Other dispersed camping options include Sandy Cove and Norway Point. For many sites along the riverway, it's advisable to check with the National Park Service Visitor Center in St. Croix Falls to obtain necessary permits before camping.
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Saint Croix National Scenic River?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Saint Croix National Scenic River is Sandrock Cliffs — Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway with a 3.7-star rating from 3 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Saint Croix National Scenic River?
TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Saint Croix National Scenic River, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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