Best Dispersed Camping near St. Francis, MN
Dispersed camping opportunities exist in several state forests and public lands near St. Francis, Minnesota. The Sand Dunes State Forest offers free primitive camping along gravel roads south of Ann Lake, while Rum River State Forest provides multiple dispersed sites along forest roads. Additional options include sites within the Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway in neighboring Wisconsin, accessible from various landing points including County Road O Landing and Sandrock Cliffs areas.
Most dispersed sites are simple pull-offs from forest roads with minimal to no amenities. Sand Dunes State Forest features sites along County Roads 233-237, while Rum River State Forest has clearings along dirt roads that accommodate various camping setups. Many areas permit camping for up to 14 days during summer months and 21 days in cooler seasons. No drinking water, toilets, or trash services are available at most locations, though some Saint Croix Riverway sites provide basic vault toilets near parking areas. Vehicle accessibility varies significantly, with some areas requiring high-clearance vehicles during wet conditions or winter months.
These primitive camping areas provide varying levels of seclusion and natural experiences. Rum River State Forest sites are noted for their privacy and wildlife viewing opportunities, with one camper reporting, "I spent 3 days here with only one car passing through on the first night. After that, nothing!" Sand Dunes State Forest offers quiet camping but experiences occasional traffic on main forest roads. Visitors should prepare for insects, particularly ticks and mosquitoes, which are frequently mentioned in reviews. Cell service is generally unreliable throughout these areas, especially in Sand Dunes State Forest where multiple campers report "weak cell service" or complete lack of connectivity. The Saint Croix Riverway sites provide scenic river access but can become crowded during peak summer months.
