Best Tent Camping near St. Joseph, MN

The area around St. Joseph, Minnesota includes access for tent camping with several established campgrounds within driving distance. Lake Maria State Park Campground offers backpacking tent sites that require a hike of approximately one mile from the parking area. Mississippi River County Park provides primitive tent camping with boat-in access, making it suitable for paddlers traveling along the river. These tent-focused options provide varying levels of seclusion and natural settings within 30 miles of St. Joseph.

Sites at Lake Maria State Park feature level tent pads, fire rings, picnic tables, and food storage boxes. Most tent sites include a nearby vault toilet, though campers should bring their own toilet paper. The park maintains hiking trails that connect the campsites, with some sites positioned on small lakes or ponds. Mississippi River County Park and other watercraft campsites typically offer more primitive conditions with fire rings but limited other amenities. Tent campers should be prepared for minimal facilities at boat-in sites, which often lack drinking water, trash service, and modern restrooms.

"We really enjoyed the short hike to our campsite, BP7. The campsite was secluded and absolutely beautiful," noted one camper at Lake Maria State Park. The park's tent sites provide genuine seclusion, with many campers reporting they could barely tell anyone else was in the park. Sites are spread out along trails, offering privacy not typically found at drive-in campgrounds. Lake Maria's backpacking sites are particularly popular for beginners looking to try backpacking without venturing too far from the Twin Cities. During summer months, mosquitoes can be abundant, so proper insect protection is essential. Fall camping offers cooler temperatures and fewer bugs, making it an ideal season for tent camping in the area.

Best Tent Sites Near St. Joseph, Minnesota (27)

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Tent Camping Reviews near St. Joseph, MN

404 Reviews of 27 St. Joseph Campgrounds



Guide to St. Joseph

Tent camping near St. Joseph, Minnesota, offers a variety of scenic spots and outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. With options ranging from peaceful lakeside sites to well-equipped campgrounds, there's something for everyone.

Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $30

  • The Lake Maria State Park Campground provides a beautiful setting with amenities like picnic tables and fire pits, making it a great choice for a budget-friendly getaway.
  • At A J Acres Campground, you can enjoy a weekend stay with access to a swimming beach and fishing pier, typically priced around $30 per night.
  • For a more primitive experience, Oak Island Watercraft Campsite offers a unique spot on the Mississippi River, perfect for those looking to escape without spending a dime.

Tips for tent camping near St. Joseph

  • Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially during late spring to early fall; sites like Lake Maria State Park Campground are known for their natural beauty but also for their bug population.
  • Bring your own firewood, as some campgrounds, such as A J Acres Campground, do not provide it on-site.
  • If you're hiking in, consider lightweight gear; the Lake Maria State Park Campground offers backpacking sites that are spread out for privacy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near St. Joseph, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near St. Joseph, MN is Lake Maria State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 34 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near St. Joseph, MN?

TheDyrt.com has all 27 tent camping locations near St. Joseph, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.