Tent camping opportunities within 30 miles of Savage, Minnesota range from secluded backcountry sites to family-friendly group areas. The region features a mix of prairie, woodland, and river landscapes with elevations generally between 700-900 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F during the day with overnight lows around 60-65°F, creating favorable conditions for overnight stays from May through September.
What to do
Hiking trail exploration: At Lake Maria State Park Campground, backpacking campers can access numerous wooded trails. "We could see one other camper in a different site, but it still felt like you were in the wilderness," notes Lydia N. The park features both lake views and forest immersion with "winding wooded trails, wildflowers, and glimpses of the lake through the trees."
Beach and swimming access: Several parks offer swimming opportunities during summer months. One visitor at William O'Brien State Park Campground mentioned "You can hear frogs all night and we even saw a turtle laying eggs in a different campsite." The park provides "tons of hiking, fishing, and great picnic area next to the river."
Wildlife viewing: Many parks near Savage support diverse bird and animal populations. "We saw pileated woodpeckers, red squirrels, and a chorus of chorus frogs," reports a visitor about Lake Maria. Dawn and dusk hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities across the region's parks.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate parks with adequate space between tent sites. At Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground, "The tent pad was very spacious and flat, great for sleeping! The bathroooms and showers were clean and well lit," according to Hannah Y. The separation between sites creates a more peaceful experience.
Natural features: The combination of water access and wooded areas draws many visitors. "The walk in site was great - close to parking with plenty of tree shade," writes Matt C. about Nerstrand's walk-in sites, while another visitor notes "Hidden water falls and some what secluded sites" as highlights.
Seasonal considerations: Fall brings spectacular colors to many parks. One visitor at William O'Brien mentioned, "We love this park!! very friendly and well kept! Two campgrounds to chose from." Another camper noted Nerstrand is "a great campground for Fall camping. The color's are amazing."
What you should know
Backpacking preparation: For Cannon River Wilderness Area, "The hike from parking is not bad at all about a 10 minute walk from parking to the farthest site." Pack accordingly as "you have to backpack everything you need in." The sites offer hammock camping opportunities along the river.
Insect population: Bug activity varies by season and location. "The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon," reports one Lake Maria visitor during peak summer. Consider permethrin-treated clothing and adequate repellent, particularly during May through August.
Water access variability: Water sources differ between parks. A visitor to Nerstrand notes, "Water was easy to access, but the pit toilet is in the next loop over." Cell reception can be spotty - one visitor reported "Cell reception for T-Mobile was minimal to non-existent" at William O'Brien.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Parks with playground facilities provide entertainment options for children. At Lake Rebecca Park Reserve, visitors praise "the best kids park at any campground I've been to" and note it has "an amazing beach. Great Trails. Sweet single track for mountain biking."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing can be educational. At William O'Brien, a visitor reports "This campground is lovely. You can hear frogs all night and we even saw a turtle laying eggs in a different campsite." Evening ranger programs often occur during summer weekends.
Short hiking distances: Consider campgrounds with minimal walking distance for younger children. At Cannon River, "We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. We set up hammocks right next to the river," making it manageable with children.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: At Afton State Park Campground, tent sites require a hike in, but camper cabins offer alternatives. "Perfect little cabin nestled in the southern half of the park! Screened in porch, heated with electricity, and two double bunk beds!" describes Alison O. about the Eastern Bluebird cabin.
Access challenges: Narrow roads can create difficulties. At William O'Brien, "the road into this group site only is wide enough for one vehicle at a time," which requires planning when towing trailers.
Winter accessibility: Some parks offer year-round options. "Minnesota State Parks have just started to build Yurts for 3 campgrounds around the state; Afton, Cuyuna and Glendalough State Parks. These have some great amenities and are perfect for family camping, especially in Fall, Winter and Spring," notes Jason S.
