Best Dispersed Camping near Shakopee, MN
South of Sand Dunes State Forest provides primitive dispersed camping approximately one hour from the Twin Cities. This Minnesota DNR-managed land offers several pull-off camping spots along gravel roads south of Ann Lake, primarily on County Roads 233-237. Camping is free and legal for up to 14 days during summer months and 21 days in cooler seasons on these public forest lands.
Access roads are unpaved gravel with varying conditions that most vehicles can navigate, though some areas may benefit from AWD or 4WD capability depending on weather and specific routes. Several visitors note that some side roads are closed to motor vehicles due to past issues with illegal dumping. The area features truly primitive camping with no amenities - no toilets, drinking water, trash receptacles, or other facilities are provided. Cell service is minimal throughout the forest, with many campers reporting unreliable coverage even with major carriers.
The camping area is characterized by a mix of pine stands and open sandy stretches, creating opportunities for both wooded and more exposed sites. Wildlife viewing includes various bird species, and the area offers relative quiet despite occasional vehicle traffic. Visitors should be prepared for mosquitoes, ticks, and poison ivy, which multiple reviewers mention as prevalent throughout the forest. "Be aware if you have an RV though. I had a county sheriff person tell me it's not lawful to park a trailer," notes one camper, highlighting potential confusion between county and DNR regulations about trailer camping. Another mentions, "Most spots are by water. We did find one we thought we liked, but branches overhung and rested on our camper."
