Best Dispersed Camping near Shorewood, MN
Camping options near Shorewood, Minnesota include dispersed sites in the Sand Dunes State Forest, located approximately an hour from the Twin Cities metropolitan area. This state-managed forest offers primitive camping experiences with no developed amenities, primarily along gravel roads south of Ann Lake. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) maintains these dispersed camping areas where visitors can find pull-off sites nestled between pine stands and open sandy stretches. Both tent and small RV camping are permitted, though the forest's rustic nature makes it best suited for self-sufficient campers seeking a more natural experience within relatively close proximity to urban areas.
Road conditions and site accessibility vary throughout Sand Dunes State Forest, with most camping spots located along main gravel roads. As one camper noted, "There's lots of little spots off the main gravel road. Nothing allowed further into the forest." Stay limits are typically 14 days during summer months and extend to 21 days in cooler seasons. Visitors should be prepared for primitive conditions as the area lacks drinking water, toilets, trash receptacles, and other amenities. Cell service is notably unreliable throughout the forest, with multiple campers reporting minimal to no coverage even with major carriers. Seasonal considerations include significant mosquito and tick activity during warmer months, along with prevalent poison ivy throughout the forest.
Campers consistently mention the relative quiet and privacy as primary attractions of the Sand Dunes State Forest sites. "Campsites were pretty far apart. Not bad, quiet, aside from the occasional truck speeding through," reported one visitor. Wildlife sightings are common, with birds being particularly notable. Several reviews mention vehicle traffic as a potential concern, with some reporting fast-moving vehicles on the forest roads. Conflicting enforcement regarding RV camping has been reported, with one camper noting, "I had a county sheriff person tell me it's not lawful to park a trailer and they kicked me out. I called the DNR and they said that wasn't right." The forest's proximity to the Twin Cities makes it popular for quick getaways, with many appreciating the accessibility despite its rustic nature.
