Tent camping options around Spicer, Minnesota extend across the Minnesota River Valley and central lakes region with elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,300 feet. The area experiences warm, humid summers with temperatures averaging 70-85°F from June through August, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with occasional rainfall. Campsites range from riverfront locations to wooded settings within county parks and state recreation areas.
What to do
Fishing spots: Vicksburg County Park offers riverfront camping with catfish opportunities. "Fun, good for catfish. Wonderful views of mn River. Lots of places to choose for dispersed camping. Public water access for river," notes Jamison W.
Horse trails: At Skalbekken County Park, campers can access extensive horse trails throughout the park. "Lots of horse trails. Very clean and well kept. Water. No elec. Hookups but nice and quiet," reports one visitor.
Water recreation: A J Acres Campground provides water equipment rentals for summer adventures. "You can rent boats, kayaks and paddleboards for a small fee. If you want to walk the whole campground having a golf cart would be nice," mentions Joe S.
What campers like
Creek access: Beaver Falls County Park offers sites directly adjacent to water. "Beautiful rustic camping spots throughout the park..picnic table & firepit at each spot & bathrooms nearby..can camp right next to the creek..fun fishing for kids," writes Trudi.
Privacy: Lake Maria State Park features secluded backpacking sites with significant separation. "Backpack sites only. Love this park as it offers many backpacking sites with some being very short hikes in and some being longer hikes. Some are lake front and some are more woodsy sites," explains Tori K.
Historical surroundings: Birch Coulee County Park offers camping near a significant historical site. "I love this camp ground way back in a historical site. Very special place," shares Jamison W., noting its proximity to Jackpot Casino for those seeking evening entertainment.
What you should know
Bug preparation: Bug protection is essential, particularly during summer months. "When we pulled up to the parking lot we knew we were in trouble. The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon," warns one Lake Maria visitor.
Limited facilities: Many campgrounds operate with basic amenities only. "Good spot to stop for a short stay. Not much room for bigger rigs to get around but doable if dry," notes a reviewer about Beaver Falls County Park.
Water access considerations: At Lake Maria State Park Campground, water pumps can present challenges. "My only complaint... The pump for the water was very slow," mentions Brian C. about his otherwise positive experience.
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration: Beaver Falls offers shallow water play opportunities ideal for children. "Fun fishing for kids..trails throughout the park for walking..horse camping avail also..beautiful place to relax and have some fun!" recommends Trudi.
Beach selection: A J Acres provides designated swimming areas suitable for families. "The beach area is nice, but the only problem is that boaters and kayaks are in the same general area so you have to be careful so you don't get hit," cautions Joe S.
Short hike options: Cozy Corners offers family-friendly amenities without challenging terrain. "This place was great! There is a park, baseball field, lodge, fish cleaning building, indoor pool, bathhouses, and laundry center," reports Tori K.
Tips from RVers
Tree navigation: A J Acres presents challenges for larger rigs. "Navigating around trees was not so fun with our 5th wheel. We got the slideouts to fit in between the trees," shares Nettie W., recommending careful site selection.
Limited electric options: Many of the best tent camping near Spicer, Minnesota have few or no electric sites. "No real rv sites or electric," notes a Vicksburg County Park visitor, suggesting generator backup for RV campers.
Seasonal considerations: RV campers should note that most sites with full hookups are taken by seasonal campers. "A drive around showed many seasonal, if not permanent, trailers and campers. Limited availability to sewer hookups, only about 5 true pull thrus, taken by seasonal," observes Nettie W.
