Best Dispersed Camping near Spring Valley, MN

Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest offers primitive campsites near Spring Valley, including notable hike-in overlook sites. The overlook camping areas feature tent shelters, fire spots, and picnic tables, but require a challenging uphill trek. Visitors can alternatively choose drive-in spots closer to parking areas for convenience. The forest provides free camping with access to toilets and water hookups, though no electric hookups or shower facilities are available.

Root River Canoe Campsite provides boat-in and walk-in camping options with a historical background. The site was originally built by Boy Scouts but has seen declining use in recent years. The river has changed course and now flows farther from the campsite than in past decades. A recent review noted, "It's free to stay here, and doesn't seem like people really camp here anymore. Has a pit toilet, picnic tables, and a fire ring. Ideal for tent camping via bike, kayak or canoe." Accessible via a fork in a bike trail, this remote site offers basic amenities for primitive camping experiences.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Spring Valley, Minnesota (3)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Spring Valley, MN

2 Photos of 3 Spring Valley Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Spring Valley, MN

3 Reviews of 3 Spring Valley Campgrounds


  • Michael V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2022

    Root River Canoe Campsite

    Old Boy Scout Campsite

    This was used and built by Boy Scouts ages ago. It’s still exist, however the river changed course and is further away than it once was. There is a bike trail that had a fork in the road that leads right to it someone could walk, hike, canoe or kayak to access this campground. I haven’t camped here since the 90’s, but have visited it in the last 5 years via bike, walking, and kayak. It’s free to stay here, and doesn’t seem like people really camp here anymore. Has a pit toilet, picnic tables, and a fire ring. Ideal for tent camping via bike, kayak or canoe.

  • Stephanie K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2020

    Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest Isinours Management Unit

    Best Hike In sites around

    The hike up the hill to the overlook is a daunting one. We used a collapsible wagon to haul all the supplies up the hill. There are two hike in sites here at overlooks that give spectacular views. The site has a shelter for the tent as well as other places outside for it. A fire spot and picnic table. Worth the hike.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest Isinours Management Unit

    Lovely space

    There are a few spaces with views you can hike in to but I opted for a spot next to my car. And ideal spot for a one nighter. I stopped here after a 12 hour drive got set up and even walked the trails for a few miles before bed.


Guide to Spring Valley

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Spring Valley, Minnesota, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest Isinours Management Unit

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Spring Valley, Minnesota

  • Be prepared to carry your supplies, as some sites, like the Root River Canoe Campsite, require a bit of effort to access, whether by foot, bike, or kayak.

Scenic views and outdoor activities for dispersed campers

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Spring Valley, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Spring Valley, MN is Richard J Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest Isinours Management Unit with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Spring Valley, MN?

TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Spring Valley, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.