Best Tent Camping near Staples, MN
Tent campsites along the Crow Wing River Water Trail offer primitive camping experiences near Staples, Minnesota. Several established tent camping areas, including Knob Hill, Bullard Bluff, and Frames Landing, provide access points for paddlers and walk-in campers. These riverside tent sites are part of a larger network of campgrounds managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, with most sites situated within a 15-mile radius of Staples.
Most tent sites in the area feature basic amenities including fire rings and picnic tables, though facilities vary significantly between locations. Bullard Bluff and Frames Landing campgrounds provide drinking water and vault toilets, while Knob Hill offers more primitive conditions with no drinking water or toilets on site. Access to these tent campgrounds typically involves either boat-in approaches via canoe or kayak, or drive-in access on dirt roads that may require high clearance vehicles in some locations. A recent review noted that Knob Hill "is off the beaten path for sure. It's more of a trail than a road for the last part," highlighting the remote access conditions tent campers should anticipate.
The tent camping experience near Staples centers primarily around river access and paddling opportunities. Many sites serve as waypoints for multi-day paddling trips along the Crow Wing River Water Trail. Sites typically offer spacious tent pads with forest cover providing shade and privacy between camping spots. The river setting creates opportunities for swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing. According to one visitor, the Frames Landing campsite features "rustic" facilities but "large" campsites with "pit toilets in good shape." Though some sites show evidence of maintenance needs, most remain well-maintained with adequate firewood provided. Tent campers should be prepared for occasional wildlife encounters, including bears, particularly at riverside locations where proper food storage is essential.
