Best Tent Camping near Waseca, MN
Tent campsites near Waseca, Minnesota range from established state park campgrounds to more secluded wilderness areas. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground, located about 20 miles northeast of Waseca, offers both standard tent sites and walk-in tent camping options with pea gravel tent pads. The Cannon River Wilderness Area provides more primitive tent camping experiences with sites nestled along the river, requiring a short hike from the parking area.
Most tent sites at Nerstrand Big Woods feature fire rings and picnic tables, with access to modern bathroom facilities including showers. The walk-in sites, while not far from parking areas, provide slightly more privacy than the main campground. A camper noted, "The walk-in site was great - close to parking with plenty of tree shade." Tent pads at many sites have been upgraded to pea gravel, which helps with drainage during wet weather. The Cannon River Wilderness Area offers more rustic accommodations with basic amenities like drinking water and vault toilets, but no electrical hookups or showers.
Tent campers at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park benefit from well-maintained hiking trails leading to Hidden Falls, a popular natural feature within the park. The outer loop of non-electric sites provides a more wooded, secluded experience compared to the central camping area. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "The outer non-electric sites are much nicer" for those seeking a more authentic tent camping experience. The Cannon River Wilderness Area appeals to campers looking for greater seclusion, with sites that can be accessed via a 10-minute walk from the parking area. These primitive tent sites are positioned along the river, making them ideal for paddlers or those who prefer camping with natural water sounds. During spring, Nerstrand Big Woods is known for its wildflower displays, adding visual appeal to the tent camping experience.