The Cannon Valley and St. Croix River regions surrounding Welch, Minnesota offer diverse tent camping opportunities from primitive wilderness sites to more developed options with basic amenities. Located at approximately 700 feet elevation, the area experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cool nights, making it ideal for tent camping from late spring through early fall. Seasonal flooding can affect lower-elevation sites near the Cannon River, particularly during spring snowmelt.
What to do
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds near Welch feature extensive trail networks through diverse ecosystems. At William O'Brien State Park, one camper noted, "We loved the trails. It was easy to takes hikes of varying lengths. There were so many different kinds of birds, and the wildflowers were blooming and ferns were unfurling - so many shades of green!" The park offers both prairie and woodland trails suitable for different skill levels.
Swimming beaches: During summer months, several camping areas provide water access for swimming. At Hok-Si-La City Park, visitors appreciate "the nice little swimming beach" with one reviewer mentioning "great lake access for swimming and a shower houses (bring your quarters though, showers cost 50 cents for 3 minutes)." Most swimming areas lack lifeguards, so appropriate water safety precautions should be followed.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: The diverse habitats around Welch support varied wildlife observation opportunities. One camper at Hok-Si-La noted, "On our last stay, we were able to watch eagles from our campsite, which was amazing." Spring and fall migrations bring additional bird species through the area, making these seasons particularly good for wildlife enthusiasts.
What campers like
Secluded group sites: Many campers value the privacy of group camping options in the area. At Hok-Si-La, one reviewer mentioned, "The group sites are spacious and well spaced out... you definitely don't feel like you are on top of each other or another group." Another camper noted these sites are "spacious and the cleanest outhouses I have ever seen."
Water access: The region's rivers and lakes are major draws for tent campers. One camper at Cannon River Wilderness Area shared, "We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. We set up hammocks right next to the river." These primitive sites require hiking in gear approximately 10 minutes from parking areas.
Fall camping: The changing colors make autumn a popular time for tent camping in the region. A visitor to Nerstrand Big Woods State Park stated, "This is a great campground for Fall camping. The color's are amazing. Nice hiking trails." The park's deciduous forest creates particularly vibrant seasonal displays from mid-September through mid-October.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Operating schedules vary significantly across campgrounds near Welch. Nerstrand Big Woods operates from "April 1 to October 23," while some smaller campgrounds have more limited seasons. One camper noted, "Sites at Hidden Valley Campground operate seasonally from May through mid-October."
Primitive facilities: Several wilderness camping areas offer minimal amenities. A camper at Cannon River Wilderness Area explained, "The 2 camp sites are a good little hike in and you have to backpack everything you need in." These free sites include pit toilets but no potable water sources.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance bookings, especially during peak summer weekends. At William O'Brien, one camper observed, "Weekends have been packed and reservations scarce for months at state parks in Minnesota. Arriving on a Sunday afternoon was a dream—very few people in the campground loop."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin alternatives: For families new to camping, several parks offer cabin accommodations. At Afton State Park, one visitor described their experience: "Camper Cabin (Eastern Bluebird) - Perfect little cabin nestled in the southern half of the park! Screened in porch, heated with electricity, and two double bunk beds!" These cabins typically require booking 3-6 months in advance.
Tent site selection: When tent camping with children, site location becomes particularly important. One camper at Nerstrand explained, "The tent pad was very spacious and flat, great for sleeping! The bathroooms and showers were clean and well lit." Sites closest to bathrooms are typically preferred for families with young children.
Nature programs: Several parks offer ranger-led programs suitable for families. A visitor at William O'Brien mentioned, "We walked some trail through a frozen marsh landscape and happened upon a railroad that passed above our trail with a beautiful tunnel-overpass." Many programs are scheduled during summer weekends and holidays.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Welch have restrictions for RV camping. At Nerstrand, one RVer noted, "There's some sites that are tricky to back a trailer into, which would have been helped by some maintenance - there were LOTS of branches that needed to be trimmed back." Confirming site dimensions before booking is essential.
Seasonal considerations: RV camping in the area presents different challenges throughout the season. A camper at Nerstrand observed, "Sites were great but a little wet. Some of the south trails are closed because its too wet." Spring camping often faces muddier conditions, while fall typically offers drier sites.
