Best Dispersed Camping near Ellsworth, WI
Dispersed camping opportunities near Ellsworth, Wisconsin include two notable areas: Zumbro Bottoms State Forest in Minnesota and Sandy Cove on the St. Croix River in Wisconsin. These primitive camping locations provide alternatives to developed campgrounds for those seeking more remote experiences. Zumbro Bottoms State Forest is accessible via low-maintenance dirt roads, while Sandy Cove is located along the Ice Age Trail. Both areas represent typical dispersed camping options in the region, requiring minimal impact camping practices and self-sufficiency.
Access to Zumbro Bottoms State Forest requires careful navigation, particularly when approaching from the north where gates near the river bridge may be closed. Visitors should plan to enter from the southern route for more reliable access. Sandy Cove features a crushed gravel path that connects to nearby Lions Park, making it somewhat more accessible. Neither location provides drinking water, and amenities are extremely limited. Sandy Cove offers basic facilities including a fire ring, picnic table with wheelchair accessibility, and an open-air vault toilet. Permits are required for camping at Sandy Cove, while alcohol is prohibited at Zumbro Bottoms.
The camping experience varies significantly between these locations. Zumbro Bottoms provides a more remote forest setting with hiking trails passing near the dispersed sites. According to a review on The Dyrt, "There is a parking spot near a known dispersed camping site with easy vehicle access next to it." Sandy Cove offers riverfront camping along the St. Croix, though site conditions can be affected by seasonal factors. As one visitor noted, "When the river is lower with the fire ring and table where they're supposed to be this would be a nice place for the night." The proximity to trails and recreation areas makes both locations convenient for outdoor activities, though campers should be prepared for varying levels of maintenance and occasional evidence of heavy use.
