Best Dispersed Camping near Mindoro, WI

Dispersed camping near Mindoro, Wisconsin is concentrated along the Mississippi River and surrounding forest areas. Crater Island offers free boat-in camping with no facilities except for sandy beaches. The area becomes quite busy on summer weekends with large parties in the cove, and access may be restricted during dredging operations. According to a visitor, "Big parties in the cove. No bathrooms no showers, just sand and water. Very busy on weekends in the summer."

Across the river in Minnesota, the Richard J Dorer Memorial State Forest Reno Unit provides free hike-in and walk-in dispersed camping. The terrain features steep trails with significant drop-offs and overlooks of the driftless region and Mississippi River. A camper wrote, "This is an awesome place to hike, not a very long hike but it's steep with drop offs. Not for those that are scared of heights." The Root River Canoe Campsite, accessible by boat, walking or biking, offers slightly more amenities with picnic tables, a fire ring, and pit toilets. This former Boy Scout camp sees limited use despite its proximity to a bike trail, with the river having changed course over the years.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Mindoro, Wisconsin (3)

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Mindoro, WI

3 Reviews of 3 Mindoro 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.

  • Michael V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2022

    Richard J Dorer Memorial State Forest Reno Unit Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful hikes overlooking the driftless and Mississippi

    This is an awesome place to hike, not a very long hike but it’s steep with drop offs. Not for those that are scared of heights.

    This is a hike in camping spot, camp spots are not well marked I stayed in the old rock Cory when I camped here, years ago.

  • Michael V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2022

    Crater Island

    Great place for camping via Boat

    Big parties in the cove. No bathrooms no showers, just sand and water. Very busy on weekends in the summer, as long as there is no dredging operations going on, otherwise it’s closed. If it is closed, there are plenty of islands and beaches near by to set up for camping.


Guide to Mindoro

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Mindoro, Wisconsin, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and outdoor adventures without the crowds. Here are some top spots to consider for your next camping trip.

Scenic Hiking Trails for Dispersed Campers

Relaxing Water Activities While Free Camping Near Mindoro

  • The Root River Canoe Campsite offers a unique opportunity for canoeing and kayaking, making it a great spot for water enthusiasts looking to enjoy a peaceful day on the river.

Campfire Gatherings at Crater Island

  • Gather around the fire at Crater Island, where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere with friends and family, especially during the busy summer weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Mindoro, WI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Mindoro, WI is Crater Island with a 3-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Mindoro, WI?

TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Mindoro, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.