Moose River ATV - Dispersed Camping

About Campground

Dispersed camping is allowed in Minnesota state forests. Dispersed camping is different from camping in a designated campground. It is a wilderness experience for campers who enjoy camping far from others and do not need any amenities.

There are no amenities. No bathroom, pit toilet, water pump, fire grate, trashcan, or picnic table.

State forest maps are a great guide; many are available as downloadable geopdfs.

No fee. First-come, first-served.

Where to disperse camp

You must camp at least one mile outside of designated campsites or campgrounds on state forest land. Park vehicles in parking lots or safely on the full shoulder of a road. Do not block road or trail traffic with your vehicle. You cannot camp at parking lots or trailheads.

Campsite selection

Dispersed campers can camp in any suitable site that already exists or any opening in the woods - such as a natural clearing, meadow, or timber sale landing. You cannot create new campsites by cutting trees or vegetation.

Pick a location that has level ground with good drainage. Place camping equipment to avoid damage to plants and do not camp within 100 feet of any water source.

Dispersed camping rules

All dispersed campers are responsible for obeying state forest rules and regulations in Minnesota Rules.

State forests are open to dispersed camping unless otherwise posted.

Do not dig or trench the ground around your tent.

Bury human waste (if vault toilets are not available) and animal parts, such as fish guts, at least 150 feet from a water body and away from areas where it could cause a nuisance or hazard to public health.

Collect only dead wood lying on the ground for campfires within the state forest.

Do not block trails, roads, or gates with your vehicle.

Building permanent structures of any kind is prohibited.

You must remove all garbage.

Summer dispersed camping is limited to 14 days.

Dispersed camping is limited to 21 days between the second Sunday in September and first Saturday in May.