Wild River State Park Main Campground

For Minnesota locals yearning for a genuine escape into the heart of nature, Wild River State Park Main Campground near North Branch offers an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourselves in a tranquil wilderness experience. This "very nice campground" is celebrated for its "large camp sites and very spread out lots," providing a sense of privacy and seclusion often hard to find. Situated along the scenic St. Croix River, it’s a destination perfect for those who truly appreciate quiet, extensive hiking trails, and abundant wildlife, away from the constant buzz of modern life.

The reviews from past visitors offer valuable insights into what makes this campground unique. One traveler highlighted its quiet charm, noting, "Perfect for the person liking quiet, no phone sort of trip." This immediately sets the expectation for a serene environment, free from the distractions of cell service, making it an ideal spot for a true digital detox. While this might be a consideration for some, it's precisely what others seek for a profound connection with nature. Another enthusiastic camper praised the park's offerings, stating, "This is a very nice campground with large camp sites and very spread out lots of hiking trails and things to see." This speaks to the generous space afforded to each campsite and the wealth of opportunities for exploration within the park.

The sprawling network of hiking trails is a significant draw, allowing visitors to delve deep into the park's diverse landscapes. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks or a more vigorous hike through wooded areas, Wild River State Park provides "lots of hiking trails and things to see." The natural beauty, ample space, and quiet atmosphere combine to create a deeply relaxing and refreshing experience. While one reviewer mentioned that it was "quite the jaunt to get to, pretty far from attractions," for the discerning Minnesotan who prioritizes seclusion and immersion in nature over proximity to commercial attractions, this is precisely the appeal.

Wild River State Park Main Campground is clearly designed for those who value peace, privacy, and unspoiled natural beauty. It's a place where the sounds of the wilderness replace the ring of a phone, and vast trails invite endless exploration. For Minnesotans ready to embrace a quiet, back-to-basics outdoor adventure, this campground offers an authentic and highly rewarding experience.

Wild River State Park Main Campground is located on an Unnamed Road near North Branch, MN 55056, USA. While the specific address might seem generic, it points to its position within the expansive Wild River State Park, a sprawling natural area along the picturesque St. Croix National Wild and Scenic River. This strategic location places it on the eastern edge of Minnesota, bordering Wisconsin, and roughly an hour northeast of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area.

For Minnesota locals, accessing Wild River State Park involves a drive that, as one reviewer noted, can be "quite the jaunt." From I-35, visitors typically take State Highway 95 to County Road 12, driving about 3 miles on County Road 12 to the park entrance. While it offers a sense of being "far from attractions" and "secluded," this very characteristic is a core part of its appeal for those seeking a true wilderness experience. The journey is part of the retreat, leading you away from the urban clamor and into a peaceful natural setting.

The park's location along the St. Croix River is a major highlight, offering significant opportunities for water-based recreation, including canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Various launch points are available, and the park even offers on-site canoe and kayak rentals, along with a shuttle service. Despite the remote feel, the well-maintained park roads allow for relatively easy navigation once inside, ensuring campers can reach their "large camp sites and very spread out lots." This blend of serene seclusion and access to a nationally protected river makes Wild River State Park Main Campground a compelling destination for Minnesotans eager to explore the natural beauty of their state.

• Drive-in Campsites: The Main Campground features 94 drive-in sites, accommodating both tents, trailers, and RVs (up to 60 feet).
• Electrical Hookups: 34 of the 94 campsites in the Main Campground are equipped with electrical hookups (20, 30, and 50 amp service).
• Walk-in Campsites: In addition to drive-in sites, the park also offers 33 walk-in sites for a more primitive experience.
• Group Campsites: There are 3 group campsites available for larger gatherings.
• Equestrian Campsites: The park includes a separate horse campground with 20 campsites (15 with electrical hookups), hitching posts, and manure bins.
• Canoe/Backpack Sites: Offers 4 canoe sites along the St. Croix River and 7 backpack sites for more rustic, remote camping.
• Restrooms and Showers: Modern restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers are conveniently located throughout the campground (seasonal operation for showers). Vault toilets are also available.
• Potable Water: Drinking water stations are located throughout each loop of the campground.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A seasonal dump station is located near the main campground entrance.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is furnished with a picnic table and a fire ring for outdoor cooking and enjoyment. Some sites also include BBQ grills.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase at the park office ($6/bundle), with self-pay options available when the ranger station is closed. Gathering outside firewood is prohibited to prevent the spread of tree-killing insects.
• Canoe and Kayak Rentals: On-site rentals are available on an hourly and daily basis, along with a shuttle service for paddlers.
• Visitor Center: An all-season trail center and visitor center with exhibits and environmental education programs are open year-round.
• Naturalist Programs: Environmental education and interpretive programs are often offered.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome on a six-foot leash in designated areas, including campsites and trails.

• Large, Spread-Out Campsites: Reviewers consistently highlight the "large camp sites and very spread out lots," offering significant privacy and a less crowded feel. Many are "wooded, secluded sites."
• Extensive Trail System: Features an impressive "35 mile trail system" for hiking, biking, and in winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Trails along the river are particularly praised.
• St. Croix River Access: Direct access to the St. Croix National Wild and Scenic River for paddling, fishing (northern pike, walleye, smallmouth bass, catfish), and scenic views.
• Secluded and Quiet Atmosphere: Ideal for those seeking tranquility, with one review noting it's "very secluded with no cell phone service" and "perfect for the person liking quiet, no phone sort of trip."
• Abundant Wildlife: Offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, with sightings of deer, various bird species (including eagles), raccoons, foxes, and coyotes reported.
• Clean Facilities: Includes "very clean showers" and well-maintained restrooms.
• Varied Camping Options: Provides a wide range of camping types, including drive-in, walk-in, group, equestrian, backpack, and canoe sites, catering to diverse preferences. Six camper cabins are also available.
• Year-Round Activities: While summer offers hiking and water sports, winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing make it an all-season destination.
• Interpretive Programs: Naturalist programs and a visitor center enhance the educational aspect of a visit.
• Scenic Beauty: The park's diverse landscapes, including grasslands, forests, and oak savannas, provide picturesque views.

Address: Unnamed Road, North Branch, MN 55056, USA (within Wild River State Park)

Park Office Phone: (651) 583-2125

For Minnesota locals, Wild River State Park Main Campground is a profoundly suitable destination, particularly for those who cherish authentic outdoor experiences and a genuine escape from the digital world. Its location near North Branch, while offering a sense of seclusion, is still within a manageable driving distance from the Twin Cities, making it an ideal choice for a weekend retreat or a longer, immersive vacation.

The core appeal for Minnesotans lies in the park's commitment to natural tranquility and ample space. The "large camp sites and very spread out lots" provide the privacy and peace that many seek, a stark contrast to more crowded recreational areas. This quiet atmosphere, combined with the limited to no cell phone service, offers a rare opportunity for a true "digital detox," allowing locals to fully reconnect with nature and their companions without interruption. This is precisely what makes it "perfect for the person liking quiet, no phone sort of trip."

Furthermore, Wild River State Park's extensive trail system—totaling 35 miles—is a significant highlight, inviting hikers, bikers, and nature photographers to explore its diverse landscapes. The direct access to the St. Croix National Wild and Scenic River provides abundant opportunities for paddling, fishing, and simply enjoying the serene river views. For Minnesotans who pride themselves on their love for the outdoors, this park delivers on all fronts: abundant wildlife, scenic beauty, and varied recreational pursuits.

While some might consider its distance from major attractions a drawback, for the discerning local, this very remoteness is its strength. It ensures a less commercialized, more genuine outdoor experience. The well-maintained facilities, including clean showers and accessible dump stations, provide necessary comforts without detracting from the natural setting. Ultimately, Wild River State Park Main Campground offers a sanctuary where Minnesotans can truly unwind, explore, and find solace in the unspoiled beauty of their home state, making it a highly recommended destination for a restorative outdoor adventure.

Wild River State Park Main Campground

Unnamed Road, North Branch, MN 55056, USA