Question: Hammocking in Minneapolis

[Algonz]

I needed a place to test gear when I lived in an apartment so I looked at a map of the area (google maps) and was surprised at all the options nearby.

[sescallier]

I doubt if camping is allowed here, but I can see the western edge of this woods from my deck, that I do sleep on... hang at your own risk and leave no trace please (unnecessary to state, just gotta do it though). I just love this place being so close.

Mind the widow-makers! 200 year old trees everywhere...

http://www.startribune.com/local/min...149446305.html

Though I am replying two years later, this area is great!

If you enter at the church parking lot and head to the left until you hit the lake, instead of going further left up the ridge follow the lake on the trail heading right. You will eventually come to a little area with about 6 perfect trees right at the water a bit off the trail. A few people pass by and are super friendly.


Carver in the fall is my favorite spot so far right in the cities.

[TonyYarusso]

In addition to the nearby state parks (Afton, Lake Maria, William O'Brien, Interstate, Wild River, Nerstrand, and Frontenac), there's also Sand Dunes state forest and several regional parks that offer camping (Bunker Hills, Rice Creek, Lake Elmo, St. Croix Bluffs, Lake Byllesby, Lebanon Hills, Whitetail Woods, Baker, Carver, and Cleary Lake). Unfortunately there are very few options for primitive LNT camping south of Mille Lacs, since state and national forests are the only places that offer that.

[SteveJJ]

Though I am replying two years later, this area is great!

If you enter at the church parking lot and head to the left until you hit the lake, instead of going further left up the ridge follow the lake on the trail heading right. You will eventually come to a little area with about 6 perfect trees right at the water a bit off the trail. A few people pass by and are super friendly.


Carver in the fall is my favorite spot so far right in the cities.

You found the site of the parks namesakes cabin. The cabin was relocated to the medina city hall property on cty 24. What a wonderful place for a settler to live. It's still wonderful.

[sescallier]

Nice! I had no idea, but I agree! Fabulous area!

[mooseprime]

I know this is an old thread, but this it involves areas close to me. Wild River State Park has been my favorite place to camp since I was a kid, with Jay Cooke a close second. Lake Maria is also good but be prepared for the quiet serenity of Sandhill cranes making noise ALL night... but that may be a seasonal thing.