When I think of true solitude intertwined with the gentle charm of rural life, Western Minnesota’s secluded towns come to mind. Away from the bustling cities and nestled amid rolling farmlands, these hidden gems offer a peaceful retreat like no other.
Each town holds its unique allure, from quiet riverside communities to tiny settlements where everyone knows each other by name.
Whether you’re seeking a serene vacation spot or considering a move away from urban life, these ten towns provide the perfect escape. Join me as I count down the most secluded towns in Western Minnesota that promise tranquility and a slower pace of life.
10. West Union Township – Seclusion Amidst Rolling Farmlands
West Union Township, with a modest population of around 400, is a tranquil area where sprawling farms stretch as far as the eye can see. I love taking leisurely drives through the countryside here, where the landscape is dotted with classic red barns and grazing cattle.
Agriculture is the heartbeat of this community, with most residents involved in farming and related industries.
What makes West Union Township truly secluded is its low population density and the vast expanses of land between homes, offering privacy and a deep connection with nature. It’s a place where the quiet is only broken by the rustling of cornfields and the distant hum of a tractor.
Where is West Union Township?
Nestled in Todd County, West Union Township lies in central Minnesota, though its westward charm aligns it with the tranquil vibes of the state’s western regions. Its seclusion stems from the surrounding rolling farmlands and the absence of major highways cutting through the area.
To get there, I usually take the scenic back roads off State Highway 71, enjoying every mile of the journey as the hustle of city life fades away. The township’s remote location ensures that even during peak seasons, you won’t encounter the crowds typical of more touristic spots.
9. Holloway – Tranquility in Swift County
Holloway is a quaint town boasting a tight-knit community of just under 100 residents. Walking through Holloway, I often feel like I’ve stepped back in time, surrounded by historic buildings and the simplicity of rural life.
The town doesn’t bustle with big industries but thrives on local farming and small businesses that cater to the community’s needs.
Holloway’s seclusion is evident in its low traffic and open spaces, where one can enjoy uninterrupted views of the prairie sky. The serenity here makes it a haven for anyone looking to escape the noise and pace of larger towns.
Where is Holloway?
Located in Swift County, Holloway is tucked away in the southwestern part of Minnesota. Its remote charm is enhanced by the miles of agricultural land that separate it from larger cities and highways.
I typically reach Holloway by taking State Highway 59 and then turning onto county roads that weave through picturesque fields. The town’s distance from urban centers contributes to its peaceful atmosphere, making the journey there a delightful transition from the busyness of everyday life.
8. Donnelly – Small-Town Charm in Stevens County
With just over 200 residents, Donnelly is a delightful community where everyone greets you with a friendly smile. I enjoy visiting the local parks and attending the annual Donnelly Threshing Bee, a festival celebrating the town’s agricultural heritage.
Farming is the cornerstone of Donnelly’s economy, and you can feel the strong sense of community among the residents. Its seclusion comes from being situated away from major roads, enveloped by vast stretches of agricultural land that offer peace and quiet rarely found elsewhere.
Where is Donnelly?
Donnelly sits in Stevens County, west-central Minnesota, a short drive northwest of the city of Morris. Its secluded nature is due to the surrounding farmland and the absence of significant commercial development.
When I visit, I prefer taking County Road 5, which leads directly into town, allowing me to soak in the rural scenery. The town’s location ensures minimal traffic and a tranquil environment, perfect for those looking to unwind away from bustling highways.
7. Swift Falls – A Secluded Riverside Community
Swift Falls, though unincorporated, holds a special place in my heart as a serene spot along the Chippewa River. The community here is small, and the large lot sizes mean neighbors are well-spaced, offering plenty of privacy.
I often come to Swift Falls Park to have a quiet picnic or to fish in the river’s calm waters. There aren’t many industries here—just nature and the leisurely activities it provides. The lack of commercial zones and the embrace of the natural surroundings make Swift Falls a truly secluded retreat.
Where is Swift Falls?
Positioned in Pope County, Swift Falls is nestled between the towns of Benson and Glenwood. Its location along the Chippewa River adds to its charm and seclusion, as the river serves as both a natural barrier and a scenic backdrop.
I usually reach Swift Falls by taking State Highway 29 and then winding my way along county roads that trace the river’s edge. The journey itself is part of the allure, gradually leaving behind the busier towns and entering a landscape where nature dominates.
6. Odessa Township – Nature’s Tranquil Embrace
Odessa Township offers a refuge for those longing to immerse themselves in nature’s quiet beauty. Home to around 400 residents, the township features large acreages and minimal housing density.
I find peace hiking through the rolling hills and exploring the patches of forest that dot the landscape. There’s little in the way of industry here, aside from agriculture, which suits the township’s tranquil vibe. The natural barriers, such as wooded areas and rivers, contribute to the seclusion that makes Odessa Township so appealing.
Where is Odessa Township?
Located in Big Stone County, Odessa Township lies near the western border of Minnesota, close to South Dakota. Its seclusion is enhanced by the Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge to the north, providing vast natural areas free from development.
I enjoy the drive along U.S. Route 12, which takes me through scenic vistas before arriving at this peaceful community. The township’s remote location ensures that it’s a place to disconnect from the rush of modern life and reconnect with nature.
5. Barry – A Hidden Gem Near the Dakota Border
Barry, with its tiny population of about 16 residents, is perhaps one of the most intimate communities I’ve encountered. The town is nestled in the countryside, surrounded by undeveloped land that amplifies its tranquility.
There’s a charming simplicity here, with no major industries—just the rhythm of rural life. I appreciate the solitude Barry provides, a place where one can truly get away. Its remote setting makes it a hidden gem for those seeking peace in the heart of nature.
Where is Barry?
Barry is situated in Big Stone County, just a stone’s throw from the Minnesota-South Dakota border. The town’s seclusion is partly due to its distance from major highways and larger towns.
I usually find myself navigating quiet county roads to reach Barry, savoring the vast open fields along the way. Its proximity to the border adds an extra layer of remoteness, making it feel like a world apart from the more populated areas of the state.
4. Johnson – One of Minnesota’s Smallest Communities
Johnson, with approximately 30 residents, offers a level of privacy that’s hard to match. The town rests amidst vast open lands, providing a respite from urban life that I find incredibly refreshing. There’s a certain charm in its quiet streets and the friendly waves from the locals.
The lack of industries and commercial businesses means that Johnson remains untouched by the hustle of economic pursuits, maintaining a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a place where one can truly unwind and enjoy the simplicity of small-town living.
Where is Johnson?
Located in Big Stone County, Johnson lies in western Minnesota, not far from the South Dakota border. The town’s secluded nature is due to its remote location and the expansive agricultural fields that surround it.
To get there, I often take State Highway 28 and then venture onto smaller county roads that lead into this tranquil area. The journey underscores the town’s privacy, as the landscape transitions into broader horizons and quieter surroundings.
3. Norcross – Serenity in Grant County
Norcross is a tiny town with a population hovering around 70. Whenever I visit, I’m struck by the peacefulness that permeates the area. The town is free from the busy traffic and noise of larger communities, with expansive rural surroundings providing a serene backdrop.
Agriculture plays a central role here, and I enjoy exploring the local farms and chatting with residents about the rhythms of the planting and harvest seasons. Norcross’s seclusion is a key part of its charm, offering a quiet retreat far from major highways and urban centers.
Where is Norcross?
Situated in Grant County, Norcross is nestled in western Minnesota’s prairie region. Its location off the beaten path enhances its secluded feel.
I usually reach Norcross by traveling along State Highway 9 and then turning onto local roads that wind through scenic farmland. The town’s removal from main thoroughfares makes it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy the simplicity and tranquility of rural life.
2. Dumont – A Quiet Haven Amidst the Prairies
Dumont, with fewer than 100 residents, is a tranquil community that offers a true escape into nature. Surrounded by endless stretches of farmland and natural landscapes, I find Dumont to be ideal for those seeking solitude.
There aren’t bustling industries here—just the gentle cadence of rural living. I enjoy visiting the local church and strolling down the quiet streets, where time seems to slow down. The town’s seclusion is palpable, providing a peaceful haven away from the demands of city life.
Where is Dumont?
Dumont is located in Traverse County, in the western reaches of Minnesota near the South Dakota border. Its secluded nature is due to both its small size and its location amidst vast prairies.
When I head to Dumont, I take State Highway 28, which eventually leads me to this quiet enclave. The journey through wide-open spaces accentuates the feeling of getting away from it all, making Dumont a perfect destination for those seeking peace and quiet.
1. Beardsley – Minnesota’s Westernmost Retreat
Beardsley, with a population under 200, holds the distinction of being Minnesota’s westernmost city. I love Beardsley for its vast open spaces and the profound sense of peace that comes from being so far removed from urban centers.
The main industries here revolve around agriculture, with many residents engaged in farming and related activities.
There’s a simplicity to life in Beardsley that I find deeply appealing, where community ties are strong, and the natural environment plays a central role. What makes it truly secluded is the sweeping landscapes that surround the town, providing a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle.
Where is Beardsley?
Situated in Big Stone County, Beardsley sits right on the border with South Dakota, marking the western edge of Minnesota. Its remote location contributes to its seclusion, with significant distances to larger towns or cities.
I usually reach Beardsley by taking U.S. Highway 75, enjoying the transition from more populated areas to the open prairies. The town’s position at the state’s edge gives it a unique sense of calm, as if it’s a gateway to the wider expanse of the American Midwest.
