The best camping near Huntersville State Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Huntersville adventure.

Discover the natural allure of Huntersville State Forest.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Huntersville State Forest

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Huntersville State Forest

Shell City Landing Campground

19 sites · RVs, Tents In Huntersville State Forest

from

$14

/ night

Huntersville Forest Landing Campground

24 sites · RVs, Tents In Huntersville State Forest

from

$14

/ night

Shell City Horse Campground

35 sites In Huntersville State Forest

from

$14

/ night

Top-rated campgrounds near Huntersville State Forest

Sunset Pines MN

71 sites · Lodging, RVs50 acres · Backus, MN

Mike and Loellen discovered Ruttger’s Camping Resort in the winter of 2005 while driving around the area and scanning websites for trailers. We bought a trailer on a seasonal site and have thoroughly enjoyed our summers here ever since! Our sons grew up on the lake, boating and fishing and exploring the area and we have developed a wonderful lake-family. We have watched Bill and Candy Ruttger build the resort into the beautiful property that it is today and feel privileged to have the opportunity to now share it with you. Under our new ownership and with a new name, Sunset Pines MN in January 2023, we are eager to carry on the legacy created by our friends and mentors. We welcome you to enjoy our piece of “Up North” Minnesota lake-life with your family and friends, and don’t forget to enjoy a sunset or two! Mike & Loellen

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RV There Yet Campground

19 sites · RVs80 acres · Akeley, MN

The 80-acre property is carved out of a Norway pine plantation. Sites are approximately 10,000 square ft. in size with about 50 ft. of trees between each site for semi-privacy. We have tried to maintain a balance of nature while making the sites as RV friendly as possible. Although the property is located in the country, it is located along a state highway for easy access and there are three towns and many amenities and recreational venues within 15 minutes drive. Currently no hook-ups, but there is a yard hydrant and dump station. There are also portable restrooms on site. More details at https://rvthereyetcampground.com/

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Northland Paradise

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents6 acres · Park Rapids, MN

Welcome to the north woods! Camper available next to a small private beach, a larger public beach, two fishing piers, and a boat access onto Long Lake! Also within walking distance to a very nice restaurant. You'll have access to paddle boards and kayaks and assorted water toys for your stay. The camper is a 37 foot '97 Dutchmen Royal that has been updated, it features a queen bed and a full size futon. Sleeps 4. It's a pretty nice spot!

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Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow

2 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Nevis, MN

Bought this property as a woodlot and family camp. Now sharing with others. Very private 4 acre campsite in stand of Norway Pines and Birch overlooking the 4th Crow Wing Lake. Not off grid, but close to it. There is no potable water, just a peaceful Pine and Birch wooded area overlooking the lake. This location has two power stands 175ft apart. (20, 30, 50 amp Electric) Ideal if you’re camping with friends/family. Pull your RV in or pitch a tent and stay as long as you like. 8 miles south of Nevis in the Heartland Lakes area. Adjacent 8 acres of 'Common Use' woods and picnic area with dock for fishing. Or bring a canoe/Kayak to launch. 4th Crow is NOT a recreational lake, but great for fishing, waterfowl and wildlife spotting. Fire pit, picnic table and swing on site. 9 miles from Heartland Biking Trail and within 3 miles of OHV/Snowmobile trails access. No wifi, and cell service is not so good except at the entrance. Wonderful public swimming beach 3 miles away on Big Stony Lake.

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Willow Acres an RV Resort

8 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Park Rapids, MN

Being in the resort business my whole life, I had a dream of developing this one of a kind property into something I could share with vacationers. To build something that has never been done. Travelers that experience these sites agree they are truly exceptional!Learn more about this land:Check out the web site for Willow Acres in Park Rapids! parkrapidsrvpark. comDo you want to get off the beaten path and get away from the crowds? Then this Park is for you! Sit under the stars by you fire with no one else around!All sites are PULL THROUGH, level and wooded, which offers great privacy. Full hook ups with 50 amp service, water and sewer. Easily accessible. Great camper setup area.There are many local amenities near by and tourist attractions nearby. 5 minutes from town and approximately 20 minutes from Itasca State Park. Rental opportunities are available by Weekly $175, Monthly $550.

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Wise Woods on Fool Lake

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · MN

Located at the end of a private road on Fool Lake with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The lake is quiet and calm. Fool Lake is a private, environmental lake, with many varieties of fish. Perfect for kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and swimming. Boating is allowed up to 40 hp via gated private launch (no tubing or skiing). The land slopes to the lake where you will find small dock and a few stairs into the water. Well for water and electricity available including a 30 amp hookup for RV campers. Large outhouse also has electricity. Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, and Emily, as well as nearby Nisswa and Crosslake. This central location offers access to any and all amenities. After a day on the trails, in town, or on the water, an evening at the at the fire pit overlooking the lake is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, lake and nature surrounding you. We expect all guests to respect the neighborhood, lake and nature! **November to early spring the water access will be winterized and NOT available for use. Any winter camping is at your own digression and snow removal will only be provided on the neighborhood road(s) up to the entrance of the site. Getting into the site could be difficult depending on the snow conditions.** Note: there is currently a locked camper & small kids house on site not available for use. Things To Do: Cuyuna Mountain Bike Trails - https://www.cuyunalakesmtb.com/ https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/cuyuna/mtnbiking.html Cuyuna Lakes State Trail: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/cuyuna_lakes/index.html Super Premium Gourmet Cheeses, Artisan Ice-Cream, Wine & Spirits, MN Goodies & More - https://shopvictual.com/ Bike Rental, Sales, Service, Food, Coffee, Etc. - https://www.redraven.bike/ Soo Line Museum - http://www.cuyunahistory.org/museum.html Milford Mine Memorial Park - https://www.crowwing.us/294/Milford-Mine-Memorial-Park Serpent Lake and Crosby Memorial Park/Playground Hard Water Lounge - https://www.hardwaterlounge.com/ Paul Bunyan Land - https://paulbunyanland.com/ Paul Bunyan Trail: the longest Minnesota bike/hike trail at 120 miles! Dennis Drummond Winery - https://ddwco.com/ 20-min drive from Crosby! Traditions Mini Golf - https://www.traditionsminigolf.com/ Mille Lacs Lake - Minnesota’s second-largest inland lake. Places To Eat: Iron Range Eatery - http://ironrange.3cheersmn.com/ Rafferty's Wood Fired Pizza - https://raffertyspizza.com/location/crosby/ North Country Cafe - https://north-country-cafe.business.site/ Cuyuna Brewing Company - http://www.cuyunabrewing.com/ The Bridge Tavern - http://bridgetavernmn.com/ Jack Pine Brewery - https://www.jackpinebrewery.com/This is in Baxter, MN. Fire Shack - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069785463122 Burritos California - https://zmenu.com/burritos-califirnia-crosby-online-menu/ Mixed Company - http://www.enjoymixedcompany.com/ Hill City Coffee - https://www.facebook.com/C4HillCity

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Velkommen to Norske Camp!

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Backus, MN

I bought this land near Pine River in August 2018. I wanted to have my own hunting land and something that was close to town and trails. A property that had a potential of multi-recreational use for people to enjoy while visiting. There are about 40 acres of county land surrounding three sides of the property. The main trail on my land goes thru the majority of the county land and loops back connecting to my main trail again.

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The Forest Container

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Deerwood, MN

Tree house, tiny home, shipping container, luxury hotel - the Forest Container is all of these things. Set in a lush forest valley, this is an incredible and unique place to stay. The property is within the Cuyuna mountain bike area, between the Yawkey and the Cruser's Kettle trailheads. There is a fire ring as well as a great deck upon which you can camp or otherwise relax and enjoy the view of the forested valley. The container is heated and cooled, and the container has a luxurious warm tiled shower, sink, toilet (cassette style), power and of course, as pictured, a beautiful small bedroom and living room. Coffee machine and mini fridge included on the deck. 👍🏼

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Fire Tower Pond

1 site · Tent40 acres · Pine Point, MN

Campsite is set next to a large pond, deep in the woods on 40 private acres. The pond is accessible for swimming/kayaking/canoeing. Beautiful Itasca State Park is directly across the road from the property with biking, hiking, nature drives, boating, fishing, equipment rentals, dining and more. Within a few miles are several local eateries. The area has many miles of ATV trails and the Heartland Bike Trail.

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Harvest Loon Camp

1 site · Lodging24 acres · Outing, MN

👷: Re-Opening early June. Currently under construction to build new bathhouse 🚽! Stay Tuned! 🌲 Picturesque lakeshore property located on 24 acres, with almost 2,000 feet of lake access right in front of the cabin. 🏕 Serene, peaceful and unrivaled privacy. Water sports and trails for hiking make Harvest Loon Camp the perfect spot to relaxation and fun. 🪵 Wood burning stove for heat, with wood available for use. 🔌 Power now available: refrigerator, AC, stove and lights DO work. 🛌 Campers WILL NEED to provide own bedding, (pillows and linens) for bunk and queen sized bed and towels. 🍳 Kitchen has antique pots, pans, utensils, coffeepot, microwave, toaster, stove and refrigerator for your use. 🚽 Port-o-let provided on site and cleaned after each visit. 🌟 Gorgeous furnished porch to watch wildlife. Grocery store within 5 miles. 🦆 George Lake is well known for duck hunting and there are quad trails all over the area. This location is also perfect for horseback riding. 🐎 Horse campers welcome! Pets should always be leashed at all times when outdoors to protect from wildlife and pet waste should be removed from property. Please bag all garbage and take it with you when you go. Kayaking State Land surrounds Harvest Loon Camp for peace and relaxation.

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Detroit Lakes

5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Detroit Lakes, MN

This old homestead belonged to my belated uncle Steve, and after he passed unexpectedly, I had returned to Minnesota from California and wanted to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for those interested in sharing a peaceful and modest property. The old barn is a work in progress to eventually become the base to accommodating more travelers and outdoor enthusiasts as finances permit. After working in the service industry bartending for 14 years and hosting 100+ global travelers via CouchSurfing out of San Diego, I am well versed in creating an inviting space and intend to take the necessary precautions now with the added stresses of Covid-19. We look forward to meeting you and sharing/swapping stories around the campfire!Learn more about this land:Our property and profile are in constant change as we are in a stage of development, but we look to share our land with those seeking to enjoy a warm, welcome environment for those fellow wanderers, outdoor enthusiasts, vagabonds, and globetrotters. I am a well-traveled backpacker myself and share 5 1/2 acres with my father here in a bustling little touristy town. We enjoy the company of those who endorse small footprint, sustainable practices and I eventually intend to create an eco-hostel from the conversion of our 100 year old barn. All we ask is that you respect the property, our neighbors, and make an effort to add one more new friend before you depart.

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Wolf Lake Woods Rustic Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent30 acres · Frazee, MN

Secluded spacious tent or smaller RV/ camper campsite set way back on a private wooded road on our 30 acre property surrounded by farm land, woods, wetlands and a pond. Private pond borders campsite. Close access to nearby lakes and state forest lands provide ample fishing, swimming and off roading opportunities as well. Less than 1 mile from town of Wolf Lake for convenience while still offering seclusion and privacy!

The best camping near Huntersville State Forest guide

Overview

About

Find the very center of Minnesota on a map, put your finger on it, and then move it up just a little bit. What you are now pointing at is Huntersville State Forest, 52 square miles of nuthin’ but trees and pure wilderness. Can you smell the pines? Even Yankee Candle can’t recreate that.

For every tree you see there are ten reasons you should visit this place. Huntersville Forest is like an office for outdoorsy types. Hikers, campers, fishers and adventurers, it’s time to leave the computers behind and log some serious work on these rivers and trails.

Notable campgrounds

Walter Stark Horse Campground – A haven for equestrian campers, featuring road and campsite improvements for an enhanced wilderness experience.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot at the popular Walter Stark Horse Campground, especially during peak seasons.
Check for cancellations regularly as plans change and spots may open up unexpectedly.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
Explore nearby camping options if your preferred dates are not available.

When to go

The best time to visit Huntersville State Forest is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers lush greenery but can be busy, while winter presents a quiet, snowy wonderland, albeit with some accessibility challenges.

Know before you go

Verify road and campsite conditions prior to arrival, as construction may affect access.
Be prepared for encounters with local wildlife by reviewing safety guidelines.
Check the forest's website for the latest updates on closures and restrictions.
Ensure you have the necessary permits for activities like fishing and hunting.
Remember to pack out all trash and respect the forest's natural environment.