16 RV sites · 3 tent sites
Nestled in a historically rich area, this campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The region was once the disputed territory of the Chippewa and Sioux tribes, where raiding parties created a challenging environment for early settlers. The first white explorer to traverse the future Benson area was Gideon S. Pond, an Indian missionary who sought to understand the local tribes' customs while accompanying a hunting party along the Chippewa River.
It wasn't until after the Great Sioux Uprising that western Minnesota became a safe haven for white settlers. Ole Corneiliusen, a Norwegian immigrant, is believed to be the first permanent resident of the Benson area, arriving in 1866. By this time, the railroad had extended from Minneapolis to Delano, paving the way for increased settlement in western Minnesota.
The early development of Benson and Swift County was closely tied to the railroad's expansion. In 1869, A.W. Lathrop and W.V. Lathrop opened the first general store in anticipation of the railroad's arrival. By 1870, the railroad had reached a designated trading center named "Benson," honoring a notable politician from Anoka. This rich history adds a unique charm to