Best Camping in and near Huntersville State Forest

Discover the natural allure of Huntersville State Forest.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Huntersville State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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

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

Shell City Landing Campground

19 sites · RVs, Tents In Huntersville State Forest

from

$14

/ night

Top-rated campgrounds near Huntersville State Forest

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Tumbleweed Base Camp

9 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, it has been a fulfilling endeavor. 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 like to establish meaningful connections. 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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Paul’s Lakeside Cottage

2 sites · Lodging36 acres · Park Rapids, MN

Very Quiet, Peaceful, Private, Off the Grid, Dark Sky, Wooded 36 acre+ homesteaded property with nice lakeshore guest cottage. Close to Itasca State Park, Nevis, Park Rapids, Dorset, Walker or Bemidji for Good Music, Food and Fun! Dock space for smaller fishing boats and close to many area lakes. Close to the North Country National Scenic Trail for some great hiking. Or just stay put here in nature amongst its non-human inhabitants. We look forward to meeting YOU! 😎Paul+Piper🐕

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(48)

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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Harvest Loon Camp

1 site · Lodging24 acres · Outing, MN

📌Update: Cabin now complete with an indoor shower and toilet. ❄Cabin is now available year-round. 🌲 Picturesque lakeshore property located on 24 acres, with almost 2,000 feet of lake access right in front of the cabin. ⛵Lake public access is located at the end of the cabin driveway. Kayaking State Land surrounds Harvest Loon Camp for peace and relaxation. 🏕 Serene, peaceful and unrivaled privacy. Water sports and trails for hiking and quads make Harvest Loon Camp the perfect spot to relaxation and fun. 😊Radiant heat, wood stove, air conditioning and fans. 🔥Wood available for use with woodstove and campfires. 🛌 Campers WILL NEED to provide own bedding, (pillows, linens, blankets) for twin bunk and queen sized bed. Also bring your own towels. 🍳 Kitchen has antique pots, pans, utensils, coffeepot, microwave, toaster, stove and refrigerator for your use. 🌟 Gorgeous furnished porch to watch wildlife. Grocery store within 5 miles. 🦆 This location is also perfect for horseback riding.

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Fish Trap Oasis

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Cushing, MN

Come relax and restore at a quiet lakeside camp spot on Fish Trap Lake! The property is perfect for any campers or RVers who want private lake views. It is located on a quiet street next to state land. Fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing and swimming can all be enjoyed on Fish Trap Lake. We are 40 minutes from the Brainerd and Nisswa area where there are plenty of restaurants, shops and outdoor activities as well.

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(15)

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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Winding Woods on Pine River

1 site · RV, Tent9 acres · Crosby, MN

Located on the Pine River just minutes from Crosby/Ironton with wooded mature trees that offer privacy. The land is quiet and calm. River is clear and varies in depth depending on the season. The Pine River State Water Trail flows gently through the jack pine forests and quiet water of west central Minnesota. The lake and hill country in this area illustrate classic glacial land forms. With easy access to a public launch and within a half mile of the Mississippi River it is a perfect spot for exploring some of Minnesota's greatest waterways, lakes and forests. Property backs up to privately owned conservation land. Site is mostly primitive with electricity available. Green Elephant Utilitent for bathroom privacy. Access to property is through a unpaved wrap around driveway. This is northern Minnesota in the Forest on a River so please be prepared for bugs and bring the appropriate clothing and bug spray/netting etc. We recommend Deep Woods with Deet! Minutes away from access to Cuyuna trails, Crosby, Ironton 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 overlooking the river is a perfect way to end the day. Wind down, relax and enjoy the trees, water and nature surrounding you. Pack in and pack out trash/recycling. Keep the forest and animals safe! Please be respectful of the property and the neighbors/neighborhood. Keep all vehicles and campers off the newly installed drain field and buried septic tank. When leaving please take all trash/recycling with you so it doesn't end up in the water or feeding the wildlife. :) Enjoy the amazing area! **Please note there is no running water available (well pump not currently working). This is the forest in northern Minnesota so please be prepared for native insects! Snow removal will NOT be provided during the winter. Access to the site may be very difficult depending on the snow conditions.** 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 & 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, Minnesota. 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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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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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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Mikko Kamp on the 4th Crow

2 sites · RVs4 acres · Nevis, MN

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) and a Glamper. Ideal if you’re camping with friends/family. Pull your RV's 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. Wonderful public swimming beach 3 miles away on Big Stony Lake.

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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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Hay Lake Basecamp Tent and Hammocks

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Ironton, MN

Private campsite on the quaint Hay Lake, near Crosby/Ironton, MN! Within minutes of the Cuyuna State Recreation Area and all it has to offer. This site is adjacent to the public lake access and features a large tent with two cots for an easy and comfortable trip. The tent accommodates 4 adults, or a family with up to four children (bring an air mattress!) Enjoy fishing and boating on Hay Lake off your private dock. Canoe is available for your use on the site. * The tent was replaced in Spring 2024 with a bell tent instead of the square wall tent. It makes it a little bit tighter for 4 adults.

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.