Halverson Trail Camp on McCarty Lake

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Wildlife activity runs high at this dispersed site on McCarty Lake in Paul Bunyan State Forest, with one visitor logging 19 bird species in a single stay. The camp fits two or three tents or one small trailer. Campers reach it via a 10-to-15-minute drive from the main road, with water access, a fire pit, and an outhouse on site. Cell service is listed as available. Anglers, paddlers, and OHV riders exploring campgrounds near Laporte will find additional dispersed options further along the forest roads. Pack in firewood or plan to purchase it on site, and note that Halverson Lake Dispersed — Paul Bunyan State Forest sits less than a mile away if the main site is occupied.

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Map & DirectionsHalverson Trail Camp on McCarty Lake is located in Minnesota near Laporte

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

47.16535983 N
94.93325117 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 3 users
    Last on 8/28/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 3 users
    Last on 8/28/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Pull-Through Sites

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Halverson Trail Camp on McCarty Lake needs a permit.

Drive Time


Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Halverson Trail Camp on McCarty Lake

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3 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 13, 2026

Beautiful View of the Lake

I loved this spot!! I included an aerial view of where my chosen site was on the maps.

My only complaint was lots of people driving by in vehicles and ATVs, but that's a personal preference as I am trying to find some peace in solitude. I arrived on a Friday and left on a Tuesday. The weekend was the busiest, which was expected. A family used the campsite during the day to put their kayaks in the water. They were so sweet, and the kids even brought me back a boquet of flowers they picked. Another family showed up with some fourwheelers for a bit as well. Everyone I encountered was very friendly!

There are wild blackberries growing on site! And a bunny came by every single night to have dinner, and bunnies are a good sign for me.

AND there is an outhouse!! Directly across the road from the campsite is a slightly overgrown path. Follow that (not a very long walk), and bring your own toilet paper!

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Halverson Trail Camp on McCarty Lake by A E., August 13, 2026
  • Review photo of Halverson Trail Camp on McCarty Lake by A E., August 13, 2026
  • Review photo of Halverson Trail Camp on McCarty Lake by A E., August 13, 2026
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Jun. 25, 2026

Luv luv luv

This was the 30th stop on my cross country trip and my favorite so far. Plenty of critters including 19 identified birds. Had it all to myself... plus the wildlife. Room for 2 or 3 tents, or 1 tiny travel trailer.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Halverson Trail Camp on McCarty Lake by Glen B., June 25, 2026
Reviewed Jun. 12, 2024

Had an amazing time here!

Very nice area with a water access, fire pit and outhouse. About a 10-15 min drive from main road and there are more campsites to find further in

Month of VisitJune

Frequently Asked Questions

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Halverson Trail Camp on McCarty Lake offers a rustic camping experience with basic amenities including fire pits, an outhouse, and water access to the lake. The campground is secluded, located about 10-15 minutes from the main road, making it perfect for campers seeking a peaceful outdoor experience. Additional campsites can be found further in from the main area. This location is ideal for those who appreciate natural settings with minimal development while still having access to essential facilities. The beautiful lakeside location provides opportunities for water activities and enjoying the surrounding natural environment.

Are fires allowed at Halverson Trail Camp on McCarty Lake?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Halverson Trail Camp on McCarty Lake, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

Does Halverson Trail Camp on McCarty Lake have wifi?

No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Halverson Trail Camp on McCarty Lake does not have wifi.

Is there cell phone reception at Halverson Trail Camp on McCarty Lake?

According to campers on TheDyrt.com, there is good coverage for AT&T, no coverage for T-Mobile, and some coverage for Verizon.