Grant Creek Horse Camp provides specialized camping facilities for equestrians within Headwaters State Forest in Beltrami County. Sites are designed for horse trailers and include tie-up posts with grazing areas alongside standard campsite amenities. The camp connects to nearly fifty miles of riding trails, making it an ideal base for day rides through varied forest terrain. Grant Creek runs through the campground, giving horses natural water access. Webster Lake Campground offers alternative camping without dedicated equestrian facilities, with access to shorter trail systems approximately 3.5 miles in length through forest and bog environments.
What to do
Trail ride extensive networks: At Grant Creek Horse Camp, riders can access nearly fifty miles of interconnected trails directly from the campground. "The campsites are well maintained and set by the picturesque Grant Creek, next to a trailhead for a maze of nearly fifty miles of trails for riding," notes Janet R., highlighting the convenience for equestrian camping near Shevlin, Minnesota.
Fishing in peaceful surroundings: Webster Lake provides good fishing opportunities away from crowds. According to one camper at Webster Lake Campground, "The lake is pretty and the fishing isn't bad, the lakeside campsites are fairly nice, and there are interesting trails into the bogs around the lake."
Wildlife watching mid to late summer: The Shevlin area's forests and bogs attract diverse wildlife. One visitor noted Webster Lake Campground is "probably best to come in mid to late summer" for wildlife watching since early summer brings heavy mosquito populations from the surrounding bogs.
What campers like
Specialized equestrian facilities: Horse owners appreciate the thoughtfully designed infrastructure at Grant Creek. Janet R. mentions the campground is "uniquely set up to accommodate people, tents, vans, and horse trailers, every site having ample parking, picnic tables and fire rings, tent sites, and horse tie-up posts with grazing area."
Quiet, uncrowded atmosphere: Webster Lake Campground offers peaceful seclusion even during peak seasons. One visitor found "the campground was half empty" during a Friday afternoon in late July, noting it's "a bit off the beaten path" which keeps crowds minimal.
Strong mobile connectivity: Unlike many remote camping areas, Webster Lake offers surprising connectivity. "I had a strong AT&T signal, enough to run Netflix and do online surfing," reports one camper, making it suitable for those needing to stay connected while enjoying horseback camping near Shevlin.
What you should know
Seasonal mosquito considerations: Bogs around Shevlin create significant mosquito activity in early summer. A hiker at Webster Lake warns: "So many mosquitos though, you better spray yourself before going on the hike. I forgot and bugs were chasing me. I couldn't stop at all, I was rushing through the trail."
Limited amenities at some sites: While Rustic Wilderness Ranch offers tent and RV camping with picnic tables and toilets, it lacks drinking water hookups. Campers should bring sufficient water supplies for themselves and their horses when exploring horseback riding options near Shevlin.
First-come, first-served availability: Grant Creek Horse Camp operates without reservations. One visitor explains the campground "is available on a first come first served basis to individuals and groups," meaning arrival timing is important, especially during weekends or peak riding seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Volunteer-maintained facilities: The community involvement enhances the family camping experience at Grant Creek Horse Camp. Janet notes, "Several area horse clubs assist in the maintenance of this campground," which creates a welcoming atmosphere for riding groups and families.
Youth group suitability: Grant Creek specifically accommodates organized youth activities. According to one review, "This is a very nice camping experience for horseback riders, 4-H groups, families or riding clubs!" making it ideal for family equestrian camping trips near Shevlin.
Easy hiking options: For families seeking non-riding activities, Webster Lake offers accessible trails. A visitor describes the trail as "about 3.5 miles long. It goes through the forest mainly, not a very exciting trail, very easy," providing options for mixed-age hiking groups.
Tips from RVers
Lakeside positioning: At Webster Lake Campground, RVers should target waterfront sites. One camper reports, "I got a really nice, large spot on the lake," offering prime views and easy water access for visitors bringing smaller RVs for camping near Shevlin, Minnesota.
Road access considerations: Forest road conditions affect RV accessibility. As one camper notes about Webster Lake Campground, "Depending on what way you are coming from, you have to drive a few miles on gravel forest roads. It's not bad though," indicating smaller to medium-sized RVs can navigate the approach.
Off-season availability: Fall hunting season increases occupancy at Webster Lake. One visitor observed it is "most busy during fall hunting season," suggesting RVers seeking quieter camping experiences should plan accordingly when exploring equestrian camping options near Shevlin.
