Tent camping near Shevlin, Minnesota offers numerous opportunities to experience north central Minnesota's glacial lake landscape. The region lies within the Laurentian Mixed Forest Province, characterized by pine forests, rolling hills, and pristine lakes. Most backcountry sites remain snow-covered through April with daytime temperatures frequently below 50°F, while summer brings warm days with high humidity and abundant mosquitoes.
What to do
Paddling access points: Navigate the Mississippi Headwaters by launching at multiple access points. At Stumphges Rapids Landing, primitive camping provides direct river access. "The river location itself [deserves] a full five points, but the campsite itself just a 3 at best," notes Janet R., who advises bringing water and leaving no trace.
Fishing opportunities: Cast for fish at several secluded lakes throughout the area. The Gulch Lake area provides direct water access for anglers. "There is a clean and nice boat access with a covered sitting area near it," writes HollyRose M., who adds "It must be great fishing, I just wouldn't know cause I don't fish."
Wildlife viewing: Observe native species in their natural habitat. At Deer Park Lake Backcountry Campsite, wildlife is abundant. Diane R. shares her experience: "It was beautiful and serene... Woke up to trumpeter swans each day. There is a little trail that brings you down to the lake to view the bird life."
What campers like
Solitude and dark skies: Experience minimal light pollution at remote sites. The Iron Corner Lake Remote Backpacker Site offers exceptional darkness for stargazing. Janet R. describes it as "Quiet, rustic, pristine, and dark skies at night!"
Multi-day backpacking routes: Connect multiple backcountry lakes through established trail systems. "Stayed at backpack site 10... a 40 min hike in/30 min hike out from parking lot. The main trail is wide and well maintained with ambling hills, but overall pretty flat," explains Bryan P. about his experience at DeSoto Lake.
Lake views and water access: Most tent sites feature direct water proximity. The Gardner Lake Campsite provides scenic morning views. "It was a 2.5 mile hike of all sorts of terrain. Scenery was perfect... water is super clear. Very quiet and was mosquito free till darkness set in," writes Brent G.
What you should know
Variable campsite conditions: Quality and maintenance levels differ significantly between sites. The Pine Point Carry-in Access and Watercraft Campsite has deteriorated over time. "It used to be one of my favorite campsites... A big windstorm came through in 2012 and knocked down most of the beautiful pines and ravaged the campsites," reports Janet R., noting "the landing basically accesses a pretty shallow slough."
Permit requirements: Some sites require advance permits through different agencies. Mississippi High Banks Primitive Group Campground requires special permission. "You don't pay to camp here, but you Must get a county permit first, from the county parks department, and then they will give you the instructions for location, plus access through the gate."
Bear activity: Bears frequent campgrounds, particularly at night. "This area is teeming with wildlife... The bears are most active around the campgrounds at night, so be sure all food and fruit-scented products are locked up in your vehicle to be safe," advises Shawn M. about Itasca State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Designated group sites: Reserve group campgrounds for larger family gatherings. Mississippi High Banks Primitive Group Campground offers spacious accommodations. "There is a gorgeous high bluff with plenty of room under tall pines for a whole scout troop or family group to set up a number of tents," describes Janet R.
Bear-resistant storage: Use provided bear boxes where available. At Deer Park Lake, Diane R. notes: "There is a bear box which was helpful to store food and supplies since I was Hammocking."
Campsite selection criteria: Consider tent pad size when choosing sites. Amy G. observes about Gardner Lake Campsite: "Didn't appear to be a whole lot of room for extra tents... I don't think this would be a great spot for more than a few campers that were staying in the same tent."
Tips from RVers
Road access limitations: Most tent-only sites near Shevlin cannot accommodate large vehicles. At Old Headquarters Campsite, Amy G. reports: "About 50 yards off of the North Country Trail, it's well worth the hike to get into. It could easily accommodate a small group of people that had a few tents and hammocks."
Alternative vehicle options: Some forest roads allow limited vehicular access to remote areas. "It's a huge campsite! Surrounded by pines, there are plenty of places for tents... It sits not only on the trail, but just off the road too, in case you care to drive in instead of pack in," notes Amy G. about the Gulch Lake Group Camp.
Road condition awareness: Unpaved forest roads may present challenges, especially in wet conditions. "The road can also be pretty tough so be prepared if your pulling a trailer," warns Stephanie W. about accessing Gulch Lake.
