In honor of Independence Day, we’ll be closed Friday, July 4th.
We hope you have a safe and joyful holiday!
Fort Belmont
Step into the history of the Minnesota frontier. In June of 1864, settlers in Belmont Township, Jackson County, built a humble log fort—just 18 by 26 feet—surrounded by a protective stockade. Known as Fort Belmont, it offered shelter and security to a handful of pioneer families during a time of conflict and uncertainty.
Though small in size, Fort Belmont played a big role in the lives of those who called this rugged land home. Today, it stands as a testament to their courage, resilience, and the spirit of the early American frontier. Explore the fort, learn their stories, and experience a living piece of Minnesota’s past.
Attractions
Visiting Fort Belmont is like stepping into a living time capsule, where the excitement of history comes alive through meticulously recreated pioneer buildings. Walking through the grounds, you can almost hear the rhythmic clang of the blacksmith’s hammer and the quiet murmurs of prayer in the simple wooden church. Each structure—from the rustic sod house to the tall watchtower—tells a vivid story of life on the Midwestern frontier. The drug store shelves hint at remedies from a bygone era, while the Gristmill demonstrates the resourcefulness and hard work of early settlers. The museum ties it all together, giving context to this immersive journey through time. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, Fort Belmont’s new attractions make the past feel remarkably close and thrilling to explore.
Blacksmith
Before the hum of electricity or the roar of engines, the heart of every frontier town beat to the ring of a blacksmith’s hammer. In the midwestern prairies of the 1800s, the blacksmith shop was more than a place of work—it was the lifeline of the community, where iron was shaped into everything from horseshoes and wagon wheels to tools and trade goods. Step inside, and you’ll smell the coal smoke, feel the heat of the forge, and witness the raw power of craftsmanship that helped forge the American frontier.
Gristmill
The grist mill was a crucial part of life in the 1800s. The flour mill was
operated by a water wheel that turned wooden gears to stone grind flour. In the 1800s there were approximately 6-8 grist mills in Jackson County. Inside the grist mill are corn dryers, corn shellers, and a corn scale.
Sod House
A sod house, also known as a "soddy," was a type of dwelling built by pioneers on the American Midwest plains, where timber was scarce. Constructed from thickly cut strips of prairie grass and soil, these homes were practical and affordable, using the abundant natural resources of the region. Sod houses provided essential shelter against harsh weather conditions, with their thick walls offering insulation from both the summer heat and winter cold, making them a crucial innovation for settlers establishing life on the frontier.The replica sod house was built in 2000. Sod consists of soil held together by
grass roots. Over the last nineteen years
the dense, heavy sod has settled
tremendously.
Delafield Church
Step into the quiet strength of a pioneer church, where faith, community, and resilience came together on the frontier. These humble sanctuaries, often built by hand with simple materials, served not only as places of worship but also as gathering spaces for settlers facing the challenges of a new land. Explore the enduring spirit of early congregations, their traditions, and the role the church played in shaping the moral and social fabric of pioneer life. Come feel the history in every pew and beam.
Lysgard Home & Summer Kitchen
Step into the daily life of early settlers with our authentic home and summer kitchen exhibit. The main house reflects the warmth and simplicity of pioneer living, while the separate summer kitchen—used during warmer months—helped keep heat and cooking odors out of the home. These spaces offer a fascinating look at how families managed chores, meals, and routines with ingenuity and hard work. Come discover the rhythms of frontier life and the resourcefulness that defined a generation.
Stockade and Log Cabin
Explore the rugged heart of frontier defense with our stockade and log cabin exhibit—a powerful glimpse into settler survival on the edge of the wilderness. Surrounded by tall, sturdy walls, these fortified enclosures offered safety from threats while housing the daily life of pioneer families within. Step inside the log cabin to see how settlers cooked, slept, and lived under constant vigilance, and imagine the courage it took to build a home in such uncertain times. History comes alive behind these protective walls—come experience it for yourself! A replica of the original stockade and log cabin is located on the North side of Fort Belmont. The log cabin replica is 18’ by 26’. The first log cabin and stockade were located at the original fort site: 2 ½ miles north of Fort Belmont’s current location.
Drug Store
Discover the charm of an old-fashioned drug store where history meets hometown tradition! Step inside to explore vintage remedies, classic soda fountains, and the essential role drug stores played in pioneer and early 20th-century life. From pharmacists who mixed medicines by hand to shelves lined with curious cures, this exhibit offers a fascinating look at how these local hubs served as both healthcare providers and social centers. Don’t miss your chance to experience this nostalgic slice of the past!
Museum
Step back in time and experience the rich history that shaped our region! From gripping Civil War stories and Native American heritage to pioneer life and vintage automobiles, our museum brings the past to life through immersive exhibits and rare artifacts. Come explore, learn, and be inspired—there’s something for history lovers of all ages. Plan your visit today and discover the legacy that built our community!
Watchtower
A watchtower was a vital part of a fort's defense system during the pioneer days, serving as a high vantage point from which soldiers or settlers could observe the surrounding land for approaching threats, such as hostile forces or wild animals. Positioned at the corners or along the perimeter of a fort, these towers allowed for early detection of danger, giving inhabitants crucial time to prepare or take cover. Watchtowers also symbolized security and control, playing a key role in the survival and success of frontier communities in the untamed American wilderness. Originally located at the downtown Jackson location, the tower was moved to the current location in 2004.
Events
Planning a visit?
Camping at Fort Belmont
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15A, 30A, 50A Hookup
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Pet Friendly
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Hiking
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Festivals
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Generators Allowed
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Picnic/Patio Area
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Gift Shop
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Historical Exhibit
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WiFi
Hookup Notes
Electric hook up’s require a minimum of 30 feet of cord, dump station available at KOA 1/2 mile away for a minimum charge. 50 amp service available but requires at least 75 feet of cord.
Check-in: 10:00AM - 4:00PM CT
Check-out: Before 12:00PM CT
If you're not a member of Harvest Hosts, feel free to contact us directly—we're happy to accommodate you.
