Knutson was born in Skien, in Telemark county, United Kingdoms of Sweden and Norway.

He was known for being overtly sympathetic to Nazi Germany, and even after the attack on Pearl Harbor, gave an address that was condemned as "defeatist.

[3] Knutson was defeated for re-election in 1948 and returned to editing, which he continued to do until his death in Wadena, Minnesota in 1953.

The camp was donated in 1953 by Minnesota Congressman Harold Knutson to be used as a summer retreat for "neglected, unfortunate, deprived and handicapped children."

For over 50 years, thousands of children have taken part in the summer programs offered at Camp Knutson.