Cut Foot Horse Campground serves as a dedicated equestrian camping location within the Chippewa National Forest. The campground provides primitive accommodations for riders bringing their own horses to explore the surrounding trail system. Located near Deer River, Minnesota, approximately 30 miles from Cohasset, this facility requires campers to be completely self-sufficient. The site offers drive-in access suitable for horse trailers but lacks basic amenities like drinking water, picnic tables and toilet facilities.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The Chippewa National Forest contains multiple interconnected horse trails that provide varying terrain challenges. From Cut Foot Horse Campground, riders can access routes through northern Minnesota's mixed pine and hardwood forests.
Lake exploration: Nearby McCarthy Beach State Park offers water recreation options. "We had easy water access for our kayak off the campground loop. And it was easy enough to carry the kayak across to the other lake to explore out there," notes Camp S. The park provides access to both Sturgeon and Side Lakes.
Wildlife observation: The forest surrounding Button Box Lake Campground creates opportunities for nature viewing. "First off, and most appealing to me is the fact that there is no cell service," writes Jim F., making it ideal for unplugged wildlife watching in a quieter setting.
Bog exploration: Webster Lake Campground offers unique bog trails. One visitor reports, "There is a place where you can walk on the bog and sit down on a bench for a nice view. That was the pretty part." These trails provide opportunities to observe northern Minnesota wetland ecosystems.
What campers like
Lakeshore access: Many campers appreciate the direct lake access at Side Lake Campground. "Located just outside Hibbing and Chisholm, this campground is on Side Lake and Sturgeon Lake. If it is too windy on one lake, just walk across to the other one," explains Christina W., highlighting the dual-lake advantage.
Quiet atmosphere: The remote location of equestrian camping areas near Cohasset provides solitude. "This is a small rustic campground on Webster Lake. I arrived here on a Friday afternoon end of July, which should have been peak camping season, and the campground was half empty," reports Janet R. about Webster Lake Campground.
Natural sounds: Campers frequently mention wildlife calls as a highlight. "Nothing says Minnesota like the call of the Loon and that's what greeted me upon arrival at my site!" shares Christine T. about McCarthy Beach State Park.
Rustic simplicity: For those seeking primitive camping, Bass Lake delivers. "We love camping here! Definitely not for campers or rvs. Perfect for tents, backpackers, and a couple sites are good for Rooftop tents," reports Laura J G., emphasizing its back-to-basics appeal.
What you should know
Water considerations: No potable water exists at Cut Foot Horse Campground. Campers must bring sufficient water for themselves and their horses. Water access at other campgrounds can be limited to hand pumps or seasonal availability.
Seasonal conditions: Northern Minnesota experiences significant seasonal variations. "Early summer is also probably not the best time as the surrounding bogs are probably great mosquito breeding grounds!" warns Janet R. about Webster Lake.
Reservation requirements: While Cut Foot Horse Campground operates on a reservation system, many surrounding campgrounds are first-come, first-served. Button Box Lake Campground offers a true traditional experience as Jim F. explains: "All 12 campsites are first come first serve and you can't jump a line by going on a website to reserve a spot."
Facility limitations: Most equestrian camping options in this area provide minimal amenities. "Located about 60 miles north of Grand Rapids Minnesota or 35 miles from Nashwauk Minnesota which is the closest gas station, grocery store or post office," notes Jim F. about Button Box Lake Campground, illustrating the remote nature of the area.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Families with children should consider McCarthy Beach State Park's swimming areas. "The beach is amazing with crystal clear water, shallow depths for kids and family swimming, great picnic spots all along the expansive shoreline," shares Janet R.
Wildlife education: Turn camping into a learning experience by identifying local wildlife. "Great for kids! Easy trails for walking and dog friendly," recommends Christine T. about Side Lake Campground, noting its accessibility for various ages.
Accessibility considerations: Families with mobility concerns will find some locations more accommodating. Janet R. notes that McCarthy Beach offers "great paved walkways and gentle access ramps everywhere," making it suitable for families with diverse needs.
Tips from RVers
Site configurations: RV campers should note the limited development at most equestrian camping areas. Jim F. describes Button Box Lake: "All the sites are back in no pull through sites, generally level however there's a few that are on an angle." This requires careful planning for larger rigs.
Power options: Most equestrian camping near Cohasset lacks hookups. Jim F. explains at Button Box Lake: "there are no water or electric hook ups but there are hand pumps for pumping water and you could bring a generator or not."
Cellular connectivity: Service varies significantly across campgrounds. While Button Box Lake has no service, one camper notes about Webster Lake: "I had a strong AT&T signal, enough to run Netflix and do online surfing," providing important information for those needing to stay connected.
