Horseshoe Lake Campground serves equestrian campers in Wisconsin's Bayfield County, approximately 77 miles from Knife River, Minnesota. The campground sits within a remote forested area at an elevation of 1,220 feet. Winter conditions typically make the access roads impassable from November through mid-May, limiting the camping season.
What to do
Trail riding on dedicated routes: At Horseshoe Lake Campground, riders access extensive trail networks designed specifically for horses. "This is a quiet campground in the middle of nowhere. The campground is intended to be used as campers that ride horses can stay at. There are many miles of trails that can be ridden on horseback," notes reviewer Al J.
Fishing nearby lakes: The Finland State Forest area offers multiple fishing opportunities within a short drive. "There is a river that runs next to the campsite and has some great views at sunset, it looks like it may have good fishing as well," reports Spencer F. about Finland State Forest Campground.
Hiking Superior trails: The region connects to segments of the Superior Hiking Trail system, providing day hikes or thru-hiking options. "This was a random 'find' when we were through hiking the SHT, but what a wonderful, hidden gem!" explains Amy G. about Finland State Forest Campground.
What campers like
Secluded natural settings: Most equestrian campers appreciate the isolation at horse campgrounds near Knife River, Minnesota. "It is a very clean campground especially if you want a quiet place. Also spacious campsites," notes Al J. about Horseshoe Lake Campground.
Proximity to water features: Many sites in the region provide access to rivers or lakes. "At night you hear the Baltism River as you gently fall asleep," explains Susan H. about Finland State Forest Campground.
First-come availability: When state parks fill up, these alternative sites often remain available. "This campsite is first come, first serve which is great for people who are last minute like me. It was very clean, very wooded and the campsites were nice and big," reports Adriana E.
What you should know
Rustic facilities only: Horse-friendly campgrounds prioritize space over amenities. Most offer vault toilets at best. "Primitive, so no electricity. Clean, secluded, and beautiful! It was the perfect place to stay while we tripped the North Scenic Route," explains Ber M. about Finland State Forest Campground.
Payment systems vary: Different management agencies use different fee collection methods. "Paying for the site can be confusing. I paid at tettegouche, QR code didn't work and yodel didn't work either," warns Lauren M. about Finland campground.
Seasonal conditions affect sites: Recent forest management impacts campground appearance. "Right now the campground looks a little worse for wear. They did extreme tree clearing do to moth damage," notes Lauren M.
Tips for camping with families
Consider noise levels: Some equestrian sites experience ATV traffic that may disrupt quiet camping. "What was really annoying was the noise from a bunch of drunk middle aged folks down at the group site on the night of Oct 8, 2021. Their loud voices carried throughout the campground," warns Fred S. about Finland State Forest Campground.
