Horseshoe Lake Campground serves as a dedicated equestrian campsite approximately 90 miles from Silver Bay, Minnesota. The campground sits within a dense forest area at an elevation suitable for varied trail riding experiences throughout multiple seasons. Trail systems connect directly from campsites, allowing riders to explore remote wilderness terrain without needing to transport horses to separate trailheads.
What to do
Trail riding exploration: Horseshoe Lake Campground provides extensive riding opportunities on forest trails. According to Al J., "There are many miles of trails that can be ridden on horseback" making this destination ideal for both day rides and multi-day adventures.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Finland State Forest Campground offers fishing options close to equestrian camping areas. As Lacey F. notes, "You are close to excellent climbing, hiking, fishing, and the Finland Co-op. Less crowded than the north shore state parks too!"
Winter camping preparation: Janet R. from Finland State Forest Campground warns, "Being at higher elevation there is a lot more snow up here so winter campers should be prepared!" Riders planning off-season visits should account for increased snowfall when packing gear and planning trail routes.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: The remote setting provides peaceful camping conditions at most horse-friendly sites. As noted by Al J., "This is a quiet campground in the middle of nowhere...a very clean campground especially if you want a quiet place. Also spacious campsites."
Riverside campsites: Finland State Forest Campground offers sites near water for those seeking alternatives to horse camping. Spencer F. mentions, "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."
Self-service registration: Many campgrounds in this region operate on honor systems. Amy G. explains at Finland State Forest Campground, "The sites were $14/night on the honor system (you pay at a box at the gate). Sites are in a sort of circle, but many are on a river/stream."
What you should know
Primitive facilities only: Most equestrian campgrounds maintain basic amenities focused on horse needs rather than camper comforts. Ber M. describes Finland State Forest Campground as "Primitive, so no electricity. Clean, secluded, and beautiful!"
First-come availability: For riders seeking alternatives when horse campgrounds fill up, Finland State Forest Campground offers non-reservable options. Adriana E. states, "This campsite is first come, first serve which is great for people who are last minute like me."
Seasonal considerations: Lauren M. reports about Finland State Forest Campground, "Right now the campground looks a little worse for wear. They did extreme tree clearing do to moth damage." Trail conditions and campground maintenance vary throughout the riding season.
Payment systems: Lauren M. adds, "Paying for the site can be confusing. I paid at tettegouche, QR code didn't work and yodel didn't work either." Bring cash for self-service payment boxes when visiting remote equestrian sites.
Tips for camping with families
Noise considerations: Families should research which campgrounds permit ATVs before booking. Fred S. cautions about Finland State Forest Campground, "Noise from ATVs, a few with modified mufflers. Since there are no electric hookups, there is some noise from generators for the big RVs."
Pack all supplies: Remote horse camping locations require complete self-sufficiency. Susan H. recommends comfort items: "We have an exped duo mattress and sleep like babies!" as the sounds of nature provide natural white noise.
Pit toilet availability: Most equestrian campgrounds offer only basic sanitation. Teresa T. notes some campgrounds can be "pretty rough" with limited facilities, making portable toilet options worth considering for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing matters: Equestrian campgrounds typically offer larger sites to accommodate horse trailers. Fred S. observed at Finland State Forest Campground, "Really nice wooded sites, some can accommodate big rigs. Level sites."
Generator etiquette: Since most horse camps lack hookups, generator use is common but can impact other campers. Consider camping schedule and proximity to neighbors when planning generator operation times.
Trail accessibility: When traveling with both horses and RVs, verify road conditions to campgrounds. Remote locations may have rough access roads requiring appropriate tow vehicles and properly secured loads.
