Janice L.
Scout
ScoutGeorge Washington State Forest Larson Lake Campground
Quiet
This place is small and quiet. However there is a week in July that it fills up. Good lake for fishing from shore.
Equestrian Camping near Virginia, MN
Search destinations
Add dates
Horse camping options near Virginia, Minnesota are limited based on available data. Most campgrounds in the area like Side Lake Campground at McCarthy Beach State Park, Button Box Lake Campground, Bass Lake, and George Washington State Forest Larson Lake Campground do not offer dedicated horse corrals according to their amenity listings. These campgrounds primarily cater to tent and RV campers with standard amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and toilet facilities. Pets are allowed at most locations, but none specifically advertise equestrian-focused facilities or trail access designated for horseback riding.
The Superior National Forest region generally offers more dispersed camping opportunities for equestrians seeking places to camp with horses. Riders looking for horse-friendly camping should contact the forest service offices for current regulations regarding horses on trails and at campsites. While McCarthy Beach State Park offers beautiful lakes and beach access, its trails are designed primarily for hiking rather than horseback riding. Water access is available at most campgrounds, but specific horse watering facilities are not mentioned in the available data.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Virginia (4)
1. Side Lake Campground — McCarthy Beach State Park
"Nothing says Minnesota like the call of the Loon and that’s what greeted me upon arrival at my site! This site is lovely—water and easy to access to water sports on either Sturgeon or Side Lake."
"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."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $24 - $34 / night
2. Button Box Lake Campground and Day-Use Area
"Located north of Grand Rapids Minnesota about 60 miles or 35 miles from Nashwauk Minnesota which is the closest gas station, grocery store or post office."
Check Availabilityfrom $14 - $50 / night
3. Bass Lake
4. George Washington State Forest Larson Lake Campground
"Good lake for fishing from shore."
Drive Time
- 1 hr from Duluth, MN
- 2 hrs 44 min from Minneapolis, MN
- 2 hrs 58 min from St. Cloud, MN
- 3 hrs 14 min from Eau Claire, WI
Equestrian Camping Reviews near Virginia, MN
17 Reviews of 4 Virginia Campgrounds
- L
Linda S.
TravelerSide Lake Campground — McCarthy Beach State Park
Wonderful !
Most people know about the sugar sand beaches on both lakes, but the real treasures are the hiking trails! The campsites are generous. Some are tricky for bigger rigs. Plenty of vegetation between sites compared to most campgrounds. Lots t o see and do! Paddle boards, kayaks, boats, swimming, fishing piers…a local shop for necessities…within walking distance. The scenery is lovely.
C G.
GuideSide Lake Campground — McCarthy Beach State Park
I recommend, especially if you like kayaking/canoeing.
I personally liked the Campground, close to the lake and clean bathrooms.
Christine T.ScoutSide Lake Campground — McCarthy Beach State Park
It’s “Loony”!
Nothing says Minnesota like the call of the Loon and that’s what greeted me upon arrival at my site! This site is lovely—water and easy to access to water sports on either Sturgeon or Side Lake. Some road noise but not too bad. I am imagine it’s much more hectic in the summer with the big beach across the road. Great for kids! Easy trails for walking and dog friendly. Can be buggy but that’s MN. For more rustic, head further up to Beatrice Lake Campground.
- MMarkScout
Side Lake Campground — McCarthy Beach State Park
great state park
Beautiful spot, close to great mountian biking. great time of year
- LLaura J G.Traveler
Bass Lake
Rustic Bliss
We love camping here! Definitely not for campers or rvs. Perfect for tents, backpackers, and a couple sites are good for Rooftop tents. Vault toilets are clean. Lots of picnic tables and fire pits.
- JJim F.Scout
Button Box Lake Campground and Day-Use Area
A great little place to unplug for awhile …
First off, and most appealing to me is the fact that there is no cell service. All 12 campsites are first come first serve and you can’t jump a line by going on a website to reserve a spot.  there are no water or electric hook ups but there are hand pumps for pumping water and you could bring a generator or not.
Located north of Grand Rapids Minnesota about 60 miles or 35 miles from Nashwauk Minnesota which is the closest gas station, grocery store or post office. All the sites are back in no pull through sites, generally level however there’s a few that are on an angle - LLindsay N.Guide
Side Lake Campground — McCarthy Beach State Park
Lake views!
The site was lovely! I stayed at #48 and it was nice and level. The only bummer was that the camp office was closed when I arrived at 5pm so I couldn’t buy firewood.
The lakeside trail was very pretty!
- Jen A.Guide
Side Lake Campground — McCarthy Beach State Park
Great Campground
We camped here in the fall and were the only people in the campground. The office staff was very nice and we really enjoyed the fall colors in the park. We didn't use the shower/bathroom facilities, but the outhouse worked just fine for our needs.
Guide to Virginia
Horse camping in Minnesota offers a unique way to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the companionship of your equine friends. With a variety of campgrounds that cater to horse enthusiasts, you can find the perfect spot to set up camp and ride the scenic trails.
Equestrian campgrounds include essential amenities
- The Side Lake Campground — McCarthy Beach State Park features horse camping options along with drinking water, picnic tables, and fire pits, making it a comfortable choice for riders.
Equestrian campers like these nearby activities
- At George Washington State Forest Larson Lake Campground, horse campers can enjoy access to various trails perfect for riding, hiking, and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Some campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like spacious sites
- Button Box Lake Campground and Day-Use Area offers a rustic experience with ample space for horses and tents, allowing for a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian
campsite near Virginia, MN?
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Virginia, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Virginia, MN is Side Lake Campground — McCarthy Beach State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 13 reviews.
What is the best site to find
equestrian camping near
Virginia, MN?
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Virginia, MN?
TheDyrt.com has all 4 equestrian camping locations near Virginia, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring