Map showing campground location near Baxter, Minnesota

Camper submitted image from Walter E Stark Horse Campground - Pillsbury State Forest

Walter E Stark Horse Campground - Pillsbury State Forest

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Hitching posts, vault toilets, and water spigots define the setup at Walter E Stark Horse Campground, a drive-in facility within Pillsbury State Forest managed by DNR Forestry. The campground splits into two sections, with shade available across much of the site but not at every post. Horses are the focus here. Trails fan out from the area toward destinations including Lost Lake, and signage throughout warns other visitors not to spook horses. The season runs April 1 through October 31, and campers can find campgrounds near Pillsbury State Forest if this site fills or doesn't fit the trip. Well-suited to equestrians who need functional infrastructure without developed amenities.

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Map & DirectionsWalter E Stark Horse Campground is located in Minnesota near Baxter

Public Campground

Directions

Go 9.3 miles east of U.S. Highway 10 at Motley on State Highway 210, or 10.2 miles west of State Highway 371 in Baxter on State Highway 210 to the Pillsbury Forest Road. Take the Pillsbury Forest Road 3 miles north to the horse camp.

Coordinates

46.37710688 N
94.45313282 W

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

Site Types

RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group
Equestrian

Features

For Campers

Trash
Picnic Table
Toilets
Pets
Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

1 hr 11 min from St. Cloud, MN
2 hrs 3 min from Fargo, ND
2 hrs 4 min from Minneapolis, MN
2 hrs 14 min from Duluth, MN

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Reviews1 Camper Review - Walter E Stark Horse Campground

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1 Star

5.0

out of 5

1 Review

Scott M.

Legend

Reviewed Jul. 19, 2021

Plenty of Space

We were staying in the area so we took a look at the campground. It is very sufficient for what you need if you are staying with your horses. It is a primitive campground with running water out of spigots and vault toilets. Some excess firewood in the middle and plenty of space for your horses. The hitching posts were mostly in the shade but not all were. It is separated in two different parts but for the most part you can find shade unless this gets completely full.

We walked some trails and went up to lost lake...disappointed to see someone took apart a camper and left it there in a pile. The black flies were bad on our walk, but it did have some nice views along the way. Loads of raspberries along the road so we stopped in the shade and had a couple snacks. Lots of trails to hike and ride in the area and plenty of signs to warn you not to spook the horses which I think is good.

We did stop in at the local ranch and asked about the programs they offered. We are thinking to come back in the winter when they have sleigh rides.

Month of VisitJuly

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a horse camp in Pillsbury State Forest?

Yes, Walter E Stark Horse Campground is specifically designed for equestrian camping in Pillsbury State Forest. This dedicated horse camp provides ample space for you and your horses, making it ideal for trail riders exploring the forest. The campground is primitive but functional, offering necessary facilities for an enjoyable horse camping experience in a beautiful woodland setting.

What amenities are available at Pillsbury State Forest Campground in Minnesota?

Walter E Stark Campground in Pillsbury State Forest offers primitive camping amenities. The facilities include running water from spigots, vault toilets, and a communal firewood area. The campground is specifically designed for equestrian use with space for horses. Don't expect modern conveniences or hookups - this is a rustic, back-to-nature camping experience focused on the essentials for comfortable horse camping.

What camping options are available near Pillager, MN?

The Pillager area offers several camping options. Walter E Stark Horse Campground in Pillsbury State Forest provides primitive equestrian camping with basic amenities like running water and vault toilets. The surrounding region includes campgrounds at nearby lakes and recreational areas, some with more developed facilities for RVs and tent camping. Crow Wing State Park and Gull Lake recreation areas offer additional camping within reasonable driving distance. For those seeking alternatives to horse camping, these nearby options provide varied experiences from rustic forest sites to more amenity-rich campgrounds.

Where can I find a map of Pillsbury State Forest?

Maps of Pillsbury State Forest are available from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website or at forest offices. You can also obtain maps at regional DNR offices in the area. For the most detailed information about trails and campground locations, contact the forest headquarters directly. Some local outdoor shops near Pillager may also carry maps of the area. If planning a visit, downloading or obtaining a map beforehand is recommended for navigating the forest's trail system.

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