Horseback riding trails wind through the Chequamegon National Forest near Kennan, Wisconsin, creating opportunities for equestrian camping in the Northwoods region. The area features a mix of hardwood forests and small lakes with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,600 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with cooler evenings, making it comfortable for both riders and horses.
What to do
Trail riding exploration: Sailor Lake NF Campground provides direct access to multiple forest trails suitable for day rides of varying difficulty. "If you prefer a little rustic and secluded and don't mind vault toilets if you don't have your own, this is a perfect place. It's very wooded and the sites are private. It offers something for ATVers, horseback riders, anglers and hikers," notes reviewer Lynette J.
Lake activities: Multiple small lakes surround Underdown Campground, providing fishing opportunities while camping with horses. "Multiple small lakes around the area. Can set up camp anywhere but the road really. Ice age trail for hiking and good blue gill spot," explains Wade W.
Wildlife observation: The forest ecosystem supports deer, foxes, and numerous bird species visible from horseback. Morning rides offer the best viewing opportunities when wildlife is most active. "The prairie next to our site is quite lovely. The moonrise over the lake the first night was incredible," shares Mary M. about her experience at Sailor Lake.
What campers like
Natural solitude: Weekday visits to equestrian campgrounds near Kennan offer exceptional quietness away from crowds. "There are a lot of sites here, but we were essentially alone with only one other party on our loop! Extremely quiet! We saw only one fishing boat during our four night stay," reports Lawrence B. at Sailor Lake NF Campground.
Spacious campsites: Sites accommodate horse trailers with room for temporary containment systems. "Nestled within Wisconsin forest you find Sailor Lake. This national forest campground has water access as well as sites away from the lake. We stayed at site 12 - a pull through site away from the water," describes Art S.
Available resources: Natural features help with practical camping needs for horse owners. According to Mary M., "Kindling was dry and abundant! Good variety of sizes," which is essential for evening campfires after a day of riding.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Horse camping facilities are primitive with basic amenities. "No running water, no bathrooms, no crowded plots. It's as primitive as can be. Very ample space except near the water," notes Wade W. about Underdown Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Fall provides optimal riding conditions with fewer insects and colorful foliage. Spring access may be limited by mud conditions on forest roads and trails.
Water sources: Not all equestrian campsites have reliable water sources for horses. "Pit toilet cleaned and restocked daily. What more could you ask for?" mentions Mary M. about Sailor Lake, but campers should bring water containers for their horses.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose lakeside sites for easier water access with children and horses. "This is one of the lakeside campsites. You can see the lake from the campsite, but its not very close to the shore," advises Mary M., suggesting families should research specific site locations.
Connectivity awareness: Prepare for limited technology access in horse camping areas. Art S. notes that "Minimal cell signal encourages disconnecting for your stay" at Sailor Lake NF Campground, so download maps and entertainment before arrival.
Activity planning: Schedule shorter trail rides for families with younger children, keeping outings under 2 hours. Sailor Lake offers "an open area for everyone to enjoy the lake - it's filled with purple flowers today," creating natural spaces for children when not riding.
Tips from RVers
Campsite accessibility: RV sites with horse accommodations require careful selection. "Many, although not all, of the waterside sites are for tents. You park and carry your gear down a few steps for a close to the water feel," explains Art S. about Sailor Lake, highlighting the need to research site accessibility.
Resource limitations: RVers should travel prepared with all supplies. "Drove to County Line Gas Station in Minocqua to get firewood, which was pretty far. Almost nothing for firewood closer than that, as far as we could tell," reports Mary M., indicating the remote nature of these equestrian camping areas.
Site privacy considerations: RV sites vary in seclusion levels. Mary M. rates her experience: "Privacy ⛺️⛺️⛺️ 3/5 Other campsites were visible from this site (especially 24) and most campsites here are right on the road. 23 and 24 are set back a bit."
Legend
