Horn Lake Camping provides primitive dispersed camping in northern Wisconsin without facilities or services. The camping area sits at the terminus of approximately two miles of dirt roads in Lincoln County Forest, with an elevation around 1,500 feet. During summer months, temperatures typically range from 60-80°F with higher humidity levels and occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing from shore: Horn Lake offers accessible bank fishing without needing a boat. One camper noted, "Great spot right on the water. There are 2 camp spots with stone rings. They are about 40' apart on a cul-de-sac at the end of the road where the boat launch is" (Horn Lake Camping).
Explore forest trails: The surrounding Lincoln County Forest contains multiple unmarked paths for hiking and wildlife observation. Visitors should bring topographic maps as cell service is unreliable. According to one review, "Stunning, got here on a Monday night and no one was here. Sites are right on the water" (Horn Lake and Lincoln County Forest).
Wildlife photography: The secluded location creates opportunities for viewing deer, small mammals, and various bird species, particularly during early morning or evening hours when animals are most active.
What campers like
Complete privacy: The remote location offers true solitude for rustic camping near Milladore, Wisconsin. One visitor mentioned, "As a primitive camper who hates paying to sleep on the ground somewhere, this is my new favorite spot. Two sites, fire rings, no bathroom, water, electric" (Horn Lake Camping).
Direct lake access: Campsites positioned immediately adjacent to water provide convenient fishing, swimming, and kayaking opportunities without additional travel.
True primitive experience: The absence of facilities appeals to self-sufficient backcountry campers seeking minimal infrastructure. A recent visitor commented, "A few mosquitoes, but the wind kept them to a minimum! Great view of the lake and very private."
What you should know
Road conditions: The access road requires careful navigation, particularly after rainfall when surfaces become muddy and rutted. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended during wet conditions.
Limited site options: With only two established sites at the main camping area, weekends and holidays can fill quickly with no overflow camping permitted. No reservation system exists, making weekday visits more likely to secure a spot.
Campsite maintenance issues: Previous users have misused the fire rings. According to one review, "I'd suggest using your own firepit/grill if you have one as some moron decided burning tires in the firepit was a good idea" (Horn Lake Camping).
Tips for camping with families
Bring portable toilet solutions: With no restroom facilities, families should pack portable toilet options and proper waste disposal bags for sanitary camping.
Water safety precautions: The direct lake access requires close supervision of children as sites sit immediately adjacent to water with no barriers or designated swimming areas.
Bug protection: Pack appropriate insect repellent and protective clothing, particularly for evening hours. One camper shared, "About 2 miles of dirt road to get there. Turn right when you get to ATV trail. Two camp sites 10 yards apart."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: The main camping area accommodates smaller RVs but presents turning challenges. According to a review, "Dirt road was fine for our older 29' rv."
Alternative routes consideration: The left fork at the T-intersection offers additional primitive sites but with significant limitations. One camper warned, "If you travel to the left where the road 'T's' off, take care. The road is tight and very twisty. There are numerous spots to camp, but no pits to the left. I would not recommend going to the left unless the max you're hauling is a teardrop."
Self-contained requirements: RVers must arrive with full water tanks and empty waste tanks as no hookups or dump facilities exist within reasonable driving distance.
