Horseshoe Lake Campground provides equestrian camping near South Range, Wisconsin with designated sites for horse trailers and riders. Located in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, the area features relatively flat terrain with mixed hardwood forests typical of northern Wisconsin. Summer temperatures average 75-80°F during the day with cooler nights in the 50s, creating comfortable conditions for horse camping. Fall brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, extending the riding season through October.
What to do
Trail riding exploration: The Horseshoe Lake Campground area offers extensive trail networks designed specifically for equestrians. "This is a quiet campground in the middle of nowhere. The campground is intended to be used as campers that ride horses can stay at," notes reviewer Al J., highlighting its primary purpose as an equestrian base camp.
Forest wildlife observation: The surrounding Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest provides opportunities to observe native Wisconsin wildlife. Visitors to Saint Croix State Forest Boulder Campground report impressive wildlife sightings: "We like camping in state forest for the wild life experience. We seen Bear, Wolf, and plenty of Yote's," shares Scot L., describing the natural encounters possible in similar forest settings.
Lake access and fishing: Several small lakes punctuate the forest landscape, offering fishing opportunities during warmer months. The Boulder Campground provides "a beautiful lake and lots of trails," according to Daniel H., making water activities a viable option for equestrian campers seeking variety during their stay.
What campers like
Natural quiet and solitude: The remote location appeals to those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience away from crowds. "This is a quiet campground especially if you want a quiet place. Also spacious campsites," notes Al J. about Horseshoe Lake Campground, emphasizing the tranquility that attracts many horse camping enthusiasts.
Authenticity of experience: The rustic, minimal-amenity approach creates a more genuine outdoor experience. Daniel H. explains, "For $17 a night you can't beat a state forest campgrounds. This is real camping for the kids," highlighting the value of basic facilities that maintain a connection to nature.
Spacious campsites: The sites are designed with horse trailers in mind, offering more room than standard campgrounds. Horseshoe Lake specifically features "spacious campsites" according to reviews, providing adequate room for setting up corrals, parking trailers, and establishing comfortable camp areas for multi-day stays.
What you should know
First-come availability: Plan to arrive early since these rustic campgrounds typically don't accept reservations. "Get there early in the day because there are no reservations and it's first come first served," advises Daniel H. about Boulder Campground, a practice common to many forest service camping areas.
Minimal facilities: Equestrian camping in this region means truly rustic accommodations. "Heads up! No hook up's. Vault bathrooms only," warns Scot L., setting appropriate expectations for the facilities at similar forest campgrounds in the region.
Remote location logistics: The isolated setting requires preparation and self-sufficiency. Boulder Campground is described as "a long drive in from the tar and gravel, it's worth the trip," indicating that accessing these equestrian camping areas requires planning for distance from services and supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education opportunities: The forest setting provides natural learning experiences for children. Daniel H. emphasizes this value: "This is real camping for the kids," noting how state forest campgrounds offer authentic outdoor experiences away from developed recreation areas.
Weekday visits for quieter experience: For families seeking maximum solitude, mid-week visits offer the best environment. "Mid week it was quiet and there was only three other people there and this remote campground," reports Daniel H., suggesting timing strategies for optimal family experiences.
Pack for variable weather: Northern Wisconsin experiences significant temperature fluctuations, particularly in spring and fall. Weather can change quickly in the forest, requiring layered clothing and rain gear even during summer months. Evening temperatures can drop considerably even after warm days.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for horse trailers: While designated for equestrian use, access roads and camping areas have limitations. Small to medium-sized trailers navigate these areas most comfortably, as the campgrounds are described as "intended to be used as campers that ride horses can stay at. People who camp in tents or small trailers will also enjoy this quiet place."
Self-contained setups preferred: The lack of hookups necessitates bringing all supplies. "No hook up's. Vault bathrooms only," reminds Scot L., emphasizing that RVers must be prepared for dry camping with appropriate water storage, waste management, and power solutions.
Extended season possibilities: The camping season runs through October, allowing for fall color rides. "We were here in Sept and back again at the end of Oct. Wonderful forests, pleasantly, quiet," shares Scot L., highlighting the potential for late-season equestrian camping when temperatures are cooler and insects less prevalent.
