Horn Lake Camping provides free dispersed camping opportunities within Lincoln County Forest, approximately 70 miles north of Spencer, Wisconsin. The area features two established campsites at the end of a dirt road near a boat launch. Access to the sites requires navigating rough terrain, particularly during wet conditions when the dirt roads can become muddy and difficult to traverse. The surrounding forest land belongs to Lincoln County Forest, with multiple unmarked camping areas available for those willing to explore beyond the main sites.
What to do
Fishing from shore: Horn Lake offers good fishing opportunities directly from the campsite areas. According to Charles N., "We camped here in May not much for skeeters, good sites on the lake with a fire pit on a dead end road with a boat landing."
Explore forest roads: The surrounding Lincoln County Forest contains numerous dirt roads and trails. Jay S. notes, "A few mosquitoes, but the wind kept them to a minimum! Great view of the lake and very private. About 2 miles of dirt road to get there."
Bring your own fire pit: While stone fire rings exist at the main sites, some campers recommend bringing portable fire pits. Skip H. advises at Horn Lake Camping, "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."
What campers like
Privacy and quietness: The remote nature of this dispersed camping area means minimal crowds and noise. Jarrett G. shares, "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."
Lake access: Direct shoreline access for swimming, fishing, and kayaking ranks high with campers at Horn Lake and Lincoln County Forest. Skip H. describes it as "a beautiful spot. Very quiet. Land to the north is private property, so keep that in mind."
No reservation needed: The first-come, first-served nature of these sites appeals to spontaneous campers looking for free dispersed camping near Spencer, Wisconsin.
What you should know
Limited established sites: Only two designated sites exist with fire rings. These sites are approximately 40 feet apart and situated at the cul-de-sac by the boat launch.
Navigation challenges: Finding the correct route can be tricky. Jay S. recommends, "Turn right when you get to ATV trail. Two camp sites 10 yards apart."
Road conditions: The access road splits at a T-intersection, with significant differences in accessibility. Skip H. from Horn Lake Camping cautions, "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."
No facilities: Pack in all necessary supplies including drinking water. No toilets, trash service, or other amenities exist at this location.
Tips for camping with families
Best seasonal timing: May appears to offer a good balance of pleasant weather with minimal insects. Charles N. mentions, "We camped here in May not much for skeeters, good sites on the lake with a fire pit."
Prepare for total self-sufficiency: Families should pack everything needed for their stay, including sufficient water, portable toilet solutions, and garbage bags for waste removal.
Lake supervision: The proximity to water requires constant vigilance with children, as the campsites sit very close to the shoreline with no barriers.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: The established sites can accommodate modest-sized camping vehicles. Skip H. advises, "I would not recommend going to the left unless the max your hauling is a teardrop. Anyone up to 20' would be OK going to the right where the established 2 sites are."
Arrival timing: Because only two established sites exist, arriving early or mid-week substantially increases chances of securing a spot.
Road clearance concerns: Standard clearance RVs should exercise caution on the dirt access roads, particularly after rain when mud can create challenging driving conditions.
