The Lake & Area

Check Cabin Availability at Buckhorn on Caribou

Minnesota’s Clearest Lake, Right Outside Your Door

Caribou Lake is often called Minnesota’s clearest lake—and for good reason. With water clarity of up to 40 feet and depths reaching 160 feet, it’s a pristine, spring-fed lake perfect for everything from trout fishing to tranquil canoe rides. Nestled within the Chippewa National Forest, Buckhorn on Caribou offers guests a front-row seat to nature’s quiet grandeur.


Whether you’re exploring the lake or hiking through the woods, this area offers a unique blend of untouched wilderness and accessible adventure. It’s a destination for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone seeking peace under towering pines.

A small log cabin with stairs leading up to it.
A sunset over a lake with trees in the foreground
The sun is setting over a lake with trees in the background.
A boat is docked at a dock on a lake.

Lake Features and Activities

Fishing

Caribou Lake is a deep, cold lake stocked naturally with lake trout. Guests frequently catch northern pike, smallmouth bass, and trout from their private docks or by boat. The clean, spring-fed waters support healthy fish populations all year.

Boating and Paddling

Enjoy our complimentary canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats—or bring your own. Our quiet lake has no public boat access, which means no crowds and a more peaceful paddling experience.

Swimming

The lake's sandy-bottom areas and crystal-clear water make it perfect for swimming during warmer months. Children and adults alike enjoy floating, wading, and diving in the clean, cold water.

Winter Activities

In the colder months, Caribou Lake becomes a snowy playground. Ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling are all accessible from the resort or nearby trails.

Buckhorn sits within the boundaries of the Chippewa National Forest, offering direct access to thousands of acres of protected land. Hike wooded trails, discover hidden lakes, and keep your eyes open for bald eagles, foxes, deer, loons, and wild mushrooms.


Nearby Natural Highlights:


  • Joyce Estate hiking trails

  • Suomi Hills Recreation Area

  • North Country National Scenic Trail

  • Scenic overlooks and backcountry picnic spots

This region is known for its biodiversity, old-growth forests, and seasonal color—making it a favorite for photographers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers.

The Chippewa National Forest – Your Backdrop to Adventure

The Buckhorn Property – Designed for Nature Lovers

Our resort’s layout intentionally preserves the natural beauty of the land. Each cabin is nestled among trees, with private docks and generous spacing to give guests a true sense of solitude. Community fire pits, picnic areas, and a lakeside pavilion offer places to gather without sacrificing privacy.



We believe the best experiences happen outside—whether it's watching loons at sunrise or stargazing under a northern sky.

FAQs – Caribou Lake and the Area

  • Is the lake swimmable?

    Yes! The lake has a hard sand bottom and over 35 feet of visibility — perfect for swimming.

  • Can I bring my own boat?

    Yes, the lake has public access and you can bring speedboats.

  • Are there hiking trails on site?

    Yes, several scenic paths start from the property. More extensive trails are just a short drive away.

  • Do I need a fishing license?

    Yes. Minnesota fishing regulations apply, and licenses can be purchased online or locally.

Discover What Makes Caribou Lake Special

If you’re looking for a lake experience that’s peaceful, clean, and truly connected to nature, Caribou Lake offers all that and more. Stay with us at Buckhorn to enjoy the best of the lake and forest, all from the comfort of a handcrafted log cabin.