The Governor Knowles State Forest is located in northwestern Wisconsin in Burnett and Polk Counties. It lies along the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway and encompasses approximately 34,000 acres (of which about 21,000 acres are state owned). The property's headquarters is located in the Village of Grantsburg.

The forest is perhaps most well-known for its proximity to the St. Croix River. Most of the 55 mile length of the long and narrow property lies along the St. Croix which is designated a National Scenic Riverway. The National Park Service manages the majority of the recreational facilities directly along the river.

Hunters will find whitetail deer, ruffed grouse, black bear, snowshoe hare, squirrel and woodcock on the forest. For visitors more interested in watching wildlife, the varied habitat on the forest afford opportunities to see a wide variety of animals, including sharp-tailed grouse, common yellow throat, bald eagles, pocket gopher, mink and muskrat. This state forest also provides a variety of trail-based activities such as hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, both a family and equestrian campground, and other nature based activities such as nature study and wildlife viewing.