14 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
El Rancho Manana Campground near Richmond offers access to riding trails and campsite options for equestrians. The campground accommodates both tent and RV camping with electric hookups, including 50-amp service for larger rigs. Water hookups and a sanitary dump station provide essential services for extended stays. Facilities include drinking water, showers, and toilets, along with trash collection and firewood availability. The site features picnic tables and allows pets, though specific horse corral facilities are not listed in the campground amenities.
Located approximately 30 miles northwest of Annandale, this campground provides options for primitive equestrian camping along with more developed sites. The property permits alcohol and campfires, with firewood available for purchase on-site. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season when bridle trails see increased traffic. The campground's market offers basic supplies for campers and their horses. While the campground accommodates both drive-in and boat-in access, most equestrians utilize the drive-in option with adequate space for horse trailers. Group equestrian camping may be available by contacting the campground directly, though availability varies by season.
"This park is only about 50 minutes away from me, and for hiking/camping I only think it is worth a trip in the fall."
"I chose Lake Maria for a solo camping excursion because it was close to the Cities, but still offered the level of seclusion I wanted."
from $22 - $80 / night
Check Availability"There are no reservations for the regular sites (although I do think they might take reservations for the equestrian and group sites)."
"Lots of close camp sites for larger groups near the entrance. The further back you go on the road, the more spread out sites get. There are a few walk-in sites that I absolutely love."
from $50 / night
Check Availability"Baker Park near Minneapolis Minnesota was a our camp choice for inexpensive camping on the last leg of our Minnesota vacation in 2017."
"The beaches are some of the best in Minnesota. The bike trails are nearby and plentiful."
from $21 - $29 / night
Check Availability"This newly developed trail is 13.25 miles long, so a nice option close to the city for those who are inclined to adventurous biking. Different loops are available for varying skill levels. "
"Great for birding and walking trails! One of my favorite places to go near home😁"
"So as a result the Riverbend group equestrian campground is now the parking lot for day visitors through at least August. "
"This is my all-time favorite park to bring my horse to, and it's her favorite trail too. Seriously, when we head back to our trailer she will stop and refuse to proceed."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"You can spend extra money to go horseback riding on trails. The sites are very close together not much privacy."
"I was very happy with the trails and accommodations available to me, during my stay."
"It has a golf course, a restaurant is on the grounds, there is a stable with horses/ponies that you can take guided trail rides on, a water park(it is called The Beach, which was very confusing for us"
from $20 - $32 / night
Check Availability"Away from the lake is another campground in the oak savanna section of the park, and this campground seems quieter with more spacious sites, although they are more open."
"Sibley State Park isn't the most amazing park in Minnesota, however it's still a very nice little campground!"
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability"Near Henderson, MN which is one of a kind small town well worth the visit for all. This is rustic with no hookups except very clean portapotty and hand lever water jack."
"Gulley that a large creek runs through surrounded by trees and large forested hills."
from $10 / night
Check Availability
GuideWe thoroughly enjoyed the hiking trails here. Plenty of space to socially distance. Equestrian camping area is nice and plenty of horse trails too. The biggest hit for me was the newly remodeled beach area on Lake Andrew. Plenty of space and a nice “fishing” pier to hang out at. They rent kayaks there too!!
LegendDuring these COVID times everyone wants to get out and about more, which means that the main parking lot for the park that used to be mostly designated for horse trailer parking is now overrun with family vehicles. So as a result the Riverbend group equestrian campground is now the parking lot for day visitors through at least August.
In normal times you can rent this group campsite for$70-$80 a night, which is ridiculously cheap considering that you can fit quite a bit of horse trailers on here. The information for this site states you can put 10 horse trailers on this lot, but I have definitely seen groups camp here with more. The barn stalls are available for use (unlike the Blue Stem horse site), otherwise there are overhead horse hitch lines.
This campground is nicely maintained and has nice mature trees that a lot of people set up hammocks in. The vault toilet near the barn is nice, there are no showers. Be aware that the road into this group site only is wide enough for one vehicle at a time, so far I’ve been lucky to not encounter another vehicle as I’m entering or leaving.
LegendThis state park uniquely showcases an ecologic transition zone between hardwood forest, savannah, and prairie. There are also local history connections. As a bird watcher, I was very excited to see birds here that I dont usually see at home in northern Minnesota, and to learn a bit more about glaciation in this area and about prairie and savannah habitats. The park has self guided hikes, educational nature programs, and learning kits for birding and more that you can check out at the ranger station. The lakeshore is pretty, and the lakeside campground is green and leafy with mature trees but the campsites are very close together, and the beachfront and bath house are currently closed for renovation which puts a damper on waterfront activities. Away from the lake is another campground in the oak savanna section of the park, and this campground seems quieter with more spacious sites, although they are more open. The park’s camper cabins are located here and are in a very pretty setting tucked into a little hill, though a bit of a walk to the bathrooms and showerhouse. At both campgrounds there are nice ADA sites which are level, spacious and accessible, and also close to the bathrooms. I was at a conference in nearby Willmar, and this park is a good alternative for lodging if you need to be in the area. If you are really into learning more about prairies and local glacial geology, the nearby Prairie Environmental Learning Center is fantastic to visit, and lots of prairie pothole WMAs are also closeby for waterfowl watching
LegendThis is my all-time favorite park to bring my horse to, and it's her favorite trail too. Seriously, when we head back to our trailer she will stop and refuse to proceed. Do a 180 on the trail and she is happy to trot away from the trailer. Horse camping is available in two locations in the park, even though once when I was there a family was camping in the parking with their horses. Apparently they got the cops called on them by some other park patrons who didn't believe that this was an option. At the time it was marked as a camping location on the map, but that may have changed.
The best place to be bug-free happens to be the sandy prairie trails, the wooded areas are nice but you may want to hustle out of there if you don't have enough bug protection. For non-horse riders some parts of the trail out in the open prairie might be a bit sandy. Also important to note- bikes are NOT allowed on the trails. Absolutely gorgeous in the fall. Pit toilets are available and there is water available at the entrance off of Park drive, not sure about the other locations.
GuideIf you’re the kind of camper who measures a site by how many tail wags it inspires, then Campsite 2 at Elm Creek Horse Camp is barking up the right tree.🌲🐶 Tucked away near the archery range(don’t worry—nobody’s aiming at your pup), this campsite offers a solid patch of peace where dogs can sniff, stretch, and settle in by the fire. The ground is mostly level—perfect for a tent and a sturdy dog bed—and the trails? Chef’s kiss. Plenty of new smells, shaded stretches, and squirrels for days. Now, to be clear—this is a horse camp first and foremost. So if your dog isn’t a fan of our four-hooved friends, you might want to steer clear. But if they’re cool with horses and know how to heel when a giant gelding struts by, they’ll be just fine. A few bones to pick: There’s not much privacy between sites, so if your dog’s a talker, your neighbors might get a serenade. And while$16 a night is totally reasonable, the$7.50 reservation fee nips at the budget a bit—especially if you’re staying more than a couple nights. Still, Campsite 2 hits all the right notes: trails close by, fire ring ready, and enough space for a tent, a camp chair, and a dog who thinks every stick is a gift from heaven.🦴 Would we come back? Absolutely. My dog already packed his leash! what
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TravelerVery nice quiet horse camp. Could use more horse trails, only about 12 miles worth of trails for horses.
TravelerThis campground is on a first come, first serve basis. There are no reservations for the regular sites (although I do think they might take reservations for the equestrian and group sites).
I highly recommend the walk-in-sites for the most private tent camping experience. The walk from the car isn’t far, but the sites are off the road and in the pines. If you like to have your car at your site, you’ll find some sites with nice long driveways that can accommodate multiple cars, or even a truck with a boat/trailer. The beach is nice and private, but it’s a bit of a hike from the campsites. I’d recommend just hopping in the car and driving over if you’ve got young kids with you.
There is no store or firewood sold at the campground, so you’ll have to haul your own in from an approved vendor.
ScoutI was very happy with the trails and accommodations available to me, during my stay. There are park pavilions and a water park connected to the campsite, a gold course nearby, and shops, too - - but the actual campsite, bike/walking/horse trails make you forget all of that. The temperature was COLD the first night, but perfect the rest of the week. Absolutely loved the experience, and I will go again.
TravelerNice clean campground very well maintained and free. Near Henderson, MN which is one of a kind small town well worth the visit for all. This is rustic with no hookups except very clean portapotty and hand lever water jack. Pick where to park in nice large grassy areas. A few areas are next to wild and deep ravines. Very nice large new play areas with slides for kids. Popular with a few horse trailers and riders on weekends because of COVID get to gather worries elsewhere. Friday morning before week end is best to get there in case of horse trailers to get nicer spot. Sometimes only a few campers are there. Call ahead to stay overnight so sheriff is aware. Not a lot of people know about it and is at end of long gravel road for peace and quiet. No problem for 5th wheels and tents both, pick your spot. Want to relax, chill out and visit your neighbors. This is worth the visit.
Equestrian camping near Annandale, Minnesota offers diverse terrain across multiple recreational areas. The region features sandy prairie trails, wooded paths, and lakeside riding options. Trail systems typically range from 5-15 miles in length, with most equestrian campgrounds remaining open from late April through October, weather permitting.
Horseback trail exploration: Lake Maria State Park has numerous trails for equestrians looking to explore beyond El Rancho Manana. According to Tori K., "Backpack sites only. Love this park as it offers many backpacking sites with some being very short hikes in and some being longer hikes. Some are lake front and some are more woodsy sites."
Swimming after rides: Cooling off after a trail ride is possible at Baker Campground where riders can find relief from summer heat. Jennifer H. notes, "The lake is nice. There are 2 swimming beaches: 1 for the campground and one for all of the day visitors."
Wildlife observation: Crow Hassan Park Reserve provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities while riding. Krista T. reports, "This is my all-time favorite park to bring my horse to, and it's her favorite trail too. Seriously, when we head back to our trailer she will stop and refuse to proceed."
Secluded camping options: At Lake Maria State Park, equestrian campers appreciate the isolation from other visitors. Lydia N. mentions, "This site was nearly surrounded by a lake which lended to a lot of bugs, but was absolutely gorgeous! We could see one other camper in a different site, but it still felt like you were in the wilderness."
Expansive riding terrain: Ann Lake offers varied terrain for riders of different skill levels. Johnny H. explains, "The trails are a lot of fun.. lots to see. The outhouses are kept up well and pump water road side."
Affordable group sites: Group equestrian sites provide economic options for trail clubs and riding groups. At Crow Hassan Park Reserve, Krista T. points out, "In normal times you can rent this group campsite for $70-$80 a night, which is ridiculously cheap considering that you can fit quite a bit of horse trailers on here."
Seasonal bug considerations: Horse owners should prepare for insect protection during summer months. At Lake Maria State Park, Steph H. cautions, "When we pulled up to the parking lot we knew we were in trouble. The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon."
Trail restrictions: Not all paths permit horses and riders. At High Island Creek Park, some trails are exclusively for hiking. Kevin H. mentions it's a "Great spot with a clean port-a-potty, a comfortable grove of trees, fire pits, and peace!"
Advanced reservations required: Most equestrian campsites require booking ahead, especially during summer weekends. Oak Ridge Campground accommodates both overnight and day riders, but Colleen D. advises, "This park has everything from bike trails, hiking trails, look out tower at the top of Mount Tom, to swimming and fishing."
Multi-activity options: Families with both riders and non-riders can find activities at Bunker Hills Regional Park where everyone stays entertained. Arielle P. explains, "Something for everyone here! The facilities are well kept, the park is patrolled by rangers and the local sheriff after closing hours. Very safe place to camp."
Child-friendly amenities: Dedicated play areas make extended stays more enjoyable for younger children. Daniel R. notes about Lake Rebecca Park Reserve, "This has an amazing beach. Great Trails. Sweet single track for mountain biking. The best kids park at any campground I've been to."
Educational opportunities: Several equestrian camps provide nature programs specifically for children. At Baker Campground, matt H. shares, "we love to camp here. Access to lake independence. A lot of biking trails. Nice clean bathrooms. Nice park for kids just a small hike away."
Hookup limitations: Many equestrian sites have limited hookups for horse trailers with living quarters. At Ann Lake, Andy L. details, "30' class C motor home. Some overhanging branches on the road in scrape the top and sides. Campsites are nice, mowed, gravel parking."
Maneuvering challenges: Large rigs face tight access roads at some equestrian campgrounds. Jesse H. explains about El Rancho Manana, "About 1/2 seasonal sites and intermingled short-term sites. Well-kept with fair amount of trees."
Generator regulations: Noise restrictions affect generator use at many equestrian sites. Chris D. observed at Ann Lake, "Went on a busy summer weekend. Beautiful rustic campsites but even sites that you can't drive directly up to were still too close to all of the RVers with loud generators."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Annandale, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Annandale, MN is Lake Maria State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 34 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Annandale, MN?
TheDyrt.com has all 14 equestrian camping locations near Annandale, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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