Equestrian camping opportunities abound in central Minnesota's lake country, with several horse campgrounds near Bay Lake, Minnesota providing access to extensive trail systems. The region typically experiences hot summers with temperatures averaging in the 80s and cold winters with significant snowfall, creating distinct seasonal camping experiences. Primitive horse camping facilities in the area typically operate from spring through late fall, closing before winter conditions make trails impassable.
What to do
Trail riding at Pillsbury State Forest: Walter E Stark Horse Campground offers direct access to forest trails with varied terrain. "We walked some trails and went up to lost lake...Loads of raspberries along the road so we stopped in the shade and had a couple snacks. Lots of trails to hike and ride in the area and plenty of signs to warn you not to spook the horses which I think is good," notes Scott M.
Winter activities near equestrian areas: Even outside camping season, the region offers horse-related recreation. "We did stop in at the local ranch and asked about the programs they offered. We are thinking to come back in the winter when they have sleigh rides," mentions a visitor to Pillsbury State Forest.
Paddleboarding at nearby lakes: The Cuyuna Mine Lakes provide excellent paddleboarding opportunities within driving distance. "The park was a 20-30 minute drive from the Cuyuna Mines area, so I was able to easily drive over Saturday morning and spend the day paddleboarding," writes Sarah D. about her stay at Crow Wing State Park.
Historic exploration: "Historic signs describing the old town are along the beginning part of the trail near the picnic area. Kinda fun to read about and feel what old settlements were like!" shares HollyRose M. about trails at Crow Wing State Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many equestrian campgrounds offer good spacing between camping areas. At Mille Lacs Kathio State Park, "The sites are large and spaced decently from each other. We could have used a little more privacy between sites, but this can be written off as an effect of being nearly in the season," notes Brian C.
Sunset views from lakeside locations: "Love doing a sunset hike, this trail is just over two miles, all along the river, with pretty much continual sunset views if you take the trail East to West. It's a loop, which is always preferred I think," says HollyRose M. about Crow Wing State Park.
Family-friendly facilities: "The park hosts various seminars throughout the week. There are several places to swim and a big playground for the little ones," writes Liz H. about her experience at Father Hennepin State Park.
Hiking trail connections: "Trails are nearby that are easily accessible on foot from the campground, and you can make loops that come back to the campground as well," explains Amy G. about winter camping at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal insect challenges: Summer brings significant insect activity. "The black flies were bad on our walk, but it did have some nice views along the way," reports a visitor to Walter E Stark Horse Campground. Similarly, at Father Hennepin State Park, "We went mid-July I think and the trees were literally raining caterpillars… it was tough to want to hang out in our tree canopy-covered site," shares Andrea S.
