DIANNE T.
Guide
GuideHigh Island Creek Park
Quiet and creek is beautiful
Had a great time walking the river. W dog
Equestrian Camping near North Mankato, MN
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Minnesota Valley Recreation Area Equestrian Camp provides primitive horse camping specifically for riders near Jordan, 45 miles northwest of North Mankato. The equestrian campground features vault toilets and drinking water but lacks electrical hookups or showers. Designed for horse owners, the camp permits pets and accommodates drive-in access year-round. The campground serves as a base for exploring Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area's extensive trail system. Sites cannot be reserved online and fill quickly during peak riding seasons. Trail riders often bring self-contained camping setups as amenities are minimal compared to other state park facilities.
The camp connects directly to bridle trails that wind through hardwood forests and prairie landscapes characteristic of the Minnesota River Valley. Riders access miles of maintained horse trails directly from their campsites without needing to trailer horses to trailheads. The terrain offers varied riding experiences through wooded areas, open grasslands, and along waterways. Horse owners must bring their own water buckets, feed, and portable corrals or highlines as the campground doesn't provide permanent horse containment facilities. Trails remain open year-round but riding conditions vary significantly with seasonal weather changes. Most riders report the best trail conditions in late spring and early fall when the ground is firm but not dusty or muddy. The surrounding recreation area covers over 1,000 acres with multiple loop trail options suitable for both novice and experienced riders.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds near North Mankato (7)
1. Sakatah Lake State Park Campground
"Great park if you’re not looking to drive too far to enjoy a bit of nature. Wonderful hiking paths and biking paths. Our site was nice a secluded and right next to the trail heads."
"Sites are wooded and shady but some are close to neighboring sites. Not too many mosquitos or flies for August in Minnesota! Sakatah Singing Hills paved trail runs through the park. "
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $24 - $85 / night
2. Kamp Dels
"We reserved a spot right next to the pool area. It was a tight fit to back the camper it, but I was able to do it. They have cement pads for a patio area and a fire ring."
"The one drawback, in my opinion, is that the lake it is right next to doesn’t have a beach for swimming. That was a little disappointing for me."
3. High Island Creek Park
"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."
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
4. Fort Ridgely State Park Campground
"Ridgley horse camp. Very nice horse camp, with electric hookups, and water at every site."
"Drinking water is very good and many fountains and hydrants are located all throughout the park, even way out on the trails there are water fountains. Large stone pavilion for groups picnics."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $24 - $85 / night
5. Eagle Nest Park
6. Equestrian Campground — Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
"Great place to snowmobile, hike, bike or rideas horse!"
7. Cannon River Wilderness Area
"We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. We set up hammocks right next to the river."
"If you camp with animals: Sites all sit directly off walking trail very popular with dog walkers."
Drive Time
- 3 min from Mankato, MN
- 1 hr 11 min from Minneapolis, MN
- 1 hr 15 min from Rochester, MN
- 1 hr 52 min from St. Cloud, MN
Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near North Mankato, MN
1 Photos of 7 North Mankato Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Equestrian Camping Reviews near North Mankato, MN
69 Reviews of 7 North Mankato Campgrounds
Brandon C.GuideSakatah Lake State Park Campground
Can’t wait to come back
Amazing staff who were super nice and helpful. Great clean bathrooms and camp sites. We liked the trails and ability to access the lake. Super cheap and easy to rent kayaks.
- TThomas D.Guide
Sakatah Lake State Park Campground
Beautiful campground in southern Minnesota
I have gone to this campground a few times and we love it. It’s beautiful and peaceful, secluded lots. Very overlooked this is a gem.
- DIANNE T.Guide
High Island Creek Park
Hidden Gem
This place is spectacular,u have to walk down to the creek. God's work. Beautiful
T
TravelerCannon River Wilderness Area
Year round free camping
Been camping here year round for 20+ years. Free, first come first served rustic hike/cart in sites with steel fire ring/grill. There are 4 official sites and 2 more unofficial sites with no fire ring.
If you camp with animals: Sites all sit directly off walking trail very popular with dog walkers.
- TThomas D.Guide
Sakatah Lake State Park Campground
It was perfect. There wasn’t a lot of people there. The lots are pretty nice and secluded.
I love the location and how quiet it is and secluded each spot is
Travis A.
RangerHigh Island Creek Park
Free dispersed camping
I stayed four nights. I would have stayed longer but ran out of water. There isn't any potable water on site. During a hot day, I took my two dogs and we hiked to a nearby river. We cooled off and enjoyed the peace and quite. The only downside is no potable water and lots of mesquites.
ron R.RangerHigh Island Creek Park
Virtually noises
I'm spending three nights here. I'm writing my review after my second day. The campground is kept up very well. It has garbage cans and porta pottys. When I got here it was empty. Nice open spots and a good amount of tree cover.
- SSherry H.
ScoutHigh Island Creek Park
Magical
Good vibes it’s a magical place when u go hiking down the hill to the hidden creeks trails and absolute peace being one with nature..
Guide to North Mankato
Horse camping in Minnesota offers a unique opportunity to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the company of your equine friends. With a variety of campgrounds that cater to horse enthusiasts, you can find the perfect spot to set up camp and ride the scenic trails.
Tips for equestrian camping near North Mankato, Minnesota
- Fort Ridgely State Park Campground features well-maintained horse facilities and ample trails for riding, making it a favorite among equestrian campers.
- High Island Creek Park offers free camping with access to nearby trails, perfect for those looking to enjoy nature with their horses.
- Minnesota Sakatah Lake State Park Campground provides electric hookups and a sanitary dump, ensuring a comfortable stay for both you and your horse.
Equestrian campers like these nearby activities
- At Kamp Dels, families can enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing and mini-golf, while their horses are well accommodated.
- Cannon River Wilderness Area is ideal for those who love hiking and exploring nature trails, offering a peaceful environment for both riders and their horses.
- Eagle Nest Park features beautiful hiking paths and a serene setting, perfect for a relaxing day after a ride.
Campers appreciate these amenities for horses
- Minnesota Sakatah Lake State Park Campground includes drinking water and firewood, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable stay.
- At Fort Ridgely State Park Campground, campers can enjoy large stone pavilions for group gatherings and well-maintained restrooms.
- High Island Creek Park offers picnic tables and trash disposal, making it easy to keep your campsite tidy while enjoying your time with horses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian
campsite near North Mankato, MN?
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near North Mankato, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near North Mankato, MN is Sakatah Lake State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 26 reviews.
What is the best site to find
equestrian camping near
North Mankato, MN?
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near North Mankato, MN?
TheDyrt.com has all 7 equestrian camping locations near North Mankato, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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