Forestville Mystery Cave State Park Campground features over 18 miles of horseback riding trails that traverse hardwood forests and follow the Root River. The park's terrain varies from flat meadows to technical sections along river bluffs, providing riding experiences suitable for different skill levels. Trail maintenance is consistent, though riders should be prepared for some unmarked intersections.
What to do
Cave exploration: The Mystery Cave tours at Forestville Mystery Cave State Park Campground offer underground adventures through formations and pools. "I came here to explore the caves and it blew me away. I think the cave was around 12-13 miles long and there was water and different formations. The floor was really wet so bring shoes you won't slip in," advises Kevin T.
Fishing opportunities: Trout fishing is popular in the cold-water streams throughout the region. "We didn't do our homework, but if we would have known, we would have brought our fishing rods as the rivers were full of trout!" notes TyAnn J. about her experience at the park.
Historical site visits: The 1800s village at the park provides a glimpse into pioneer life. "On top of that it has this awesome living history 1800's village managed by the Minnesota Historical Society," states Jason S. The historic Forestville settlement is accessible via hiking trails from the campground.
Trail riding: Maple Springs Campground offers direct access to equestrian trails that connect with Forestville State Park. "It's a very short road ride to the park trails and the campground and their amenities are first rate," mentions Jen M., who appreciated the horse camping accommodations.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many horse campgrounds near Chatfield, Minnesota receive positive reviews for their well-maintained amenities. At Chester Woods Park, Mark N. reports, "Clean bathrooms and showers. Best value I've seen for fire wood. Has many walking trails that you can take your dog on and just a couple that you can't."
Spacious campsites: The region offers generous camping spaces, particularly for equestrian needs. At Maple Springs Campground, Jen M. notes, "The sites have water and electric. There are high ties for the horses. The sites have a nice gravel pad with a picnic table and fire ring at each site."
Quiet environment: Many campgrounds in the area provide peaceful settings. "The park was very noisy, but that all changed when most of the folks left Sunday. It was very peaceful the rest of the week," shares TyAnn J. about her mid-week stay at Forestville Mystery Cave.
Natural surroundings: The hardwood forests and river valleys create scenic camping backdrops. "Mystery Cave State Park is surrounded in a lush green forest with huge oak and maple trees that hang over the road like a huge living canopy," describes TyAnn J., highlighting the distinctive forest setting.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is restricted at many campgrounds in the region. Jim C. warns about Forestville Mystery Cave: "There is NO CELL SERVICE in the campground - no Verizon, ATT or T-Mobile. Wifi down at the ranger office."
Water hookup considerations: Many sites offer electric but not water connections. At Lake Louise State Park Campground, campers should note the limited hookups. "This is a very small campground. The sites are not very private. Have some nice hiking trails and a small lake a short walk from the campground," reports Melissa A.
Campsite selection strategy: Some sites receive more sun than others due to tree coverage. "We were in spot 15 and there was no shade in the morning to early afternoon," notes Melissa A. about Lake Louise State Park, emphasizing the importance of site selection for shade preferences.
Reservation requirements: Horse camping sites fill quickly during peak season. "Some girlfriends and I wanted to stay at the camp for the weekend and have a place to social distance ourselves. We rented the horse camp sites and we couldn't have been happier," explains Jen M., who made advance arrangements at Maple Springs Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Fishing access: Money Creek & Vinegar Ridge offers primitive camping with nearby river access. Scott S. notes, "The are 8 sites. There is no water or electricity. One pit toilet for the site. 5 miles from Rushford MN. Access to Root River trail close by."
Swimming options: Several parks feature swimming areas for cooling off. "The beach was great and clean. Fishing was great. Would definitely come back," writes Erik O. about Chester Woods Park, which offers a combination of water activities.
Cave tour planning: Families should schedule cave tours in advance, especially on weekends. "If you get the chance, go do the the 1 hour walking tour of Mystery Cave - well worth the entry fee. If you go on weekend probably need to make reservations," advises Jim C.
Educational opportunities: The historic village at Forestville provides learning experiences for children. "We walked around the historic town of Forestville at night and it was really really creepy," shares Dominic U., describing a memorable experience that might appeal to adventure-seeking kids.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: At Haycreek Valley Campground, hookup placement can require planning. "Our site was rather odd as the electric and water post was on the opposite side of our camper. Our standard water hose and electrical cord wouldn't reach," cautions Karin W.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds offer dump stations rather than sewer hookups. "Nice place but it is a campground not an rv park, 30 & 50 amp service but no water hookup (fill when you come in) and dump tanks when leaving," explains Kevin about Chester Woods Park.
Level site availability: RV campers appreciate the flat pads at many regional campgrounds. "Stayed in site 71 for 3 nights. Good level campsite and in walking around all the ones in the electric loop looked pretty level," reports Jim C. about Forestville Mystery Cave.
TV reception details: Some campers might appreciate knowing about entertainment options. "TV was able to pick up about 15 stations," notes Jim C., providing useful information for RVers planning longer stays at Forestville Mystery Cave.
