Elm Creek Horse Camp provides individual horse corrals at each primitive campsite for equestrians visiting the Crystal area. The campground features vault toilets and drinking water for campers and their horses. Located within Elm Creek Park Reserve, the horse camp connects directly to an extensive trail network with varied terrain suitable for horses of all experience levels. The sites accommodate both tents and RVs, though without electric or water hookups. The campground operates seasonally with a $16 nightly fee plus reservation costs.
What to do
Scenic trail riding: Elm Creek Horse Camp offers direct access to miles of wooded trails. "The trails are a lot of fun.. lots to see. The outhouses are kept up well and pump water road side," notes a camper at Sand Dunes State Forest Ann Lake, another equestrian-friendly option about 25 miles northwest of Crystal.
Beach swimming: Several parks near Crystal feature swimming areas perfect for cooling off after trail rides. At Bunker Hills Regional Park, campers enjoy "a water park with a wave pool" that provides a refreshing break from summer heat. A visitor mentioned, "There's a water park down the road and friendly staff."
Winter exploration: When snow blankets the trails, many parks transition to winter activities. At Wild River State Park, a winter camper shared their experience: "The ski trails were groomed and there were miles of trails. The candlelight ski was great and the routes were marked with different colored luminaries - for hiking and skiing."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many horse camps offer well-spaced sites. At Lake Elmo County Park Reserve, "sites are spacious and spread out, electric hookups at all sites, swim pond is great for kids, and other amenities like an archery range and hiking trails are fantastic for kids."
Natural surroundings: The landscape around Crystal provides varied terrain for riders. A reviewer at Lake Rebecca Park Reserve noted it's a "Big park! Great for birding and walking trails!" while another mentioned the "Sweet single track for mountain biking. The best kids park at any campground I've been to."
Ranger patrols: Many campers appreciate the security at equestrian camps. One Crow Hassan Park Reserve visitor shared that "The park was patrolled by rangers and the local sheriff after closing hours. Very safe place to camp." This sense of security allows equestrians to relax while camping with valuable animals.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most horse camps around Crystal operate from spring through fall with specific closing dates. A visitor to Baker Campground noted, "After months of winter the first trip of the season is something we look forward to. The sites at Baker Park Reserve are larger than average."
Bug protection essential: Like most Minnesota wilderness areas, insect activity varies by season. A Lake Maria State Park camper warned: "We went in the middle of Summer. High bug season. The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon." Pack appropriate repellent, especially during peak summer months.
Water availability: Most horse camps provide basic water access, but supplies may be limited. At Sand Dunes State Forest Ann Lake, a camper mentioned: "Water spigots throughout" the campground, allowing riders to keep horses hydrated during hot weather.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly facilities: Many parks near Crystal offer family amenities beyond horse trails. At Bunker Hills Regional Park, a visitor shared: "Something for everyone here! The facilities are well kept... Perfect for kids, they have a water park with a wave pool, a disc golf course, a golf course, several pavilions with grills, a few playgrounds and plenty of trails both paved and unpaved."
Educational opportunities: Some parks provide learning experiences for young riders. Lake Elmo Park Reserve "also has an archery range and on Saturday nights they have a campground program for the kids and families to watch. Very organized and clean facilities."
Bring entertainment: While horse activities will occupy much time, having alternatives for children helps during downtime. A Baker Park Reserve visitor suggested: "There is a nice 6+ mile biking trail that connects to others, so bring the bikes. It's a great place to spend a weekend close to home, but feel like you are getting away!"
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup limitations: Most horse camps prioritize equine facilities over RV amenities. At Wild River State Park, an RVer noted: "The campground was fully reserved but was empty, the low was 10 so people must have bowed out. The campsite was plowed out and had a nice spot for the tent."
Level parking areas: When bringing both horses and RVs, check site specifications. A Lake Elmo visitor mentioned: "Our modern site 40 was in a great open location with a shaded edge. We had plenty of room to play, park the camper or set up tents."
Proximity to water sources: For RVers at horse camps, water access points may require planning. One Sand Dunes State Forest Ann Lake camper advised: "You need a state parks pass to stay here plus the overnight fee. 15.00 a night is worth it for the size of your site and room to enjoy."
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