Lake Elmo County Park Reserve spans 2,000 acres of diverse terrain located 20 miles east of Eagan, Minnesota. The park features a mix of prairie landscapes and wooded areas with elevation changes that create varied trail experiences. Camping season runs from April through October, with sites accommodating both tent campers and those with horse trailers.
What to do
Hiking trails connect to larger networks: Lake Elmo offers access to miles of trails that extend throughout Washington County. "We had a wonderful stay at Lake Elmo at the rustic site. There was plenty of flat space for our tent. They provide a fire ring and picnic bench," notes Alyssa T. from Lake Elmo County Park Reserve.
Archery practice for all ages: Bunker Hills Regional Park provides dedicated archery ranges for beginners and experienced archers. "Huge waterpark, miles of bike trails," writes Tiffany W. about the diverse recreation options at Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Explore ravines and creek beds: High Island Creek Park offers unique terrain for exploration. "Beautiful trails leading you down the revenue to a gentle flowing creek. One of me and my hubbies favorite drop in campsites!!" shares Alison O. about the hidden natural features.
What campers like
Filtered swimming ponds: Several parks near Eagan offer swimming areas with chlorinated water. "They have a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds. Great for swimming," explains Timothy S. about Lake Elmo County Park Reserve.
Spacious, well-separated campsites: Baker Campground provides ample room between sites. "The sites are good sized, and the bathroom/showers are great. With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be," says Bryan S. about Baker Campground.
Low-cost camping options: Some parks offer free or low-cost alternatives. "Nice 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," reports Mike G. about High Island Creek Park.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable horse camping conditions in the Eagan area. "I went to this park for the first time last weekend, and I spent the entire time just saying 'wow'. I had never been here before, despite it only being 20 minutes away, because I always prioritize going to state parks," shares Krista T. about discovering Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Poison ivy awareness: Some wooded areas contain poison ivy. "Sites are large with varying degrees of privacy. Well spaced out, just some have less undergrowth. Be aware that the undergrowth is at least 25% poison ivy," warns Kari P. about Lake Ann Campground.
Horse trailer parking considerations: For horse campgrounds near Eagan, Minnesota, arrive early on weekends to secure suitable spots. "We have been going to Haycreek for over 15 years for horse camping. The trails are shaded, no bugs, friendly campers and staff. They have electric and water hookups for horse campers," mentions Olivia R.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many campgrounds offer modern play equipment. "This campground is a gem so very close to the Twin Cities. The sites are good sized, and the bathroom/showers are great. With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be," notes Bryan S.
Swimming options with children: Sakatah Lake State Park provides swimming opportunities for families. "Loved this park!! Very quiet and peaceful. Biked the trail. Campfires, hammocked and just enjoyed chillin!" shares Carla A. about the relaxed atmosphere.
Evening activities: Check campground schedules for family programming. "This park has awesome sites that fit the needs of just about anyone. The have beautiful hiking trails and a swimming beach for the hotter days. They also have an archery range and on Saturday nights they have a campgound program for the kids and families to watch," explains Tina H.
Tips from RVers
Shade availability: Wooded areas provide needed coverage in summer months. "Very nice park if your RV is not to big. I put our 38 foot 5th wheel in a site but you better be on your game here. Lots of shade and big trees," advises Tim B. about Sakatah Lake State Park.
Hookup locations: Some sites have unusual utility placement. "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 so we ended up backing up the hill to get next to the water and filled our tank for the weekend," warns Karin W. about Haycreek Valley Campground.
Leveling requirements: Be prepared for uneven terrain. "Many sites are placed on on incline. They got the sites are pretty flat, but it's still on a hill," notes John W. about terrain challenges at some area campgrounds.
