Equestrian trails and campsites near Finlayson, Minnesota offer riders access to thousands of acres of state forest and parkland in east-central Minnesota. The region sits at the transition zone between northern coniferous and southern hardwood forests, creating diverse riding environments across relatively flat terrain that averages 1,000-1,200 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak riding season, though horseback riders should prepare for frequent rain and moderate to severe insect activity.
What to do
Trail riding through state forests: St. Croix State Forest offers extensive riding opportunities with designated horse trails through pine and hardwood forests. "We like camping in state forest for the wild life experience. We seen Bear, Wolf, and plenty of Yote's. This is nature at it's finest," reports a visitor to Saint Croix State Forest Boulder Campground.
Climb observation towers: Several parks feature observation towers providing panoramic views. "There is also a 100' fire tower you can climb up and get an epic view," notes a camper at Old Logging Trail — St. Croix State Park. The towers offer riders a chance to survey the landscape before setting out on horseback.
River access for horses: Many equestrian trails include river access points where riders can rest and water their horses. A visitor to Wild River State Park Campground mentioned, "You can hear coyotes, raccoons and very loud owls. We spent an entire day hiking and it was decent hiking along the river."
What campers like
Private campsites: Horse campers appreciate the separation between sites at many parks. "The sites are private, couldn't see any neighbors as there are a lot of trees. The park rangers were very helpful and informative," says a reviewer at Wild River State Park Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean facilities make camping with horses more comfortable. At Riverview Campground — St. Croix State Park, one camper noted, "The showers and bathrooms were very clean" though they warned, "We used 40% deet spray and fogged our campsite 3x over the 3 days so we could reduce the bites."
Lake views: Many equestrian campsites offer water views. At Father Hennepin State Park Campground, a visitor shared, "The campground we stayed in was the Lakeview. Right next to the lake, the sunset is amazing if the weather is good. There is even a paved trail next to the lake that leads to a floating dock and beyond."
What you should know
Severe insect activity: Mosquitoes and flies can be particularly troublesome for horses and riders alike. "We were really excited about our luck finding a practically empty state park in July for a Thursday impromptu camping trip. Before we even stopped the car the deer flies were pelting the windows. Hundreds," warns a camper at Mille Lacs Kathio Petaga Campground.
Weather considerations: Plan for variable weather conditions. "We experienced the most intense and violent thunderstorm of my life. One lightning strike hit within 100 yards of our site. All of the campers were talking about it in the morning," recounts a visitor at Riverview Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most state park equestrian sites require advance booking. "In Minnesota, reservations are required. We've found that if you make them in advance, and then decide to cancel the day of the reservation, there are cancellation fees and first night fees," advises a camper at Wild River State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Many parks offer educational activities that complement horseback riding. "The park hosts various seminars throughout the week. There are several places to swim and a big playground for the little ones," notes a visitor to Mille Lacs Kathio Petaga Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can combine riding with wildlife observation. "We DID have fun doing some of the activities like hunting for insects/animals in the pond with the ranger, hiking to the ranger tower, playing at the playground, and trying to catch butterflies with the ranger," shares a camper at Riverview Campground.
Easy fishing access: After a day of riding, fishing provides a relaxing family activity. "We fished right off the shore and were catching very small catfish and river chub faster than we could set our reels which was great for the kids!" reports a Riverview Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Electric site planning: RVers with horse trailers should research electric site locations carefully. "The electric sites are so close to the tent sites that you can generally hear the generators and/or those that think that the wilderness is for loud music dance parties," notes a camper at Wild River State Park.
Pull-through site availability: Some campgrounds offer pull-through sites ideal for horse trailers. "We loved the pull-through site because then we were a little more protected from the road, although it's not busy this time of year at all," explains a winter visitor to Mille Lacs Kathio Petaga Campground.
Dump station access: RVers hauling horses should note dump station locations. "They do have showers and flush toilets (during warmer seasons) and vault toilets the rest of the time. There is also a dump station for RVs," mentions a Father Hennepin State Park Campground visitor.
