The Frontenac, Minnesota area sits at an elevation of approximately 700 feet above sea level along bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. This region features a mix of wooded ravines and rolling countryside that create natural trail systems ideal for horseback riding. Summer temperatures average in the mid-80s with moderate humidity, making early morning and evening trail rides most comfortable during peak season.
What to do
Trail riding excursions: Highland Ridge near Spring Valley offers extensive riding options with well-shaded paths. "The trails are shaded, no bugs, friendly campers and staff," shares a visitor from Haycreek Valley Campground, which connects to a paved bike path just 10 minutes from Red Wing.
Biking adventures: Multiple campgrounds provide access to regional bike paths. As one camper at Highland Ridge - Eau Galle Reservoir notes, "Great campground and been here many times. Plenty of wildlife and can hear the owls talking to each other." The bike trail connecting to Red Wing is especially popular for its tree cover.
Swimming opportunities: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas to cool off after riding. At Chester Woods Park, a visitor reports, "The beach was great and clean. Fishing was great. Would definitely come back." This provides a perfect afternoon activity when not on horseback.
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: Horse campers appreciate dedicated camping areas with appropriate amenities. "We have been going to Haycreek for over 15 years for horse camping," one review states. "They have electric and water hookups for horse campers, and they have overflow for horse campers."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the exceptional maintenance standards at horse campgrounds near Frontenac. A visitor to Chester Woods Park writes, "The bathrooms and showers were pristine clean and close and easy to walk to," while another adds it's "the cleanest campground I have ever stayed at."
Convenient locations: Many appreciate the proximity to small towns and services. One camper at Lake Elmo County Park Reserve notes it's "conveniently located between Wisconsin and Minneapolis/St Paul airport," making it accessible for those traveling with horses from further away.
What you should know
Site configurations: Some campgrounds have unusual utility placements. A camper at Haycreek Valley shares, "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." Check site layouts when making reservations.
Seasonal considerations: Horse camping is weather-dependent in this region. At Highland Ridge Campground, a visitor cautions, "It's completely in the woods, and sites are FULLY shaded. Sites 28-38 are on a loop with a picnic pavilion in the middle with some openings for sun." This can affect solar charging options.
Reservation systems: Most equestrian campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "We got here around 6pm on a Thursday evening and there were lots of available sites," notes a traveler, but weekends typically require advance planning, especially at popular horse camping destinations.
Tips for camping with families
Amenities for children: Several horse campgrounds include family-friendly features. Lake Elmo Park Reserve offers "an insane playground" according to one review, while another visitor highlights "hiking, horseback riding, swimming in their filtered pond, boating and an insane playground."
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds provide learning experiences for children alongside horse activities. "They have an interpretive center for Saturday evening ranger programs and a playground next to it," notes a visitor to Highland Ridge, offering educational value during horse camping trips.
Activity variety: Whippoorwill Ranch Kampground creates a multi-activity experience. "Mark, Sheri and the staff are good people who work hard to make sure you have a great time," one camper shares. Having alternatives to riding helps keep younger family members engaged.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Most horse campgrounds prioritize trailer parking over full hookups. "Cost is $20/$16 for electric/non-electric. This is an Army Corps of Engineers park which means you pay $10/$8 if you have an NPS Lifetime Senior Pass," a reviewer at Highland Ridge notes, highlighting the value but limited services.
Horse trailer maneuvering: Some sites present challenges for larger rigs with horse trailers. "Some sites are difficult to back into if you have a large rig," warns a visitor to Highland Ridge - Eau Galle Reservoir. Requesting specific sites with adequate turning radius is recommended.
Dump station access: While full hookups are rare, most horse campgrounds provide dump stations. A camper at Chester Woods Park clarifies it's "electric only at the camp sites but have water and dump station on site," which is typical of equestrian facilities in the region.
