Best Equestrian Camping near Hastings, MN
Lake Elmo County Park Reserve features trail riding opportunities through prairie landscapes and wooded areas with numerous amenities for families camping with horses. The park includes over 2,000 acres with designated horse trails connecting to a variety of terrains. Sites are spacious with good tree coverage providing privacy between neighbors. The modern campground section includes electric hookups and water access, while a more rustic camping area is located near the horse trailer parking lot. Most sites include a fire ring and picnic table on level ground suitable for setting up horse equipment. Sites near the outer ring offer views overlooking the prairie where riders often spot deer and other wildlife.
Equestrian visitors access multiple trails directly from the campground, with routes varying from prairie rides to wooded paths. The park's trail system features several miles of designated bridle paths that connect riders to diverse natural settings. Horse owners should note that while horses are permitted on designated trails throughout the park, they are not allowed in the campground section itself. Trail riders often combine camping visits with day-use of the extensive trail network. The park requires a daily or annual parking pass for vehicles and horse trailers. While no dedicated horse corrals are available on-site, the camping area's proximity to horse trails makes it convenient for day riders who can easily return to their trailers. The primitive camping sites near the horse trailer lot provide the most convenient access for those bringing horses for trail riding excursions.
