Haycreek Valley Campground sits in southeastern Minnesota amid rolling hills and hardwood forests at approximately 800 feet elevation. Located near the Cannon River Valley, this area experiences warm summers with highs around 80°F and cold winters with temperatures often below freezing. The region's limestone bluffs and wooded ravines create natural barriers that help reduce wind in many campgrounds.
What to do
Trail riding connections: At Highland Ridge - Eau Galle Reservoir, equestrians can access multiple interconnected trails through dense woodland. "This campground is well maintained and a beautiful park within the woods. Great for hiking and kayaking/canoeing is near by," notes David E., highlighting the mixed-use nature of the trails.
Fishing opportunities: The lake at Chester Woods Park offers excellent fishing for multiple species. "The lake offers the opportunity to fish for panfish, catfish, and bass. There are a lot of submerged trees from before the Creek was dammed that provide good habitat in deep water," reports Brian K., explaining why the fishing is productive.
Biking excursions: Paved bike trails connect to several horse campgrounds near Hay Creek, Minnesota. "We really enjoyed the bike trail that was so close, paved and had lots of tree cover to keep us cool. Very nice ride to Red Wing right from our site," shares Karin W., describing the convenient cycling access.
What campers like
Shaded campsites: The thick forest canopy at many Hay Creek area campgrounds provides natural cooling. "This campground is small, but almost all sites are large. There are 38 sites plus walk in tent sites A through G and a group site," explains Mary S. about Highland Ridge, adding that "It's completely in the woods, and sites are FULLY shaded."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "This was one of The cleanest campgrounds I have ever stayed at. The sites are large and very well shaded for privacy. Great playground and hiking area," writes Courtney C., emphasizing the overall maintenance standards.
Lake swimming: Several equestrian camping options near Hay Creek offer swimming areas. "The beach was great and clean. Fishing was great. Would definitely come back," reports Erik O. about his experience at Chester Woods Park, highlighting the water recreation options beyond trail riding.
What you should know
Limited reservations: Some horse-friendly campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends. "We've now camped here 4 times…This is a beautiful, densely wooded campground with fairly well spaced sites," shares Deb M. about Highland Ridge, recommending early booking.
Site positioning challenges: At several equestrian campgrounds, the utility hookups can be awkwardly placed. "Some sites on the short loop (28-38) are a bit smaller and slope down from the road, so be careful of the site's size when booking. Our 29' trailer would have been a challenging fit in some of those sites," warns Deb M.
Limited sun exposure: Solar-dependent campers should note the heavy tree coverage. "First thing you need to know: It's completely in the woods, and sites are FULLY shaded...This is not a good place for solar panels, but almost all sites are electric," advises Mary S. about Lake Elmo County Park Reserve.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: The man-made swimming areas provide safe places for children. "They have a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds. Great for swimming," describes Timothy S., highlighting the family-friendly water features at Lake Elmo.
Playground access: Most equestrian campgrounds include play equipment for children. "Great campground and been here many times. Plenty of wildlife and can hear the owls talking to each other," shares David G., noting the nature observation opportunities for kids.
Educational programs: Some horse campgrounds near Hay Creek offer weekend activities. "Lake Elmo County Park in Washington County Minnesota is a great park for families. There are a bunch of things to do including hiking, horseback riding, swimming in their filtered pond, boating and an insane playground," explains Steph H. at Cannon River Wilderness Area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites carefully based on your rig size and requirements. "Our site (7) sloped down but leveled out with plenty of room for our campervan at the bottom. All sites are wooded with trees providing separation/privacy between sites," shares Lee D. from Whippoorwill Ranch Kampground, one of the smaller horse-friendly campgrounds.
Hookup positioning: Check the placement of utilities before finalizing your reservation. "The fire pits were located in very odd spots too - basically unusable unless you wanted to light your rig on fire," warns Karin W., emphasizing the importance of site inspection upon arrival.
Water access planning: Many equestrian campgrounds have limited water hookups. "Only electric hooks ups at each site. They do have a fresh water filling station and a dump station. Well worth the $30 per night charge," explains Kirk J., noting the need to fill tanks upon arrival.
Legend
