Elm Creek Horse Camp sits within the expansive 5,500-acre Elm Creek Park Reserve in northern Minnesota. The campground is situated at approximately 930 feet elevation in rolling terrain with a mix of woods and restored prairie. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall offer cooler camping conditions with temperatures between 40-70°F.
What to do
Biking at Baker Park Reserve: Extensive paved trails connect throughout the park system. "The entire park is surrounded by farms, nearby are some really nice Minnesota small towns like Henderson and the somewhat larger St. Peter (but still small town)," notes Trenton V. about High Island Creek Park.
Swimming options: Many parks offer dedicated swimming areas. "They have a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds. Great for swimming," shares Timothy S. about Lake Elmo County Park Reserve.
Archery practice: Several parks near Inver Grove Heights feature archery ranges. "Something for everyone here! The facilities are well kept, the park is patrolled by rangers and the local sheriff after closing hours. Very safe place to camp. Perfect for kids, they have a water park with a wave pool, a disc golf course, a golf course," explains Arielle P. about Bunker Hills Regional Park.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many equestrian camping areas near Inver Grove Heights offer secluded spots. "The campground is well maintained and the bathrooms are clean, and only an hour from our home in the northern suburbs," says Deb M. about Highland Ridge.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The diverse habitats support abundant wildlife. "I was so amazed with all the sounds of birds in this park. I heard Everything from Eagles, Canadian Geese and Swans to Woodpeckers and multiple song birds," shares Shelly S. about Sakatah Lake State Park Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: Most horse camps feature clean amenities. "The camp office was so east and friendly! Well placed sites nestled near lovely walking trails - Very nice water hook ups and electric- well maintained! Loved this Camping Site! Conveniently located between Wisconsin and Minneapolis/St Paul airport," says Kimberly L. about Lake Elmo County Park Reserve.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many equestrian campgrounds require advance booking. "You may camp in the equestrian area (E1-E10) without a horse if the main area is full. We were able to reserve a site in there a couple days ahead of time because the main campground was full," explains Mary S. about Highland Ridge.
Site layout considerations: Horse corrals are positioned differently at various campgrounds. "Gulley that a large creek runs through surrounded by trees and large forested hills. The entire park is surrounded by farms, nearby are some really nice Minnesota small towns," describes Trenton V. about High Island Creek Park.
Weather preparedness: The Minnesota climate can change rapidly. "I stayed four nights. I would have stayed longer but ran out of water. There isn't any potable water on site. During a hot day, I took my two dogs and we hiked to a nearby river," notes Travis A. about High Island Creek Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many parks feature play areas for children. "Great campground, sites are spacious and spread out, electric hookups at all sites, swim pond is great for kids, and other amenities like an archery range and hiking trails are fantastic for kids," shares John H. about Lake Elmo County Park Reserve.
Educational opportunities: Look for interpretive centers and ranger programs. "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," mentions Tina H. about Lake Elmo.
Safety considerations: Most equestrian camping areas near Inver Grove Heights have regular patrols. "The sheriff drove through once at night and once in the morning. I felt very safe," says Angie B. about High Island Creek Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: Choose appropriate sites for horse trailers. "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. about Baker Campground.
Water and hookup access: Plan for water needs when camping with horses. "We went with a group of friends (all families with young kids). It was the perfect place to easily get in, set up, hangout, and just relax. The sites are fairly large, but very open," explains Jennifer H. about Baker Park.
Parking considerations: Some parks have limited space for large trailers. "The Dyrt is wrong. There are no sewer hookups at this campground. They have a dump station and will pump for a fee. There is a perfectly average pub on site. The food is okay, the price is reasonable," points out Dale Y. about Haycreek Valley Campground.
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