Equestrian camping options exist within a 30-minute drive from Lake Elmo, Minnesota, though not directly at Lake Elmo County Park Reserve itself. The region sits at approximately 900 feet elevation within the St. Croix River Valley, characterized by glacial formations, hardwood forests, and natural prairie landscapes. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with higher humidity levels, while spring and fall bring cooler conditions with temperatures between 45-65°F.
What to do
Horseback riding trails at Wild River State Park: Located about 30 miles northeast of Lake Elmo, this state park offers dedicated equestrian camping facilities lacking at Lake Elmo Reserve. "Wild River State Park is my go-to campground since it is within an hour of my home. I make it my first place to camp every season. Love the scenic trails and all the park has to offer. Hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, exploring, informational programs, and the wooded campsites," notes Jeff L. about Wild River State Park Campground.
River activities near Baker Park Reserve: Just 30 minutes west, this park provides alternatives to Lake Elmo's limited water recreation. "We spent two nights in the campground. It was fairly busy, but we still felt secluded despite a full campground. There are nice paved trails around a couple of lakes/ponds for biking, and easy access to the shower and bathroom facilities (which were very nice)," shares ERolf P. about Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve.
Explore unique sand dunes terrain: "I've been camping here since I was a little kid. The trails are a lot of fun.. lots to see. The outhouses are kept up well and pump water road side," explains Johnny H. about Ann Lake, adding a geological contrast to Lake Elmo's prairie and forest setting.
What campers like
Spacious sites with true privacy: Bunker Hills offers a different camping experience than Lake Elmo with more secluded options. "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious. There are both primitive (tent) non-electric sites, and sites with electricity, even some 50 amp," writes Doug B. about Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Clean facilities with reliable amenities: "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. Some sites are difficult to back into if you have a large rig," notes Courtney C. about Highland Ridge - Eau Galle Reservoir.
River access for paddling: Unlike Lake Elmo's focus on land recreation, nearby options provide different water experiences. "Nice campground with amenities, pool and water play area for kids. Nice on-site store for any needs. I have a small travel trailer that is self contained so I could reserve spots down by the river. Ability to go tubing down the river," explains Barbara B. about Country Camping Tent & RV Park, offering water recreation not available at Lake Elmo.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping differs significantly from summer visits, requiring proper preparation. "2/8/20-2/9/20. #91. First time to this park. The campsite was plowed out and had a nice spot for the tent. We snowshoed and skied. I really enjoyed the snowshoe hike along the St Croix River and watched the full moon rise. The ski trails were groomed and there were miles of trails," explains Joanna B. about Wild River State Park.
Campsite selection matters: "The sites are decent 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. The sites are about as private as the typical state park, so not very, but that is offset by all the other positives this campground has to offer," advises Bryan S. about Baker Park Reserve.
Poison ivy awareness: Several parks near Lake Elmo have poison ivy concerns. "Sites are large with varying degrees of privacy. Well spaced out, just some have less undergrowth. Be aware that the undergrowth is at least 25% poison ivy. Sites are large so they are clear. If you're susceptible, not for you," warns Kari P. about Ann Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad and pool options: "This campground is great for everyone! It's has a heated pool, splash pad area, BIG playground area, indoor game room, HUGE sites! You can either relax in the pool or even take a ride down the rum river in a rented canoe,tube, or kayak," recommends Spencer C. about Country Camping Tent & RV Park on the Rum River.
Nature programming accessibility: "They also have an archery range and on Saturday nights they have a campgound program for the kids and families to watch. Very organized and clean facilities. Reasonably priced," says Tina H. about Lake Elmo Park Reserve.
Walking distance considerations: "The beach is nice and private, but it's a bit of a hike from the campsites. I'd recommend just hopping in the car and driving over if you've got young kids with you," suggests Emily H. about Ann Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: "This was a great park and close to everything. This campground was big with privacy between the camp spots. There were nice trails to help explorer the regional park. The bathrooms were nice and clean. The only down fall was there was no trash cans in the campground only with you were leaving the campground," notes Melissa A. about Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Hookup accessibility varies: "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 so we ended up backing up the hill to get next to the water and filled our tank for the weekend. The fire pits were located in very odd spots too - basically unusable unless you wanted to light your rig on fire," warns Karin W. about Haycreek Valley Campground.
Cell service considerations: Some parks offer better connectivity than Lake Elmo. "We've now camped here 4 times…This is a beautiful, densely wooded campground with fairly well spaced sites. 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. AT&T service is spotty throughout the park with either 1 or 2 bars, although in the spring and fall when there's few leaves on the trees, service is fine," shares Deb M. about Highland Ridge.
