High Island Creek Park
Quiet and creek is beautiful
Had a great time walking the river. W dog
4 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Minnesota Valley Recreation Area Equestrian Camp in Jordan provides the only dedicated horse camping near Lakeville, MN. The campground offers equestrian-specific sites with nearby access to bridle trails within the Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area. Horseback riders can bring their own portable corrals as no permanent stalls are provided at the campground. Trail riders can access miles of multi-use trails directly from the camping area, with routes varying from prairie to wooded terrain. The equestrian campground requires reservations and remains open year-round, allowing for seasonal riding opportunities. Sites accommodate horse trailers with ample parking space, though riders should bring their own water for horses as drinking water access is limited.
The network of trails connecting to Minnesota Valley Rec Area provides excellent opportunities for day-long rides through diverse landscapes. Riders frequently encounter wildlife while traversing the trail system, which includes both wooded sections and open grasslands. Horse owners must follow park regulations regarding manure management and tie-out practices. The park maintains several water crossings along the trail routes, providing natural watering opportunities during longer rides. Trail difficulty varies from beginner-friendly flat sections to more challenging terrain with modest elevation changes. Group rides can be organized with multiple equestrian campsites available for reservation. The Recreation Area's trails connect to broader regional trail systems, allowing for extended riding experiences beyond the immediate camping area.
"For a County Park, Lake Elmo has an impressive list of amenities. Before we even get to the campsite let's mention the filtered swimming pond."
"Lake Elmo County Park in Washington County Minnesota is a great park for families."
from $23 - $80 / night
"Baker Park near Minneapolis Minnesota was a our camp choice for inexpensive camping on the last leg of our Minnesota vacation in 2017."
"The beaches are some of the best in Minnesota. The bike trails are nearby and plentiful."
Available this weekend
from $25 - $120 / night
from $50 / night
"Great park if you’re not looking to drive too far to enjoy a bit of nature. Wonderful hiking paths and biking paths. Our site was nice a secluded and right next to the trail heads."
"Sites are wooded and shady but some are close to neighboring sites. Not too many mosquitos or flies for August in Minnesota! Sakatah Singing Hills paved trail runs through the park. "
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $24 - $85 / night
"We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. We set up hammocks right next to the river."
"If you camp with animals: Sites all sit directly off walking trail very popular with dog walkers."
"I was very happy with the trails and accommodations available to me, during my stay."
"It has a golf course, a restaurant is on the grounds, there is a stable with horses/ponies that you can take guided trail rides on, a water park(it is called The Beach, which was very confusing for us"
from $20 - $32 / night
"Near Henderson, MN which is one of a kind small town well worth the visit for all. This is rustic with no hookups except very clean portapotty and hand lever water jack."
"Gulley that a large creek runs through surrounded by trees and large forested hills."
from $10 / night
"Great place to snowmobile, hike, bike or rideas horse!"
"We reserved a spot right next to the pool area. It was a tight fit to back the camper it, but I was able to do it. They have cement pads for a patio area and a fire ring."
"The one drawback, in my opinion, is that the lake it is right next to doesn’t have a beach for swimming. That was a little disappointing for me."
"Nice campground outside of Red Wing, MN with a bar/restaurant and other features. Access to trials for bikes and horses. I stayed in the horse camp without a horse but it was a nice area."
"We have been going to Haycreek for over 15 years for horse camping. The trails are shaded, no bugs, friendly campers and staff."
Had a great time walking the river. W dog
We stayed at Baker as a family for our first camping trip, and it was great. Fire pit with swivel grate for cooking, bathrooms, and plenty to explore.
Great trails and close to home! Always a good spot for a last-minute trip for me or a place to test out new gear since it is so close to home!
I arrived after the campgrounds closed I was welcomed and was very happy to be accepted
A ranger does nightly rounds of the camps
Amazing staff who were super nice and helpful. Great clean bathrooms and camp sites. We liked the trails and ability to access the lake. Super cheap and easy to rent kayaks.
I have gone to this campground a few times and we love it. It’s beautiful and peaceful, secluded lots. Very overlooked this is a gem.
Large sites. NO sewer hookups but there is a dump station.
This place is spectacular,u have to walk down to the creek. God's work. Beautiful
Minnesota's horse trail system offers exceptional terrain for equestrians within 30 miles of Lakeville. The area sits at approximately 950 feet above sea level with rolling hills carved by glacial activity. Trail conditions vary seasonally with spring often bringing muddy sections while fall delivers optimal footing on most routes. Horse campgrounds near Lakeville provide access to diverse trail systems connecting prairie, woodland, and riverside terrain.
Trail rides through varied terrain: High Island Creek Park offers excellent day trips with scenic ravines. "Beautiful trails leading you down the revenue to a gentle flowing creek. One of me and my hubbies favorite drop in campsites!!" notes Alison O. The park maintains several unmarked trails connecting to a creek system below the main camping area.
Horse-specific camping options: Minnesota Valley Rec Area Equestrian Camp provides dedicated facilities for horses. "Great place to snowmobile, hike, bike or rideas horse!" reports Kelli D. This camp serves as the primary equestrian-focused facility in the region with direct trail access.
Specialty trail options: Haycreek Valley Campground features trails designed specifically for horses. "The trails are shaded, no bugs, friendly campers and staff. They have electric and water hookups for horse campers, and they have overflow for horse campers. The trails here are amazing," writes Olivia R.
Quiet camping locations: High Island Creek Park offers free camping with minimal crowds. "Quiet, clean and well maintained. Nice clean campground very well maintained and free. Near Henderson, MN which is one of a kind small town well worth the visit for all," reports Mike G. The park's location at the end of a gravel road provides additional privacy.
Natural water features: Cannon River Wilderness Area provides river-adjacent camping. "We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. We set up hammocks right next to the river. The hike from parking is not bad at all about a 10 minute walk from parking to the farthest site," writes Nick G.
Winter access: Many trails remain open for year-round riding, though winter conditions require extra preparation. "I was very happy with the trails and accommodations available to me, during my stay... The temperature was COLD the first night, but perfect the rest of the week," notes Kenan R. about Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Reservation requirements: Most dedicated horse campgrounds require advance booking, especially for weekend stays. "Call ahead to stay overnight so sheriff is aware. Not a lot of people know about it and is at end of long gravel road for peace and quiet," advises Mike G. about High Island Creek Park.
Terrain challenges: Trail difficulty varies significantly, with some requiring experienced riders. "Remote camping circle with TONS of trails that go down the ravine and alongside the river!" notes Alison O. about creek-side trails that include elevation changes.
Limited facilities: Many horse-friendly sites have minimal amenities. "This is rustic with no hookups except very clean portapotty and hand lever water jack. Pick where to park in nice large grassy areas," explains Mike G., highlighting the need to bring your own supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Lakeville, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Lakeville, MN is Lake Elmo County Park Reserve with a 4.5-star rating from 37 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Lakeville, MN?
TheDyrt.com has all 13 equestrian camping locations near Lakeville, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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