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Best Equestrian Camping near Lakeville, MN

159 Reviews

Minnesota Valley Recreation Area Equestrian Camp in Jordan provides the only dedicated horse camping facilities near Lakeville. 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 sites available for reservation. The Recreation Area's trails connect to broader regional trail systems, allowing for extended riding experiences beyond the immediate camping area.

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Best Equestrian Sites Near Lakeville, Minnesota (14)

    1. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve

    37 Reviews
    Lake Elmo, MN
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (651) 430-8370

    $23 - $80 / night

    "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."

    2. Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve

    37 Reviews
    Maple Plain, MN
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 694-7662

    $21 - $29 / 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."

    3. Camp Spring Lake Retreat Center

    1 Review
    Rosemount, MN
    14 miles
    Website

    $50 / night

    4. Sakatah Lake State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Waterville, MN
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 362-4438

    "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. "

    5. Cannon River Wilderness Area

    2 Reviews
    Faribault, MN
    21 miles
    Website

    "We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. We set up hammocks right next to the river."

    6. Bunker Hills Regional Park

    16 Reviews
    Coon Rapids, MN
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (763) 862-4970

    $20 - $32 / night

    "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"

    7. Minnesota Valley Rec Area Equestrian Camp

    1 Review
    Belle Plaine, MN
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (952) 492-6400

    "Great place to snowmobile, hike, bike or rideas horse!"

    8. High Island Creek Park

    12 Reviews
    Henderson, MN
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (507) 237-4330

    $10 / 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."

    9. Kamp Dels

    12 Reviews
    Waterville, MN
    35 miles
    Website

    "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."

    10. Haycreek Valley Campground

    8 Reviews
    Hay Creek, MN
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (651) 388-3998

    "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."

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Lakeville, MN

5 Photos of 14 Lakeville Campgrounds

Equestrian Camping Reviews near Lakeville, MN

159 Reviews of 14 Lakeville Campgrounds

  • Krista T.
    Jul. 1, 2020

    Crow Hassan Park Reserve

    Close to the cities

    During these COVID times everyone wants to get out and about more, which means that the main parking lot for the park that used to be mostly designated for horse trailer parking is now overrun with family vehicles. So as a result the Riverbend group equestrian campground is now the parking lot for day visitors through at least August. 

    In normal times you can rent this group campsite for$70-$80 a night, which is ridiculously cheap considering that you can fit quite a bit of horse trailers on here. The information for this site states you can put 10 horse trailers on this lot, but I have definitely seen groups camp here with more. The barn stalls are available for use (unlike the Blue Stem horse site), otherwise there are overhead horse hitch lines. 

    This campground is nicely maintained and has nice mature trees that a lot of people set up hammocks in. The vault toilet near the barn is nice, there are no showers. Be aware that the road into this group site only is wide enough for one vehicle at a time, so far I’ve been lucky to not encounter another vehicle as I’m entering or leaving.

  • Steph H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 26, 2017

    Lake Elmo County Park Reserve

    Great for the kiddos

    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. This man made pond is a sandy bottom and surrounded by a nice sand beach. Large built in umbrellas are available for sun coverage and there is a concession stand and bathrooms with showers. And yes, as I mentioned the water is filtered! No gross goose poop or green algae to deal with! Next to the swim pond is a giant playground with fun for the big and little kids. Other amenities include archery, horse trails, paved and grass trails, camper spots, rustic spots and hike in camping spots. In winter the xc ski trails are lit for evening skiing. Or let's be honest early afternoon. It is Minnesota and the suns down by 4 In the Winter! They also have a newer Nordic center that's open all year round and includes a locker room with showers. The hike in camp spot we chose was on a small lake so it had a nice breeze and made it easy to bring a kayak or paddleboard and hop right in. There is also a boat launch for your larger toys! The trails in the park are quite impressive for its size. We enjoyed a 5 mile loop off the Nordic center and right past the camp spot. A picnic table and fire pit as well as nice flat tent pad were provided. If you're coming in from out of town then you're just a 5 minute drive from Woodbury and all the amenities you'd ever need but the park feels miles away from it all.

  • David E.
    Sep. 10, 2022

    Haycreek Valley Campground

    Outside of City but Not Far for Access

    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.

  • Krista T.
    Jul. 16, 2018

    Crow Hassan Park Reserve

    This is an equestrian paradise

    This is my all-time favorite park to bring my horse to, and it's her favorite trail too. Seriously, when we head back to our trailer she will stop and refuse to proceed. Do a 180 on the trail and she is happy to trot away from the trailer. Horse camping is available in two locations in the park, even though once when I was there a family was camping in the parking with their horses. Apparently they got the cops called on them by some other park patrons who didn't believe that this was an option. At the time it was marked as a camping location on the map, but that may have changed.

    The best place to be bug-free happens to be the sandy prairie trails, the wooded areas are nice but you may want to hustle out of there if you don't have enough bug protection. For non-horse riders some parts of the trail out in the open prairie might be a bit sandy. Also important to note- bikes are NOT allowed on the trails. Absolutely gorgeous in the fall. Pit toilets are available and there is water available at the entrance off of Park drive, not sure about the other locations.

  • Alison O.
    Jul. 1, 2025

    Elm Creek Horse Camp

    Campsite 2 – Elm Creek Horse Camp, Dayton MN

    If you’re the kind of camper who measures a site by how many tail wags it inspires, then Campsite 2 at Elm Creek Horse Camp is barking up the right tree.🌲🐶 Tucked away near the archery range(don’t worry—nobody’s aiming at your pup), this campsite offers a solid patch of peace where dogs can sniff, stretch, and settle in by the fire. The ground is mostly level—perfect for a tent and a sturdy dog bed—and the trails? Chef’s kiss. Plenty of new smells, shaded stretches, and squirrels for days. Now, to be clear—this is a horse camp first and foremost. So if your dog isn’t a fan of our four-hooved friends, you might want to steer clear. But if they’re cool with horses and know how to heel when a giant gelding struts by, they’ll be just fine. A few bones to pick: There’s not much privacy between sites, so if your dog’s a talker, your neighbors might get a serenade. And while$16 a night is totally reasonable, the$7.50 reservation fee nips at the budget a bit—especially if you’re staying more than a couple nights. Still, Campsite 2 hits all the right notes: trails close by, fire ring ready, and enough space for a tent, a camp chair, and a dog who thinks every stick is a gift from heaven.🦴 Would we come back? Absolutely. My dog already packed his leash! what

    #ElmCreekHorseCamp#MNStateParks#DogFriendlyCamping#TrailDogApproved#HorseCampAdventures#Campsite2#ElmCreekParkReserve#HikingWithDogs#DogCampingVibes#PawfectCampground#TheDyrtDogPack#MinnesotaCamping#ArcheryRangeNeighbors#TailsOnTrails#WagMoreBarkLess

  • O
    Jun. 30, 2020

    Haycreek Valley Campground

    Our favorite campground

    We have been going to Haycreek for over 15 years for horse camping. 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.

  • Nick G.
    Sep. 4, 2021

    Cannon River Wilderness Area

    Perfect place Found a great site

    For free the area is awesome right by the river. 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.

  • Kenan R.
    Aug. 4, 2018

    Bunker Hills Regional Park

    Camping Near Civilization

    I was very happy with the trails and accommodations available to me, during my stay. There are park pavilions and a water park connected to the campsite, a gold course nearby, and shops, too - - but the actual campsite, bike/walking/horse trails make you forget all of that. The temperature was COLD the first night, but perfect the rest of the week. Absolutely loved the experience, and I will go again.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2020

    High Island Creek Park

    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. This is rustic with no hookups except very clean portapotty and hand lever water jack. Pick where to park in nice large grassy areas. A few areas are next to wild and deep ravines. Very nice large new play areas with slides for kids. Popular with a few horse trailers and riders on weekends because of COVID get to gather worries elsewhere. Friday morning before week end is best to get there in case of horse trailers to get nicer spot. Sometimes only a few campers are there. 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. No problem for 5th wheels and tents both, pick your spot. Want to relax, chill out and visit your neighbors. This is worth the visit.

Guide to Lakeville

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.

What to do

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.

What campers like

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.

What you should know

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 14 equestrian camping locations near Lakeville, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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