Equestrian camping near Lanesboro, Minnesota offers direct access to more than 25 miles of maintained riding trails through the hardwood forests of southeast Minnesota. The area sits within a karst landscape characterized by limestone bluffs, spring-fed streams, and valleys that provide varying terrain for trail riders. During summer months, temperatures average 70-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms that can create muddy trail conditions.
What to do
Cave exploration: $15-16 per adult: At Forestville Mystery Cave State Park, visitors can tour underground formations. "I came here to explore the caves and it blew me away. I think the cave was around 12-13 miles long and there was water and different formations. The floor was really wet so bring shoes you won't slip in," notes Kevin T.
Trout fishing: no license required in some areas: "You can go fishing at the pond without having to purchase a Minnesota Fishing License!" explains Rodney A. about Lake Louise State Park. Many campgrounds in the area have stream access for fly fishing.
Hiking to historic sites: 4.5 mile round trip: "Lots of hiking - down to historic village and back is about 4.5 miles round trip," shares Jim C. about the trails at Forestville Mystery Cave State Park, which lead to a preserved 1800s village managed by the Minnesota Historical Society.
What campers like
Proximity to trail systems: Horse campers at Maple Springs Campground appreciate the convenient access to riding areas. "It's a very short road ride to the park trails and the campground and their amenities are first rate. I can't wait to return!!!" shares Jen M.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting creates good habitat for wildlife. "Some girlfriends and I wanted to stay at the camp for the weekend and have a place to social distance ourselves... This camp was so nice and quiet! We had a nice fire after dinner listening to the water and birds," notes another Jen M. review about Maple Springs.
Secluded quarry camping: For more remote equestrian camping, Reno Horse Campground offers dispersed sites. "We backpacked to the quarry and found a large open area, perfect for multiple tents. The sandstone bluffs were in the background... There is also hiking within this unit and a horse campground," explains Joanna B.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Prepare for communication challenges in the valley areas. "TV was able to pick up about 15 stations - but there is NO CELL SERVICE in the campground - no Verizon, ATT or T-Mobile. Wifi down at the ranger office," warns Jim C. about Forestville Mystery Cave State Park.
Trail conditions vary seasonally: Early spring and after heavy rains, trails can become difficult to navigate. "We had some wet weather come through, but because of the sandy soils, things dried out and drained very quickly," reports ERolf P.
Reservation requirements: "We arrived at 2:00pm on Saturday, after a long 5 hour drive from northern Minnesota... Check in time is 4:00pm, but our spot was empty when we arrived, so the park rangers let us set up early," shares TyAnn J. Always confirm check-in times when booking sites.
Tips for camping with families
Alternate activities for non-riders: While some family members ride, others can enjoy different recreation. "The campground is very clean and nice. The bathrooms and showers we pristine clean and close and easy to walk to. The beach was great and clean. Fishing was great," recommends Erik O. about Chester Woods Park.
Consider group sites for larger gatherings: "Our group of 12 stayed at one of the two group sites at Lake Louise State Park. Our site holds up to 30 and the neighboring site holds up to 50. Our site was a beautiful spot with large shade trees, three picnic tables and two fire pits," suggests Steph H.
Plan for limited amenities at some locations: At more primitive sites, families need to prepare differently. "Small campground, usually no one here except during hunting season. Not much to this place," warns Michael V. about Oak Ridge/Wet Bark Recreation Area, indicating families should bring all needed supplies.
Tips from RVers
Utility connections vary widely: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "Nice place but it is a campground not an rv park, 30 & 50 amp service but no water hookup (fill when you come in) and dump tanks when leaving," advises Kevin about Chester Woods Park.
Trailer parking considerations: Some horse campgrounds have specific configurations for trailer parking. "Not much room between sites there and had to back turn around and back down the road to park," explains Andy C. about navigating Maple Springs Campground with a larger rig.
Verify site dimensions before booking: "We stayed in site 71 for 3 nights. Good level campsite and in walking around all the ones in the electric loop looked pretty level," reports Jim C., highlighting the importance of selecting appropriate sites for your equipment size.
