Equestrian camping near Mahtomedi, Minnesota offers diverse terrain across the region's glacial moraines and outwash plains. Located in Washington County at approximately 945 feet above sea level, the area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter temperatures regularly dropping below freezing. Trail systems frequently connect through rolling woodlands that transition between oak savanna and northern hardwood forest ecosystems.
What to do
Horseback riding on paved trails: Baker Campground at Baker Park Reserve connects to over 6 miles of paved bike trails that extend throughout the 2,700-acre park. "Access to lake independence. A lot of biking trails. Nice clean bathrooms. Nice park for kids just a small hike away. Plus a decent amount of rentals," notes Matt H. about Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve.
Archery practice: Bunker Hills Regional Park maintains a dedicated archery range near the campground. "If you simply look at the list of amenities this park has, nature lovers would be quick to turn their nose up at it as an overly-commercialized playground. 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, several playgrounds, archery, an event center, frisbee golf, and yes a campground," explains Krista T. about her experience at Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Star gazing: Wild River State Park features a designated star gazing area away from light pollution. "The star gazing area was great! Intermittently had 1-2 bars of T-Mobile with LTE Internet. Wi-Fi is available at the park entrance," reports Katherine T. after visiting Wild River State Park Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Lake Elmo County Park Reserve provides well-spaced campsites with natural buffers. "Modern Campground with Room. Lake Elmo County Park in Washington County Minnesota is a great park for families. There are a bunch of things to do including hiking, horseback riding, swimming in their filtered pond, boating and an insane playground. Our modern site 40 was in a great open location with a shaded edge," says Steph H. about her visit to Lake Elmo County Park Reserve.
Swimming options: Ann Lake in Sand Dunes State Forest offers a secluded beach area away from the campground. "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," advises Emily H. about Ann Lake.
Equestrian facilities: Crow Hassan Park Reserve provides dedicated overnight facilities for riders and their horses. "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," shares Krista T. about Crow Hassan Park Reserve.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many parks require advance booking, especially during peak season. "You can 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.
Seasonal restrictions: Operating seasons vary significantly between parks. "The camping season typically runs from May through October, depending on weather conditions and trail status," with specific parks like Baker Campground running "Apr 30 - Oct 20" and Wild River State Park remaining open "All year" for winter camping opportunities.
Site topography: Some campgrounds feature significant elevation changes. "Many sites are placed on an incline. They got the sites pretty flat, but it's still on a hill," warns John W. about certain areas at Highland Ridge.
Tips for camping with families
Look for modern amenities: Families with young children often appreciate shower facilities and modern bathrooms. "The campground is great, and in a beautiful area. However there is a ton of trash throughout the forest. Also a large amount of poison ivy, which I don't mind as much as I did the trash," notes Tyler N. about Ann Lake.
Check for playground access: Several parks feature dedicated play areas. "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.
Consider wildlife viewing opportunities: Many parks offer excellent wildlife spotting for children. "This campground is massive! Our campsite was on the farthest loop and was very private! We saw sooooo many deer some even walking right through campsites! You can hear coyotes, raccoons and very loud owls," shares Kate H. about her experience at Wild River State Park Campground.
Tips for RVers
Electric hookup availability: Check for appropriate connections before booking. "Sites that I loved: 3, 8, 10. Overall I had a great time walking the trails, it was always kind of exciting to see what random feature was tucked seamlessly into the next bend. My reservation for a rustic site wound up being $30 for one night," reports Krista T. about Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Site length limitations: Ensure your rig will fit the available space. "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," describes Doug B. about Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Water and dump station access: Not all parks offer full hookups. "The sites are decently private and there is nice bathrooms/showers. We camped here while our friends used a camper cabin and they loved it too," shares Bryan S. about Baker Park Reserve.
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