Minnesota Valley Recreation Area offers equestrian camping near Mankato with accessible bridle trails through diverse terrain. Located about 30 miles north of Jordan, this primitive campground serves riders year-round with toilet facilities and drinking water available for visitors. The absence of electric hookups, showers, and trash collection means equestrians need to plan accordingly for their horses' needs and waste management.
What to do
Prairie trail exploration: At Sakatah Lake State Park, trails connect to natural areas with exceptional wildlife viewing. "I was so amazed with all the sounds of birds in this park. I heard Everything from Eagles, Canadian Geese and Swans to Woodpeckers and multiple song birds," reports Shelly S. The park offers opportunities to experience prairie and woodland transitions.
Creek wading: The natural waterways at Fort Ridgely State Park provide cooling recreation during summer months. Tom notes, "The creek through the campground is beautiful and the sound of water over the rock is great for sleeping. The creek is cool temperature even in July but kids have fun swimming and splashing."
Ravine hiking: The terrain at High Island Creek Park features deep ravines with established trails. "Beautiful trails leading you down the revenue to a gentle flowing creek. One of me and my hubbies favorite drop in campsites!!" writes Alison O. The trails offer varying difficulty levels and connect to waterways.
What campers like
Natural soundscapes: Campers appreciate the auditory experience at horse campgrounds near Mankato. "I heard Everything from Eagles, Canadian Geese and Swans to Woodpeckers and multiple song birds. I wish I could distinguish between them. Also the frogs and toads were adding their voices too," a visitor to Sakatah Lake State Park observed.
Water features: The creeks at Fort Ridgely State Park enhance the camping experience. According to Tom, "The creek is cool temperature even in July but kids have fun swimming and splashing. There are marked areas for crossing the creek which make great wading areas too."
Secluded camping spots: Cannon River Wilderness Area offers primitive sites away from crowds. Nick G. reports, "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."
What you should know
Accessibility limitations: Certain campgrounds have restricted access methods. Cannon River Wilderness Area requires effort to reach sites, as Tim B. notes: "The 2 camp sites are a good little hike in and you have to backpack everything you need in. Of course if you are on the river it's a nice little stop between Faribault and Northfield."
Seasonal considerations: Trail conditions vary throughout the year at equestrian facilities near Mankato. At Fort Ridgely, visitors have observed: "We stayed at site 21 in late August of 2019. It's obvious that the park had some heavy flooding earlier in the year. A lot of the waterfront sites became sandy."
Limited facilities: Eagle Nest Park offers basic amenities but requires preparation. "Was a little difficult to find the first time but when we found it I loved it. Back in kinda private. Friendly people group came to celebrate July 4th but respectfully all left early and the nights were quiet," writes Jamison W.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Several campgrounds feature water activities for children. At Sakatah Lake State Park, Kayla O. shares: "This was my third time camping at this campground and I love it more and more every time. It's next to a lake so we can easily bring our kayaks with."
Playground access: Kamp Dels offers extensive recreational facilities for children. Tami W. notes, "This is such a great campground for families! So many activities including a water recreation area, petting zoo, shuffleboard, mini golf, pool, toddler water park, multiple playgrounds, basketball and more."
Wildlife education: Parks in the region provide opportunities for children to interact with animals. According to Erick R. at Kamp Dels, "This is a fun campground for young kids. It has a lot of things to do to keep them going all day. Clean bathrooms are a plus too."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RVers should research specific site dimensions at Mankato area campgrounds. At Sakatah Lake State Park, Tim B. advises: "Very nice park if your RV is not to big. I put our 38 foot 5th wheel in a site but you better be on your game here. Lots of shade and big trees."
Seasonal capacity: Reservation timing matters for sites with amenities. As Tim B. notes about Sakatah Lake, "As most State parks in MN you better get your reservation in early if you want a site with electric. If your good without. It's a great park."
Campground layout: Tracy O. observed at Sakatah Lake State Park: "It was mid April so no water at the sites but had electric in ours. We were able to get potable water at the entrance. And firewood. Had great trails to walk and bike on. Sites are spaced out. Our 34' trailer fit easily."
