Alternative equestrian camping options exist near Medicine Lake beyond Elm Creek Horse Camp. The Medicine Lake area sits within Hennepin County at approximately 889 feet elevation with the surrounding terrain characterized by gently rolling hills and mixed deciduous forests. Winter camping temperatures often drop below freezing, requiring additional preparation for horse owners planning overnight stays.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Crow Hassan Park Reserve offers extensive equestrian trails through diverse terrain. "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," notes one rider at Crow Hassan Park Reserve.
Water activities: Lake access points are available at several parks for fishing and boating. At Lake Rebecca Park Reserve, "This has an amazing beach. Great Trails. Sweet single track for mountain biking," according to one visitor at Lake Rebecca Park Reserve.
Winter recreation: Many parks maintain winter access for cold weather activities. "We planned on attending their candlelight ski and decided to camp. The campground was fully reserved but was empty, the low was 10 so people must have bowed out," reports a visitor to Wild River State Park Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer spacious, separated sites. "The sites are private, couldn't see any neighbors as there are a lot of trees," notes a camper at Wild River State Park.
Access to nature: The region's parks maintain natural habitats for wildlife observation. "Big park! Great for birding and walking trails! One of my favorite places to go near home," comments a visitor to Lake Rebecca Park Reserve.
Rustic camping options: For those seeking more remote experiences, walk-in sites provide additional seclusion. "I highly recommend the walk-in-sites for the most private tent camping experience. The walk from the car isn't far, but the sites are off the road and in the pines," writes a camper at Ann Lake.
What you should know
Seasonal insect conditions: Bug populations can affect camping comfort significantly. "When we pulled up to the parking lot we knew we were in trouble. The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon," warns a camper from Lake Maria State Park Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most horse campgrounds require advance booking. For Crow Hassan Park Reserve's equestrian campsite, "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."
Firewood restrictions: Many parks do not sell firewood on-site. "There is no store or firewood sold at the campground, so you'll have to haul your own in from an approved vendor," notes a camper at Ann Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and facilities: Several parks offer family-friendly amenities. "The waterpark is a blast and we were able to find discount passes online," mentions a visitor to Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Close-to-home options: For families wanting shorter drives, several quality campgrounds exist within an hour of Minneapolis. "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious," notes a Bunker Hills camper.
Site selection for groups: Some campgrounds have specific areas better suited for multiple families. "Lots of close camp sites for larger groups near the entrance. The further back you go on the road, the more spread out sites get," advises an Ann Lake camper.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer electrical connections for RVs. "There are both primitive (tent) non-electric sites, and sites with electricity, even some 50 amp," states a camper at Wild River State Park.
Parking considerations: Campsite accessibility varies significantly for larger vehicles. "Your reservation fee does NOT include the daily parks fee of 7 dollars just FYI," notes a visitor to Bunker Hills Regional Park, adding, "Lots of site options from open field options to pretty tree covered areas."
Road conditions: Access roads may present challenges for larger RVs. "30' class C motor home. Some overhanging branches on the road in scrape the top and sides," cautions a visitor at Ann Lake, who also noted, "Campsites are nice, mowed, gravel parking."
