Elm Creek Horse Camp provides dedicated equestrian facilities north of Minneapolis where riders can camp with their horses. Located in Maple Plain, the campground features 20 miles of designated bridle paths on mixed terrain. Winter use continues with some trails maintained for sleigh rides through the snow-covered landscape.
What to do
Horseback riding on extensive trails: The trails at Elm Creek Horse Camp connect riders to diverse terrain. One visitor notes, "This campsite was nearly surrounded by a lake which lended to a lot of bugs, but was absolutely gorgeous! We could see one other camper in a different site, but it still felt like you were in the wilderness."
Swimming and water recreation: The man-made swimming lake at Lake Elmo County Park Reserve offers unique water features. According to Timothy S., "They have a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds. Great for swimming."
Trail hiking and wildlife viewing: Many equestrian areas also permit hiking, though sometimes on separate paths to avoid conflicts. At Crow Hassan Park Reserve, visitors appreciate the natural setting: "I never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Despite being near urban areas, many horse camps maintain good spacing. At Bunker Hills Regional Park, campers appreciate that "The campground was very nice. The sites are private, couldn't see any neighbors as there are a lot of trees. The park rangers were very helpful and informative."
Natural surroundings: The mix of prairie and woodland creates habitat diversity. One camper at Sand Dunes State Forest noted, "Sites are large with varying degrees of privacy. Well spaced out, just some have less undergrowth."
Accessible trail systems: Trail access directly from camping areas allows riders to start their day without trailering. At Baker Campground, a visitor experienced "Clean, Well managed. I grew up going to baker park! Tons of trails and camping."
What you should know
Insect preparation required: Like many Minnesota outdoor spaces, biting insects can be numerous. A visitor to Wild River State Park advised, "We snowshoed and skied. I really enjoyed the snowshoe hike along the St Croix River and watched the full moon rise. The ski trails were groomed and there were miles of trails."
Poison ivy awareness: Plant identification skills help avoid contact with irritating vegetation. At Ann Lake, one camper warned, "Be aware that the undergrowth is at least 25% poison ivy. Sites are large so they are clear. If you're susceptible, not for you."
Seasonal considerations: Winter use differs dramatically from summer options. According to a visitor, "The campsite was plowed out and had a nice spot for the tent. The sites were far enough apart and it looked like it would be more private when the leaves come in."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for hot days: Children appreciate cooling off after trail rides. A visitor to Lake Rebecca Park Reserve remarked, "This has an amazing beach. Great Trails. Sweet single track for mountain biking. The best kids park at any campground I've been to."
Playground access: Many equestrian facilities include play areas for children. One camper shared, "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."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing enriches the experience for young visitors. A camper noted, "We saw pileated woodpeckers, red squirrels, and a chorus of chorus frogs. Nature feels close here — in the best way."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all equestrian camps accommodate larger trailers. One RV camper advised, "30' class C motor home. Some overhanging branches on the road in scrape the top and sides. Campsites are nice, mowed, gravel parking."
Hookup availability: Most horse camps offer limited or no hookups. A camper reported, "The rustic sites accommodate both tent and RV camping, with campfire rings and picnic tables at each site."
Parking logistics: Space for both living quarters and horse trailers requires careful planning. According to a visitor, "Trailer parking accommodates various sizes, with ample room for loading and unloading horses."
