Fort Ridgely State Park Campground in Fairfax and Beaver Falls County Park near Morton provide equestrian camping options in southern Minnesota. This region features rolling prairie terrain interspersed with wooded river valleys at elevations ranging from 800-1,000 feet. The camping season typically runs April through October with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak months.
What to do
Trout fishing opportunities: Camden State Park offers excellent trout fishing in the Redwood River. "Great trout stream, swimming, tubing, camping, horse trails, hiking... my kids loved it," notes Emma V. about Camden State Park Campground.
Historical exploration: Fort Ridgely features significant historical sites related to the U.S.-Dakota Conflict of 1862. "Make sure to read up about the fort before arriving so that you can appreciate the importance of the site you're camping on," recommends Tom in his review of the park's historical significance.
Hiking prairie trails: Summer visitors can experience wildflower displays on the trails. "In JULY The Prairie Trails are stunning with all the wild flowers in full bloom. Many trails and nice overlooks too. I walked and hiked the trail over and over because of the beautiful flowers," writes one visitor to Fort Ridgely.
Creek wading: Multiple parks offer creek access for cooling off. "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," notes a Fort Ridgely camper.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Beaver Falls County Park provides quiet, off-grid camping experiences. "Off the beaten path..so lots of peace & quiet to enjoy..beautiful rustic camping spots throughout the park..picnic table & firepit at each spot & bathrooms nearby," writes Trudi.
Horse-friendly facilities: Fort Ridgely maintains exceptional standards for equestrian campers. "The horse campground is also very well maintained and has nice shower/bathroom building. No flys and people have been great at cleaning up manure and putting it in the compost pile," notes Tom in his review.
Wooded river sites: Eagle Nest Park provides secluded camping areas. "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," reports Jamison W.
Water features: Riverside campsites are popular among visitors. "Campsite 37 is right on a bend in the river and has an amazing view! Most others along the river don't have the view but you can still sleep to the sound of running water," says Ken F. about Fort Ridgely.
What you should know
Shower facilities vary: Not all parks offer equal amenities. "Unlike most state parks, there is a $2 fee to shower," notes Liz H. about Fort Ridgely. At some campgrounds, facilities are limited to vault toilets.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have spotty or no cellular coverage. "No cell phone reception at the campground but there is service around the historical site," reports Nicole L., while another camper mentions: "Best part: no cell reception there (but there's an app to help you not get lost that doesn't require cell reception."
Campsite privacy differences: Garvin County Park offers variable site privacy. "The sites were a good size, but not much privacy or tree coverage in the area we stayed," according to Sarah O. Non-electric sites at Fort Ridgely are noted as "very wooded and private" while electric sites are "very open and offer little privacy."
Seasonal flooding: Some riverside campsites experience flooding impacts. "It's obvious that the park had some heavy flooding earlier in the year. A lot of the waterfront sites became sandy," observed a camper at Fort Ridgely.
Tips for camping with families
Water play access: Camden State Park Campground features a swimming pond with beach access. "Pretty spacious separated by lots trees, good place for camping with kids as well. has a swimming pond and beach," notes Anup Ś.
Multiple playground options: Garvin County Park offers extensive play areas. "There were a lot of playgrounds, and one really huge one the kids wanted to play on," reports Sarah O. about the facilities available for children.
Horse encounters: Some parks allow children to interact with horses. "The kids loved being able to meet & visit with the horses," writes Sarah O. about staying at Garvin County Park near the equestrian campground.
Family reunion suitability: Camden accommodates larger family gatherings. "My family does a annual family reunion camping once a year! We stayed here and it was beautiful! Perfect for all the kids off all ages, adults, grandparents...we had a really good time," shares Anne G.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose campgrounds carefully when traveling with bigger RVs. "Good spot to stop for a short stay. Not much room for bigger rigs to get around but doable if dry," warns Jamison W. about Beaver Falls County Park.
Loop and campground differences: At Camden State Park, consider which camping area best suits your needs. "There are two campgrounds in this park - the upper one is on the prairie while the lower one is situated among trees along the river," explains Makayla B., noting that the lower campground provides closer access to amenities but has sites that may be susceptible to rain runoff.
Site leveling needs: Some campsites have notable slopes. "Our site, 30, sloped away from the parking pad. You wouldn't be able to set up chairs under your awning at this site," reports a Camden camper, highlighting the importance of checking site conditions.
