Minnesota Valley Rec Area Equestrian Camp serves as a central hub for horseback riding enthusiasts. Located approximately 30 miles southwest of Mound, the camp provides dedicated sites with toilet facilities and operates year-round. The park requires reservations and permits leashed pets. The recreation area connects to several miles of bridle trails through diverse woodland and river valley terrain.
What to do
Trail riding options: Crow Hassan Park Reserve offers extensive trails suited for different skill levels. "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 who frequently visits Crow Hassan Park Reserve.
Bird watching: The woodland areas around equestrian camping sites provide excellent bird watching opportunities. "Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails," mentions a regular visitor to the recreation areas near Mound. The river valleys attract diverse bird species throughout the year.
Off-season exploration: Lake Maria State Park remains accessible during winter months. "I visit here often, great walking trails and wildlife," reports a regular visitor to Lake Maria State Park Campground. Winter trail access differs from summer months, with some areas limited by snow conditions.
What campers like
Group camping facilities: The equestrian facilities at larger campgrounds accommodate multiple horse trailers. "The Riverbend group equestrian campground... 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," shares a camper about High Island Creek Park.
Morning solitude: The early hours provide peaceful trail conditions with less traffic. "Beautiful trails leading you down the revenue to a gentle flowing creek. One of me and my hubbies favorite drop in campsites," notes a regular visitor. Mornings also offer better wildlife viewing opportunities.
Natural immersion: The surrounding terrain offers diverse natural environments. "Remote camping circle with TONS of trails that go down the ravine and alongside the river," explains a camper about their experience at High Island Creek Park. The varied landscapes provide different riding experiences within a single recreation area.
What you should know
Seasonal bug preparation: Summer months bring significant insect activity to wooded trail areas. "The best place to be bug-free happens to be the sandy prairie trails, the wooded areas are nice but you may want to hustle out of there if you don't have enough bug protection," advises a visitor to Ann Lake.
Water availability: Horse owners should bring containers for their animals as water access points are limited. "There is water available at the entrance off of Park drive, not sure about the other locations," notes a regular rider. Some equestrian sites require hauling water from central fill stations.
Reservation requirements: Popular equestrian sites require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "Sites are large with varying degrees of privacy. Well spaced out, just some have less undergrowth," reports a camper about Ann Lake, reflecting the general pattern of campsite distribution in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Some parks offer additional recreation beyond horseback riding. "We spent a bit of time outside and then played in the tent the rest of the night," shares a visitor to Lake Elmo County Park Reserve who appreciated having alternate activities when weather limited riding time.
Site selection: Choose sites with adequate space for both horse equipment and family camping gear. "Sites are fairly large, but very open," notes a visitor. Look for sites with natural boundaries for containing younger children.
Trail difficulty assessment: Check trail ratings before bringing inexperienced riders. "Different loops are available for varying skill levels," mentions a visitor to Crow Hassan Park Reserve. Beginner-friendly trails typically feature wider paths with minimal elevation changes.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Some equestrian campsites have restricted vehicle access. "30' class C motor home. Some overhanging branches on the road in scrape the top and sides," warns a visitor to Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve. Check overhead clearance when driving larger rigs to equestrian sites.
Parking configurations: Horse trailer parking requires advance planning. "The campground's layout accommodates horse trailers with adequate parking space," notes a camper. Many sites feature pull-through designs specifically for vehicles with trailers.
Utility limitations: Most equestrian sites offer only basic utilities. "Campsites are nice, mowed, gravel parking. Fire rings and picnic tables at each site," describes an RVer about their experience. Bring additional power sources if requiring extended electricity for horse-related equipment.
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