Equestrian camping options near New Hope, Minnesota provide access to dedicated trail systems and horse-friendly facilities within an hour's drive. The area features sandy loam soil typical of Minnesota's transitional forests, creating firm ground conditions for horse camping even after rainfall. Trails range from 5-15 miles in length, with most traversing prairie restoration areas and oak savanna habitats.
What to do
Trail riding at Crow Hassan Park Reserve: Visitors can explore extensive sandy prairie trails that minimize mud issues. "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 Krista T. about Crow Hassan Park Reserve.
Beach access and swimming: After riding, cool off at designated swimming areas. At Baker Campground, "Access to lake independence. A lot of biking trails. Nice clean bathrooms. Nice park for kids just a small hike away," according to matt H. at Three Rivers Park District Baker Campground.
Archery range visits: Practice target shooting near camping facilities. Elm Creek offers "individual corrals for horses at each of its primitive campsites" positioned "near an archery range but maintain enough separation for horse comfort," making it convenient to combine activities.
What campers like
Spacious group sites: Horse camping areas accommodate multiple trailers and provide adequate space. "The Riverbend group equestrian campground is now the parking lot for day visitors through at least August. 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," writes a reviewer about Crow Hassan.
Well-maintained trails: The trail system receives consistent praise for condition and variety. "Direct access to the expansive trail system" at Lake Rebecca Park Reserve creates a "Big park! Great for birding and walking trails! One of my favorite places to go near home," according to Alison O.
Privacy between sites: Some locations offer more seclusion than others. "The sites are pretty private, even though quite a few spots could support an RV," notes a camper about Ann Lake, which provides "decent separation between them. You need a state parks pass to stay here plus the overnight fee. 15.00 a night is worth it for the size of your site and room to enjoy."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian sites require advance booking, particularly for weekend dates. "Stayed here for an overnight stop through MN. Close to downtown which was nice for us coming through. Water fill stations readily available so we loaded up prior to continuing out west. Easy late check in with campsite hosts," reports Lynsey M. about Bunker Hills Regional Park.
Seasonal considerations: Horse camping is typically available May through October, with some trails closed after heavy rain. "We spent an entire day hiking and it was decent hiking along the river, some of the trails where a little confusing and trying to figure out where we at, but we made it just hiked a little further than we wanted to," mentions Kate H.
Trail etiquette: Riders must yield to other trail users and clean up after horses at trailheads. "This seems to be the hot spot for horses and if we go back I definitely want to do the horseback riding right outside the park," notes a visitor at Wild River State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites near play areas for children. At Baker Park, "With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be," according to Bryan S., making it ideal for active families.
Water activities: Several parks offer swimming beaches and boat rentals for family outings. "They have a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds. Great for swimming," writes Timothy S. about Lake Elmo County Park Reserve.
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities provide learning opportunities. "They also have an archery range and on Saturday nights they have a campgound program for the kids and families to watch," reports Tina H., highlighting structured activities that complement equestrian camping.
Tips from RVers
Corral proximity: Position RVs to allow observation of corrals from vehicle windows. "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious. There are both primitive (tent) non-electric sites, and sites with electricity, even some 50 amp," notes Doug B.
Water access points: RVers should note locations of water fill stations, as not all sites have hookups. "We stayed in site 66e. It was a typical site with nothing bad nor special about it," reports a camper about Lake Maria State Park.
Level site selection: Choose sites with confirmed level parking pads for larger rigs. "Campsites are nice, good tent pads too! Very clean. Respectful neighbors," according to Carter N., describing the terrain that accommodates various camping setups.
