Campers seeking horse trails near Vermillion, Minnesota can access multiple options within a 30-mile radius. The area features several equestrian-friendly campgrounds with varying terrain and amenities. Trail conditions range from maintained bridle paths to more rugged wilderness routes, with seasonal restrictions typically in effect during spring thaw periods.
What to do
Ride dedicated horse trails: Haycreek Valley Campground maintains trails specifically for equestrians. "We have been going to Haycreek for over 15 years for horse camping. The trails are shaded, no bugs, friendly campers and staff. They have electric and water hookups for horse campers," notes Olivia R.
Access regional trail networks: The trail system near Cannon River Wilderness Area connects to longer routes. "For free the area is awesome right by the river. We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. We set up hammocks right next to the river," states Nick G.
Explore multi-use paths: Several parks offer trails designated for both hikers and riders. At Baker Campground, "There is a nice 6+mile biking trail that connects to others, so bring the bikes," mentions Jennifer H., highlighting the interconnected trail networks that can accommodate different user groups.
What campers like
Shade protection: Wooded campsites provide relief during summer rides. "The trails are shaded, no bugs, friendly campers and staff," reports Olivia R. about Haycreek Valley Campground, highlighting features particularly valuable to riders and horses during warmer months.
Water access points: Sakatah Lake State Park Campground offers lake access for horses, though seasonal conditions vary. "Sakatah Lake is quite shallow so late season is at risk of algae bloom - the lake was pea soup green when we got there at the end of August, so go early in the season if you want to get on the water," warns Emma G.
Privacy between sites: Many equestrian campers appreciate the spacing between sites. "All sites are gravel/dirt (except for the ADA-accessible site), and most are very generous in size," notes Lee D. about Highland Ridge, adding that "all sites are wooded with trees providing separation/privacy between sites."
What you should know
Seasonal trail conditions: Spring thaw often affects trail accessibility. "We stayed here while visiting Minneopa state park. The campground was nice. It was mid April so no water at the sites but had electric in ours," explains Tracy O. about Sakatah Lake State Park.
Water management: Water facilities vary significantly between equestrian campgrounds. Some provide hookups while others require campers to bring their own. "We ended up backing up the hill to get next to the water and filled our tank for the weekend," shares Karin W.
Reservation requirements: Most established horse campgrounds require advance booking, especially for electric sites. "As most State parks in MN you better get your reservation in early if you want a site with electric. If your good without. It's a great park," advises Tim B. about camping at Sakatah Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Bunker Hills Regional Park offers facilities for children near horse trails. "There are a bunch of things to do including hiking, horseback riding, swimming in their filtered pond, boating and an insane playground," states Steph H.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with dedicated swimming areas separate from horse watering points. "Camp Dels has a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds. Great for swimming," reports Timothy S.
Flat tent locations: When camping with horses and children, site terrain matters. "Our site 40 was in a great open location with a shaded edge. We had plenty of room to play, park the camper or set up tents," shares Steph H. about Lake Elmo County Park.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing and access: Equestrian-friendly campgrounds vary in their ability to accommodate larger rigs. "Very nice park if your RV is not to big. I put our 38 foot 5th wheel in a site but you better be on your game here. Lots of shade and big trees," warns Tim B. about Sakatah Lake State Park.
Utility placement: Check the location of hookups before selecting a site. "Our site was rather odd as the electric and water post was on the opposite side of our camper. Our standard water hose and electrical cord wouldn't reach," reports Karin W.
Fire ring positioning: Some sites have unusual arrangements for campfire rings. "The fire pits were located in very odd spots too - basically unusable unless you wanted to light your rig on fire," notes Karin W., emphasizing the importance of checking site layouts when bringing both horses and RVs.
