Best Equestrian Camping near North Mankato, MN
Minnesota Valley Recreation Area Equestrian Camp provides primitive camping specifically for riders near Jordan, 45 miles northwest of North Mankato. The equestrian campground features vault toilets and drinking water but lacks electrical hookups or showers. Designed for horse owners, the camp permits pets and accommodates drive-in access year-round. The campground serves as a base for exploring Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area's extensive trail system. Sites cannot be reserved online and fill quickly during peak riding seasons. Trail riders often bring self-contained camping setups as amenities are minimal compared to other state park facilities.
The camp connects directly to bridle trails that wind through hardwood forests and prairie landscapes characteristic of the Minnesota River Valley. Riders access miles of maintained horse trails directly from their campsites without needing to trailer horses to trailheads. The terrain offers varied riding experiences through wooded areas, open grasslands, and along waterways. Horse owners must bring their own water buckets, feed, and portable corrals or highlines as the campground doesn't provide permanent horse containment facilities. Trails remain open year-round but riding conditions vary significantly with seasonal weather changes. Most riders report the best trail conditions in late spring and early fall when the ground is firm but not dusty or muddy. The surrounding recreation area covers over 1,000 acres with multiple loop trail options suitable for both novice and experienced riders.
