Elm Creek Horse Camp is connected to a larger 4,900-acre park reserve where riders can explore over 20 miles of marked equestrian trails that navigate through forests, meadows and wetlands. The facility is located just 5 miles northwest of Oak Grove, making it accessible for day trips or weekend camping excursions. During spring and fall, trail conditions can vary due to seasonal weather changes, requiring riders to check conditions before arrival.
What to do
Trail riding through diverse terrain: Elm Creek Park Reserve offers multiple loop trails for riders of various skill levels. "Plenty of paved trails, even some 50 amp," notes Doug B. about the Bunker Hills Regional Park area, which connects to additional park trails nearby.
Water activities with horses: Several parks provide water access points for horses. Visitors at Country Camping Tent & RV Park on the Rum River appreciate the river access, with one rider noting, "The key thing is the river is very clean and sandy bottom," making it ideal for cooling off horses during summer rides.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many trails pass through conservation areas where riders regularly spot wildlife. "We saw sooooo many deer some even walking right through campsites! You can hear coyotes, raccoons and very loud owls," writes Kate H. about Wild River State Park Campground.
What campers like
Spacious corrals for overnight stays: Each corral at Elm Creek is designed with sufficient room for horses to move comfortably. "Lots of sites to choose from and the sites have a decent separation between them," mentions Chris B. at nearby Ann Lake.
Access to extensive trail networks: The immediate trail access from camping areas is highly valued. "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," shares a rider about Crow Hassan Park Reserve.
Well-maintained facilities: Horse campers appreciate the maintenance of both camping areas and trail systems. "Very rustic campground, clean facilities, and water spigots throughout. Really enjoy how quiet it is!" notes Lisa O., highlighting features similar to what equestrian campers find at several parks.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Campsites at Elm Creek require advance booking with a $7.50 reservation fee plus the $16 nightly fee. "This campground is on a first come, first serve basis. There are no reservations for the regular sites (although I do think they might take reservations for the equestrian and group sites)," advises Emily H. regarding some camping areas.
Seasonal considerations: Trail conditions vary significantly throughout the year. Spring often brings muddy sections while late summer can result in dry, dusty conditions on some trails.
Mosquito and fly management: Minnesota's warm months bring insects that can distress horses. "The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon," warns one camper at Lake Maria State Park Campground. Consider appropriate repellents and protective gear for both riders and horses.
Tips for camping with families
Combined activities for riders and non-riders: Many horse campgrounds offer separate hiking trails and facilities for family members who don't ride. "The campground was very nice. The sites are private, couldn't see any neighbors as there are a lot of trees. The park rangers were very helpful and informative," mentions Stephanie H. about nearby trail systems.
Dog policies: Dogs are permitted at most equestrian campgrounds when properly leashed, but owners should ensure their pets are comfortable around horses. Many sites require dogs to remain on leash at all times.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer ranger-led programs during summer months that can enhance a family camping trip while horses rest between rides.
Tips from RVers
Parking considerations: Most horse campsites can accommodate standard-size horse trailers with living quarters, but space limitations exist. "You can fit quite a bit of horse trailers on here. The information for this site states you can put 10 horse trailers on this lot, but I have definitely seen groups camp here with more," notes Krista T. about group camping options.
Water and electrical access: While Elm Creek Horse Camp doesn't provide electrical hookups, nearby campgrounds do offer these amenities for those with living quarter trailers. Campers should bring water tanks for horses as hookups aren't available directly at the corrals.
Manure management: All equestrian campgrounds require proper manure management. Most provide designated areas for waste disposal, and riders are expected to clean corrals before departure.
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