Equestrian campgrounds near Palisade, Minnesota serve riders exploring central Minnesota's woodland terrain. Located approximately 30 minutes from Palisade, the Mille Lacs Kathio State Park Equestrian Campground offers primitive sites specifically designed for horse owners and their mounts. This dedicated camping area operates seasonally with vault toilets available, though riders need to bring their own drinking water.
What to do
Trail riding through historic terrain: The extensive trail system at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park Equestrian Campground connects with archaeological sites throughout the park. "The park is also on the national register of historical sites, owing to the large number of archaeological digs, revealing human activity in the area that dates back thousands of years," explains Brian C.
Fishing access: Pack fishing gear for trips to nearby lakes and rivers. "Canoes are available for rental, which allow for fishing in the Rum River," notes Brian C. The park's location near Mille Lacs Lake provides additional fishing opportunities within a short drive.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities. "We have camped here a few times. Kathio is a big park with lots of trails," shares Katie B. Bears have been reported in the area, requiring proper food storage and horse management.
What campers like
Secluded cart-in sites: Mille Lacs Kathio State Park offers walk-in options for those without horses. "The park offers great cart-in sites. The sites are large and an easy 1/4 mile walk with complete privacy," reports Amber S. These sites provide a quieter alternative to the main camping areas.
Winter camping options: Unlike many Minnesota parks, portions of Mille Lacs Kathio remain open year-round with electric hookups available. "This is one campground in Minnesota that offers a handful of electric hookups for winter camping. The beauty of this campground is that while the campsites available are in a row, there's plenty of space between sites," says Amy G.
Educational opportunities: The park hosts interpretive programs throughout the summer. "The Interpretive Center gave you a really good glimpse into the wildlife and history of the area, as well as provided an assortment of activities," shares Brian C. These programs cover the park's natural and cultural history.
What you should know
Insect preparation essential: Summer months bring heavy insect activity to horse trails and camping areas. "We were really excited about our luck finding a practically empty state park in July for a Thursday impromptu camping trip. Before we even stopped the car the deer flies were pelting the windows. Hundreds. I wish I was exaggerating," warns Emily G. Spring and fall visits typically have fewer insect issues.
Bear activity reported: Wildlife encounters, including bears, occur regularly in the camping areas. "We loved this camp site. Very clean. The only downside depending on your view are the bears. There was a black bear in our camp 15 minutes after we went to sleep. Then the 2nd a little guy was hanging around our site all day," reports Daniel R.
Limited facilities: The equestrian camping area offers basic amenities only. Vault toilets serve the area, but shower facilities are not available at the horse camp. Water must be brought in or collected from other areas of the park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Father Hennepin State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities near Palisade. "There is a nice big sandbox for the kids that has sand toys to play with," notes Nicole P. This makes it a good option for families with younger children needing recreation options.
Educational value: The archaeological significance of the area provides learning opportunities. "The park hosts various seminars throughout the week. There are several places to swim and a big playground for the little ones," shares Liz H. These programs can keep children engaged between riding sessions.
Site selection for privacy: Choose sites carefully based on the level of seclusion needed. "The spots were pretty private - the surrounding campsites were definitely visible through the trees, but there was plenty of distance so you weren't overhearing everyone's conversations or anything. The site was very roomy!" advises Kate T.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: For RVers needing power, specific sections of the park offer appropriate sites. "The inner campsites are RV hookup sites, and the sound definitely carried when someone came later at night to set up their RV," notes Kate T. These sites accommodate larger rigs but may have less privacy than non-electric sites.
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping with RVs requires advance planning. "While these spaces are right next door to a shower house with toilets, this is closed in the winter. The vault toilet is several rows over and down, making it hard to find if you don't already know where it is," advises Amy G.
Big rig access: While horse trailers can access the equestrian campground, RV campers should note site specifications. "We had site #50 in Lakeview Campground, this site is located on the rise and had nice breezes, close to showers, lake and playground," shares Jeff G. at Father Hennepin State Park.
