Equestrian campgrounds near Park Rapids, Minnesota offer opportunities for trail riding, camping, and exploring northern Minnesota's forests. The area maintains several dedicated horse camps in Huntersville and Headwaters State Forests, approximately 12-30 miles from Park Rapids. Most equestrian sites accommodate both tent and RV camping without hookups, and several connect to extensive trail systems ranging from 20-50 miles.
What to do
Trail riding access: Multiple trail systems connect directly to the campsites at Shell City Landing. "Shell City Campground is in the Huntersville State Forest. If you want to camp in the woods, you want to be in the woods. Even if you are in a city. This camp is off the beaten path, without being 'out of the way'," notes Amy G.
River activities: Camp along the Shell River for water access. "It's at a bend in the river, so you can see both ways. This time of year, the ice was forming, but the water was still moving. It made for very pretty photos," writes Amy G. about Shell City Equestrian Campground.
Seasonal hiking: Fall offers spectacular colors at Maplewood State Park Campground. "Easily a contender for best hiking trails in the MN state parks state system. This western park offers miles of hiking with the North Country Trail weaving throughout. The fall colors were just starting but popped in the prairie," reports Will H.
What campers like
Secluded settings: Many appreciate the private sites at Maplewood State Park. "The sites without any hookups are more private and secluded, great for tent camping. There are lots of walking trails as some fishing spots as well," says Leslie R.
Unique campsite configurations: Horse camps are designed differently from standard campgrounds. "The campground is uniquely set up to accommodate people, tents, vans, and horse trailers, every site having ample parking, picnic tables and fire rings, tent sites, and horse tie-up posts with grazing area," explains Janet R. about Grant Creek Horse Camp.
Group camping options: Larger equestrian groups can be accommodated. "Tents are $14 (or you can put a camper on the site for the same price, but no hookups), or you can rent it as a 'group site' for $28 (20 people max)," notes one camper about Shell City Landing.
What you should know
Seasonal access considerations: Winter access can be challenging but possible with proper vehicles. "I visited in the winter, so I had snow on top of bumps and ruts and my all wheel drive was appreciated. I don't think I'd want to drive the 1/2 mile on this road in deeper snow," advises Amy G. regarding winter camping.
Water availability: Most horse camps provide water for both horses and people. Walter E Stark Horse Campground offers "a primitive campground with running water out of spigots and vault toilets," according to Scott M.
Payment systems: Most sites operate on honor systems or donation basis. Prepare cash for drop boxes and know that prices range from free (with donations accepted) to approximately $16 per night depending on the campground.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Youth groups frequently use these campgrounds. "This is a very nice camping experience for horseback riders, 4-H groups, families or riding clubs!" recommends Janet about Grant Creek Horse Camp, highlighting its suitability for educational outings.
Wildlife awareness: Proper food storage is important as wildlife activity is present. Scott M. notes that while exploring trails near Walter E Stark Campground, "The black flies were bad on our walk, but it did have some nice views along the way."
Alternative activities: Non-riders can still enjoy these campgrounds. "Loads of raspberries along the road so we stopped in the shade and had a couple snacks," mentions Scott M., highlighting foraging opportunities near the trails.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: RVs are welcome at most horse campgrounds but with limitations. "The sites in the main loop have little privacy," notes Art S. about Maplewood State Park Campground, suggesting more remote loops for better camping experiences.
No hookups available: Most equestrian campgrounds accommodate RVs but without amenities. "Several rangers directed us here so we stopped in before we left Minnesota. The ranger was very helpful and set us up with a quiet campsite," shares Art S., emphasizing the importance of being prepared for primitive camping.
Bathroom considerations: Facility access varies greatly. "There is a very long walk to a restroom but water is close by," explains Art S., making this an important planning consideration for RVers choosing sites.
