Equestrian enthusiasts looking for horse camping options near the Twin Cities metro have additional choices beyond Elm Creek Horse Camp. St. Louis Park sits at approximately 896 feet above sea level in Hennepin County, located about 10-15 miles from several equestrian-friendly park systems. Most horse campgrounds in the region operate seasonally with closures during spring thaw when trails become susceptible to damage.
What to do
Trail riding beyond bridle paths: Crow Hassan Park Reserve offers extensive sandy prairie riding paths. "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," notes Krista T. The park maintains different trail conditions than Elm Creek, with "the best place to be bug-free happens to be the sandy prairie trails."
Swimming options after rides: When temperatures rise, several parks offer dedicated swimming areas. Baker Campground provides lake access for cooling off after trail rides. "The lake is nice. There are 2 swimming beaches: 1 for the campground and one for all of the day visitors," explains Jennifer H., noting the proximity to riding areas.
Winter trail riding: Unlike Elm Creek's May-October operating schedule, Lake Elmo County Park Reserve maintains year-round riding opportunities with seasonal restrictions. "This park has awesome sites that fit the needs of just about anyone. The have beautiful hiking trails and a swimming beach for the hotter days. They also have an archery range," shares Tina H.
What campers like
Privacy between equestrian sites: Bunker Hills Regional Park receives praise for site separation. "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious," writes Doug B., adding that "the sites are decently private and there is nice bathrooms/showers."
Accessible water sources: Water access points remain critical for horse owners. "They provide a fire ring and picnic bench. We arrived after 8pm and the check in processes was a little unclear and they were out of maps, which was only challenging because it was dark," notes Alyssa T. about Lake Elmo's rustic sites, highlighting the importance of arriving during daylight hours.
Well-maintained corrals: Unlike the permanent corrals at Elm Creek, some facilities require alternative containment systems. Crow Hassan's equestrian campgrounds feature "overhead horse hitch lines" as an alternative, with Krista T. noting "the barn stalls are available for use (unlike the Blue Stem horse site)."
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: Most horse campgrounds near St. Louis Park implement different reservation systems. High Island Creek Park operates under a unique notification protocol. "Call ahead to stay overnight so sheriff is aware. Not a lot of people know about it and is at end of long gravel road for peace and quiet," advises Mike G., noting it's "popular with a few horse trailers and riders on weekends."
Site types and limitations: Accessibility varies significantly between parks. "The lower loops are definitely better for tent campers, even though quite a few spots could support an RV," explains Krista T. about Bunker Hills, adding "The upper loop(sits 45-64) is definitely more geared towards RVs, so not what I would consider an ideal tent site."
Seasonal bug considerations: Insect activity impacts riding comfort significantly. Lake Maria State Park campers warn about timing: "The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon," shares Steph H., continuing "First step onto the grassy trail exploded in a cloud of mosquitos."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with multiple amenities: Lake Maria State Park Campground offers diverse family options. "The fun thing about this state park is that all the sites are hike in. No drive up camping. It has a couple camper cabins as well," explains Steph H., noting families might prefer the cabins during peak bug season.
Select parks with playground access: Several equestrian facilities include children's areas. "There are a bunch of things to do including hiking, horseback riding, swimming in their filtered pond, boating and an insane playground," details Steph H. about Lake Elmo, making it suitable for families with mixed riding abilities.
Pack extra insect protection: Bug activity varies dramatically by location and season. At Lake Maria, families develop strategies like: "Walking along the kids all looked like Pig-Pen from Peanuts. Even though we'd sprayed everyone down the bugs must have felt safety in numbers because we were covered in welts in no time flat," warns Steph H.
Tips from RVers
Check access road conditions: RV accessibility varies significantly at horse campgrounds. Baker Campground provides better accommodations according to Joe R.: "The camp staff are very friendly and you'll need to get checked in before 9pm I believe because they close it off to paid guests after that."
Length restrictions apply: Most horse camping areas limit RV size. "Theres alot of hiking trails, the rustic sites are very nice, swim pond, fishing pier," notes Jeff C. about Elm Creek's facilities, though larger rigs require advance verification for suitable access points.
