Mille Lacs Kathio State Park offers equestrian camping approximately 60 miles northwest of Sandstone. The campground sits within mixed hardwood forest at an elevation of around 1,300 feet. While the main campgrounds at Mille Lacs Kathio attract family campers, the separate equestrian area provides specialized accommodations for horse owners seeking trails through diverse woodland terrain.
What to do
Climb the observation tower: Visitors at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park can ascend the 100-foot fire tower for panoramic views. According to Scott G., "There is also a 100' fire tower you can climb up and get an epic view." The tower provides excellent opportunities for photography, especially during fall color season.
Explore historical sites: St. Croix State Park features remnants from the Civilian Conservation Corps era. Scott G. notes, "Cool buildings from the CCC era as well as some signs talking about camp life." The park preserves historical structures that offer insights into Depression-era conservation efforts.
Canoe the St. Croix River: The waterways near Sandstone provide excellent paddling opportunities. Tony J. recommends St. Croix State Park, saying "Canoe outfitters in park during most of the summer. A great way to spend a weekend." Most rental operations run from May through September.
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: Many horse campgrounds near Sandstone feature good separation between camping areas. At Wild River State Park, Stephanie H. appreciated that "The sites are private, couldn't see any neighbors as there are a lot of trees." This spacing helps maintain a more natural experience when camping with horses.
Winter camping options: Several campgrounds in the Sandstone area remain open year-round. Amy G. notes that Mille Lacs Kathio State Park "offers a handful of electric hookups for winter camping... there's plenty of space between sites and some of them are even pulled through." Winter camping provides opportunities to experience the trails with fewer visitors.
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote location of Boulder Campground in St. Croix State Forest creates ideal conditions for night sky viewing. Scot L. describes the experience: "Wonderful forests, pleasantly quiet. Beautiful views along the Tamarack river." The campground's distance from urban areas reduces light pollution.
What you should know
Seasonal insect conditions: Biting insects can be problematic, particularly in early summer. Emily G. warns about Mille Lacs Kathio State Park: "Before we even stopped the car the deer flies were pelting the windows. Hundreds. I wish I was exaggerating... We lasted 20 minutes which gave us both dozens of fly and mosquito bites." Insect repellent is essential from May through August.
Limited facilities at state forest campgrounds: Father Hennepin State Park offers more amenities than some other locations. According to Amy G., "They do have showers and flush toilets (during warmer seasons) and vault toilets the rest of the time. There is also a dump station for RVs." State forest campgrounds typically have only vault toilets and no running water.
Reservation requirements: Daniel H. explains that Boulder Campground operates differently than state parks: "Get there early in the day because there are no reservations and it's first come first served." Most state park campgrounds require advance reservations through the Minnesota DNR system, especially during summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Riverview Campground at St. Croix State Park offers facilities for children. RK M. notes, "There is a playground but we didn't use it." The playground provides an activity option when kids need a break from hiking or during downtime at camp.
Water activities: Multiple swimming options exist near Sandstone's campgrounds. RK M. shares, "The swimming beach is a couple mile drive but the water was nice and cool." Several parks maintain designated swimming areas with gradually sloping shorelines suitable for children.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can enjoy observing animals in their natural habitat. Kate H. describes Wild River State Park: "We saw sooooo many deer some even walking right through campsites! You can hear coyotes, raccoons and very loud owls." Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV campers should know which campgrounds offer electrical connections. Duncan G. mentions that at Riverview Campground, "The loop I was in had one of the new bathrooms and it was impressive... definitely an A rating." Many campgrounds are upgrading facilities to accommodate larger recreational vehicles.
Site dimensions: Some equestrian campgrounds accommodate larger trailers better than others. Amber Z. notes that Riverview loop "is where 90% of the electric sites are, but it is also a very open campground." Horse owners with living quarter trailers should verify site dimensions when making reservations.
Seasonal access considerations: Winter camping requires preparation. According to Amy G., "The vault toilet is not easy to find from where the electric openings are in the winter... several rows over and down, making it hard to find if you don't already know where it is." Snow-covered roads may limit access to some campgrounds during winter months.
