Best Equestrian Camping near Sandstone, MN
Equestrian Campground — Mille Lacs Kathio State Park offers primitive horse camping facilities approximately 60 miles northwest of Sandstone. The campground features open sites suitable for horse trailers and tent or RV camping, with designated areas for equine companions. Vault toilets serve the horse camping area, though drinking water is not available directly at the equestrian sites. Picnic tables and fire rings are provided at each site, and the campground is reservable through the Minnesota state park reservation system. Horse owners should note that while specific corrals are not built into the sites, there are areas designated for horses adjacent to the camping spaces. The campground remains largely undeveloped compared to other facilities in the park, maintaining a rustic atmosphere that appeals to riders seeking a more natural experience with their horses.
The park's trail system provides multiple riding opportunities across varied terrain through dense forest and along lake shores. Horse trails connect to broader networks within the 10,000-acre Mille Lacs Kathio State Park, offering extensive riding options for day trips from camp. Riders should bring their own water for horses as natural water sources may be limited or seasonal. The campground can accommodate larger horse trailers, though maneuvering space may be tight in some areas. Reservations are recommended, especially during summer weekends and fall color season when the park experiences higher visitation. Mosquitoes can be abundant in certain seasons, particularly June through August, making proper protection essential for both horses and riders. State park vehicle permits are required in addition to camping fees, with separate charges applying to overnight horse accommodations.
