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Equestrian Camping near Shorewood, MN

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    Elm Creek Horse Camp features individual corrals for horse containment in the northwestern region of Hennepin County. The dedicated equestrian camping area accommodates tent and RV setups with primitive sites that have access to drinking water, restroom facilities, and trash service. Each campsite includes a picnic table and fire ring with firewood available for purchase. The spacious grounds provide ample room for horse trailer parking while maintaining proximity to the extensive trail system. Sites are reservable through the Three Rivers Park District reservation system, making advance planning possible for weekend trail rides. The campground maintains clean facilities with regular trash collection, allowing riders to focus on enjoying the trails rather than facility concerns.

    Located approximately 20 miles from Shorewood, this horse camp connects directly to over 20 miles of bridle trails throughout Elm Creek Park Reserve. The trail system features varied terrain suitable for riders of all experience levels, with routes traversing woodlands, prairie areas, and scenic overlooks. Water access points along the trails provide natural drinking opportunities for horses during longer rides. Horse owners should note that trails occasionally cross mountain biking paths and hiking routes, requiring awareness of other park users. Overnight camping with horses requires proof of current negative Coggins test, and campers must clean up manure from campsites before departure. The camp operates seasonally from spring through fall, with exact opening and closing dates varying based on trail and ground conditions. Weekend dates typically fill several weeks in advance during summer months.

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    Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Shorewood (16)

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      1. Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve

      4.5(38)7mi from ShorewoodRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Baker Park near Minneapolis Minnesota was a our camp choice for inexpensive camping on the last leg of our Minnesota vacation in 2017."

      "The beaches are some of the best in Minnesota. The bike trails are nearby and plentiful."

      from $21 - $29 / night

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      2. Three Rivers Park District Baker Campground

      5.0(3)8mi from ShorewoodRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Tons of trails and camping. 🏕"

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      3. Lake Rebecca Park Reserve

      4.7(3)13mi from ShorewoodTents

      "This newly developed trail is 13.25 miles long, so a nice option close to the city for those who are inclined to adventurous biking. Different loops are available for varying skill levels. "

      "Great for birding and walking trails! One of my favorite places to go near home😁"

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      4. Bunker Hills Regional Park

      4.6(16)24mi from ShorewoodRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "I was very happy with the trails and accommodations available to me, during my stay."

      "It has a golf course, a restaurant is on the grounds, there is a stable with horses/ponies that you can take guided trail rides on, a water park(it is called The Beach, which was very confusing for us"

      from $20 - $32 / night

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      5. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve

      4.5(37)33mi from ShorewoodRVs, Tents

      "For a County Park, Lake Elmo has an impressive list of amenities. Before we even get to the campsite let's mention the filtered swimming pond."

      "Lake Elmo County Park in Washington County Minnesota is a great park for families."

      from $23 - $80 / night

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      6. Lake Maria State Park Campground

      4.4(34)32mi from Shorewood22 sitesTents, Cabins, Glamping

      "This park is only about 50 minutes away from me, and for hiking/camping I only think it is worth a trip in the fall."

      "I chose Lake Maria for a solo camping excursion because it was close to the Cities, but still offered the level of seclusion I wanted."

      from $22 - $80 / night

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      7. Crow Hassan Park Reserve

      4.3(3)18mi from ShorewoodTents, Cabins, Glamping

      "So as a result the Riverbend group equestrian campground is now the parking lot for day visitors through at least August. "

      "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."

      from $15 / night

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      8. Elm Creek Horse Camp

      4.0(1)19mi from ShorewoodTents

      "If you’re the kind of camper who measures a site by how many tail wags it inspires, then Campsite 2 at Elm Creek Horse Camp is barking up the right tree.🌲🐶 Tucked away near the archery range(don’t worry—nobody"

      from $16 / night

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      9. Ann Lake Campground — Sand Dunes State Forest

      4.2(23)35mi from Shorewood4 sitesRVs, Tents

      "There are no reservations for the regular sites (although I do think they might take reservations for the equestrian and group sites)."

      "Lots of close camp sites for larger groups near the entrance. The further back you go on the road, the more spread out sites get. There are a few walk-in sites that I absolutely love."

      from $50 / night

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      10. High Island Creek Park

      4.7(13)31mi from ShorewoodRVs, Tents

      "Near Henderson, MN which is one of a kind small town well worth the visit for all. This is rustic with no hookups except very clean portapotty and hand lever water jack."

      "Gulley that a large creek runs through surrounded by trees and large forested hills."

      from $10 / night

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    Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Shorewood, MN

    5 Photos of 16 Shorewood Campgrounds

    Equestrian Camping Reviews near Shorewood, MN

    219 Reviews of 16 Shorewood Campgrounds

    • Krista T.
      Jul. 1, 2020

      Crow Hassan Park Reserve

      Close to the cities

      During these COVID times everyone wants to get out and about more, which means that the main parking lot for the park that used to be mostly designated for horse trailer parking is now overrun with family vehicles. So as a result the Riverbend group equestrian campground is now the parking lot for day visitors through at least August. 

      In normal times you can rent this group campsite for$70-$80 a night, which is ridiculously cheap considering that you can fit quite a bit of horse trailers on here. The information for this site states you can put 10 horse trailers on this lot, but I have definitely seen groups camp here with more. The barn stalls are available for use (unlike the Blue Stem horse site), otherwise there are overhead horse hitch lines. 

      This campground is nicely maintained and has nice mature trees that a lot of people set up hammocks in. The vault toilet near the barn is nice, there are no showers. Be aware that the road into this group site only is wide enough for one vehicle at a time, so far I’ve been lucky to not encounter another vehicle as I’m entering or leaving.

    • Krista T.
      Jul. 16, 2018

      Crow Hassan Park Reserve

      This is an equestrian paradise

      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. Do a 180 on the trail and she is happy to trot away from the trailer. Horse camping is available in two locations in the park, even though once when I was there a family was camping in the parking with their horses. Apparently they got the cops called on them by some other park patrons who didn't believe that this was an option. At the time it was marked as a camping location on the map, but that may have changed.

      The best place to be bug-free happens to be the sandy prairie trails, the wooded areas are nice but you may want to hustle out of there if you don't have enough bug protection. For non-horse riders some parts of the trail out in the open prairie might be a bit sandy. Also important to note- bikes are NOT allowed on the trails. Absolutely gorgeous in the fall. Pit toilets are available and there is water available at the entrance off of Park drive, not sure about the other locations.

    • Steph H.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 26, 2017

      Lake Elmo County Park Reserve

      Great for the kiddos

      For a County Park, Lake Elmo has an impressive list of amenities. Before we even get to the campsite let's mention the filtered swimming pond. This man made pond is a sandy bottom and surrounded by a nice sand beach. Large built in umbrellas are available for sun coverage and there is a concession stand and bathrooms with showers. And yes, as I mentioned the water is filtered! No gross goose poop or green algae to deal with! Next to the swim pond is a giant playground with fun for the big and little kids. Other amenities include archery, horse trails, paved and grass trails, camper spots, rustic spots and hike in camping spots. In winter the xc ski trails are lit for evening skiing. Or let's be honest early afternoon. It is Minnesota and the suns down by 4 In the Winter! They also have a newer Nordic center that's open all year round and includes a locker room with showers. The hike in camp spot we chose was on a small lake so it had a nice breeze and made it easy to bring a kayak or paddleboard and hop right in. There is also a boat launch for your larger toys! The trails in the park are quite impressive for its size. We enjoyed a 5 mile loop off the Nordic center and right past the camp spot. A picnic table and fire pit as well as nice flat tent pad were provided. If you're coming in from out of town then you're just a 5 minute drive from Woodbury and all the amenities you'd ever need but the park feels miles away from it all.

    • Alison O.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 1, 2025

      Elm Creek Horse Camp

      Campsite 2 – Elm Creek Horse Camp, Dayton MN

      If you’re the kind of camper who measures a site by how many tail wags it inspires, then Campsite 2 at Elm Creek Horse Camp is barking up the right tree.🌲🐶 Tucked away near the archery range(don’t worry—nobody’s aiming at your pup), this campsite offers a solid patch of peace where dogs can sniff, stretch, and settle in by the fire. The ground is mostly level—perfect for a tent and a sturdy dog bed—and the trails? Chef’s kiss. Plenty of new smells, shaded stretches, and squirrels for days. Now, to be clear—this is a horse camp first and foremost. So if your dog isn’t a fan of our four-hooved friends, you might want to steer clear. But if they’re cool with horses and know how to heel when a giant gelding struts by, they’ll be just fine. A few bones to pick: There’s not much privacy between sites, so if your dog’s a talker, your neighbors might get a serenade. And while$16 a night is totally reasonable, the$7.50 reservation fee nips at the budget a bit—especially if you’re staying more than a couple nights. Still, Campsite 2 hits all the right notes: trails close by, fire ring ready, and enough space for a tent, a camp chair, and a dog who thinks every stick is a gift from heaven.🦴 Would we come back? Absolutely. My dog already packed his leash! what

      #ElmCreekHorseCamp#MNStateParks#DogFriendlyCamping#TrailDogApproved#HorseCampAdventures#Campsite2#ElmCreekParkReserve#HikingWithDogs#DogCampingVibes#PawfectCampground#TheDyrtDogPack#MinnesotaCamping#ArcheryRangeNeighbors#TailsOnTrails#WagMoreBarkLess

    • Kenan R.
      Aug. 4, 2018

      Bunker Hills Regional Park

      Camping Near Civilization

      I was very happy with the trails and accommodations available to me, during my stay. There are park pavilions and a water park connected to the campsite, a gold course nearby, and shops, too - - but the actual campsite, bike/walking/horse trails make you forget all of that. The temperature was COLD the first night, but perfect the rest of the week. Absolutely loved the experience, and I will go again.

    • Nick G.
      Sep. 4, 2021

      Cannon River Wilderness Area

      Perfect place Found a great site

      For free the area is awesome right by the river. We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. We set up hammocks right next to the river. The hike from parking is not bad at all about a 10 minute walk from parking to the farthest site.

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Aug. 18, 2020

      High Island Creek Park

      Quiet, clean and well maintained.

      Nice clean campground very well maintained and free. Near Henderson, MN which is one of a kind small town well worth the visit for all. This is rustic with no hookups except very clean portapotty and hand lever water jack. Pick where to park in nice large grassy areas. A few areas are next to wild and deep ravines. Very nice large new play areas with slides for kids. Popular with a few horse trailers and riders on weekends because of COVID get to gather worries elsewhere. Friday morning before week end is best to get there in case of horse trailers to get nicer spot. Sometimes only a few campers are there. 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. No problem for 5th wheels and tents both, pick your spot. Want to relax, chill out and visit your neighbors. This is worth the visit.

    • Emily H.
      Aug. 7, 2018

      Ann Lake Campground — Sand Dunes State Forest

      Nice Rustic Campground

      This campground is on a first come, first serve basis. There are no reservations for the regular sites (although I do think they might take reservations for the equestrian and group sites).

      I highly recommend the walk-in-sites for the most private tent camping experience. The walk from the car isn’t far, but the sites are off the road and in the pines. If you like to have your car at your site, you’ll find some sites with nice long driveways that can accommodate multiple cars, or even a truck with a boat/trailer. The beach is nice and private, but it’s a bit of a hike from the campsites. I’d recommend just hopping in the car and driving over if you’ve got young kids with you.

      There is no store or firewood sold at the campground, so you’ll have to haul your own in from an approved vendor.

    • Krista T.
      Aug. 20, 2018

      Lake Rebecca Park Reserve

      Great local gem

      The park

      Disclaimer: I did not actually camp here. There are two group campsites that are available, but considering that my friends aren’t big campers I wasn’t willing to pay $85 a night for a campsite (and I’m pretty sure these get booked up quickly on the weekends). I’ll talk more about the two group sites later. 

      I really liked this park, it felt like there was something available for everyone. When I first pulled in I checked out the single track trail area first and the parking lot was full of mountain bikers. This newly developed trail is 13.25 miles long, so a nice option close to the city for those who are inclined to adventurous biking. Different loops are available for varying skill levels. 

      There are two water access points- one for Lake Rebecca and one for the nearby Crow River. There are also boat rentals available, I’ll attach a pic of this season’s current rates.  There are also two fishing docks located not too far from the main beach area. I didn’t get in the water so I have no idea how clean it is, but there were many happy swimmers. Keep in mind that there are no lifeguards on duty.

      In addition to the single track unpaved trail there is also a horse trail and a paved trail that looks in good condition- I’m hoping to bring my horse to check out the former and my roller blades to check out the latter. This park has always been relatively nearby to where I have lived, but I have never actually been before my visit this weekend since other horse riders have always had cautionary tales about how bad the bugs are here. I am not sure how they are on the horse trails, but I set up my hammock in a wooded area and I didn’t think that the amount of mosquitos that approached me was anything note-worthy. 

      I haven’t been to the group campsites yet to scope them out, someday soon hopefully, but these are the descriptions that I was able to track down online. My one gripe about the Three Rivers park district is that finding information about the campgrounds isn't as straight forward as it should be.

      Sarah Creek group campsite can accommodate 80 people and it has a barn and hitching posts. The amount of horses that it can support is unknown. There is a volleyball net, grill, fire ring, water pump and latrines (so I’m guessing rustic).

      The South group campsite seems to be geared more towards mountain bikers since it has a garage-esque structure that I’m guessing you would store your bikes in. It can accommodate 50 people, has a grill, water pump latrines, fire ring, and horseshoe pit. 

      Weeknights are $70 and weekends/holidays are $85. This seems like a huge steal considering how many people these sites can accommodate!!!

      Product Review

      As a Dyrt ranger, I received a gift card to REI for participating in a recent campground review contest. I recently became obsessed with hammocks, and thanks to a BOGO from Trek Light I now have two. One of the hammocks I received was part of a bundle and came with ropes already, but the other didn’t. Before I bought a second pair of the same ropes I decided I wanted to see how well they worked before I spent another $20 on just basic ropes that aren’t terribly long. 

      I purchased a set of ENO Atlas hammock straps for $29.95 and they are well worth the $10 price difference. The ENO straps are 9 feet long each and together can hold up to 400 pounds. Instead of fiddling with tying knots and retying them to get the perfect adjustment, I can just move the hook on my hammock between the pre-stitched rings as necessary.  The extra length and the quick adjustments are greatly appreciated by someone who is still new to hammocks and isn’t great at eyeballing things. ENO does have a set of longer straps that are each 13.5 feet long, but I figure that if I find myself in a situation where the trees are too far apart for these straps I can just attach my ropes to the Eno straps and take advantage of the double capacity feature of my hammock. So Far I’m really impressed with how easy these are to loop around the trees and adjust the tension of my hammock.

    Guide to Shorewood

    Equestrian camping options extend beyond Elm Creek Horse Camp in the Hennepin County park system. Several sites within 30 miles of Shorewood accommodate both horses and riders with varying levels of amenities. Minnesota's climate creates a seasonal riding window typically spanning May through October, with occasional early closures due to autumn ground conditions. Trail networks connect through diverse ecosystems including oak savanna, restored prairie, and wetland areas. Most equestrian campgrounds require advance reservations and compliance with current negative Coggins test documentation.

    What to do

    Trail riding at Crow Hassan Park Reserve: The trail system features sandy prairie sections that provide relief from insects during summer months. "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. Do a 180 on the trail and she is happy to trot away from the trailer," notes Krista T. about Crow Hassan Park Reserve.

    Wildlife watching at Lake Rebecca: The park's diverse habitat supports abundant bird species and mammals. "Big park! Great for birding and walking trails! One of my favorite places to go near home," shares Alison O. about Lake Rebecca Park Reserve.

    Outdoor activities at Baker Park: Families can enjoy water recreation alongside camping. "We love to camp here. Access to lake independence. A lot of biking trails. Nice clean bathrooms. Nice park for kids just a small hike away. Plus a decent amount of rentals," writes Matt H. about Baker Campground.

    What campers like

    Privacy options at Ann Lake: Many sites offer natural screening from neighboring campers. "Sites are large with varying degrees of privacy. Well spaced out, just some have less undergrowth. Sites are large so they are clear," reports Kari P. about Ann Lake.

    Clean facilities at Lake Elmo: The park maintains modern amenities despite its rustic setting. "Very rustic campground, clean facilities, and water spigots throughout. Really enjoy how quiet it is!" shares Lisa O. about Lake Elmo County Park Reserve.

    Natural surroundings at High Island Creek: The terrain offers unique exploration opportunities away from developed areas. "Beautiful trails leading you down the revenue to a gentle flowing creek. One of me and my hubbies favorite drop in campsites!!" notes Alison O. about High Island Creek Park.

    What you should know

    Reservation requirements: Most horse campgrounds near Shorewood require advance bookings, particularly for weekend dates.

    Bug preparation: Minnesota's summer months bring mosquitoes and black flies, requiring protective measures. "When we pulled up to the parking lot we knew we were in trouble. The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon," warns Steph H. about Lake Maria State Park Campground.

    Corral availability: Some sites provide individual horse containment options while others use hitching lines. "The barn stalls are available for use (unlike the Blue Stem horse site), otherwise there are overhead horse hitch lines," notes Krista T. about Crow Hassan Park Reserve.

    Tips for camping with families

    Playground access: Several parks offer play structures near camping areas. "This campground is a gem so very close to the Twin Cities. The sites are good sized, and the bathroom/showers are great. With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be," shares Bryan S. about Baker Campground.

    Water activities: Swimming beaches provide family recreation opportunities during summer stays. "There are two swimming beaches: 1 for the campground and one for all of the day visitors. You can rent canoes, paddle boats and SUP boards, and many people bring their own boats," says Jennifer H.

    Site selection for families: Look for flat, accessible sites when camping with children. "For our first time camping, this was a great site! It was very clean, had friendly staff, and was close to a really fun park for our kids. We will be back!" reports Heather V.

    Tips from RVers

    Site access considerations: Some horse campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "30' class C motor home. Some overhanging branches on the road in scrape the top and sides. Campsites are nice, mowed, gravel parking," advises Andy L. about Ann Lake.

    Utilities availability: Electric hookups vary by location, with many horse-focused campgrounds offering minimal services. "Campsite 2 at Elm Creek Horse Camp hits all the right notes: trails close by, fire ring ready, and enough space for a tent, a camp chair, and a dog who thinks every stick is a gift from heaven," shares Alison O. about Elm Creek Horse Camp.

    Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal as not all equestrian campgrounds provide this service on-site. Bunker Hills Regional Park offers sanitary dump facilities for RVers needing this service after camping at more primitive horse campgrounds near Shorewood.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Shorewood, MN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Shorewood, MN is Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve with a 4.5-star rating from 38 reviews.

    What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Shorewood, MN?

    TheDyrt.com has all 16 equestrian camping locations near Shorewood, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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