Equestrian enthusiasts seeking alternatives to Elm Creek Horse Camp will find several options within a 25-mile radius of Silver Creek, Minnesota. The region sits at approximately 950 feet elevation with sandy soil that drains well after rain, keeping most bridle paths usable even after wet weather. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March, affecting water availability at some facilities.
What to do
Trail riding at Crow Hassan Park Reserve: The park offers extensive bridle paths through prairie landscapes with minimal road noise. According to Krista T., "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." The sandy prairie trails provide relief from insects that can be problematic in wooded sections.
Horseback riding instruction: El Rancho Manana provides on-site riding opportunities for campers without their own horses. Jesse H. mentions, "On site horseback riding was great. Unfortunately, during COVID, the bar was not available." The facility combines camping with equestrian activities in a well-maintained setting.
Explore forest terrain: Lake Maria State Park Campground provides additional trail options with varying difficulty levels. Tori K. notes, "Backpack sites only. Love this park as it offers many backpacking sites with some being very short hikes in and some being longer hikes." The park offers both lake views and wooded terrain suitable for day trips from nearby equestrian facilities.
What campers like
Private camping areas: Many sites offer seclusion despite proximity to metropolitan areas. At Ann Lake, Johnny H. shares, "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." This provides quiet alternatives to the more popular equestrian camping areas.
Water access for both horses and humans: Country Camping Tent & RV Park on the Rum River offers clean water recreation options. According to David G., "Key thing is the river is very clean and sandy bottom," making it suitable for cooling off after trail rides. The river provides natural water features that complement the region's equestrian trails.
Well-spaced campsites: Compared to the close quarters at some dedicated horse camps, many nearby facilities offer roomier accommodations. At Baker Campground, Bryan S. observes, "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."
What you should know
Insect management essential: Bug populations can be significant, particularly in summer months. At Lake Maria, Steph H. warns, "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."
Vegetation hazards: Be alert for poisonous plants near some trails and campsites. At Ann Lake, Kari P. cautions, "Sites are large with varying degrees of privacy. Well spaced out, just some have less undergrowth. Be aware that the undergrowth is at least 25% poison ivy."
Advance planning required: Many parks have limited equestrian accommodations that book quickly. For Lake Maria, Tori K. advises, "I really enjoy sites 1, 2, and 3 as they are a little more secluded from other sites, however 1 is fairly close to the county road so you will hear some vehicle noise overnight."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities as post-riding options: Bunker Hills Regional Park combines equestrian access with family-friendly amenities. Tiffany W. notes, "Huge waterpark, miles of bike trails," providing activities for family members who don't ride.
Combined activities for mixed interests: Look for campgrounds that offer both equestrian and non-equestrian recreation. At Bunker Hills, Krista T. shares, "If you simply look at the list of amenities this park has, nature lovers would be quick to turn their nose up at it as an overly-commercialized playground. 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."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds have distinct quiet and active areas. At Country Camping, Barbara B. advises, "I give it a 4 star only because twice I ran into the same group of people that thought it was ok to open up their vehicle doors and blast music well into the night. Owner warned them the first time but quiet time isn't until 11 pm."
Tips from RVers
Clearance awareness: Large horse trailers with living quarters require attention to overhead obstacles. Andy L. from Ann Lake notes, "30' class C motor home. Some overhanging branches on the road in scrape the top and sides. Campsites are nice, mowed, gravel parking."
Utility limitations: Many equestrian-focused campgrounds have basic services only. At Ann Lake, Susan W. mentions, "No elect or showers. Vault toilets. Drinking water was not available when we were there," emphasizing the need for self-sufficiency.
Hookup access at Lake Rebecca Park Reserve: For those seeking more amenities with their equestrian camping, Lake Rebecca offers alternatives. Daniel R. states, "This has an amazing beach. Great Trails. Sweet single track for mountain biking. The best kids park at any campground I've been to."
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