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Minnesota Valley Rec Area Equestrian Camp provides the only dedicated horse camping facilities near Skyline, Minnesota. Located at 19825 Park Blvd in Jordan, the equestrian campground accommodates riders year-round with primitive camping amenities. The campground features drinking water access and toilet facilities, while requiring campers to make reservations before arrival. Trail riders can bring their own horses and camping equipment, with pets allowed throughout the grounds. The campground maintains a policy that requires riders to clean up after their horses and properly dispose of manure. Most sites provide adequate space for horse trailers with easy pull-through access.
Connected to the Minnesota Valley Recreation Area's extensive trail system, the equestrian camp offers riders direct access to miles of bridle paths through diverse terrain. The trails wind through wooded areas and open meadows, creating varied riding experiences for all skill levels. Horse owners should bring their own feed, water buckets, and portable corrals as these amenities are not provided at the campground. During peak riding seasons from late spring through early fall, weekends often fill quickly with reservations recommended well in advance. The natural environment supports comfortable camping with horses, though summer brings increased bug activity. Winter camping remains available but requires additional preparations for both riders and horses. The equestrian camp maintains a consistent 4-star rating among horse enthusiasts who appreciate the well-maintained trails and peaceful camping environment.
"Great park if you’re not looking to drive too far to enjoy a bit of nature. Wonderful hiking paths and biking paths. Our site was nice a secluded and right next to the trail heads."
"Sites are wooded and shady but some are close to neighboring sites. Not too many mosquitos or flies for August in Minnesota! Sakatah Singing Hills paved trail runs through the park. "
from $24 - $85 / night
Check Availability"We reserved a spot right next to the pool area. It was a tight fit to back the camper it, but I was able to do it. They have cement pads for a patio area and a fire ring."
"The one drawback, in my opinion, is that the lake it is right next to doesn’t have a beach for swimming. That was a little disappointing for me."
"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
Check Availability"Ridgley horse camp. Very nice horse camp, with electric hookups, and water at every site."
"It's a great park in an area of Minnesota that is not well traveled. There's also a lot of history here with an interesting museum on the U.S.-Dakota Conflict of 1862."
from $24 - $85 / night
Check Availability"We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. We set up hammocks right next to the river."
"If you camp with animals: Sites all sit directly off walking trail very popular with dog walkers."
"Great place to snowmobile, hike, bike or rideas horse!"
"Really nice spot almost overlooking the lake (Through the trees), had fire ring, picnic tables and room for quite a lot of tents! For me and my family it was perfect!"
TravelerWe stayed at Ft. Ridgley horse camp. Very nice horse camp, with electric hookups, and water at every site. Bathrooms and showers right in horse camp, and a nice little creek about 50 ft behind our site, that our boys loved playing in!! Nice trails, I wish there were a few more miles, but over all very decent. We had a great time.
GuideFor 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.
TravelerNice 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.
GuideWe stayed at site 21 in late August of 2019. It’s obvious that the park had some heavy flooding earlier in the year. A lot of the waterfront sites became sandy. The sites are close together and not very many mature trees between sites. There isn’t any cell phone coverage at the campground but there is service around the historical site. Only restrooms are single stall vault toilets. No showers. However I think the horse campground has upgraded restrooms and showers but I never checked it out because it was so far away. Mosquitoes were bad, everyone came home covered in bites. Kids had a blast playing in the creek. There was also people out on their horses offering rides to kids and educating about horse ownership.
GuideGulley that a large creek runs through surrounded by trees and large forested hills. The entire park is surrounded by farms, nearby are some really nice Minnesota small towns like Henderson and the somewhat larger St. Peter (but still small town). I hiked in about 1/2 a mile and camped in the trees but they also have some clearings closer to the entrance, with grills, where you could easily set up. $10 suggested donation. Trash bins located all over which is good , but the wind seems to blow debris around here and there, and irresponsible people leave their beer cans/water bottles strewn about, so pick them up if you find them like I did. Website and signage on location recommends to call the sheriff's office to let them know you're camping there which I did and they were nice enough, but it's probably not the end of the world if you don't. Overall this was a pleasant spot, especially being the only camper there, so hope you all enjoy! Places like this are what I love about The Dyrt, I don't think I would have found this otherwise.
GuideGreat place to snowmobile, hike, bike or rideas horse!
TravelerGreat park if you’re not looking to drive too far to enjoy a bit of nature. Wonderful hiking paths and biking paths.
Our site was nice a secluded and right next to the trail heads.
Only downside, if you’re looking for complete quiet, this isn’t the park. It’s next to the highway and there are residents that live on the lake that can be noisy.
Otherwise, wonderful park especially for families.
GuideBeautiful, small state park less than an hour south of Twin Cities. Sites are wooded and shady but some are close to neighboring sites. Not too many mosquitos or flies for August in Minnesota! Sakatah Singing Hills paved trail runs through the park. It was pouring on Saturday so most of the other campers checked out and we had the campground mostly to ourselves. Super friendly and helpful staff, clean restrooms. Faribault is 15 minutes away so we went antique shopping at Keeper's Antiques downtown and had cocktails at 10,000 Drops Distillery for rainy day activities.
ScoutEverything was beautiful. We camped for a week in southern Minnesota state parks, but this one is our favourite.
The Minnesota River Valley hosts several camping options near Skyline, with terrain ranging from prairie grasslands to wooded ravines. Located in south-central Minnesota, this region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures averaging 80-85°F and cold winters that can drop below 0°F. Camping opportunities span from established state parks to free county facilities with varying levels of amenities.
Trail exploration: Fort Ridgely State Park offers diverse terrain for hikers. The park features prairie trails with seasonal wildflower displays. "In JULY The Prairie Trails are stunning with all the wild flowers in full bloom. Many trails and nice overlooks too. I walked and hiked the trail over and over because of the beautiful flowers and trails," notes Tom. Historical elements add educational value to visits.
Water recreation: Sakatah Lake State Park provides lake access for paddling enthusiasts. "This was my third time camping at this campground and I love it more and more every time. It's next to a lake so we can easily bring our kayaks with," shares Kayla O. The park connects to a regional trail system for bikers and hikers.
Wildlife observation: High Island Creek Park offers natural spaces for wildlife watching. This free campground provides access to wooded ravines and water features. "I heard Everything from Eagles, Canadian Geese and Swans to Woodpeckers and multiple song birds. I wish I could distinguish between them. Also the frogs and toads were adding their voices too," reports Shelly S.
Private sites: Campers appreciate secluded camping spots at certain parks. "Very nice campground if your RV is not to big. I put our 38 foot 5th wheel in a site but you better be on your game here. Lots of shade and big trees," notes Tim B. about Sakatah Lake State Park. The tree coverage provides natural separation between sites.
Water sounds: Cannon River Wilderness Area offers riverfront camping. "We found a site tucked away from people which is what we like. We set up hammocks right next to the river," shares Nick G. This free area requires hiking in your gear, approximately a 10-minute walk from parking.
Family activities: Kamp Dels provides extensive recreation options. "This is such a great campground for families! So many activities including a water recreation area, petting zoo, shuffleboard, mini golf, pool, toddler water park, multiple playgrounds, basketball and more," writes Tami W. The campground maintains organized activities throughout the season.
Site spacing varies dramatically between campgrounds. At Kamp Dels, "The only drawback is they REALLY pack you on like sardines and the roads are really narrow so unless you get there early your camping tip is going to start with the 'backing in argument,'" warns Tami W. Research site dimensions before booking large rigs.
Weather considerations affect camping comfort. Seasonal campers note that spring and fall offer more comfortable temperatures but potentially more precipitation. Summer brings higher humidity and insect activity, particularly near water bodies.
Horse campgrounds near Skyline, Minnesota require proper preparation. The Minnesota Valley Rec Area Equestrian Camp provides dedicated facilities. "Great place to snowmobile, hike, bike or ride a horse!" mentions Kelli D. Equestrian campers should confirm reservation requirements and available facilities before arrival.
Water play options: Creek access provides natural recreation. At Fort Ridgely State Park, "The creek through the campground is beautiful and the sound of water over the rock is great for sleeping. The creek is cool temperature even in July but kids have fun swimming and splashing," observes Tom. Look for marked creek crossings for safer wading areas.
Nature education opportunities: Bright Lake Co Park offers lakeside learning experiences. "Really nice spot almost overlooking the lake (Through the trees), had fire ring, picnic tables and room for quite a lot of tents! For me and my family it was perfect!" reports Wally B. The park provides space for group camping activities.
Advance planning: Reserve recreation-focused campgrounds early. For popular facilities like Kamp Dels, weekends fill quickly during summer months. "We've been a seasonal there for 4 years and love it. The grandkids love the water park and there's so many things for the kids to do," notes Tina C.
Site selection strategy: Choose perimeter sites when possible. At Sakatah Lake State Park, "The loops near the entrance had more shade. Spaces are large and accommodating!" notes Tracy O. Corner sites typically offer more space and fewer neighboring campers.
Backing challenges: Prepare for tight access at some campgrounds. "Very nice park if your RV is not too big... Lots of shade and big trees," warns Tim B. about Sakatah Lake State Park. Measure your rig length, including any towed vehicles, before booking.
Seasonal considerations: Prepare for facility limitations in shoulder seasons. Early spring and late fall campers should verify water availability. "It was mid April so no water at the sites but had electric in ours. We were able to get potable water at the entrance," shares Tracy O. about Fort Ridgely State Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Skyline, MN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Skyline, MN is Sakatah Lake State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 25 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Skyline, MN?
TheDyrt.com has all 8 equestrian camping locations near Skyline, MN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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