Equestrian camping near Starbuck, Minnesota offers access to diverse terrain across prairie and woodland environments. Located in the glacial lakes region of west-central Minnesota at elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,300 feet, this area experiences warm summers and cold winters with moderate rainfall. Trail systems throughout the region connect riders to rolling hills, lake views, and native prairie vegetation.
What to do
Hiking Mount Tom: At Sibley State Park, the trail to Mount Tom provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. "The park has everything from bike trails, hiking trails, look out tower at the top of Mount Tom, to swimming and fishing," notes Colleen D.
Paddleboarding on clear lakes: Rent equipment at Glacial Lakes State Park for water activities. "Our favorite part of this trip was renting stand up paddle boards. The lake water was crystal clear and glass like calm," says Tessa Z.
Winter activities: Lake Carlos State Park maintains seasonal recreation options. "We headed to Lake Carlos for their candlelight ski... We xcountry skied before dark. At dark we headed to the candlelight event. We hiked 1.2 miles and then snowshoed 2.4 miles," shares Joanna B.
Fishing access: Multiple lakes in the region offer fishing opportunities, though conditions vary. One visitor at Glacial Lakes State Park noted: "Watch out for biting sunnies in the swim area and enormous snapping turtles stealing the fish off your hook at the fishing pier near the swim area."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Oak Ridge Campground at Sibley State Park offers secluded options. "Oak Ridge campground is prettier, quieter, and more private than the Lower campground. Site 28 and 30 don't have tree cover, but have beautiful views of the rolling hills," writes Mike O.
Clean swimming beaches: Lake access is a highlight at several parks. At Sibley State Park, "the biggest hit for me was the newly remodeled beach area on Lake Andrew. Plenty of space and a nice 'fishing' pier to hang out at. They rent kayaks there too!" reports Stephanie B.
Camper cabins: For those wanting more comfort, Glacial Lakes State Park offers cabin options. "Had a great stay, everything was as expected with a camper cabin. Beautiful park with great trails and a beautiful lake!" shares Samuel V.
Open prairie views: Lac qui Parle County Park offers unique landscape perspectives. "We had a lovely weekend overlooking Lac Qui Parle from our campsite. The lack of mature trees on the upper campground bluffs is a plus. A gentle breeze keeps the bugs down and allows for nice views," notes Timothy W.
What you should know
Bug conditions: Insects can be challenging, particularly in wooded areas. "Site was a bit buggy, but very manageable with bug spray and a Thermacell. The bugs on the hiking trails were unrelenting even with lots of deet bug spray - I was planning to hike 5 miles but had to stop after 2," reports Mike O.
Tick awareness: Grassy areas require precautions. One camper at Glacial Lakes noted: "Due to the grass, there were many ticks, pets should be treated for ticks ahead of time. We didn't stay overnight due to the amount of them."
Water levels: Pomme De Terre Campground sometimes experiences flooding. "We stayed on the Pittsburgh side and found the campground amazing! Until it flooded. We were evacuated and moved to higher ground," shares Cathy S.
Limited horse trails: While equestrian camping is available, trail networks can be limited. At Sibley State Park, one rider noted: "Very nice quiet horse camp. Could use more horse trails, only about 12 miles worth of trails for horses."
Tips for camping with families
Beach facilities: Lake swimming areas provide relief during summer months. "The lake water was nice and clear. The swimming area isn't awesome, but I have seen much worse," notes Tony S. from Glacial Lakes State Park.
Town proximity: Nearby communities offer additional activities and amenities. "Short drive in to cute town of New London," notes Sara S. about Sibley State Park, while another camper mentioned: "We did go into Starbuck which is 5 miles away. Very impressive beach, groceries and a DQ all an easy drive away."
Campsite selection: For families seeking privacy, research specific sites. At Sibley State Park, one visitor recommended: "If you're looking for a bit of privacy, I'd recommend any of the sites before 96. If you're looking for ease of access to multiple camping spots (for a family get together with extended family) sites after 94 would be great for that."
Weather variability: Be prepared for changing conditions. "We camped here during an MEA weekend in October and even though we woke up to snow covering our tent, it was a great experience!" reports Ellen F. from Lake Carlos State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Pomme De Terre Campground accommodates larger vehicles but requires careful maneuvering. "Pretty nice campground with water and electric. Some sites are a little difficult to get into but not impossible," notes Marcy F.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer electric but limited full-hookup options. Regarding Lake Carlos State Park, Michele shares: "We are camping/glamping in a 30' fifth wheel. The sites here are spacious and cozy at the same time."
Parking considerations: Access to amenities can sometimes be challenging. At Glacial Lakes State Park, one camper noted: "Our cabin was a long ways from the shower facility which I knew going into the weekend. Parking near showers was close to non existent."
Wind exposure: Open prairie sites may experience strong winds. "The strong wind off the lake made fishing from shore nearly impossible," reports Dave T. about Sibley State Park.
