The equestrian campground at Sibley State Park stands approximately 12 miles west of Sunburg, Minnesota at an elevation of around 1,350 feet. The park's geology features glacial moraine terrain with rolling hills, wetlands, and hardwood forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity and occasional thunderstorms, while winters can reach well below freezing with significant snowfall.
What to do
Horseback riding on prairie trails: Equestrian camping near Sunburg offers access to wooded and open trail sections. At Sibley State Park, "very nice quiet horse camp. Could use more horse trails, only about 12 miles worth of trails for horses," notes Cody T. about the Equestrian Campground.
Fishing and boating: Lake Andrew provides fishing opportunities with multiple species. "We had a great site with plenty of room for my large family. The campground was clean and nice with plenty of area for the kids to explore. The strong wind off the lake made fishing from shore nearly impossible. Only one dock was in the water," reports Dave T. about Oak Ridge Campground.
Winter activities: Some parks maintain winter accessibility with seasonal programming. "I stayed here with a few friends in the winter when the park was doing their lantern-lit snowshoe trail. They have 1 site (electric) available in the winter," shares Tori K. about Lake Carlos State Park.
What campers like
Clear lake waters: Several parks feature clean lakes with good visibility. "The weekend we camped it was scorching hot. Most of the hiking trails in the park were through the prairie grass. The High Peak Trail did have some lovely views though! Our favorite part of this trip was renting stand up paddle boards. The lake water was crystal clear and glass like calm," writes Tessa Z. about Glacial Lakes State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife populations. "Lots and lots of wildlife around at this one too! Fun little café in New London (Middle Fork) – delicious French toast and friendly service; seemed like a place the locals went," comments Andrea S. about Oak Ridge Campground.
Spacious campsites: Many sites provide adequate room for equipment and activities. "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. about Lac qui Parle County Park.
What you should know
Insect activity: Ticks and mosquitoes can be problematic during warmer months. "Went for a last minute solo moto camping trip. Campground is beautiful. Clean, and great trails. Mosquitos were minimal, but the wood ticks were out in force," reports The Rolling Panda about Oak Ridge Campground.
Wind conditions: Open prairie sites may experience significant wind. "Beautiful park with rolling prairies. Oak Ridge campground is prettier, quieter, and more private than the Lower campground. 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," shares Mike O. about Glacial Lakes State Park.
Flooding risk: Some campgrounds near rivers may experience periodic flooding. "We stayed on the Pittsburgh side and found the campground amazing! Until it flooded. We were evacuated and moved to higher ground. The spot we had first was 311 and it was great until it flooded," warns Cathy S. about Pomme De Terre Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Multiple parks offer swimming beaches for children. "Swimming was great! Cute little store by the beach. Sites were pretty close together but it was still an enjoyable time!" mentions Jessica L. about Oak Ridge Campground.
Nature center programs: Educational opportunities exist for children at several parks. "Group camping comes with its own bathroom building and shelter building with wood stove. The water is quite clean. Also there's even hot water in the bathroom," explains Willis M. about Lake Carlos State Park.
Trail difficulty: Consider trail length and terrain when planning with children. "This park has everything from bike trails, hiking trails, look out tower at the top of Mount Tom, to swimming and fishing. Close to our home so we go often!" states Colleen D. about Oak Ridge Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Some campgrounds have challenging access points. "Pretty nice campground with water and electric. Bathhouse, walking trails, fishing and beautiful lake views. Some sites are a little difficult to get into but not impossible," advises Marcy F. about Pomme De Terre Campground.
Hookup availability: Electric, water, and sewer connections vary by location. "About 1/2 seasonal sites and intermingled short-term sites. Well-kept with fair amount of trees. Nice beach, but small. On site horseback riding was great," reports Jesse H. about El Rancho Manana.
Seasonal availability: Winter camping options exist but with limited facilities. "Tent camping wasn't available and we were able to reserve a camper cabin - Frog Pond. It was a nice change and a warmer option, the cabin is gorgeous! Frog Pond sleeps 6 with heat and electricity," shares Joanna B. about Lake Carlos State Park.
Guide
