Vincent S.
Guide
GuideLake Louise State Park Campground
$25 primitive. Great spot for passing through. Easy to get in.
Best Equestrian Camping in Minnesota
Elm Creek Horse Camp in Dayton accommodates equestrians with spacious campsites near the archery range, offering ready access to an extensive trail system for riders. Site 2 provides level ground for tents and sturdy dog beds, making it practical for those traveling with both horses and canine companions. Though primarily designed for equestrians, the $16 nightly fee with a $7.50 reservation fee represents reasonable value for horse owners seeking trail access. The campground's layout allows horses to remain nearby while campers enjoy amenities like fire rings and picnic tables. While privacy between sites is limited, the proximity to trails makes Elm Creek an appealing destination for riders seeking convenient horse camping without leaving the Minneapolis metro area.
Located within Minnesota's state forest system, several equestrian campgrounds connect directly to bridle trails with varying terrain suitable for different riding skills. Sites at Lake Maria State Park provide secluded camping with nearby trails where riders regularly spot pileated woodpeckers and other wildlife while traversing wooded paths. Horse camping facilities typically include highline areas or spaces for portable corrals rather than permanent stalls. Trail access points connect to wider networks of riding trails throughout the park systems, with some offering connections to water features where horses can cool off during summer rides. Sites BP7 at Lake Maria requires some planning as deadwood for campfires can be limited, and the hilly terrain demands appropriate packing strategies, especially for those bringing firewood and horse supplies from the southeast parking area.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds in Minnesota (72)
1. Wild River State Park Campground
46 ReviewsTaylors Falls, MNWebsite+1 (651) 583-2125$23 - $90 / night
"This is a big park with a diversity of hiking, equestrian, and canoeing options. Since the park runs along the St. Croix, there are beautiful river-side walks to be had."
"Stayed for two nights at a drive-in double site here and found it ideal for autumn camping."
2. Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve
44 ReviewsMaple Plain, MNWebsite+1 (763) 694-7662$25 - $120 / night
"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."
3. Lake Elmo County Park Reserve
37 ReviewsLake Elmo, MNWebsite+1 (651) 430-8370$23 - $80 / night
"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."
4. Lake Maria State Park Campground
34 ReviewsSilver Creek, MNWebsite+1 (763) 878-2325$22 - $80 / night
"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."
5. Lake Carlos State Park Campground
30 ReviewsCarlos, MNWebsite+1 (320) 852-7200$25 - $100 / night
"I am from a suburb of Twin Cities metro area in Minnesota and we wanted to go camping with my in-laws who have horses."
"Lots of screaming kids the weekend we were here, but we found the quiet trails. Lower campground offers no privacy, but a newer shower house and views and access to the lake."
6. Sakatah Lake State Park Campground
26 ReviewsWaterville, MNWebsite+1 (507) 362-4438$24 - $85 / night
"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. "
7. Crow Wing State Park Campground
27 ReviewsBaxter, MNWebsite+1 (218) 825-3075$24 - $80 / night
"Excellent map signage on the hiking trails too. Clean and tidy vault toilets. There is access to the extended bike path from this state park as well."
"Tent camp here once and a while, but finally got around to officially doing the hiking club trail."
8. Ann Lake Campground — Sand Dunes State Forest
23 ReviewsZimmerman, MNWebsite+1 (763) 878-2325$50 / night
"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."
9. Father Hennepin State Park Campground
21 ReviewsIsle, MNWebsite+1 (320) 676-8763$24 - $68 / night
"Right on Lake Mille Lacs, one of Minnesota’s largest. Walking distance from the bakery and bar! Newer, updated facilities. Boat access. Lake side sites (if you book early enough)."
"Smaller sites and a little privacy in the lake campground. The ones next to the waters edge have a nice view and are more completely in the shade. The inner sites have more sun."
10. Forestville Mystery Cave State Park Campground
20 ReviewsPreston, MNWebsite+1 (507) 352-5111$25 - $90 / night
"There are so many activities to do both within the park and surrounding areas, but my most favorite thing to do was walk the endless miles of hiking trails."
"Has horse tie ups and great trails"
Recent Equestrian Camping Photos in Minnesota
24 Photos of 72 Minnesota Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Garvin County ParkS
Twisted Willow Farmstay
El Rancho Manana
Grant Creek Horse Camp
Maple Springs CampgroundJ
Haycreek Valley Campground
Oak Ridge Campground — Sibley State Park
Lake Carlos State Park Campground
Fort Ridgely State Park Campground
Finland State Forest Campground
Lake Maria State Park Campground
Wild River State Park Campground
Equestrian Camping Reviews in Minnesota
604 Reviews of 72 Minnesota Campgrounds
Deb M.
RangerForestville Mystery Cave State Park Campground
This campground has large private sites, most are shady or partially shaded. Bathrooms are large and well maintained. There’s lots of good hiking trails and the historic town of Forestville was interesting to explore. Absolutely no cell coverage for T-Mobile or AT&T but luckily our site had a good opening in the trees for our Starlink. Would definitely recommend.
DIANNE T.GuideHigh Island Creek Park
Quiet and creek is beautiful
Had a great time walking the river. W dog
- BB S.
TravelerForestville Mystery Cave State Park Campground
Good Tent Site
We tent camped one night, midweek late August. Our site was private, close enough to the shower house but far enough away that we didn't hear any noise from the exhaust fans. Was a lovely quiet night. On a tight schedule so we weren't able to sample any of the hikes. Would stay here again. #33 also looked like a prime tent camp spot.
- nnancy H.Guide
Lake Carlos State Park Campground
Quiet wooded site in upper campground
We spent 1 night at site #12. Large back in spot completely wooded with fire pit & picnic table (no water or electric) Behind clean restrooms with flush toilets. The sites were less than half occupied on a Monday in Mid September. We arrived after the station was closed so we had to create an online profile to reserve and pay. Thankfully we had adequate cell service. There was also an 800 number to call that was staffed until 8pm (according to the sign). The upper campground is much quieter and shaded compared to the lower loop -which is on the water.
- AAnders H.
ScoutBaker Campground - Baker Park Reserve
First time
We stayed at Baker as a family for our first camping trip, and it was great. Fire pit with swivel grate for cooking, bathrooms, and plenty to explore.
Tori K.
LegendLake Rebecca Park Reserve
Great Trails!
Great trails and close to home! Always a good spot for a last-minute trip for me or a place to test out new gear since it is so close to home!
- DDaniel R.Guide
Lake Carlos State Park Campground
Family Friendly Fun
There’s not one but two wonderful bathrooms at each end of the lower level campsites. Our children loved riding their scooters around the loop. If you happen to own a boat, you can park it right on the beach and tie off across from your campsite if you’re lucky enough to have one on the lake side. We stayed at spot 85 but site 102 is on the end and then you will only have one Neighbor.
Ryan C.RangerCascade River Rustic Campground
Quiet, simple, popular
I’ve been coming to this campsite for a decade and it’s never empty. Until today. That was so strange for a Friday in the summer.
Four sites, small ones. A car and a tent are about all you’ll get in there but the space cannot be beat.
Guide to Minnesota
Horse camping in Minnesota offers a unique way to explore the state's beautiful landscapes while enjoying the company of your equine friends. With a variety of campgrounds equipped with horse-friendly amenities, equestrians can find the perfect spot to unwind and ride.
Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like trails and facilities
- The Wild River State Park Campground features spacious sites and access to scenic trails, making it a great choice for horse camping enthusiasts.
- At Lake Maria State Park Campground, you can enjoy well-maintained trails that are perfect for horseback riding, along with facilities that cater to equestrian needs.
- Maplewood State Park Campground offers a variety of horse trails, allowing riders to explore the park's stunning natural beauty.
Tips for equestrian camping in Minnesota
- Always check the specific campground's rules regarding horses, as some may have restrictions on where you can ride or tie your horse.
- Bring plenty of water for both you and your horse, as not all campgrounds provide water sources nearby.
- Consider using a high-quality insect repellent to keep bugs at bay, especially during the warmer months when mosquitoes are prevalent.
Equestrian campers like these nearby activities
- Enjoy hiking and biking trails at Crow Wing State Park Campground, which also offers beautiful views along the Mississippi River.
- The Sakatah Lake State Park Campground features access to the Sakatah Singing Hills paved trail, perfect for a leisurely ride or walk.
- Experience the tranquility of Ann Lake, where you can enjoy fishing and kayaking in addition to horseback riding.
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