Equestrian facilities near Defiance, Missouri offer diverse camping options beyond Greensfelder County Park. The area sits within rolling Ozark foothills with elevations ranging from 400-800 feet, creating varied terrain for trail riding. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall optimal for horse camping trips when trails are less muddy and temperatures more moderate.
What to do
Trail riding at Daniel Boone Conservation Area: This free conservation area provides primitive camping with spacious grounds for horses and riders. "Nice area, second camping area at the end of the road. No amenities at the end of the road, but there is a toilet at the first camping area. Beautiful scenery, alot of hunters," notes a Daniel Boone Conservation Area visitor.
Swimming after rides: After a dusty trail ride, cool off at one of the swimming areas. "Lincoln Lake for kayaking" at Cuivre River State Park Campground offers refreshing waters. The park features "a lake to swim and kayak" according to reviewers, making it ideal for horses and riders needing to cool down after summer trail rides.
Visit Six Flags: For overnight horse campers wanting entertainment between trail days, the amusement park's proximity offers a break from riding. "It's close to Six Flags" reports a reviewer at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA, making it convenient to alternate between horseback activities and theme park entertainment.
What campers like
Natural surroundings: Horse enthusiasts appreciate the wooded environments that provide shade and natural settings. "The campground is beautiful and very woodsy. We saw bunnies hopping around and when we first arrived to our site a deer was grazing nearby," shares a visitor about their experience at Cuivre River State Park Campground.
Riverside access: Many equestrian campers value water access for horses and cooling off. At Bass' River Resort, "This site is right on the gravel bar and about 100 ft from waters edge. Great for relaxing and having a 'beverage' while watching the floaters figure out life," according to a camper who enjoyed the riverside amenities.
Shower facilities: After dusty trail rides, clean facilities matter. "Very clean and maintianed. $0.50 cents for 5 min on showers," notes a Bass' River Resort camper, highlighting the practical importance of good bathing options for riders and their families after a day on horseback.
What you should know
Reservations recommended: Popular horse campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. At Greensfelder County Park, a reviewer advises, "Kinda busy maybe make reservations when it's a holiday," confirming the need to book in advance for equestrian camping facilities.
Varying levels of privacy: Site spacing differs significantly between equestrian campgrounds. "The sites by the vault toilet looked closer together so I could see that being a cool spot for multiple families or friend groups," notes a Cuivre River camper, showing how site selection impacts the camping experience.
Limited amenities at conservation areas: Conservation lands offer more primitive camping. "There are no services here and no hook ups, but it's free," explains a Daniel Boone Conservation Area review, setting appropriate expectations for horse campers seeking basic accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with diversions for children between trail rides. "There is swimming year round with 2 indoor pools, hot tubs and sauna. Summer time swimming at 1 outdoor pool and 2 swimming beaches at the lake," shares a camper at Lost Valley Lake Resort, highlighting options for entertaining children.
Horse-specific safety: Ensure designated areas for children around horses. "There's tie stalls under a roof and a round pen mounting blocks shower and bathrooms in camp," notes a Greensfelder visitor, pointing out the safety features available for families with horses.
Playground access: Some horse campgrounds include play structures for kids. According to a St. Francois State Park Campground visitor, "There is a nice 3-mile hike that begins at the campground," providing alternative activities for children who need breaks from riding.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some horse camping areas have uneven terrain for RVs. "Site 29 where we stayed can fit a 40' fifth wheel," mentions a Greensfelder Park reviewer, who also advises that you can "park campers on grass to be closer to one side or another of your site" for better positioning.
Electrical connections: Check amperage offerings at horse campgrounds. A Greensfelder camper notes "Only sites 20-29 have electric and 28 can't be reserved" and "site 29 only have 2-20 amp plugs no 30 didn't realized till we parked. Only this one doesn't have 30," highlighting the importance of verifying electrical service before arrival.
Distance to facilities: Bathroom proximity varies at horse camping areas. "Long walk uphill to showers and bathrooms," warns a Blue Springs Ranch visitor, reminding RVers to consider placement when selecting sites for horse camping trips.
