Cuivre River State Park offers horseback riding enthusiasts a dedicated equestrian camping experience approximately 45 minutes northeast of Foristell, Missouri. The area features rolling hills and deciduous forests within Missouri's Ozark border region, with most horseback trails situated between 500-700 feet of elevation. Trail conditions vary seasonally with summer months typically providing the firmest footing for horses.
What to do
Lake activities and rentals: At Cuivre River State Park, visitors can enjoy water recreation beyond trail riding. "This campground has a lake you can rent kayaks for. They have a small store at the check in booth. It also has an accessible fishing dock that is covered," notes Kayla S. in her review of Cuivre River State Park Campground.
Trail exploration: Diverse hiking opportunities exist throughout the area's conservation lands. "Daniel Boone Conservation Area maintains clean and well-maintained gravel roads to the campsites. Maps are okay, but not the best. You could easily get an RV or camper around the roads," reports Timmy C. about Daniel Boone Conservation Area. Many trails connect to equestrian routes.
Wilderness immersion: The regional parks provide wildlife viewing opportunities. Maria E. describes her experience at Cuivre River: "Campground is beautiful and very woodsy. We saw bunnies hopping around and when we first arrived to our site a deer was grazing nearby, such a bonus!" Wildlife sightings are common during morning and evening hours.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Horse campers appreciate the generous site layouts. "Campground is quiet and has big campsites. The campground is close to Lincoln Lake for kayaking," shares Cody S. about Cuivre River State Park. These larger sites accommodate horse trailers without feeling cramped.
Proximity to St. Louis: The region's horse camping areas provide natural settings within reasonable driving distance of urban amenities. Kyle R. notes that Cuivre River is a "Great well maintained state park right outside of St Louis. Park has an awesome trail system around the lake, and it looks like you can rent canoes/kayaks in the summer."
Natural surroundings: Equestrian campers enjoy the wooded environment. "We have been backpack camping here twice and RV camping once. The bathrooms are well maintained and the campsites are fairly large and provide lots of shade," explains Tracie S., highlighting features that benefit both horses and riders at Cuivre River.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Not all equestrian camping areas offer identical experiences. At Greensfelder County Park, Lucas M. advises, "The Family tent sites are very close to the road, as in 10ft from it, so traffic to and from the stables are rather annoying." Research site maps before booking.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts trail conditions significantly. Spring can bring muddy trails after rain, while summer offers more reliable footing for horses but higher temperatures. Fall provides colorful riding experiences through changing foliage.
Wildlife awareness: The region has abundant wildlife including deer populations. Lucas M. notes at Greensfelder County Park: "The place has A LOT of deer which means that ticks are everywhere-which is not a big deal if you know what you're doing." Horse owners should conduct thorough tick checks after riding.
Tips for camping with families
Diverse activities: Parks near Foristell accommodate both horse enthusiasts and non-riders. "This is a perfect place to enjoy with the family. Plenty of gorgeous campsites and a lake to swim and kayak!" recommends J K. about Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground, which offers water activities alongside trail access.
Budget-friendly options: Several conservation areas provide economical camping. Travis shares about Horseshoe Lake: "Self service pay system makes it simple, easy, and fast. Camping can be reserved but no need. Just pick your spot go to the office building, and fill out the form, pay and slide in envelope and drop in box," noting the rate as "$8 a night."
Activity planning: Families with horses should schedule time for both riding and additional recreation. "You could camp here for a weekend and stay busy. We live in Wentzville so it's an easy jog up 61 to get away. If you stay here, make sure to check out the trail around the lake," advises Tony M. about Cuivre River State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: RV campers with horses should verify the availability of appropriate connections. Matthew H. notes about Greensfelder County Park: "Only sites 20-29 have electric and 28 can't be reserved... 2-20 amp plugs and 1-30amp plug... no water at sites, no 50 amps, no dump but KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away."
Trailer access: Access routes are important for safe transport of horses. At Blue Spring Ranch, Caitlin F. advises: "We really enjoyed our time here! They have a few different clusters of camp sites and cabins as well... Would definitely recommend sites 106-108. Some friends of ours stayed there and had tons of space!" Larger sites better accommodate horse trailers.
