Best Equestrian Camping near Fredericktown, MO
St. Joe State Park Campground accommodates equestrians with designated sites at Campground #2, which features larger campsites specifically designed for horse owners. The equestrian campsites include expanded gravel parking areas to accommodate horse trailers alongside tents or RVs. Vault toilets are conveniently located near the water supply points. The park offers direct access to equestrian trails separate from the ATV and hiking paths, allowing riders to explore without crossing motorized traffic areas. Spacious sites can fit multiple tents, vehicles, and horse equipment with room to spare. The camping area maintains a quiet atmosphere away from the ATV sections of the park, creating a more traditional camping experience for those traveling with horses.
Trail access begins right from Campground #2, connecting riders to the park's extensive equestrian trail system. The trails wind through woodland settings with varied terrain suitable for different skill levels. Horse-friendly campsites feature gravel pads with adjacent picnic tables and fire rings, providing practical spaces for both human and equine needs. The sites maintain enough distance between neighbors to accommodate horses comfortably. St. Francois State Park, located approximately 30 minutes north, offers additional equestrian camping options with full hookups for those requiring more amenities. Both parks enforce quiet hours and provide clean facilities, though riders should note that St. Joe does not have shower facilities at the equestrian campground itself. Campers must haul in feed and water for horses, as natural water sources along trails may be seasonal.