Equestrian Camping near Maryland Heights, MO

Greensfelder County Park serves equestrian campers with specialized facilities for horse owners. Located approximately 30 minutes from Maryland Heights in St. Louis County, this park contains electric hookups at sites 20-29, with site 28 being the only non-reservable option. Year-round restrooms, showers, and frost-free water access points at both ends of the campground provide essential amenities. The proximity to well-marked hiking and equestrian trails makes it particularly appealing to riders.

What to do

Horseback riding with jumps: The trail system at Greensfelder County Park includes eventing jumps along some routes, attracting competitive riders. "There's tie stalls under a roof and a round pen mounting blocks shower and bathrooms in camp. Electricity at each site and water nearby. Trails are well marked maps available Awsome views and a cool trail by six flags," notes Alicia B.

Kayaking on Lincoln Lake: At Cuivre River State Park Campground, approximately 45 minutes from Maryland Heights, visitors can enjoy water activities. "Campground is quiet and has big campsites. The campground is close to Lincoln Lake for kayaking," reports Cody S. The park also offers kayak rentals during summer months.

Mountain biking on maintained trails: The wooded trails provide excellent terrain for mountain biking near Maryland Heights. "The park is known for its well-groomed trails, which are used by hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians alike," according to Lucas M. Trail maps are available at most park entrances.

What campers like

Privacy between sites: Many equestrian camping areas offer more spacious sites than standard campgrounds. "The sites for full hook ups are separate from the other sites," notes Kayla S. about Cuivre River State Park Campground, which provides both equestrian and standard camping options.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground offers exceptional wildlife observation. "This is a great place when the geese are migrating thru," shares Kent B. The park's location near water attracts various bird species throughout the seasons.

Clean facilities despite heavy use: Most horse campgrounds maintain their amenities well. "Kinda busy maybe make reservations when it's a holiday. Trails are well marked maps available Awsome views and a cool trail by six flags this park is busy with hikers and bikers I'd say 90% of them are polite and yield to horses," explains Alicia B.

What you should know

Reservation requirements: For St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA, located within 20 minutes of Maryland Heights, reservations are strongly recommended, especially during weekends. "Spent two nights. Office Staff was super friendly. Went above and beyond for service," reports Mary D.

Size restrictions for trailers: Most equestrian sites accommodate trailers 26 feet or less, though some exceptions exist. "Most sites are great for trailers 26' or less and 1 slide (sites 24-26 can fit a fifth wheel probably no bigger than 36-38 ft)," shares Matthew H. about his experience at Greensfelder County Park.

Shared trail etiquette: Expect to encounter hikers and bikers on multi-use trails. "This park is busy with hikers and bikers I'd say 90% of them are polite and yield to horses," notes Alicia B. Horse riders should still maintain caution at blind corners and during peak weekend hours.

Tips for camping with families

Low-cost options for beginners: McCully Heritage Project offers affordable camping about 75 minutes from Maryland Heights. "Ten dollars a night helps maintain land and natural area, all donation, very family oriented," explains Michele G. The site provides basic amenities while keeping costs minimal.

Swimming options during summer: Cuivre River State Park includes swimming access in their lake. "This is a perfect place to enjoy with the family. Plenty of gorgeous campsites and a lake to swim and kayak!" shares J K. The designated swimming areas typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Kid-friendly activities: Look for parks with specific family facilities. "I just love the bridge across the pond. We had a picnic and the kids got to play on the playground equipment," says Leo S. about McCully Heritage Project. Several horse campgrounds feature educational programs during summer weekends.

Tips from RVers

Electric hookup limitations: At Greensfelder County Park, note the electrical configuration. "Site 29 only have 2-20 amp plugs no 30 didn't realized till we parked. Only this one doesn't have 30," warns Matthew H. Most other sites feature both 20-amp and 30-amp options.

Dump station access: Many equestrian campgrounds lack on-site dump stations. "No dump but KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away," mentions Matthew H. about Greensfelder County Park. Plan accordingly for longer stays by mapping nearby dump facilities before arrival.

Level sites with good access: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground provides accessible camping. "Campsites are nice and flat with the standard picnic tables and fire rings. No showers, but decent toilets," notes Annie C. Most sites can accommodate rigs up to 35 feet with little leveling required.