Cuivre River State Park offers dedicated equestrian camping facilities beyond the typical horse accommodations. Located in Missouri's northern clay hills region, the 6,394-acre park transitions through four distinct seasons, creating variable trail conditions for riders. The horse-friendly environment extends to several neighboring parks and conservation areas within a 40-mile radius of Silex, Missouri, providing multiple options for riders seeking different terrain challenges.
What to do
Trail riding conditions: At Daniel Boone Conservation Area, riders can access varied terrain without designated horse facilities. "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 AC.
Water activities after rides: Lincoln Lake at Cuivre River State Park Campground provides horses cooling options after trail rides. "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," reports Kayla S.
Seasonal riding options: For winter riding when Cuivre River trails might be muddy, try exploring Greensfelder County Park trails. "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. Kinda busy maybe make reservations when it's a holiday," suggests Alicia B.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many equestrian campgrounds prioritize space between camping sites. Cody S. notes about Cuivre River, "Campground is quiet and has big campsites. The campground is close to Lincoln Lake for kayaking."
Natural surroundings: Horses and wildlife coexist at these campgrounds. Maria E. describes her experience: "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!"
Proximity to St. Louis: Frank Russell Campground offers another well-maintained option when Cuivre River is booked. "I think these campgrounds are definitely under rated. This one is well maintained and clean. The sites are all paved and most are well spaced," shares Doug W.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Peak season at most equestrian campgrounds runs April through October, with weekends often fully booked 2-3 months in advance.
Weather preparedness: Missouri's clay soil can create challenging riding conditions after rain. Spring typically brings 4-5 inches of monthly rainfall, making trails temporarily unusable.
Trail etiquette: At McCully Heritage Project, riders share trails with hikers. "There's a house to rent or primitive camping trails have a map but need a little more marking on newer sections. Very well maintained. Neat look out points," comments Alicia B.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Horse-focused families can combine riding with other activities. Tony M. explains, "This park has plenty of well groomed trails and facilities spread out nicely. You could camp here for a weekend and stay busy."
Safety considerations: For families with both riders and non-riders, look for campgrounds with diverse activities. J K. notes about Cuivre River: "This is a perfect place to enjoy with the family. Plenty of gorgeous campsites and a lake to swim and kayak! And if you need a place to camp with your horse they have an entire equestrian section."
Rental options: Whetstone Conservation Area provides more basic facilities but well-maintained grounds. "Super well maintained conservation area, 5 camp sites with fire pits and picnic tables. Several ponds and a larger lake but it was currently being repaired so it's very low," reports Kayla W.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Most equestrian sites accommodate larger rigs to account for horse trailers. Matthew H. explains at Greensfelder, "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)."
Hookup details: Electric service varies at horse campgrounds. "2-20 amp plugs and 1-30amp plug. Not too many trees hanging over your camper that would drop branches," Matthew continues about Greensfelder County Park.
Dump stations: Plan for waste management as many horse campgrounds lack onsite dump facilities. "No dump but KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away," advises Matthew about facilities near Greensfelder.
