A S.
Traveler
TravelerBunker Hills Regional Park
Welcoming
I arrived after the campgrounds closed I was welcomed and was very happy to be accepted
Equestrian Camping near Frederic, WI
8 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Search destinations
Add dates
Wild River State Park Campground features horse trails and equestrian-specific access areas along the St. Croix River. The park maintains separate trails for horseback riders, providing a natural setting with scenic river views and wooded terrain. While no dedicated horse corrals are available on-site, the park accommodates riders with ample parking for horse trailers and designated equestrian-friendly camping areas. Sites offer drinking water, picnic tables, and fire rings, with most providing enough space for both camping equipment and horses. The grass areas make securing horses manageable, though riders should bring their own portable corrals or tie-out equipment.
The horse trails at Wild River State Park connect riders to miles of scenic routes through varied terrain including hardwood forests and open grasslands. Equestrians appreciate the well-maintained sandy trails that provide good footing for horses even after rain. The park is particularly beautiful for horseback riding during autumn when the leaves change color. Riders must stay on designated bridle paths, as horses are not permitted on hiking-only trails. Water access points along the St. Croix River allow horses to drink and cool off during rides. Trail maps are available at the ranger station, where riders can also purchase firewood and get updated trail conditions. Horse owners should bring their own feed and water buckets as no on-site feeding facilities are provided.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Frederic (8)
1. Wild River State Park Campground
"This is a big park with a diversity of hiking, equestrian, and canoeing options. Since the park runs along the St. Croix, there are beautiful river-side walks to be had."
"Nice park, scenic trails, horses on the way in."
from $23 - $90 / night
Check Availability2. Old Logging Trail Campground — St. Croix State Park
"All the electrical sites were occupied while we were there and a lot of the other sites near the modern bathroom were occupied."
"The drive into the park was absolutely beautiful!! Stayed at old logging trail campground."
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability3. Riverview Campground — St. Croix State Park
"This is one of my favorite state parks for last minute camping trips due to its proximity to home."
"There is a modern restroom and shower, it is also located near a nature store."
from $25 - $95 / night
Check Availability4. Trade River Equestrian Camp — Governor Knowles State Forest
"Lots of hiking and close to the river for some kayaking etc."
from $20 - $35 / night
Check Availability5. Saint Croix State Forest Boulder Campground
"The sites are spaced out and although it is a long drive in from the tar and gravel, it's worth the trip. A beautiful lake and lots of trails."
from $17 / night
Check Availability6. Bunker Hills Regional Park
"I was very happy with the trails and accommodations available to me, during my stay."
"It has a golf course, a restaurant is on the grounds, there is a stable with horses/ponies that you can take guided trail rides on, a water park(it is called The Beach, which was very confusing for us"
from $20 - $32 / night
Check Availability7. Sioux Portage Group Campground — Governor Knowles State Forest
from $20 - $130 / night
Check Availability8. Country Camping Tent & RV Park on the Rum River
"Nice river nearby canoeing swimming pool fireplaces and little store for treats."
from $40 - $75 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 1 hr 19 min from Minneapolis, MN
- 1 hr 32 min from Eau Claire, WI
- 1 hr 36 min from Duluth, MN
- 1 hr 56 min from St. Cloud, MN
Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Frederic, WI
2 Photos of 8 Frederic Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Equestrian Camping Reviews near Frederic, WI
93 Reviews of 8 Frederic Campgrounds
- A S.Traveler
Bunker Hills Regional Park
Bunker hills
A ranger does nightly rounds of the camps
- JJeremy J.
ScoutOld Logging Trail Campground — St. Croix State Park
Nice campground, but…
The campground is nice and has more woods/bushes and more privacy than the other two campgrounds in the park. The bathroom/showers were relatively clean and functioned well with nice hot showers. The electric sites functioned as expected but, they all seem very well used. Not much in the way of grass (bit of a drought at the time) and lots of little bits of garbage all over our campsite. All the electrical sites were occupied while we were there and a lot of the other sites near the modern bathroom were occupied. If you want privacy and a less worn campsite I would suggest booking a non-electrical site further away from modern bathroom. Oh, another plus water from spigots around campground was good.
Sarah D.
RangerWild River State Park Campground
Secluded Backpack/Canoe Site with Sunrise Views
I was looking for a secluded backpack in site where I could have a peaceful 48 hours of prayer and solitude, and this site was perfect! I also wanted one that wasn't too far remote, since I hadn't been on a proper backpacking trip since the pandemic hit. And as a solo female camper, I wanted a reserved site so that there would be a record of my location for safety reasons. I'm so glad I chose the Deer Creek site, and will almost definitely stay here again at some point!
This site is accessible by either hiking or canoe. It took me about 30 minutes to hike in from the visitor center parking lot. There is easy access to river water to boil or filter from the canoe landing.
This site was incredibly spacious. It includes a fire ring and picnic table overlooking the creek and river. It also includes 2 large tent pads (look out for widow makers, one of the tent pads is under a dead tree!). It also has a spot nestled in some pine trees that could fit a smaller tent, canoe storage, or I found it to be the perfect spot to hang my hammock! (This would be a great site for hammock camping.) So if you're camping with a small group of people this would be a great site. It also includes a trail to a fairly private latrine, and a bear box (the park ranger warned me that there are bears in the park although I did not see any.) I also found plenty of dead down and dry wood and birch bark on the ground for building fires.
This site is great for a one nigjt stay on a longer backpacking or canoeing trip, but also great for camping out at for a couple of nights. I stayed for two, and it connects to all the major trails in the park, so I was able to use it as a great base for hiking and seeing the beautiful changing leaves. In the morning I hiked North to do the Riverside trail and looped back through the woods. Then in the afternoon I did the Deer Creek loop, which is a shared horse and hiking trail. It was so nice to he able to hike out to some of the best trails in the park directly from my site.
This site felt remarkably remote for being only an hour from the twin cities and a mile from the parking lot! I stayed there Thursday -Saturday, and after leaving the parking lot on Thursday did not see another human being for the rest of the day, and Friday not until I hit the main trails! There was no one else staying within at least a mile of me. I was even able to see fantastic stars Friday night. There was amazing wildlife - a blue heron frequented the site, and I heard all types of owls. Two bald eagles had a nest across the river so I got to see and hear them the whole trip, too- it was absolutely magical!
This site has a great view of both sunrise and sunset. Thursday night there was a gorgeous sunset over the woods reflected in deer Creek. Both mornings I woke up to watch the sunrise while drinking my coffee next to the fire (it was freezing!!!). Watching the sun rise over the river and fog roll over th water and evaporate while eagles soared was truly magical. Having an easy backpack in site surrounded by water on two sides and with views of the sunrise and sunset like this was so incredible!!!
Lynsey M.
GuideBunker Hills Regional Park
Quick stop in MN
Stayed here for an overnight stop through MN. Close to downtown which was nice for us coming through. Water fill stations readily available so we loaded up prior to continuing out west. Easy late check in with campsite hosts. Lots of site options from open gield options to pretty tree covered areas. Fire grates and restrooms ava. Your reservation fee does NOT include the daily parks fee of 7 dollars just FYI. Lots of mosquitoes but it's MN so that's to be expected. Close to a top 10 disc golf course if that's your thing (it's ours)
The Rolling Panda ..TravelerOld Logging Trail Campground — St. Croix State Park
Beautiful park!
The drive into the park was absolutely beautiful!! Stayed at old logging trail campground. I was initially worried because I didn't realize the site was right next to a vault toilet, but besides for the occasional flashlight at night, it felt secluded. It was very buggy, so be prepared for that. I can't wait to go back so I can explore more of the park!
Tori K.
LegendOld Logging Trail Campground — St. Croix State Park
Lots of mosquitos
St. Croix SP: was quite buggy due to a lot of recent rain. Highly recommend fogging your site or having a bug enclosure to help ward of the mosquitos. Multiple restrooms and showers throughout the campgrounds. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table and wood can be purchased at the office. Cell service is fairly spotty here so come with podcasts or shows downloaded ahead of time!
- Erik R.Ranger
Wild River State Park Campground
Camping in Spring snow
Well, it snowed … in late March. I stayed in the campground in late March, 2025. This is a big park with a diversity of hiking, equestrian, and canoeing options. Since the park runs along the St. Croix, there are beautiful river-side walks to be had. There are also Oak Savanna trails. Several trails are for horses, but that isn’t my scene. I stayed in the campground for two nights. It was cold, rainy, and that turned into 5” of snow. Like many MN State Park campgrounds, you are close to your neighbors with no real private offerings. I stayed in site 66e. It was a typical site with nothing bad nor special about it. The hike to the former Dam site is the neatest thing about the park. I recommend reading the historical information at the site of the dam. Having been here once, I see no reason to come back.
- Tori K.Legend
Riverview Campground — St. Croix State Park
River view?
My site unfortunately did not have a view of the river, but it was still nice and private!! This is one of my favorite state parks for last minute camping trips due to its proximity to home. I have stayed in each of the campgrounds here multiple times at different sites and don't really have a standout favorite site. Each campground is pretty similar (it's really more like separate loops of the same campground as opposed to actually separate campgrounds... so I wouldn’t worry too much about which one to pick! Multiple restrooms and showers throughout the campgrounds. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table, and wood can be purchased at the office. Cell service is fairly spotty here so come with podcasts or shows downloaded ahead of time! But if you don't, you can always run into Hinckley for some WIFI or cell service to download some things.
Guide to Frederic
Wild River State Park offers equestrian-friendly trails through diverse landscapes, with trails designed specifically for horseback riders. The park spans over 35 miles of trails across 7,000 acres along the St. Croix River. Riders can experience terrain ranging from river bluffs to prairie meadows, with seasonal access typically running from May through October, weather permitting.
What to do
Explore scenic river trails: At Wild River State Park Campground, equestrians can enjoy miles of trails through varied terrain. "Wild River State Park is my go-to campground since it is within an hour of my home. I make it my first place to camp every season. Love the scenic trails and all the park has to offer. Hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, exploring, informational programs, and the wooded campsites," notes Jeff L.
Climb the fire tower: St. Croix State Park offers a unique vantage point for visitors. "There is also a 100' fire tower you can climb up and get an epic view," recommends Scott G. The tower provides panoramic views of the surrounding forest and river valley, making it worth the climb even for those with a mild fear of heights.
Try water activities: The region offers excellent canoeing and kayaking options along the St. Croix River. "A great way to spend a weekend," says Tony J. about the canoeing at St. Croix State Park. Many parks offer rental equipment during summer months, with rates around $15-25 per hour depending on the watercraft.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the seclusion at Bunker Hills Regional Park. "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious," notes Doug B. Most sites include a fire ring, picnic table, and enough space to comfortably set up camp without feeling crowded.
Stargazing opportunities: The area's dark skies make for excellent night viewing. "The star gazing area was great!" shares Katherine T. about Wild River State Park. Away from major city lights, many campsites offer clear views of constellations and occasional meteor showers, particularly during summer months.
Wildlife encounters: The forests around Frederic provide ample wildlife viewing opportunities. "We saw sooooo many deer some even walking right through campsites! You can hear coyotes, raccoons and very loud owls," reports Kate H. Morning and evening hours typically offer the best chances for wildlife spotting.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Minnesota's forests can have significant insect activity, especially in summer. "It was very buggy, so be prepared for that," warns The Rolling Panda about Old Logging Trail Campground. Bringing effective repellent with at least 25% DEET is recommended, along with long sleeves for evening hours.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have spotty connectivity. "Cell service was incredibly spotty on Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Depending on where you're at, you'll get a low signal, but often it was only enough for texting," reports Ari A. Download maps and entertainment before arriving, as streaming may not be possible.
Weather considerations: The region can experience rapid weather changes. "We also experienced the most intense and violent thunderstorm of my life. One lightning strike hit within 100 yards of our site," recounts Duncan G. about Riverview Campground. Check forecasts regularly and bring appropriate gear for rain protection.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible playgrounds: Several parks feature kid-friendly recreation areas. "It has a heated pool, splash pad area, BIG playground area, indoor game room, HUGE sites!" reports Spencer C. about Country Camping Tent & RV Park, making it a good option for families with younger children.
Ranger programs: Educational activities can enhance a family trip. "We DID have fun doing some of the activities like hunting for insects/animals in the pond with the ranger, hiking to the ranger tower, playing at the playground, and trying to catch butterflies with the ranger," shares Sara P. Most parks offer weekend programs during peak season.
Site selection: Choose locations that balance privacy with convenience. "We camped with our in laws and 3 kids this past weekend at St. Croix state Park, we were in the riverview campground on site 36 (no hook ups). Sites were pretty open but small," notes RK M. Reserve sites closer to bathrooms when camping with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing and access: Saint Croix State Forest Boulder Campground offers more remote camping options. "The sites are spaced out and although it is a long drive in from the tar and gravel, it's worth the trip," explains Daniel H. The road in requires careful navigation for larger rigs, with the final 3 miles being unpaved.
Hookup availability: While many parks offer electric sites, full hookups are limited. "The upper loop (sits 45-64) is definitely more geared towards RVs, so not what I would consider an ideal tent site," notes Krista T. about Bunker Hills Regional Park. Most electric sites offer 30-amp service, with fewer 50-amp options available.
Dump station access: Plan ahead for waste management. "There is a modern restroom and shower, it is also located near a nature store," mentions Amber Z. about Riverview Campground. Several parks have dump stations open during regular hours, though they may close seasonally in winter months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian
campsite near Frederic, WI?
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Frederic, WI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Frederic, WI is Wild River State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 46 reviews.
What is the best site to find
equestrian camping near
Frederic, WI?
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Frederic, WI?
TheDyrt.com has all 8 equestrian camping locations near Frederic, WI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring