Equestrian camping near Roberts, Wisconsin offers diverse trail systems through wooded terrain and open meadows. The region's rolling hills provide varied terrain for riders with elevations ranging from 800-1100 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F with high humidity, making spring and fall popular seasons for horse camping in the area.
What to do
Trail riding excursions: At Wild River State Park Campground, riders can access extensive trails suitable for multiple skill levels. "The park is huge and beautiful. We snowshoed and skied. I really enjoyed the snowshoe hike along the St Croix River and watched the full moon rise," notes Joanna B.
Horseback rentals: For those without their own horses, locations near Haycreek Valley Campground offer guided trail rides. "We have been going to Haycreek for over 15 years for horse camping. The trails are shaded, no bugs, friendly campers and staff," shares Olivia R.
Archery practice: Some equestrian-friendly parks offer additional outdoor activities. "They have an archery range and on Saturday nights they have a campground program for the kids and families to watch," explains Tina H. about facilities near Lake Elmo.
Swimming spots: After a day of riding, cool off in designated swimming areas. "They have a home made lake that has a sand bottom but it has chlorine like a pool so no weeds. Great for swimming," says Timothy S. about recreation options at Lake Elmo.
What campers like
Well-maintained corrals: Horse owners appreciate the Elm Creek Horse Camp facilities specifically designed for equestrian camping. "My dog already packed his leash!" shares Alison O., noting the camp's animal-friendly atmosphere and accessibility to the "archery range nearby."
Secluded campsites: Campers enjoy the privacy at Highland Ridge campground. "All sites are wooded with trees providing separation/privacy between sites. Completing the site are a metal picnic table, fire ring, and lantern hook," describes Lee D.
Trail access: Direct trail connections from campsites rank high on campers' preferences. "We spent an entire day hiking and it was decent hiking along the river, some of the trails where a little confusing and trying to figure out where we at, but we made it," recounts Kate H. about Wild River State Park.
Wooded surroundings: The natural atmosphere enhances the camping experience. "For being in the middle of the northern suburbs of Minneapolis, this park and campground is surprisingly woodsy, secluded and spacious," explains Doug B. about Bunker Hills Regional Park.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most equestrian campgrounds in the area operate from April through October, with limited winter access. "You can hear coyotes, raccoons and very loud owls," mentions Kate H. about the wildlife at Wild River State Park.
Reservation requirements: Lake Elmo County Park Reserve and similar facilities recommend advance booking. "We arrived after 8pm and the check in processes was a little unclear and they were out of maps, which was only challenging because it was dark," reports Alyssa T.
Terrain challenges: Some horse trails feature varied terrain that may not suit all riders. "Many sites are placed on on incline. They got the sites are pretty flat, but it's still on a hill," warns John W. about Highland Ridge.
Water access: While many sites offer drinking water, not all provide hookups at individual campsites. "We accidentally selected a site without electric, but if we had taken more time to use the website and enter search criteria, we could have found one with electric," explains Laurel about her stay at Highland Ridge.
Tips for camping with families
Look for family programs: Some equestrian areas offer educational opportunities. "On Saturday nights they have a campground program for the kids and families to watch. Very organized and clean facilities," recommends Tina H. about Lake Elmo.
Consider multiuse parks: Bunker Hills Regional Park combines equestrian trails with family amenities. "For kids, they have a water park with a wave pool, a disc golf course, a golf course, several pavilions with grills, a few playgrounds and plenty of trails both paved and unpaved," shares Arielle P.
Pack extra supplies: Facilities may have limited resources. "The primitive toilet smelled so bad it burned!! It needed to be emptied and wasn't the entire time we were there," cautions Kate H. about her experience at Wild River State Park.
Check proximity to bathrooms: Campground layouts vary in convenience. "Only one shower house and we had to drive there, the primitive toilet smelled so bad," notes Kate H., suggesting families choose sites closer to main facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Country Camping Tent & RV Park, RVers find spacious accommodations. "HUGE sites! You can either relax in the pool or even take a ride down the rum river in a rented canoe, tube, or kayak," recommends Spencer C.
Hookup availability: Verify what utilities are available before booking. "Had one issue with power dropping so we had to pull the surge protector off then it was fine. Also very hot and humid so everyone was running AC to the max," reports David G. about his experience at Country Camping.
Level sites: When horse camping with an RV, look for level ground. "Our site (7) sloped down but leveled out with plenty of room for our campervan at the bottom," shares Lee D. about Highland Ridge.
Consider seasonal timing: "We stayed the last night of their camping season and were able to utilize water and electric hookups," mentions Robert B. about optimal timing for RV stays in the region.
Legend
