Wild River State Park Equestrian Campground

For Minnesota's vibrant equestrian community and anyone seeking a unique camping experience, the Wild River State Park Equestrian Campground in Almelund stands out as a premier destination. Tucked within the expansive beauty of Wild River State Park, this specialized campground offers facilities designed specifically for campers who bring their equine companions. It's a place where the love of horses meets the tranquility of nature, providing a perfect blend of adventure on the trails and peaceful evenings under the stars.

Wild River State Park, renowned for its diverse landscapes along the St. Croix National Wild and Scenic River, offers more than just horse trails. However, for those with a passion for horseback riding, the dedicated equestrian campground ensures a comfortable and convenient base. With its shaded sites and proximity to scenic pathways, it’s an ideal spot for a weekend getaway or a longer equestrian adventure, allowing Minnesota riders to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of their home state.

Wild River State Park Equestrian Campground is located within Wild River State Park, with a general address of G7G3+WC, Almelund, MN 55056, USA. This places the campground in the charming rural area of Almelund, Minnesota, specifically in Chisago County. The park itself spans 18 miles along the beautiful St. Croix River, forming a natural boundary between Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Access to Wild River State Park is generally straightforward via Minnesota's well-maintained road network. From major metropolitan areas like Minneapolis and St. Paul, the park is typically about an hour's drive, making it a highly accessible weekend destination for many Minnesotans. Once inside Wild River State Park, signage directs visitors to the equestrian campground. It's important to note that while the park has a main campground, the equestrian campground is a separate, dedicated area designed with horse trailers and equestrian needs in mind. This thoughtful separation ensures that both horse campers and traditional campers can enjoy their respective experiences. The park's extensive trail system, including 20 miles specifically for horseback riding, is directly accessible from the equestrian campground, allowing riders to embark on their adventures without needing to transport horses off-site. A Minnesota State Park vehicle permit and a horse trail pass are required for entry and trail use, which can be purchased at the park office.

• Dedicated Equestrian Campsites: The campground features 20 specific sites designed for campers with horses. These sites are typically larger to accommodate horse trailers and provide ample space for both equestrians and their animals.

• Electric Hookups: Many of the equestrian campsites are equipped with electric hookups (15 out of 20 sites, according to information), providing a valuable convenience for modern camping needs, such as charging devices or running small appliances.

• Water Access: Potable water is available within the campground, ensuring campers and their horses have access to clean drinking water. While specific details on spigot locations vary, water access is a standard offering.

• Vault Toilets: The equestrian campground utilizes vault toilets, which are well-maintained for cleanliness, providing necessary restroom facilities in a rustic setting. Unlike the main campground, the equestrian area does not have showers.

• Horse Amenities: While not explicitly detailed, equestrian campgrounds typically include facilities for horses such as hitching posts, corrals, or designated areas for watering and grooming, based on standard equestrian park design. It is advisable to confirm specific amenities upon booking.

• Vehicle Permits & Horse Passes: Essential for access and use, campers can purchase daily or annual Minnesota State Park vehicle permits and horse passes on-site, ensuring compliance with park regulations.

• Scenic Horse Trails: A primary highlight of Wild River State Park Equestrian Campground is its direct access to 20 miles of designated horse-friendly trails. These trails traverse diverse landscapes, including prairie grasslands and shaded oak forests, offering scenic riding experiences for varying skill levels, as described by a satisfied camper who found them "easy and very scenic." The trails are open from May to October, allowing ample opportunity for seasonal riding.

• Shaded and Spread-Out Campsites: Reviews praise the equestrian campsites for being "shaded and fairly spread out," providing a sense of privacy and natural beauty. This ensures a comfortable environment for both campers and their horses, away from the intense sun and with enough space between sites.

• Proximity to St. Croix River: The campground is located within Wild River State Park, which boasts 18 miles of shoreline along the St. Croix National Wild and Scenic River. While direct equestrian campground access to the river might be limited, the park itself offers numerous river access points for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, allowing campers to enjoy a wider range of water-based activities.

• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: The diverse habitats within the park—from oak savannas to wetlands and prairies—support a rich array of wildlife, including deer, various bird species, and other native Minnesota fauna. This provides excellent opportunities for nature observation while riding or exploring other park trails.

• Connectivity to Broader Park Amenities: While the equestrian campground offers dedicated facilities, horse campers still have access to the wider amenities of Wild River State Park, such as the visitor center with exhibits, naturalist programs, and other hiking trails (though horse-specific regulations apply). Some general park amenities like showers are in the main campground, not the equestrian one.

• Established Reputation: As a popular destination for horse campers, the campground has a reputation among equestrians, with many returning "at least once a year," indicating a consistently positive experience and a well-regarded reputation within the Minnesota riding community.

As Wild River State Park Equestrian Campground is part of the Minnesota State Park system, specific "promotions" in the commercial sense are not typically offered. Instead, the value is in the standardized, accessible fees and passes set by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

• Vehicle Permits: A Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is required for entry. Options include a $7 daily permit or a $35 annual permit, which allows unlimited visits to all Minnesota State Parks for a year. A second vehicle permit is available for $26.

• Camping Fees: Equestrian campsites typically cost between $22-$25 per night. An additional $10 per night is added for electric hookups where available. There is also a non-refundable reservation fee (currently $8 for online reservations, $10 for call center).

• Horse Pass: For riders aged 16 and older, a Minnesota Horse Pass is required for trail use. This can be purchased as a $5 daily pass or a $21 annual pass.

  For the most current and accurate fee schedule, and to inquire about specific site availability or any state-wide initiatives that might impact fees, Minnesota residents should always visit the official Minnesota DNR website or contact Wild River State Park directly.

  Contact Information

  For detailed information, current conditions, or to make reservations at Wild River State Park Equestrian Campground, you can contact the park directly.

  • Address: G7G3+WC, Almelund, MN 55056, USA (within Wild River State Park)

  • Main Park Phone: (651) 583-2125 (Wild River State Park Headquarters)

  While a direct phone number for only the equestrian campground is not typically listed separately, calling the main park number will connect you with staff who can assist with all inquiries regarding the equestrian facilities, trail conditions, and reservation processes. Reservations for state park campsites, including equestrian sites, are generally made through the Minnesota DNR's online reservation system or by phone.

  Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

  Wild River State Park Equestrian Campground is an exceptional fit for Minnesota locals, particularly those with a passion for horseback riding and a desire to explore the state's natural beauty on horseback. Its proximity to the Twin Cities metropolitan area makes it a convenient weekend escape, allowing Minnesotans to easily access a dedicated equestrian facility without extensive travel.

  The campground's design, with its shaded, spread-out sites and electric hookups on many, directly addresses the needs of horse campers, ensuring both rider and horse are comfortable. The 20 miles of "easy and very scenic" trails provide ample opportunity for enjoyable rides, whether for a short outing or a full day's adventure. Even though a reviewer wished for "more miles," they affirmed it's "enough for a weekend for sure," indicating its suitability for regular local visits.

  Beyond the equestrian focus, the broader Wild River State Park offers a multitude of complementary activities, from paddling on the St. Croix River to hiking other diverse trails, making it a versatile destination for families where not everyone might ride horses. This comprehensive offering within a well-maintained state park environment underscores its value to the Minnesota community. For equestrians and outdoor lovers alike, Wild River State Park Equestrian Campground provides a cherished opportunity to connect with Minnesota's landscapes and enjoy a unique recreational experience right in their own backyard.