Horse Hill County Park

Welcome to Horse Hill County Park, a truly distinctive and highly regarded outdoor destination nestled in the scenic landscape overlooking Lake Benton, Minnesota. For equestrian enthusiasts and campers across the North Star State, particularly those seeking a tranquil retreat with dedicated horse trails, this park offers an unparalleled experience. We understand that finding the perfect campground often involves a balance of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and comfortable amenities. Our aim here is to provide a comprehensive overview of what makes Horse Hill County Park a standout choice for residents throughout Minnesota, especially those who cherish adventures with their horses.

Minnesota's diverse natural environment provides a wealth of opportunities for outdoor activities, and Horse Hill County Park leverages the unique topography of Buffalo Ridge to offer something truly special. As part of the larger Hole-in-the-Mountain Park system, Horse Hill is specifically designed to cater to horseback riders, providing a dedicated and expansive trail system winding through over 800 acres of woodland and prairie. This focus on equestrian camping sets it apart, creating a vibrant community of horse lovers who share a passion for exploring the outdoors on horseback. Beyond its equestrian focus, the park's serene setting, combined with its basic but essential amenities, makes it a peaceful haven for all campers seeking a quiet escape amidst breathtaking views. Whether you're an experienced rider looking for challenging trails or a family seeking a calm and scenic camping spot, Horse Hill County Park invites you to discover its unique charm. Join us as we delve into the details that make this a truly special place for your next Minnesota outdoor adventure.

Horse Hill County Park is located in the vicinity of Lake Benton, MN 56149, USA. While the provided address is a general location, the park is specifically situated on the western side of Lake Benton, offering picturesque views overlooking the city and the surrounding rolling hills. This area is part of the "Buffalo Ridge," a significant geographical feature in southwest Minnesota known for its unique topography and expansive wind turbine landscapes. The park is integrated into the larger Hole-in-the-Mountain Park system, which encompasses 647 acres of woodland and prairie.

The accessibility of Horse Hill County Park is convenient for Minnesotans and regional visitors. Lake Benton is well-connected by state highways, making the journey to the park straightforward for vehicles of all sizes, including those towing horse trailers or RVs. The park's location on Buffalo Ridge means visitors will experience rolling terrain and scenic drives leading up to the campgrounds. For those coming from larger urban centers, Lake Benton is approximately 77 miles northwest of Worthington, MN (pop. 12,940), and within a reasonable driving distance from Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The peaceful rural setting, combined with relatively easy access, makes Horse Hill County Park an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil escape without venturing into truly remote areas. Its integration into the Lincoln County Park System ensures well-maintained access roads within the park itself.

Services Offered

• Equestrian Campsites: Horse Hill Campground specifically offers 30 electric hookup campsites, each equipped with hitching posts, catering directly to equestrian campers. This is a unique and primary service.
• General Campsites: While emphasizing equestrian camping, the broader Hole-in-the-Mountain Park offers a total of 60 campsites with water and electric hookups across its three campgrounds (including Horse Hill, East, and West Campgrounds), plus over 30 rustic tent sites.
• Restrooms and Showers: The park includes a Chalet building with "bathrooms and showers," ensuring essential hygiene facilities are available for campers.
• Water and Electric Hookups: Campsites are equipped with water and electric hookups, providing convenience for RV and trailer campers.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A dump station is available for RVs and trailers.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each site typically includes a picnic table and fire ring for outdoor dining and campfires.
• Chalet Rental: The Chalet building can be rented for family reunions, parties, and other functions, offering an indoor gathering space.
• Trails for Multiple Uses: The park offers a multi-use trail system, accommodating horseback riding, hiking, and potentially biking or snowmobiling in winter.
• Playground Equipment: A playground is available for children, making it a family-friendly destination.

Features / Highlights

• Dedicated Equestrian Trails: A standout feature is the "seven miles of natural trails winding through the woodlands and prairies," specifically designed for horseback riding. This makes it a premier destination for horse enthusiasts in Minnesota.
• Stunning Scenic Views: Situated on Buffalo Ridge, the park offers "breathtaking views" and "picturesque views offered by the surrounding Buffalo Ridge landscape."
• Unique Topography: Its location on the Buffalo Ridge provides "steep hills and rolling terrain," offering challenging and diverse landscapes for recreation.
• Spacious Campsites with Hitching Posts: The equestrian campsites are well-equipped with individual hitching posts, a crucial amenity for horse owners.
• Four-Season Funland: The park is noted as being in use "spring, summer, fall, and winter," with activities like horseback riding, biking, hiking, fishing, and snowmobiling, truly making it a year-round destination.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The presence of playground equipment and picnic areas makes it suitable for families, even if they aren't bringing horses.
• Clean Facilities: While reviews specifically for Horse Hill are limited, general feedback for Hole-in-the-Mountain Park suggests that facilities like bathrooms and showers are clean and well-maintained.
• Proximity to Lake Benton: Located near Benton Lake, the sixth largest lake in southern Minnesota, offering additional recreational activities like fishing (known for walleye), swimming beaches, boating, and water-skiing.
• Educational Opportunities: The diverse natural environment and challenging terrain also provide an "exceptional learning environment" for educational programs.

Contact Information

Address: Lake Benton, MN 56149, USA (The official address for Lincoln County Parks, which manages Hole-in-the-Mountain Park and Horse Hill, is P.O. Box 369 Lake Benton, MN 56149).

Phone: (507) 368-9350 (This is the contact number for Lincoln County Parks, which manages Hole-in-the-Mountain Park and its various campgrounds, including Horse Hill.)

Mobile Phone: +1 507-461-6956 (Direct contact for Daryl Schlapkohl, Lincoln County Parks, as found in public records).

For Minnesota locals, Horse Hill County Park stands out as an exceptional destination, particularly for those with a love for horses and the great outdoors. Its primary suitability lies in its unique specialization as an equestrian campground, offering dedicated trails and facilities that cater directly to horse owners, a rare find in many parts of the state. Beyond its equestrian focus, the park's location on the stunning Buffalo Ridge provides "breathtaking views" and diverse terrain for hiking and exploration, making it appealing to all nature enthusiasts.

The availability of essential amenities like electric hookups, clean bathhouses, and various recreational options ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all campers, whether in an RV or a tent. The fact that it's a "Four Season Funland" with activities ranging from horseback riding to snowmobiling, highlights its versatility and appeal throughout the year. For families seeking an active outdoor experience, or individuals desiring a peaceful retreat surrounded by scenic beauty, Horse Hill County Park offers a harmonious blend. Its commitment to providing a well-maintained and unique outdoor experience makes it a highly recommended choice for Minnesotans looking to explore the natural and challenging landscapes of southwestern Minnesota.

Horse Hill County Park

Lake Benton, MN 56149, USA