Riverbend Group Campsite - Crow Hassan Park Reserve

Nestled within the expansive and ecologically significant Crow-Hassan Park Reserve, the Riverbend Group Campsite offers a distinctive camping experience tailored for larger gatherings and, notably, for equestrian enthusiasts. For many Minnesotans, the great outdoors is a cornerstone of their lifestyle, and Crow-Hassan represents a unique facet of this passion. Unlike typical family campgrounds, Riverbend focuses on providing a spacious, semi-primitive setting that caters to groups seeking shared adventures, with a particular emphasis on horse camping.

Crow-Hassan Park Reserve, managed by the Three Rivers Park District, is a vast 2,600-acre landscape renowned for its extensive restored prairie, diverse ecosystems, and miles of multi-use trails. The Riverbend Group Campsite is an integral part of this reserve, providing a dedicated space for groups to set up camp and immerse themselves in the park's natural beauty. While some experiences may vary, as noted in reviews, the core appeal of Riverbend lies in its capacity for communal camping and its direct connection to the park's renowned equestrian and hiking trails. It’s a place designed to foster shared memories around a campfire after a day of exploring the Minnesota wilderness.

The Riverbend Group Campsite is located within Crow-Hassan Park Reserve, with its address generally associated with Otsego, MN 55374, USA. This places it on the border of Hennepin and Wright counties, west of Rogers, making it relatively accessible from the greater Twin Cities metropolitan area.

Crow-Hassan Park Reserve is situated on the Crow River, which borders the park's north and west sides. While the general address for Crow-Hassan Park Reserve might be 12595 Park Drive, Hanover, MN 55374, the entrance to the group camps, including Riverbend, is specifically located off of County Road 116 at the north end of the park. This distinct access point ensures that group campers, especially those with horse trailers, can easily navigate to their designated area without interfering with general park visitors. The park itself is near the intersection of Interstate 94 and Highway 241, providing straightforward driving access from various parts of Minnesota. This combination of a somewhat secluded group camping entrance within a large park, yet still being within a reasonable drive of major population centers, makes Riverbend Group Campsite a practical and desirable option for Minnesotans planning group outings or equestrian adventures. Vehicle access is typically allowed directly to the Riverbend site, with room for numerous cars or horse trailer units.

Riverbend Group Campsite, as part of the Three Rivers Park District system, provides specific services tailored for group camping, particularly with equestrian needs in mind. While it's not a full-service RV park, it offers essential amenities to ensure a functional and enjoyable group experience. Services at Riverbend typically include:

• Dedicated Group Camping Area: Riverbend is a designated group campsite capable of accommodating up to 50 people with room for up to 30 cars or 10 horse trailer units. This ensures ample space for large gatherings.

• Horse Camping Facilities: A significant offering is its suitability for horse camping. The site includes horse hitches and a horse trail running directly through the site, making it a prime location for equestrian groups. While a barn is listed, current information suggests it may not be available for use.

• Water Pump: A communal water pump is available at the site, providing access to drinking water (though checking for boil advisories or bringing personal water is always recommended for primitive sites).

• Pit Latrines: Basic restroom facilities in the form of pit latrines are provided to ensure sanitation.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each group site comes equipped with picnic tables for communal dining and a fire ring for campfires. Two 12”x20”x12” compartments of firewood are typically provided per night and should be on-site upon arrival.

• Vehicle Access and Parking: Unlike some hike-in or paddle-in sites, vehicles (including horse trailers) can typically access the Riverbend site directly, with significant parking capacity for the group.

• Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are allowed in group camp areas, provided they are attended at all times and on a maximum of a 6-foot leash. Designated trails are available for walking with pets.

• Reservation System: As a group camp, Riverbend is a reservable site, allowing groups to plan their outings in advance.

These services, while basic, are designed to support a robust group camping experience focused on outdoor activity and communal enjoyment within the park's natural setting.

Riverbend Group Campsite at Crow-Hassan Park Reserve offers a unique set of features that distinguish it, especially for specific types of outdoor enthusiasts and group gatherings. While some aspects, like ambient noise, are noted in reviews, the highlights focus on its intended use and natural environment:

• Premier Horse Camping Destination: This is arguably Riverbend's most significant highlight. The availability of horse hitches and direct access to Crow-Hassan's extensive network of over 15 miles of designated horseback riding trails makes it a top choice for equestrian campers in Minnesota. As one reviewer enthusiastically states, "My niece and I have been camping here since about 2005 with our horses. We have created many fun memories..."

• Spacious Group Capacity: Designed for larger parties, Riverbend can accommodate up to 50 people and a significant number of vehicles/trailers (30 cars or 10 horse trailer units). This makes it ideal for family reunions, scout troops, youth groups, or other organized gatherings seeking a shared outdoor experience.

• Access to Extensive Trail System: Beyond horseback riding, Crow-Hassan Park Reserve boasts miles of trails for hiking and dog walking through its unique landscape of restored prairie and hardwood forests. This provides ample opportunities for exploration directly from the campsite.

• Unique Prairie Environment: The park features over 600 acres of meticulously restored tallgrass prairie, offering a visually stunning landscape, especially when wildflowers are in bloom. This provides a distinct ecological experience, different from typical forested campgrounds.

• Natural Healing and Renewal: As one reviewer observed, the "place is in the process of healing and renewal," pointing to the park district's ongoing conservation efforts to restore native flora and fauna. This commitment to ecological health enhances the natural experience, even if wildlife sightings are not always abundant.

• Proximity to Crow River: Being located near the Crow River allows for the potential of limited water access or scenic views, further enriching the natural setting.

While the presence of traffic noise and a perceived lack of abundant wildlife (beyond insects and bats) are noted concerns, the core appeal of Riverbend remains its specialized group camping facilities and exceptional access to equestrian and hiking trails within a significant prairie ecosystem.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Riverbend Group Campsite at Crow-Hassan Park Reserve, including availability, fees, and specific rules for group and horse camping, please use the following contact details:

• Address: Otsego, MN 55374, USA (Located within Crow-Hassan Park Reserve; specific entrance off 116 at the north end of the park).

• Phone: (763) 694-7860 (This is the Three Rivers Park District contact number for the park).

• Mobile Phone: +1 763-694-7860 (Same contact for the park).

Since Riverbend is a reservable group campsite, it is highly recommended to contact the Three Rivers Park District directly or visit their official website for reservation procedures, current fees, and any specific guidelines for bringing horses or managing large groups.

For residents across Minnesota, especially those within easy reach of the Twin Cities metro, the Riverbend Group Campsite at Crow-Hassan Park Reserve offers a particularly suitable and distinct outdoor experience. It caters to specific local interests and needs, setting it apart from other camping options in the state.

Firstly, its unparalleled suitability for horse camping is a significant draw for Minnesota's vibrant equestrian community. With direct access to over 15 miles of designated horse trails and facilities designed to accommodate trailers and horses, Riverbend provides a rare and highly valued opportunity for local riders to combine their passion for horses with a multi-day camping adventure. The sentiment from long-time horse campers who have "created many fun memories" here strongly underscores this appeal.

Secondly, as a dedicated group campsite, Riverbend is perfect for Minnesotans planning larger gatherings – be it family reunions, scout troop excursions, or social club outings. The spacious layout and amenities designed for groups make organizing such events far simpler than at individual campsites. This fosters a sense of community and shared experience, aligning with Minnesota's tradition of outdoor gatherings.

Furthermore, Crow-Hassan Park Reserve itself offers a unique natural environment. Its vast restored prairie provides a distinct landscape for hiking and exploration, different from the state's many lake-and-forest focused parks. While some may note urban sounds or specific wildlife presence, the ongoing ecological restoration efforts by the Three Rivers Park District contribute to a valuable natural space, offering locals a chance to witness and support environmental healing. For Minnesotans seeking a unique group camping experience, especially with horses, or simply desiring to explore a vast prairie landscape with well-maintained trails, Riverbend Group Campsite at Crow-Hassan Park Reserve stands out as a highly specialized and valuable local resource.

Riverbend Group Campsite - Crow Hassan Park Reserve

Otsego, MN 55374, USA