We have begun trying out different campgrounds around Minnesota. Our second adventure of the year found us at Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch near Stewartville, MN.
The purpose of this trip was originally to help Naomi get a feel for the camp before attending one of the ranch’s horse camps. However, she gets very homesick and decided she would rather try a mother-daughter trip in October with me. Maddie attended youth horse camp last year and camping at the ranch allowed us to experience a little bit of her world without stepping on her toes or embarrassing her. Lol.
Campsites
The ranch has two main campgrounds, as well as a cabin available to rent. As is usual for private campgrounds, these sites were close together. Once we got the camper set up and every situated we settled into the campsite just fine. The amenities also outweighed having a more private site. The campground allows families to bring their dogs. The dogs have to be on a leash like at other campgrounds, but they are welcome to join their families. Check-in is at 3 pm on Friday and check-out is 11 am on Sunday.
Clean Restrooms
They had several decent size restrooms throughout the property. It was convenient as it allowed easy access to a restroom no matter where we were on the property. With little kids along this was helpful to us. The bathrooms/shower house is large, clean, and welcoming.
The ranch also has laundry facilities. We did not use them, but it was nice to know it was an option without having to run into a town.
Activities
All activities need to be planned ahead of time and with this, in mind, I easily went on the ranch’s website scheduled and paid for my girls and me to go on a trail ride. We had so much fun on the trail ride. It was beautiful and relaxing. It was the first time Naomi had been on a horse. She was nervous but did an excellent job, and now she can’t wait to ride again soon.
The kids enjoyed the outdoor swimming pool. It has a waterslide, inner tubes, Titus and Timothy were allowed to use their life jackets in the pool. There is not a lifeguard on duty and an adult has to accompany their kids while they swim.
What other activities can you do at the ranch?
- Swimming Pool
- Mini Golf
- Two Play Parks
- Trail Rides
- Pony Rides
- Archery Range
- Slingshot Range
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Tube-water slide
- Petting Zoo
- Zipline
- Ga-Ga Ball
- Basketball
- Volleyball
What are the costs involved?
- A Campsite is $35 for four people, $40 for eight or more people
- Each activity has a fee
- Horseback riding – $30/per person
- Archery/Slingshot range – $5
- Zip-line – $10/per person for two rides
- Visit their website here for a full list of activities and prices
Would we go again?
Absolutely. Our kids are already asking when we can go back.
More information
The ranch has made it part of their ministry to allow the ranch to be as accessible to everyone, with various abilities, possible. Their pool has a ramp into the water, all of their buildings are easily accessible, they have an adaptive zipline and wheelchair-accessible hiking paths. The ranch also offers youth camps, wounded warrior camps, wheelchair sports camps, active military family camps, and autism camps.
Visit their website to learn more httpsss://www.ironwoodsprings.com/.