About Zimmerman's Sand Dunes

Take your horse camping - Sand Dunes Horse Camp on Lake Ann in Sand Dunes State Forest

Sand Dunes State Forest is located in Sherburne County Orrock Township Minnesota nestled into the east side of the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge. The land here was originally virgin prairie and when the pioneers settled the area they began to farm the land. The crops that were farmed were oats, rye, wheat, barley, potatoes and hay. The effects of the dust bowl drought during 1933 and 1934 brought an end to most of the farming in the Sand Dunes area.

During 1941 concerned citizens began experimental tree planting at Sand Dunes to control the drifting sands. Hardwoods and conifers were planted along with several other species during this time. The conifers growth and survival surpassed the hardwoods. In 1943 a bill was introduced, and passed, to set aside this area for conservation as the Sand Dunes State Forest. The now 2,400 acres of tree plantations are thinned every 5-10 years, in an environmentally sound manner, for the resources to be harvested and to allow for new growth.

At the same time Sand Dunes National Forest was created, Ann Lake and the site that is now Ann Lake Campground were also protected. The Ann Lake Campground has 36 individual campsites, 4 group campgrounds, and a beautiful sandy swimming beach. The Ann Lake Day Area includes over 3 miles of hiking trails and a picnic area. The hiking trails are groomed in the winter for cross-country skiing.

Ann Lake Campground is set up to provide the basic needs for campers. The simple campsites include a cleared area, a fire ring and a table. Nearby you will find vault toilets, garbage cans and potable water. Ann Lake is a nice lake, suitable for swimming and for pan fishing.

The Ann Lake Campground also includes a really nice feature for equestrian enthusiasts, Horse Camp. There are 15 campsites at Ann Lake Campground set up specifically for bringing along your horse, called Horse Camp. If you're looking to combine a great camping experience with horseback riding, Horse Camp at Ann Lake Campground in Sand Dunes State Forest will be the perfect getaway.