Best Equestrian Camping near Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
Harry Osborne State Forest offers primitive equestrian camping with designated highline poles for securing horses. This working forest provides extensive, well-maintained riding trails accessible directly from the camp. The large, open site accommodates any size livestock trailer or living quarters setup without size restrictions. While the camp lacks water and electric hookups, creek access is available nearby for collecting horse water. The site includes vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings, with camping free of charge. Due to vandalism issues, stock water access has been gated off, requiring horse owners to walk their animals down to water via trails.
Located approximately 30 miles northeast of Seattle, the forest trail system connects riders to miles of woodland paths ideal for day rides. Equestrians should note this is primarily a horse and hiking camp, as motorized vehicle access on the mountain has been discontinued. The campground provides two designated manure pits for waste disposal, critical for maintaining the area's cleanliness. No reservation system exists, with sites available on a first-come basis. Trail riders should be aware of potential log truck traffic during active forestry operations, though gates remain locked at other times. While primarily serving the equestrian community, the forest's management emphasizes keeping this space dedicated to horse camping as similar sites in the region become increasingly limited.
