Equestrian campers find Shoshone National Forest access through multiple entry points along its 2.4 million acres. The forest's elevation ranges from 4,600 to 13,800 feet, creating varied camping conditions throughout the season. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F during days with nighttime lows frequently dropping below 45°F even in July.
What to do
Trail riding on Buffalo Fork: Pacific Creek Campground provides direct access to wilderness trails suitable for day rides. "There also seemed to be a company doing trail rides not too far away," notes Kathryn R., who appreciated the campground's quieter atmosphere compared to larger sites within Grand Teton Park.
Fishing alongside horses: Double Cabin Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities with space for your horses nearby. "Great fishing for brookies and cutthroat trout. There are corrals for horses nearby," shares Nathan K., who found the location ideal despite noting the camp host can be "aggressive with his duties."
Winter equestrian access: Turpin Meadow area remains accessible for horse camping later than many other locations. "The road is narrow and can only accommodate 1 vehicle. If you encounter another, good luck. If you're towing a short wheel base trailer (like us) and backing up is impossible, hail Mary!" warns Kathleen D. about the access roads.
What campers like
Seclusion from crowds: Turpin Meadow Campground provides a quieter alternative for horse campers when national parks fill. "We stayed here one night while bikepacking on the Tour Divide route. Multiple sites were open and the camp hosts were very friendly. They ensured I knew about the potential for bears and answered a few questions about the area," reports Timothy N.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Horse campers at Sheffield Campground enjoy regular wildlife sightings. "Both of us drank it & lived. Firewood is very plentiful along the road, just watch for marked areas where it can't be gathered," notes Jon G. about water availability in the area.
Extended stay infrastructure: For longer equestrian stays, East Fork Road Dispersed sites provide essential bear safety equipment. "Great camping bear boxes everywhere," reports Jesse K., highlighting the forest service's commitment to safety in horse camping areas.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Horse feed storage requires particular attention in Eagle Creek Campground. "This is bear country, use some form of bear food storage! Was actually asked to leave earlier than anticipated by the rangers because there was excessive bear activity in the area," cautions Elliott B., underscoring the importance of proper feed management.
Seasonal availability: Many horse-friendly sites have limited operating seasons. "Be aware that a sign posted at the campground says water won't be available again until the 2022 season," notes Josh R. about Double Cabin Campground water facilities.
Camp host interactions: Horse campgrounds with hosts provide valuable local knowledge but vary in management style. "The caretaker (Kathy?) was very accommodating and helped us into our site. Plenty of space between campers, lovely nature surrounds," shares Kathryn R. about Sheffield Campground's management.
Tips for camping with families
Horse interaction boundaries: Headwaters Campground offers family-friendly horse camping with clear safety guidelines. "The views weren't spectacular but the quality of the campground was totally worth it. The campsite contained a nice fire pit with benches made out of tree trunks," reports matt E., highlighting the campground's functional design.
Weather preparedness: Family equestrian campers should pack for significant temperature fluctuations. "We stayed in mid-May and arrived at about 9 p.m. and there were plenty of Open Spaces. We made the mistake of choosing a campsite that wasn't super tree protected and the wind blew our tent very strongly all night," warns Megan L. about Turpin Meadow.
Kid-friendly water access: Several horse-friendly sites offer creek access safe for supervised children. "The Creek was right behind our site and was fun to check out," notes Rod D. about Sheffield Campground, adding "The stars go on forever & we were lucky enough to stay here for 3 clear nights & a full moon."
Tips from RVers
Horse trailer parking logistics: Colter Bay Tent Village accommodates various rig sizes with specialized pull-through sites. "You pull your trailer, motor home, parallel to the camp site. Know National Park rules, this is not forest service land and the rangers will enforce their rules and regulations accordingly," advises Jay B.
Water and waste management: RVers with horses must carefully plan water usage. "We got our water from a mountain stream 20 minutes away, it was cleaner than tap water," shares Jon G. about water access near Double Cabin Campground, though cautions the approach road is "a one lane, winding road with dropoffs at times."
Connection limitations: Most horse camping sites near Shoshone National Forest lack reliable connectivity. "Very limited Wi-fi that had to be accessed at the lodge reception area. No cell phone service. A courtesy phone is available at the lodge reception desk," notes Susan R. about Headwaters Campground's communications infrastructure.
