Best Equestrian Camping near Challis, ID
Mormon Bend Campground near Stanley, Idaho includes three designated equestrian campsites with adequate space for horses and riders. Located along the Salmon River, this developed campground provides access to multiple trailheads directly from the camping area. Standard sites include picnic tables, fire rings, and access to vault toilets. Drinking water is available via hand pump during the operating season from mid-March through November. The campground maintains paved driving surfaces with both pull-through and back-in sites that can accommodate horse trailers. The $18 nightly fee is reduced to $9 with an America the Beautiful pass. Sites are situated both along the river and backing up to hillsides, with river sites offering more open space for larger rigs and better solar access.
Trail access is a significant feature of the area's horse camping options. Casino Creek Campground, located across the river from Highway 75, also provides dedicated spaces for equestrian camping with direct trail connections. The campground serves as a popular base for OHV enthusiasts and hikers, with excellent trails leading directly from the campground. Most campsites are positioned close to the dusty campground road, which may be a consideration for those camping with horses. Casino Creek offers immediate access to the Salmon River for water and fishing opportunities. The campground is conveniently located near natural hot springs while remaining somewhat removed from the main tourist areas. Both campgrounds experience road noise from nearby Highway 75, though Mormon Bend's layout helps mitigate some of this disturbance.