Secesh Horse Camp provides rustic, equestrian-friendly camping 20 miles northeast of Donnelly, Idaho. Located at 5,200 feet elevation along the Secesh River, this primitive campground serves as a strategic basepoint for horse riders exploring the surrounding Payette National Forest. The camp maintains hitching rails at each site rather than full corrals. Vault toilets provide basic sanitation while the gravel access road becomes progressively rougher beyond Warren.
What to do
Horseback trail exploration: Access an extensive network of forest service trails directly from camp. "Dope off grid, dusty, pretty, dusty, epic drive and views along salmon river to hidden gem Secesh river. Flat sites. Good spot for riding base," notes Skyeriver from Secesh Horse Camp.
Fishing opportunities: Cast for trout in nearby rivers and streams throughout the region. "Nice area to camp. Sparse trees. Swimming in the creek as well as pool. If you're needing cell reception it's spotty at best. Camping spaces are clean," reports Mike L. from Silver Creek.
Mountain biking: Navigate intermediate to advanced forest service roads and single-track paths throughout the mountains. "I stayed one night, I took a cabin instead of a campsite because of the nearby fires. The area was very clean and well maintained. The pool was wonderful to soak in," shares Lauri P.
What campers like
Natural hot springs: Several undeveloped hot springs exist within driving distance of area campgrounds. "Great campgrounds. Beautiful views. Clean grounds, clean toilets, and within walking distance to the hot spring pool. Highly recommend. Fishing wasn't too bad," notes Will M. from Silver Creek.
Seasonal wild berries: July visitors can harvest wild berries along many trails. "The creek is gorgeous, not deep. The trail head is close to camp. The trails are fairly easy and maintained. Lovely place," reports Cyndi S. from Kennally Creek Campground.
River access: Many sites provide direct water access for cooling off during summer months. "Deadwood is deep in the mountains and the roads can be a bit rough. Wonderful place to kayak out and watch the osprey dive for dinner. There are some small islands that are worth exploring," explains Laurie W.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access requires navigating rough forest service roads that deteriorate with elevation. "After an hour of driving over a very bumpy and gravely road, you arrive at a serene camp ground. Its right next to a creek and is connected to some hiking loops. Very calm and quiet area," explains Max R. from Kennally Creek Campground.
Cell service limitations: Expect minimal to no cellular coverage at most sites. "As stated in description it's rustic. Not much to it but it did offer a sheltered place to build a fire/get warm and weather a bad storm. In the summer, the long rough road into it is not for everyone," cautions Lance C.
Water availability: Most equestrian camps lack potable water systems. "Bring all gear for dispersed camping and pack out everything! The creek is fast running, echoing throughout the canyon so fishing or swimming are not an option," advises Ryan C.
Tips for camping with families
Parking logistics: Limited trailer space requires early arrival during peak season. "We love Deadwood. It's far enough that it's not overly crowded. Most camp spots have sandy beach access and feel private. I like that I can reserve a spot so I know there's room for my camper trailer," shares Tammara L. from Deadwood Campground.
Wildlife awareness: The area hosts bears, wolves and other large mammals. "Bears are known to visit but we didn't see any signs. The trail head is close to camp. The trails are fairly easy and maintained," notes Cyndi S.
Historical significance: Incorporate educational opportunities about the area's mining and indigenous history. "Just 6 sites here (try and get #6, it's really close to the river) on a traditional and ancient campsite that Native Americans used for a long time," explains Annie C.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most equestrian campgrounds accommodate smaller rigs only. "This is a small campground right off Highway 55 and across from the Payette River. There are 4 small campgrounds right in a row near here. Not much room for larger campers or RV, better for smaller campers and tents," advises Amy S. from Cold Springs Campground.
Generator restrictions: Most sites prohibit generators despite limited hookups. "We were the only campers at windy saddle and were able to get a perfect site at the head of the trail over looking hell's canyon and Heaven's gate. There is a vault toilet but no other amenities which was ok for our stay," reports Max L.
Seasonal access: Many roads remain impassable until late June. "Deadwood is deep in the mountains and the roads can be a bit rough. Wonderful place to kayak out and watch the osprey dive for dinner," notes Laurie W.
Traveler
