Triple H Mini Ranch near Lenore offers specialized equestrian camping with secure metal panel fencing, perimeter gates, and water troughs for horses. The surrounding Clearwater region features varied terrain for horse riding across elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 feet. Most campgrounds in the area require riders to bring portable corrals or highlines as dedicated horse facilities remain limited throughout the region.
What to do
Riverside trail riding: At Isabella Landing Camp, riders can access trails along the north fork of the Clearwater River. "This campsite offers access to great fishing, hiking, camping, hunting, and wildlife viewing," notes Cody B., highlighting the diverse activities available. The landing serves as a river takeout point for equestrians wanting water access.
Reservoir exploration: The area around Spring Valley offers trails suitable for day rides with varied terrain. "Great trails and great places to put up your hammock," reports Gabrielle L. about exploring the reservoir surroundings. Riders can follow established paths that circle the water with access to both wooded and open areas.
Wildlife observation: The Palouse region contains abundant wildlife viewing opportunities for riders. "We saw lots of different wild life," mentions Shane M. about riding through the river corridors. Equestrians should watch for rattlesnakes during summer months, particularly on south-facing slopes and rocky areas during midday heat.
What campers like
Water access: Hells Gate State Park Campground provides river-adjacent camping with boat ramps. "Great camping spot. Next to river but lots of shrubs. Can walk down trail to access river bank," writes Jaime B. The established trails from the campground provide horse-accessible routes to the water.
Varied riding terrain: The landscape transitions from farmland to forests throughout the region. "Super helpful staff gave us a sweet campsite. Lots of wildlife around and we were camped close to the trailhead. Great hiking and views of the river and canyon," reports Carl about the terrain diversity. The elevation changes create diverse ecosystems for riding within relatively short distances.
Park-like settings: Spring Valley Reservoir maintains groomed areas suitable for horses. "A very easy access campsite. Close to the town of Troy and simple setup," explains Hayli N. The reservoir area includes both open fields and wooded sections with established paths connecting camping areas.
What you should know
Limited dedicated equestrian facilities: Most campgrounds require portable corrals or highlines for horses. "This reservoir camping area has many amenities which make it nice. Great docks on the water, swimming, fishing, bathrooms, trash cans, and even a fish cleaning station," explains Hannah C. about Spring Valley Reservoir, though noting no dedicated horse facilities exist.
Seasonal availability: Many trails become challenging during spring runoff from April to June. "The water is clean and nice through most of the summer, but towards mid-August the trash can pile up a bit," notes Celine K. regarding seasonal conditions. Equestrians should check trail conditions before hauling horses to the area.
Advance reservations required: The limited equestrian sites fill quickly during summer weekends. "I was so happy to find this place when looking for a place to stay overnight with my horse," shares Nichole W., emphasizing the importance of securing accommodations ahead of time.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible options: Some trails accommodate various experience levels. "Very family friendly place and the trail is wheelchair accessible. Great trek along the river," reports Celine K. about Hells Gate State Park. The established paths provide options for younger or less experienced riders.
Activity variety: Locations with multiple recreation options keep non-riders engaged. "This is a large campground for the area and there is plenty to do around the state park. Fishing, hiking, swimming, boating, disc golf, volleyball mountain biking," explains Elizabeth S. Families can split activities while maintaining a central camp location.
Protected camping areas: Wind protection becomes important in the Palouse region. "Wind kicks up so high it's hard to make a campfire last," warns Rachel A. about exposed camping areas. Families should select sites with natural windbreaks when possible.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection: RVers should consider site dimensions carefully for equestrian trailers. "Our spot was plenty long enough, but not as wide as I would have liked. There are two big trees on passenger side that prevent setting up a comfy patio," shares Kyle G. about Hells Gate State Park Campground. Living quarter trailers require significantly more space than standard RVs.
Hookup availability: Most equestrian camping near Lenore lacks full hookups. "I like how the RV sites have water and electricity unlike most campgrounds in the area," notes Hannah C., highlighting the relative rarity of utility access. Horse trailers with living quarters should arrive with freshwater tanks filled when using primitive sites.
Noise considerations: Proximity to urban areas affects some campgrounds. "Overall, a nice state park campground, but a little too close to the city," comments Kristina J. Equestrians should select camping areas further from highways when possible to avoid spooking horses with traffic noise.
