Horse Prairie Cabin serves equestrian campers approximately 45 miles from May, Idaho at an elevation of 7,000 feet. The primitive Forest Service accommodation provides access to extensive trail systems in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. This location typically remains accessible from late spring through early fall, with winter snows limiting seasonal use.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The surrounding mountains offer varied terrain for horseback exploration. At Mill Creek Trailhead & Campground, riders can access trails leading to alpine lakes. "The highlight of the area is the 2 mile hike to get to the lake above. Definitely worth it!" notes Tate W.
Fishing access: Several nearby campgrounds provide river access points suitable for anglers while maintaining horse-friendly environments. At Camp Creek BLM Camping, campers report "plenty of fishing access and space to walk around the river. Beautiful place to adventure and be, would be a great spot for multiple nights."
Stargazing: The remote location creates excellent night sky viewing conditions away from light pollution. Kristy A. describes Camp Creek as having the "perfect view of the big dipper between the canyon view made for a beautiful night of star gazing by the fire ring."
What campers like
River proximity: Many campsites near Horse Prairie Cabin feature direct water access. At Watts Bridge Campground, Annie C. reports "Less than a dozen sites along a pretty bend in the Salmon River. The sites have picnic tables and grills and rock fire pits under a nice shady stand of cottonwoods."
Solitude: The area typically maintains low visitor numbers, especially during weekdays. Ben H. notes about Deadman Hole: "Doesn't seem to be super popular or high in demand. So finding a spot shouldn't be a problem. There was about six or more parking/camping areas."
Scenic views: The surrounding mountain landscape offers panoramic vistas. Nancy C. describes Deadman Hole as having "views for miles" and "serious star gazing opportunities" along with "generous spacing between sites."
What you should know
Weather considerations: The mountain elevation can create significant temperature fluctuations and unexpected storms. At East Fork, campers report variable conditions with warm days and cool nights common in summer months.
Limited services: Most camping areas near Horse Prairie Cabin provide minimal amenities. Laura M. notes East Fork "sits directly off of highway 75. It is very small and mostly sunny. There are nice lush grass areas where the sprinklers were running and was very tempting to just lay there after a hot drive."
Cell coverage: Most locations have minimal to no connectivity. Laura M. reports "Zero cell reception for ATT, Verizon or TMobile" at East Fork, while at Camp Creek BLM Camping, Mandi W. confirms "no cell signal (verizon)."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: When camping with children near rivers, select sites with appropriate water access. At Watts Bridge Campground, Sonya advises: "We walked to the other side of the bridge and let our dogs jump in where the water was calmer. Overall really clean and well maintained space."
Bug preparation: Insect activity varies by season and location. Mark M. found Watts Bridge "Buggy, even with river flowing and slight wind," suggesting families bring appropriate repellent.
Site selection: For optimal family camping, choose locations with adequate space. At Mackay Reservoir Access Area, Always C. notes "2 camping areas, one offers some shade the other has beautiful views. We picked the views!"
Tips from RVers
Limited large rig access: Most horse-friendly camping areas have space constraints for larger vehicles. Andrea C. advises: "We travel in a 23 foot camper van. Plenty of room for our rig. Great views! There are three spots to camp here."
Prepare for primitive conditions: RV campers should arrive fully self-contained. Laura M. explains about Deadman Hole: "The campground loop is gravel and has 'pull next to' type sites with covered picnic table and a fire pit. There are also pit toilets and a hand pump water spigot."
Surface considerations: Parking areas may present leveling challenges. Eric D. warns about Camp Creek BLM Camping: "Not much for flat spots or anything else. You will need to have everything you need with you."
