Equestrian camping options near Murray, Idaho range from established facilities to dispersed sites across the Coeur d'Alene National Forest. Located in Idaho's northern panhandle at approximately 2,320 feet elevation, this area experiences cool summer nights with daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak season. The region's trails traverse mixed coniferous forests dominated by western red cedar, western hemlock, and Douglas fir.
What to do
Trail riding on forest service roads: Breakwater Campground provides access to multiple dirt bike and horseback riding trails. "Great tent camping. Also, it's a great starting point to some really good dirt bike trails. Be prepared for no cell service," notes Dealspeed.
Swimming with horses: At Dispersed Site - Lolo National Forest Recreation Area, riders can cool off in riverside spots. "Beautiful site right next to the river," says Meaghan M. The access points feature "small steep slope to the water" according to Josh S., making it suitable for supervised horse watering.
Historical explorations: Bull River Guard Station offers unique overnight accommodations with proximity to horse-friendly trails. "This old Guard Station is in the perfect location. Easy to drive to and close to miles and miles of trails in the Kootenai National Forest," writes Evelyn M.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground offers well-spaced camping areas. "Two campgrounds I guess you would call them... A little road to the back led us to the back lot of sites, probably 8-10 of them, pretty good spacing between them," describes Darrin R.
Equestrian-specific amenities: Pleasant Valley Campground features dedicated horse facilities. Alex P. notes that "the horse camp sites at the back were a little more open but looked to be in really good condition." The campground includes hiking trails with signs right from the site.
Reliable facilities: Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park maintains clean, well-kept grounds. "Extremely clean, looks very new, and lots of space between sights. Lacks trees, but trees just need time to grow and mature," mentions Rob N. This makes it suitable for horse trailers requiring ample parking space.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Sloway Campground has railroad proximity issues. "I have camped @ Sloway for many years. The setting on the Clark Fork River is fantastic, especially for the 4-5 campsites that have river frontage. The I-90 highway runs fairly close to the campground & the noise can be distracting at times," explains Kenneth F.
Seasonal availability: Horse-friendly camping areas typically operate May through October. Some facilities close gates after October 1st, as Wendy L. discovered: "Stayed early October and only 1 other camper. Glad it was open, as information is limited and most areas close Sept 15th or Oct 1 and close gates for access."
Primitive conditions: Many horse-friendly sites lack amenities. At Breakwater Campground, "0 amenities. it's just a place to pitch a tent and have a fire. And it cost nothing," reports Dealspeed.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with natural entertainment: Horse-friendly areas often feature water access. Josh S. at Lolo National Forest Recreation Area cautions about safety: "Small steep slope to the water" and "POISON IVY (found it... found all of it)." Plan accordingly with protective clothing and clear boundaries.
Plan for wildlife encounters: The region has active bear populations. Julia R. mentions, "Signs to be aware of bear country but took precautions." Bring bear-resistant containers for food storage and teach children proper wildlife safety protocols.
Consider fairground facilities: Plains/Thompson Falls Area offers family-friendly amenities. "Small camground in Plains MT with partial hookup (water & electric) and large bathhouse," notes Roxanne E., making it suitable for families needing shower facilities after dusty trail rides.
Tips from RVers
Trailer parking considerations: Finding suitable parking for horse trailers requires planning. "We loved this spot. Being ok the water in a mostly private setting with such amazing views is our goal," says Josh S., noting "Room for a 30' in a couple of the sites."
Limited hookups at primitive sites: Most equestrian camping areas near Murray have limited utilities. Rob D. at 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground mentions, "7 sites have free electrical hookups. There are also picnic tables," but most horse-friendly sites offer fewer amenities.
Road conditions: Access roads to horse-friendly sites vary in quality. Scott C. reports that at Lolo National Forest, "Main dirt road is well maintained but narrow and curves up the mountain. Lots of spots if you keep on going, but some offshoots are steep and rocky."
Scout
