P
Petey C.
Traveler
TravelerLake Creek Rd Dispersed
Splendid Isolation
Camped on a higher spot. Great views. Dawgs got to hike off-leash.
Equestrian Camping near Sun Valley, ID
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Casino Creek Campground features dedicated horse camping areas with a staging area for equestrians. Located along the Salmon River near Stanley, the campground provides access to multiple trails suitable for various activities including horseback riding. Sites are well-spaced with picnic tables and fire rings, though some campers note road noise from nearby Highway 75. The campground includes vault toilets, hand-pump water, and trash disposal, but no recycling facilities. Sites vary in size with some accommodating larger rigs, particularly toward the end of the loop.
Trail access directly from the campground connects riders to numerous routes for horseback riding, hiking, and ATV use. The campground's location offers convenient access to the Salmon River for fishing opportunities after a day of riding. Mormon Bend Campground also accommodates horses with three specific campsites designed for equestrians. Both campgrounds provide relatively easy access to Stanley for supplies. The paved roads at Mormon Bend feature level parking pads and groomed tent areas, making it suitable for horse trailers. Water access is available for horses, though during summer months fire restrictions may limit campfire use. Most equestrian sites remain accessible from mid-March through October or November, depending on weather conditions.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Sun Valley (12)
1. Lake Creek Rd Dispersed
"The sites further up are away from the others and run along a stream. Still further in, you’ll hit a Y in the road."
"This forest service land is a quick drive down Lake Creek Rd from Hwy 75 just past the town of Ketchum in the Sawtooth National Forest."
2. Murdock Creek Dispersed
"Water is available at the dump station located on the left before you arrive. It services all area NF service campgrounds as well as paid for others not. We had good ATT service 2 and 3 bars."
"This is a smaller campground tucked back against the mountains. Good shade trees. Close to hiking, fishing and mountain biking. Campsites have a picnic table, fire ring with grill."
3. Decker Flats Dispersed
"Got here on a Friday (8/26) around 7:30 pm. There were already some folks out here, but there were still some spaces. Although, they were a bit close to each other in the main area where you pull in."
"There was road noise from the nearby highway but otherwise it was quiet. I saw people fishing so I assume it's good for that. The river is great for rinsing off as well."
4. Pettit Lake Campground
"Situated next to Pettit Lake this campground served as a base camp while we explored the nearby hikes (Alice & Farley). Helpful host. Clean pit toilet."
"It's a great place to set up camp if you're doing the hike to Alice lake (one of the best hikes).The campground is conveniently located right next to the trailhead."
5. Glacier View Campground
"We had very low expectations staying at a campground that is almost always booked solid (we figured it would be crowded and loud) and is in one of the most popular parts of Idaho."
"A trip into the Sawtooth mountains and a visit to Redfish Lake has been de rigeur for any visit to Grandma’s for as far back as I remember... beginning with a trip in ‘84 when my younger brother heeded"
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $26 - $52 / night
6. Alice Lake Primitive Campsite - Sawtooth National Forest
"Get there early find a great spot mine was near the higher side of the lake. Spent the morning waiting for the sun to come over the mountains to dry off my tent great thunderstorm in September."
"We started at Tin Cup Trailhead and did the loop counterclockwise, making Alice Lake our last stop."
7. Casino Creek Campground
"Cross the bridge off of Hwy 75 and keep driving down a dusty dirt road to the campground. There is also private property near here so stay to the main road. "
"There are a couple of trailheads right in camp which is cool, and there are dedicated spaces for equestrian camping."
Check Availabilityfrom $18 - $36 / night
8. Mormon Bend Campground
"At first we were worried since it was right off the busy highway but it was an awesome place to stay for a few days. "
"Another campground close to Hwy 75. This campground has paved drive throughout the campground with paved parking pads at the sites."
9. Mackay Reservoir Access Area - IFG
"Grear place by lake...some shade availablenice campground!"
10. Mount Heyburn Campground
"We easily found a great site that gave a view of Redfish Lake and the long stretch of lodgepoles behind us. Sockeye Campground was below us on the lake but you won’t even know from our site."
"There are no hookups, but there are 2 separate pit toilets and a few water spigots around the campsite. Dumpsters for trash too."
Drive Time
- 1 hr 38 min from Twin Falls, ID
- 2 hrs 21 min from Boise, ID
- 2 hrs 27 min from Idaho Falls, ID
- 2 hrs 43 min from Pocatello, ID
Equestrian Camping Reviews near Sun Valley, ID
78 Reviews of 12 Sun Valley Campgrounds
Brian E.
GuideMurdock Creek Dispersed
Quiet Dispersed site next to a creek at 9,000’ elevaion
Fit my 35, 5th wheel into a beautiful spot 0.8 miles up Murdock Basin Rd. There are many spots thar are close to Provo River. The road i a little rough but not so bad with a 4x4 Truck at a slow pace. Surrounded by pine trees and the sound of a creek.
- CCoq A.Guide
Mormon Bend Campground
The Campsite We Almost Missed
Sometimes camping luck is on your side, and Mormon Bend Campground was definitely one of those moments. After staying somewhere else the night before, we headed out early hoping to find a spot for a three-night stay. While stopping to use the restroom, I noticed someone packing up and asked if they were leaving. They said yes and told us we should take their site. What a lucky find!
We ended up in Site 9, and it was absolutely perfect. We could walk right from our campsite down to the river, where we had our own little private access point to relax, play in the water, and spend the day enjoying the scenery. I wish we had fishing gear as the river was flowing.
Evening happy hour by the river quickly became our favorite routine. The campsite was surrounded by trees, felt fairly private, and was exactly the type of peaceful setting we love.
The hosts were wonderful, and the bathrooms were clean and well maintained.
The best entertainment came in the evenings when bald eagles flew overhead, watching the river and looking for their dinner. It was such a special experience and one of those camping moments you don't forget.
We were genuinely sad to leave and would absolutely stay here again. If Site 9 isn't available, other sites worth checking out are 7, 14, and 15. The rate was$22 per night, which felt like a great value for such a beautiful location. This campground was one of the highlights of our trip, sometimes the best spots are the ones you find by chance.
Marcus H.GuideCasino Creek Campground
Close to Stanley
Good spot next to the river. Lots of small trout and beautiful views.
Travis A.
RangerLake Creek Rd Dispersed
Hot and windy
It's July; I was tired of driving and looking for a place to camp for a few days. This area is 5 miles North of Ketchum. The road takes you through a residential area then becomes a washboard dirt road. I drove by a few spots that were spacious enough for a 40' rig. The spaces are far enough apart where you can barely see the other campsites. There isn't any shade. Some light traffic, kicking up dust as people drive to Taylor canyon trailhead. No amenities, but you're very close to town. Good ATT signal. There is a 3 day limit.
- WWendy W.Guide
Mormon Bend Campground
Delightful place
We found this campground by chance … looking for a place to rest up for 3 nights by Salmon river Mormon Bend was the perfect place to stop. We stayed at site #4 not far from the boat launch and access to the river for hubby to fish for trout. As a National Forest they accept the America the Beautiful Senior .. 50% off Reg price $26 we paid only $13… nice and clean… 13 sites in all. Host on site. Popular place for river pick up of kayaks, etc Highly recommend!
Natalie G.GuideMount Heyburn Campground
Spacious sites in the forest
We had such a great stay! We came the Monday after 4th of July. We attempted to stay at Sockeye Campground first, but they were already full by 1pm. We came to Mount Heyburn by 1:15pm on a Monday and there were maybe 5 spots open.
We chose site 12 which was a pull through. SO SPACIOUS! Tons of shade. Great picnic tables and fire pit.
We stayed 4 nights, leaving on Friday morning. The campground was full every single night. Only reason I’m giving it 4 stars is because it feels a little risky loading up and heading there unsure whether you’ll get a spot or not. Glad we got lucky!
There are no hookups, but there are 2 separate pit toilets and a few water spigots around the campsite. Dumpsters for trash too. We brought our generator and fired it up for a few hours in the mater afternoon for air conditioning, and to charge phones. We filled up with fresh water before arriving.
There’s a dump station right on the at in/out called Stanley Ranger Station Dump Station. You can fill fresh water before, and dump tanks on the way out. $12 fee for the dump station.
It’s walkable to Redfish lake, or you can drive there in less than 2 minutes. Plenty of free parking at the lake.
Sockeye campground has better views of the lake, but I feel like Mount Heyburn is way more spacious and remote feeling. The sites are well spread out.
Just $24 a night! You can stay up to 10 nights. The camp host was fine. There’s firewood available to purchase. I think it was $10 a bundle? We brought our own firewood.
Will definitely be back! We loved lake days, got dinner in town 1 night, reserved a hot spring at mountain village resort (highly recommend!), brought our SUP to redfish lake, let the kids swim and play in the sand, easy fishing for kids at the lake, got soft serve ice cream at Redfish Lake Lodge at sunset one night (another amazing spot to spend the day!). Enough room at the campsite we could hike above and set up bow and arrow target practice safely away from other campers. We loved walks around the campground after dinner. I wish we would have brought bikes for the kids to ride! Perfect little loop!
Casey H.GuideDecker Flats Dispersed
Insane Spot
Got here at about 7pm on a Sunday and had the whole place to myself! Insane views, river ambiance, and felt so safe. Will definitely be back!
Brittany Y.
ScoutDeadman Hole
Nice simple free campsite
Great little free campground. 1 clean outhouse and 5 sites all with picnic tables, shade covers, and fire pits. We were the only ones there!
Guide to Sun Valley
Equestrian camping near Sun Valley, Idaho offers access to extensive trail systems through the Sawtooth National Forest. At elevations between 5,800-8,000 feet, summer temperatures typically range from 40-85°F with cool nights even in July. Most horse-friendly campgrounds remain accessible from mid-March through October, though spring conditions can be muddy after snowmelt.
What to Do
Trail riding from camp: At Decker Flats Dispersed, riders can access multiple trail systems directly from camp. "We were within 2 mins of a hiking trail that leads you to 'Hell's Roaring lake'... I won't even describe the Beauty of the 5 other lakes that were all within a 10 min drive and a 5-10 mile hike or horseback ride from our camp," notes Adam R.
Fishing between rides: The Salmon River provides fishing opportunities at several equestrian-friendly campgrounds. At Mormon Bend Campground, "You can fish from your camp site. No hookups but water is available. Plenty of space between sites," reports Kimberly Y. The campground's level parking pads work well for horse trailers.
Swimming access: After a hot day on horseback, cool off in nearby lakes or rivers. At Lake Creek Road Dispersed camping, "The creek is perfect for dogs and kids to wade in. No bugs, clean, quiet and level for the camper. There's a small lake further down to fish," writes Jeremiah C.
What Campers Like
Equestrian staging areas: Casino Creek Campground provides dedicated spaces for horses. "Toward the end of the loop is a horse camping area and staging area for ATVs. There are plenty of trails for various activities for this place: Hiking, Biking, Horseback riding, ATV use, and Fishing," explains Laura M.
Separation from crowds: Equestrian campers appreciate less crowded locations. "This campground is not run by the forest service but by a concessionaire, and you will use the iron ranger as there wasn't a host when I was there. Super clean, all sites along the river side of the lollipop loop are identical with the exception of a couple double sites," Annie C. notes about Casino Creek.
Convenient trail access: Murdock Creek Dispersed offers quick access to trails. "Close to hiking, fishing and mountain biking. Campsites have a picnic table, fire ring with grill," reports Amy S. The camp host sells firewood for $7 per bundle, cheaper than in Stanley.
What You Should Know
Seasonal restrictions: Fire restrictions often impact summer camping. "The host had firewood for sale ($10) but fire restrictions are in effect so no fires at this time," Laura M. notes about Mormon Bend in summer. Check current fire regulations before arrival.
Road noise considerations: Some horse-friendly campgrounds experience highway noise. "This campground has paved drive throughout the campground with paved parking pads at the sites. This campground is nice and spread out but being right on the highway with minimal trees to block some noise the road noise was constant," reports Laura M.
Water availability varies: Pettit Lake Campground offers water access that may change seasonally. "I went July 2020 and there was no host, campground was tidy but certainly not the clean it was before, and the water spigot was broke. No water," notes Marja S., indicating the need to carry water supplies.
Tips for Camping with Families
Creek access for horses and kids: Lake Creek Road offers excellent water access. "Lake Creek Rd is a few miles long with about 15 sites along it. Each site is a good distance apart, we never heard our neighbors. The creek is perfect for dogs and kids to wade in," reports Jeremiah C.
Multi-activity options: Glacier View Campground near Redfish Lake offers activities beyond horseback riding. "Many people walked down to the lake to fish or to paddle on inflatables, and a few braved the cold lake temperature to swim. We had the trails to ourselves, and the campground itself was reasonably quiet," shares Norma Y.
Night sky viewing: Equestrian camps offer excellent stargazing. "The real treat came when we saw the beauty of the night sky unencumbered by city lights; the Milky Way was on full display," Chad L. reports about Murdock Campground, which sits within the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve.
Tips from RVers
Horse trailer parking: Look for level, spacious sites that accommodate both living quarters and horse trailers. "We had very low expectations staying at a campground that is almost always booked solid (we figured it would be crowded and loud) and is in one of the most popular parts of Idaho. However, the camping spots are large and are nicely spaced," notes Carrie B. about Glacier View.
Water access limitations: Many equestrian-friendly sites lack hookups. "The only thing that keeps this awesome camp site from being a 5 star is the lack of hookups. We really like to stay for the longest time possible (10 days) but it is really tough on battery power without running the generator constantly," Mike W. reports about Glacier View Campground.
Reservation timing: For popular horse camps, timing matters. "Got here on a Friday (8/26) around 7:30 pm. There were already some folks out here, but there were still some spaces. Although, they were a bit close to each other in the main area where you pull in," Martina S. notes about Decker Flats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian
campsite near Sun Valley, ID?
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Sun Valley, ID?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Sun Valley, ID is Lake Creek Rd Dispersed with a 4.8-star rating from 10 reviews.
What is the best site to find
equestrian camping near
Sun Valley, ID?
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Sun Valley, ID?
TheDyrt.com has all 12 equestrian camping locations near Sun Valley, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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