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.
