The Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest region around Agness sits at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 3,600 feet, creating diverse terrain for horse trails. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with minimal rainfall, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and occasional showers. Horse campers will find varied trail difficulty levels throughout the forest, from gentle creek-side paths to challenging mountain routes.
What to do
Trail riding along Bear Creek: Access the Bear Creek Trail system from Boundary Campground, which offers equestrian-friendly paths and water access. "A small drive out of Wallowa and a gorgeous spot with well maintained facilities. Right next to the rolling wonderful Bear Creek Trail," notes reviewer Li M.
Visit Cape Blanco Lighthouse: Take a break from horse camping to explore the historic landmark. "You can walk to the lighthouse and the beach from the campground," shares Mea H. about Cape Blanco State Park Campground, adding that "The campground is gorgeous! It's nestled among Sitka spruce trees."
Fishing stops during trail rides: Many equestrian trails follow rivers and streams. One visitor to Boundary Campground explains, "There is a great hike that is nearby called Bear Creek Trail. This trail does run along the river, which makes it great for fishing. My family and I hiked this, and stopped on our way back to do some fishing."
Seasonal berry picking: During summer months, collect berries along camp perimeters. "Breakfast included huckleberries collected around my site," shares Lainey P. about Cape Blanco, mentioning the "special hidden feature behind the campfire - the perfect unexpected spot for my hammock."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Horse campers appreciate space between neighbors. Ryan W. notes about Bullards Beach State Park Campground that "A loop is the best loop of A-B-C loops for privacy," while another camper mentions the "plant buffers" between sites.
Direct beach access: Multiple equestrian camping areas offer trails to coastal areas. At Bullards Beach, "There's a trail that leads to the beach. The bathrooms were super clean, and the showers were as well," according to Grace A., who added they "ended up getting the last spot."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forests and lakes provide chances to spot native animals. At Lake Selmac County Park, one visitor enjoys "watching the water birds" and notes there are "lots of trees" that provide habitat for wildlife.
Year-round access: Unlike some mountain campgrounds, many equestrian facilities remain open throughout all seasons. One camper mentioned Sam Brown Campground provides "primitive camping" with year-round access and noted "Briggs creek runs all year."
What you should know
Facility maintenance varies: Some horse camp areas receive more attention than others. A reviewer noted of Sam Brown Campground: "The horse camp is getting a little run down, but still nice. We go every year with our horses."
Water availability fluctuates: Not all equestrian camping areas maintain consistent water access. Teresa F. warns, "It's primitive camping. No drinking water, showers, or cell service" at Sam Brown Campground.
Seasonal crowding: Summer months bring more visitors to popular areas. Julie P. noted Boundary Campground "wasn't busy when my family and I went which was really nice. It almost felt like we had the whole campground to ourselves."
Limited cell coverage: Communication can be difficult in remote areas. One camper reported at Sam Brown, "There is a spot about 3 miles up the road where most can get service," highlighting the need to plan accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For families with children, campgrounds with facilities make life easier. At Lake Selmac Resort, "The campsites were all so beautiful with all the amenities one may want. You really felt removed from the world while there BUT not too far from a grocery store that has all you need," according to susanna R.
Look for water recreation: Lakes offer additional activities for children when not riding. "Great spot for families. There are plenty of things to do from fishing, swimming, and even renting a 'peddle' boat for a leg workout while taking your trip around the lake," explains Lyndsey about Lake Selmac Resort.
Consider yurts for off-season trips: When horse camping in colder months, heated structures provide comfort. Paul H. shares, "We love coming to lake selmac to use the yurts for winter camping. They're heated and cozy," adding his family has "probably camped here a half dozen times or so over the past couple years."
Seek campgrounds with privacy: Families appreciate separate spaces when camping with horses. Nicole O. notes some sites at Lake Selmac Resort "are very private feeling because you park the car up top and walk down (not far at all) to the tent that sits close to the lake."
Tips from RVers
Check hookup availability: Not all equestrian campgrounds offer full RV services. Robert O. appreciated Bullards Beach State Park Campground, noting his "26ft Class C motor home we fit a-ok an had 30am and 15am at the post, the site and utilities are in great shape."
Reserve early for summer visits: Peak season fills quickly, especially for sites with hookups. "We showed up the day of and ended up getting the last spot," reports one camper about Bullards Beach, suggesting the need for advance planning.
Prepare for variable connectivity: Some campgrounds have limited cell service. At Bullards Beach, one RVer found "cell signal on Verizon was really low speed and mostly useable. But ATT was good with 5-7Mbs without using our outside antenna and cell booster, 10-20mbs when using it."
Be aware of dump station access: RVers should note facility limitations. One visitor to Cape Blanco warns, "The dump station is closed because it's broken and they've been trying to secure funding to replace it... You will need to plan on using the dump station at the state park north or south of this park."
