Equestrian camping trails stretch across Washington County near Beaverton, Oregon, where elevation ranges from 100-1,000 feet depending on location. The region's mild climate allows for camping from early spring through late fall, with summer temperatures typically ranging between 65-85°F. Most horse campgrounds near Beaverton maintain trail access year-round, though winter camping facilities are limited.
What to do
Disc golf courses: L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park offers competition-quality disc golf with twin 18-hole courses. "Home of the annual Beaver State Fling, a PDGA sanctioned National Tour event, Milo McIver is an excellent host for the international players that come to the Pacific Northwest for a chance to win the tournament," notes Steve C. about Milo McIver State Park Campground.
River swimming: Cool off in the Sandy River at Oxbow Regional Park, just 30 minutes from Beaverton. "Given it's late October and a bit chilly out, the campground was pretty quiet with only a few other campers around. We were able to hike the area and enjoy a serene weekend in nature," says one camper. The Oxbow Regional Park features a beach with river access perfect for summer cooling.
Stargazing: The higher elevation at Hares Canyon Horse Camp provides exceptional night sky viewing. "The top of the park shows a vast section of sky which is perfect for meteor shower watching," reports Jeff H. Local astronomy groups often host organized star gazing events at Dairy Creek West — L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park during meteor showers or other astronomical events.
What campers like
Secluded hike-in sites: The Brooke Creek Hike-in Camp at L.L. Stub Stewart offers more privacy than standard campgrounds. "The hike in is pretty easy—about a quarter mile down the up. They have carts to help you get all your stuff to your spot in one trip which is very helpful. When we visited, there were at most 2-3 other groups in the area so we were very spread out and had lots of privacy," explains Jenny R.
Boat-in camping: Government Island State Recreation Area provides unique camping accessible only by boat. "We love camping on the island, as you can only get to it via boat so it is not overly populated. There are no fire pits but you can burn. No potable water, so bring your own," advises Fatima H. about Government Island State Recreation Area.
Horse-friendly terrain: Hares Canyon Horse Camp accommodates equestrians with specialized facilities. "The Campground is set up in one loop and offers both single and double sites, ADA facilities, showers, toilets, and trash. Each site has a picnic table, fire pit, and a corral. There is a double corral on the double sites," describes Stephanie Z. about Hares Canyon Horse Camp — L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have limited connectivity. "Barely got 1 bar of 4g at the welcome center. There's a guest wifi in the parking lot there too but it's 2 miles further to the camp ground and texts hardly go through," warns Zach S. about Oxbow Regional Park.
