Horse campgrounds near Camas Valley, Oregon provide essential accommodations for equestrian travelers exploring the southwestern Oregon wilderness. The area sits between the Umpqua National Forest and Oregon coast, with elevations ranging from 800 to 2,000 feet depending on specific campground locations. Most equestrian camping sites operate from April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during daylight hours.
What to do
Trail riding at Boundary Campground: The Bear Creek Trail connects directly to this campground, making it popular among horse riders. "A great hike that is nearby called Bear Creek Trail. This trail does run along the river, which makes it great for fishing. We actually saw a few people doing this when we were on our morning hike. They also have trails that you can ride your horses," notes Julie P. about Boundary Campground.
Beach riding near Cape Blanco: Access coastal trails within a day's ride from camp. "The ride into Cape Blanco is also beautiful with a river winding it's way out to the sea, a tourist stop at the Hughes House and a stop at the Cape Blanco Lighthouse," explains Ryan W. from Cape Blanco State Park Campground.
Exploring equestrian-only areas: Some campgrounds feature dedicated horse trails away from other recreational traffic. "The horse camp has 8 spots. It is 9 miles from Port Orford and 28 miles from Bandon. There are a bunch of trails for people and horses," shares Tim W. about the equestrian opportunities.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Equestrian campsites typically offer more space. "This a more peaceful spot, without immediate engine noise but with plenty of room for human and horse at each site. It's a nice size to get to know a few neighbors - but not too many," says Bjorn S. about Wild Mare Horse Campground.
Affordable camping options: Forest Service equestrian sites often have lower fees. "It is pretty cheap to stay here as well- only $5 per night. We had a Northwest Forest Pass and were able to use that instead of paying the $5 fee," mentions Julie P. regarding camping costs at Boundary Campground.
Water access for horses: Several equestrian campgrounds provide dedicated water sources. "The 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," adds Julie P. about the experience at quieter horse camps.
What you should know
Equestrian camping etiquette: Horse camps have specific rules about containment and waste management. "Pack it-pack it out. There is no trash service. The trails are amazing. Briggs creek runs all year. The horse camp is getting a little run down, but still nice," explains Teresa F. about Sam Brown Campground.
Seasonal conditions: Some equestrian areas have limited access during winter months. "A bit windy...A lot of windy. but fantastic location and spots. Far walk from the beach at the site, but some very cool picnic areas," notes Jeremy A. about coastal conditions.
Road noise impacts: Some equestrian campgrounds experience highway noise. "The campground is right off a highly traveled hwy without and natural barrier to prevent road noise. The sites are pretty close to one another. Still a good place for the night," reports Dawn about roadside camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Secure food storage: Wildlife in horse camping areas requires proper storage. "My site had everything I needed for great solo car camping; sink dump nearby, water, plenty of privacy but not so much I felt isolated," explains Lainey P. at Douglas County Fairgrounds RV Park.
Mixed-use considerations: Some horse camps allow non-equestrian campers too. "We arrived with our horses. And notice cars and camper are allowed to camp. Not a good mixture," cautions Laurie S. about shared camping areas.
Weather preparation: Coastal horse camps experience significant wind. "It is very windy here, but the plants surrounding the sites keep out most of the coastal wind and also provide plenty of privacy from other sites. Be prepared for cold weather and misty air," advises Haley C.
Tips from RVers
Large rig accommodation: Some equestrian campgrounds can handle bigger setups. "The sites have full hookups, fire pits, tables, and very long paved drives. A bikers' camp, group camp, and horse camp are also available," notes Haley C. about Bullards Beach State Park Campground.
Trailer parking logistics: Horse trailer parking requires planning. "Being here in the summer means dead grass and heat. We used it as a base so didn't spend much time there. I've been thru in the winter and it's much prettier," shares Mimi about seasonal considerations.
Water and utilities: Many equestrian sites have limited hookups. "Excellent campground. Mix of full and partial hookups, tent sites, horse camp, and yurts. Very clean campground and well maintained," Rachel G. explains regarding facility options at coastal campgrounds.
