Equestrian camping near Camp Sherman, Oregon offers access to forest service trails with elevation ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 feet. The area includes volcanic landscapes with lava flows and mountain views throughout the Deschutes National Forest. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during day and drop to 40-50°F at night, making early mornings crisp even in summer.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: At Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp, riders can access multiple hiking trails directly from the campground without hauling. "Multiple hiking trails from the campground. 3 Creek Lake is .75 mile away," notes William B., highlighting the convenience for day rides.
Mountain views from horseback: The Sisters area provides mountain scenery while riding forest service trails. At Big Lake Campground, riders appreciate the backdrop. "Gorgeous views and hiking trails galore! I don't think I've camped at a place that is as beautiful scenery as Big Lake Campground," shares Johnny G.
Creek access for horses: Many equestrian camps in the area offer water access for horses after rides. As Josie M. describes Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp: "Beautiful spot to relax! I didnt hear or see a single person the entire night even though there were other people in the area! There werent any firepits or anything that i could find but there was a bathroom nearby, as well as a beautiful creek!"
What campers like
Private campsites: Horse camping areas near Camp Sherman often provide good separation between sites. At Scott Lake Campground, "The camp sites were super clean and very well laid out. The lake was low so I had to dock my kayak where the channel was between the two main parts of the lake was and explored the rest on foot," according to Andrea R.
Water features: Many equestrian camping areas include lake or stream access. "This campground is amazing. We're pretty new to finding free and dispersed camping spots so it was a long shot to get here, but we lucked out and fell in love with this place," Hannah S. says about Scott Lake Campground, adding "They also have a boat launch, but it didn't seem that great. I didn't see anyone use it to get boats or kayaks in the water-only people carrying their kayaks."
Well-designed horse facilities: Bend / Sisters Garden RV Resort provides alternative accommodations for horse owners when dispersed camping isn't preferred. "Very well kept and popular RV park in-between bend and sisters. Asphalt pads for RVs, a little close together to my liking, but excellent bathrooms, showers, playground, putt putt golf course and, in the back, there's a very pretty lake," notes Brian C.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some areas require reservations or permits, especially during peak season. Audrey M. explains about Pamelia Lake: "One big thing to note about this campsite is that permits are awarded via lottery. We were lucky enough to snag a permit the week before and we were very glad we did since we were asked to show proof of our permit twice during the 4 days we were staying there."
Variable site quality: Sites at horse camps vary in terrain and accessibility. At Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp, Alex P. notes: "This is a lovely campground, of course perfect if you have horses, those sites are further in. Many of the sites have lovely views of the meadow with a little creek running through. The sites were decently spaced, and the surrounding area is lovely for hiking, biking etc."
Weather considerations: Mountain weather changes quickly in the Sisters area. "This was my first time up this pass. Elevation is very high which means incremental weather. Aka woke up in October with snow which happened to us," warns Mavrick S. about Scott Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Lakes near Camp Sherman provide family recreation options. "Lake is great for kayaking, big enough to give you lots to paddle, but small enough to not be overwhelming. Beautiful view of the mountain (Mt. Washington I believe), and lots of birds and deer in the area," shares Becky K. about Big Lake.
Dust management: Prepare for dusty conditions during summer months. "We camped in our motorhome with tow. Level sites impeccably kept. FHU cable tv Wi-Fi. Small lake on property. We look forward to staying here again," says Robert O. about Bend / Sisters Garden RV Resort, which offers a cleaner alternative to dusty forest service roads.
Local attractions: Sisters Rodeo Dispersed Camping provides free camping with access to local events. "We were there during a few events hosted by the Sisters Rodeo and got to listen to the events. A lot of horse trailers come into the dispersed camping area to park and ride their horses," explains Tia A., adding "Overall, it was very peaceful and a great place to stay if you plan on going to the rodeo or an event held at Sisters Rodeo but are strapped on funds."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to horse camps can be challenging. J D. advises about Three Creeks Meadow Campground: "We have been here a few times. Gorgeous hikes and large sites. Sometimes other campers can be obnoxious with motorcycles and road in gets very rough the last few miles."
Spacing considerations: RV sites at equestrian facilities vary in size. "Some spaces are really great with trees and level sites. Some are bare and fully exposed to the sun. We managed to get our 40' DP in here a year ago, but it was rough the last 10 miles or so," J D. continues about Three Creeks Meadow Campground.
Camp amenities: Know what's available at each location. "awesome campground nice big spaces very quiet if you can deal with the Oregon sand and dust other than that very beautiful place to dry camp," Rickeyb71 notes about Three Creeks Meadow Campground, highlighting the lack of hookups at many horse camping locations.
Traveler
