Equestrian camping near Cascadia, Oregon provides direct access to over 20 miles of mountain trails with elevation gains between 1,000-3,500 feet. The region's volcanic soil composition creates firm, well-draining trail conditions even during spring rains. Most horse camps in this area operate from May through October, with some sites closing earlier depending on snowfall at higher elevations.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: At Howard Creek Horse Camp, riders can access multiple trail systems without trailering horses. "Sites are big and private. Very quite and tons of near empty trails even with a full campground on a weekend in the summer. Walking, bike, and horse trails," notes Jennifer H.
Mountain views on horseback: From Whispering Pine Horse Camp, riders can reach several mountain viewpoints within a 3-hour ride. "The scenery is amazing. The smell of the trees in the summer is my favorite part. Lots of great trails to hike," says Eric M.
Fishing between rides: Many equestrians bring fishing gear to Big Lake Campground for afternoon breaks. "Have camped here a few different times, Always a great time. Lake is great for kayaking, big enough to give you lots to paddle, but small enough to not be overwhelming," reports Becky K., noting the lake is perfect for a quick fishing stop during multi-day rides.
What campers like
Spacious sites for horse trailers: At Silver Falls State Park Campground, equestrian sites accommodate vehicles up to 40 feet long with designated areas for horses. "THE most beautiful park in Oregon that we've seen! Hiked for 5 hours! BEWARE: It's WET, so bring your wet weather gear, and good, sturdy hiking shoes for slippery terrain," advises Melissa L.
Natural water sources: Riders appreciate streams crossing the trail systems for horse watering. "We headed out from Portland late Friday, not really knowing what to expect. The campground was clean and easy to find, obviously a hit for OHV. We went on a hike just a few yards from the campsite, and put our kayaks in the lake after," states Mackenzie C. about the natural water features at Big Lake.
Varied terrain options: Trail systems provide options for both beginner and experienced horses. "This is pretty well a dry camp area but great if you have bikes or dirt bikes or four wheelers. The lake is not breathtaking but pretty enough," explains Carole B. about the terrain diversity near Big Lake Campground.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most horse camps have no cellular coverage. At Scott Lake Campground, campers should download maps before arrival. "The campground has a lot of spots. The first spot is the only one I'd considered 'good' for an rv but I wouldn't bother trying. The first 5 or 6 spots and can pull your vehicle off the road and set up," explains Hannah S.
Reservation requirements: Howard Creek Horse Camp requires reservations up to 6 months in advance for summer weekends. "Stunning camping in a temperate rainforest. Sites are big and private. Very quite and tons of near empty trails even with a full campground on a weekend in the summer," Jennifer H. notes about the popularity.
Water availability varies: Not all horse camps provide drinking water for horses. "It is free may require NW forest pass. It's a drive, hike, bike and walk in. I didn't see any spots big enough for RV but there is space to park that isn't officially a site," Mavrick S. explains about Scott Lake's limited facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly trails: Several camps offer shorter trail loops under 3 miles for families with young riders. Silver Falls provides "a kids' play area inside Loop B, showers, and nature trails around the campground," according to Melissa L.
Cabin alternatives: For families new to horse camping, Pamelia Lake offers cabin options near riding areas. "Sites were very spacious, we could have easily fit 8 people at our site. Since the hike in was relatively easy, we felt comfortable bringing some camping luxuries like a backpacking chair and hammocks," shares Audrey M.
Swimming options: After dusty trail rides, Big Lake provides swimming access for families. "This hidden gem can't be seen from the highway. But it's a quick drive down a improved road to it's clear refreshing waters with fishing and plenty places to swim," Austin G. recommends.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most equestrian campgrounds offer water hookups but limited electrical service. At Bend / Sisters Garden RV Resort, RV campers find full service sites near regional horse trails. "Very nice, well maintained campground, pond to fish in, mini golf, pool and on site small store. Biggest down fall is that it right next to highway so lots of traffic," notes Amy S.
Dump station locations: Howard Creek Horse Camp provides a dump station, but many other area horse camps do not. "Our site was #7. Pull through, FHU, had a small brick patio area with picnic table and fireplace. Camp store was well stocked. Laundry on site which was very reasonable," Rachel G. shares about the Bend/Sisters RV Resort facilities.
Road conditions: Access roads to some horse camps have significant ruts that challenge larger RVs. "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," Brian C. advises about staying at more developed RV parks and trailering horses to riding areas.
