Knebal Springs offers horse camping facilities in the eastern section of Mt. Hood National Forest about 30 miles southwest of Wishram, Washington. The campground sits in a semi-arid transition zone at approximately 3,600 feet elevation, where dense forest gives way to more open terrain. Vault toilets serve the primitive sites, but campers must bring their own water since no potable source is available on site.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The Riley Horse Campground provides access to numerous trails within a 15-minute drive from the main equestrian sites. As one visitor notes, "The campground is close to many trails in the area, mainly Romano Falls Trail. There are views of Mt. Hood, peeking out through the trees here and there."
Explore high-country forests: Bonney Crossing offers trails through varied terrain within 20 miles of Knebal Springs. A camper describes the setting: "Site is located just next to Badger Creek and the Badger Creek trail. Kids loved spending time exploring the creek and cooling off in it."
Seasonal stream exploration: Water features vary dramatically with seasonal flow. One visitor to Knebal Springs observed, "Springs are ephemeral, so there wasn't anything to see while we were there." Plan accordingly for water activities, especially during summer months when streams may run low.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Knebal Springs offers well-separated camping areas ideal for horse trailers. A camper shares: "This is a great option as each site is different and pretty spacious. Too bad they're right off the road and the relative lack of trees takes away some privacy."
Natural quiet: Many equestrian camps in the region maintain a peaceful atmosphere. At Hunt Park, a visitor noted: "Borders a large cattle ranch so you may hear cattle mooing but that's about it. Very peaceful!"
Low crowding levels: Even during peak season, these campgrounds rarely fill completely. One Knebal Springs visitor shared: "Nice quiet campground. Would stay again." This makes it easier to find sites without reservations, particularly during weekdays.
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most horse camps near Wishram offer minimal facilities. Panther Creek Campground provides some comforts: "The pit toilets were clean, though heavy smell of ammonia which is not unusual at campgrounds like this. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table."
Water availability: Bring sufficient water for both humans and horses. At Bonney Crossing, a visitor advises: "Campground is, 'primitive' so you must bring your own potable water. Site does have an accessible pit toilet."
Road conditions: Access roads may present challenges. One Bonney Crossing camper warns: "The road down is a little sketchy but as long as you go slow it's well worth it." Allow extra travel time when pulling horse trailers to remote sites.
Climate extremes: The eastern forest areas can experience significant temperature fluctuations. At Panther Creek, a visitor observed: "During the peak summer months, being in a wind break makes for a hot, stuffy, buggy experience."
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration opportunities: Streams provide natural entertainment for children at many sites. At Brooks Memorial State Park Campground, one camper found: "Tall pines all around us, and very uncrowded. Wouldn't want to come here if it were full, the sites are very close together."
Wildlife encounters: The area supports diverse animal species. At Hunt Park, a visitor mentioned: "Open area sites, but also some with trees. Beautiful areas to explore close by."
Gathering firewood: Some camps permit collection of downed wood. A Riley Horse camper shared: "There was lots of dead, dried out wood laying all around the site that after a couple hours of collecting I had plenty to keep a fire all weekend, and still left a pile of wood when I left."
Site selection: Choose locations based on specific needs. At Panther Creek, a camper advises: "Some camp spots are better situated than others, so do research before making reservation."
Tips from RVers
Trailer access considerations: RV sites vary significantly across horse camps near Wishram. A visitor to Knebal Springs observed: "Each site's proximity to the road provides straightforward loading and unloading access for horse trailers."
Site availability patterns: RVers should understand usage patterns. At Hunt Park, a visitor noted: "This is a county fair grounds with lots of RV space for all sizes. Self register at the gate and find your spot."
Utility hookups: Not all campgrounds offer electrical connections. A visitor to Panther Creek points out: "We have stayed here a couple of times now, both by accident when our intended destinations were full. The sites are pretty well spread out in a double loop with 3 double pit toilets and 2 hand pumps for water."
Shaded parking: Trees provide welcome relief during hot weather. At Riley Horse Campground, a camper shared: "Shady paradise...the horse pens were huge and we used them to help hang our hammocks."
