Equestrian camping options abound within 30 miles of Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, where elevations range from near sea level along the Columbia River to over 4,500 feet in the surrounding mountains. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with dry summers reaching 90°F and wet winters with temperatures dropping to the 30s. Primitive horse campgrounds provide direct trail access to both riverfront paths and mountain terrain through dense forests.
What to do
Bird watching opportunities: Panther Creek Campground offers excellent wildlife viewing with multiple species visible from campsites. "Saw lots of birds," reports Jeff K., noting the campground's "nice forest setting" makes it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.
Disc golf competition: Milo McIver State Park Campground features two championship-level courses popular with serious players. "Home of the annual Beaver State Fling, a PDGA sanctioned National Tour event," explains Steve C., who highlights how the courses attract "international players that come to the Pacific Northwest."
Volcanic lake swimming: Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground offers swimming in a small crater lake just 30 minutes from Portland. "They have a cool volcanic lake with a swimming area and great fishing. Its like a mini crater lake," notes Ashley Y., adding that while small, it's "pond size" and perfect for quick getaways.
River-based activities: Multiple access points for fishing, swimming and paddling exist throughout the region. At Oxbow Regional Park, Lawrence F. explains, "There are several places to access the creek and play in the cold, shallow water. The stones in the stream are a rainbow of metamorphic rock."
What campers like
Trail access directly from campsites: Panther Creek Campground provides immediate entry to multiple trail systems including the Pacific Crest Trail. "The PCT is just outside the campground," mentions Jeff K., while Heartworn H. notes it's "located just off the PCT trail" making it convenient for both overnight campers and through-hikers.
Primitive camping with basic comforts: Sites balance wilderness experience with essential facilities. "Water, pit toilets (clean) and firewood are available. Good spacing between sites, but not a ton of privacy," notes Jeff K. about Panther Creek, indicating the practical amenities without excessive development.
Horse-friendly accommodations: Riley Horse Campground offers specialized facilities for equestrian campers with versatile corrals. "The horse pens were huge and we used them to help hang our hammocks," explains Gretch H., demonstrating how these facilities can serve multiple purposes.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards despite remote locations. "The bathrooms are well maintained and have excellent showers. No coins needed," reports marcus K. at Oxbow Regional Park, adding that the "restrooms are well maintained and have excellent showers."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most horse campgrounds near Columbia River Gorge operate on restricted schedules. Riley Horse Campground runs "May 22 to September 13," requiring advance planning during peak season.
Variable site privacy: Layout and vegetation affect isolation between campsites. "The sites were pretty well spread out in a double loop," Lawrence F. notes about Panther Creek, though he adds "the sites are close together which is one of the downfalls."
Water availability concerns: Bonney Crossing and several other campgrounds lack potable water. "Site is 'primitive' so you must bring your own potable water," advises Scott B., emphasizing this critical planning consideration for remote locations.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely across the region. "Barely got 1 bar of 4g at the welcome center," reports Zach S. about Oxbow Regional Park, noting "texts hardly go through" at the campground itself, which is located 2 miles from the limited reception area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "The kids playground was great for the grandkids," Richard B. mentions about Battle Ground Lake State Park, while also noting "the beach area isn't big, but that's okay."
Educational opportunities: Beacon Rock State Park Campground offers geological learning experiences with its volcanic history. "Have you ever wanted to climb a piece of history? Beacon rock is believed to be the core of a volcano that blew off and landed near the columbia river," explains Steve C., adding that "the view from the top is breathtaking."
Child-friendly trails: Look for shorter loop trails designed for younger hikers. "Both are easy hikes, and are dog and kid friendly," Wendy C. shares about Battle Ground Lake's upper and lower lake trails, providing options for families with various energy levels.
Water temperature awareness: Rivers and lakes remain cold even in summer. Lawrence F. warns that at Panther Creek the water is "cold, shallow" while at Battle Ground Lake Brian B. notes there's "a swim area roped off" providing safer conditions for supervised swimming.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Jantzen Beach RV Park offers full services for larger rigs near Portland. "Spacious pull-thru sites made parking my RV hassle-free, and the electric hookups worked perfectly," shares Faiz A., though noting "the water pressure was lower than expected."
Parking challenges: Many forest service campgrounds have limited space for large vehicles. "Sites are kind of small, with most in forested areas," Brian C. observes about Beacon Rock State Park, adding it's "best for tents only or a smaller trailer."
Reservation strategies: Popular RV parks fill quickly during peak seasons. Jennifer H. advises at Jantzen Beach RV Park: "Office hours 9-5p. Simple straight forward after hours process," highlighting the convenience of their check-in system even for late arrivals.
Road condition alerts: Access to remote horse campgrounds often requires navigating rough roads. "The drive from Carson to the campsite had quite a few large potholes," warns Amelia L. about Cultus Creek Campground, suggesting preparation for challenging driving conditions.
