Howard Creek Horse Camp serves as an alternative equestrian camping location to Whispering Pine Horse Camp in the region, accommodating overnight visitors approximately 45 miles east of Corvallis. Located within Silver Falls State Park at an elevation of 1,400 feet, the area experiences a moderate climate with average summer temperatures around 75°F and winter lows near 35°F. Winter camping can present muddy conditions on some trails.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: At Howard Creek Horse Camp, riders can access trails directly from camp. "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. Walking, bike, and horse trails," notes Jennifer H.
Family waterfall hikes: Horse camps provide access to the renowned waterfalls network. "First and foremost, it's all about the waterfalls - all 10 of them - linked by paved hiking trails. Not a fan of sharing the trail with hikers when on your bike? There are miles of mountain bike trails," explains Sherrie B. from Howard Creek.
Relaxing at camp: Whispering Pine Horse Camp offers peaceful surroundings for those wanting downtime between rides. "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.
What campers like
Natural scenery: Horse campgrounds near Corvallis feature lush forests and scenic views. At Silver Falls State Park Campground, campers appreciate the landscape. "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.
Well-maintained facilities: Campgrounds in this region are known for their upkeep. "Awesome campground. Well maintained. Site spacing is good with lots of privacy between camps. Bathrooms and showers are super nice and clean. Roads and campsites are paved and level," Richard H. reports about Silver Falls.
Spacious sites: Willamette Mission State Park Horse Camp offers room for equestrian setups. "I had a great weekend at Willamette Mission State Park Horse Camp! The campsites are horse friendly and the trails are absolutely gorgeous- it felt like being out in the wild," shares Sprunki R.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak months. Silver Falls State Park Campground has specific procedures. "You can just get lost in the beauty of it all. The cabins are small but comfortable with heat, lights, and beds. Covered porch is nice to sit and listen to the rain," Jeff K. mentions.
Seasonal closures: Some facilities have limited availability throughout the year. "This park floods every winter. I advise planning your trip for the spring or summer knowing that there is a lot of shaded trails to keep you cool. Mosquitoes can be a problem at dusk because of the water," Kelly N. warns about Willamette Mission.
Trail conditions: Santiam State Forest Shellburg Falls Recreation Area offers varied terrain. "Remote and quiet campground. Only .5 mile hike to the falls. Shellburgh Falls is tall with a huge basalt cave that you can walk behind the waterfall and down below to actually stand under the waterfall," describes Kelly G.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities for children. "Kids' play area inside Loop B, showers, and nature trails around the campground. RV dump at the horse camp turnoff. I'd try to reserve spots 9 or 12 (next to the playground and sunny spots) or 72 (next to the creek in the shade) next time," suggests Melissa L. about Silver Falls.
Educational programs: Silver Falls State Park features learning opportunities. "This is a very family friendly camp ground, so watch out for all the RVs and kids on bikes. But once you are out on the trail it gets peaceful and picturesque," Andrea M. notes.
Pet policies: Not all horse trails allow dogs. "The campgrounds are nice. The hike is amazing and beautiful though most of the trails are closed to dogs," Krystle K. points out about Silver Falls State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Polk County Fairgrounds provides basic RV amenities near equestrian facilities. "We stayed here for seven nights and we do it again! Electricity 30 amp and water at the post. Dump station nearby. We were visiting relatives in this area, so really only need a safe place to park the rig. This worked out fine," shares Theresa R.
Length limitations: Some equestrian campgrounds have restricted access for larger rigs. "The staff is very friendly. Nothing fancy here but the price is very affordable," notes Lynette W. about Polk County Fairgrounds.
Hookup availability: RV services vary at equestrian camping areas. "Stayed 3 nights. Worked out great for our purpose of just visiting family in Dallas. $25 per night a good nightly rate. So much better than those CGs next to highways and RRs," David M. recommends.
