Equestrian camping near Cottage Grove, Oregon offers access to forest trails and recreational areas throughout the Willamette National Forest. Located approximately 30 miles south of Eugene at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,500 feet, the region experiences mild summers with average temperatures between 70-85°F and cooler winters with significant rainfall from November through March. Water access varies significantly between established campgrounds and dispersed areas, requiring advance planning for both human and horse needs.
What to do
Trail riding on logging roads: Hult Pond provides extensive access to surrounding logging roads for horseback riding. A camper noted, "There are so many logging roads at this campground/mountain with dispersed camping available anywhere with flat ground you just might not be close to the pond."
Kayaking on calm waters: Hult Reservoir offers non-motorized boat access with peaceful conditions. According to one visitor, "No motorized boats. Dispersed camping. Excellent hidden creek water... Canoe. Kayak. Fish."
Fishing for largemouth bass: The ponds around Cottage Grove hold various fish species. A Hult Pond camper reported, "The area is beautiful lots of privacy and the fishing was pretty decent caught three largemouth bass."
Hiking through forest trails: The surrounding areas feature multiple hiking opportunities with elevation changes. One visitor to Hult Pond mentioned, "The pond was great for kayaking and there is plenty to explore if you aren't worried about a little elevation in your hike."
What campers like
Complete disconnection: Many campers appreciate the lack of connectivity. A camper at Hult Pond observed, "I would recommend if you're looking for somewhere to come and disconnect from the world. Just not over holidays or weekends."
Natural environment: The forest setting creates a sensory experience unique to the area. A visitor to Whispering Pine Horse Camp shared, "The scenery is amazing. The smell of the trees in the summer is my favorite part. Lots of great trails to hike."
Wildlife viewing: The ponds offer opportunities to observe various species. One camper mentioned seeing "jumping fish visible from shore" at several locations.
Secluded camping spots: Multiple areas provide privacy from other campers when positioned correctly. A visitor noted, "We ended up camping just up the creek a little bit and it just the first sight. The area is beautiful lots of privacy."
What you should know
No cell service: Prepare for complete disconnection in most areas. A Hult Pond camper warned, "We lost cell service about an hour before we even got there, and didn't have any the whole time there."
Busy on weekends: Popular spots fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper advised, "Only a few good spots and they go fast so definitely get there early to get a good spot."
Limited turnaround space: Large rigs may face challenges in some areas. One RVer cautioned, "We have a 38 foot rv. We got stuck in a ditch. Rv almost tipped over trying to u turn… if you go down the main lower path you will find a area big enough to u turn! Dont do it until then!"
Pack in/pack out required: Many areas lack waste facilities. A visitor noted, "They have a bathroom which is a plus but no trash cans so please whatever you pack in make sure to pack it out."
Tips for camping with families
Bring games and entertainment: The lack of connectivity means alternative activities are essential. One camper recommended, "No service but great from a seclusion! So remember all games and firewood you need!!"
Consider bug protection: Depending on season and location, insects can be prevalent. A family noted, "Otherwise a wonderful time. So many many many bugs though at the area we stayed at."
Prepare for temperature fluctuations: Near Fawn Creek Campground experiences significant seasonal variation, with one visitor noting, "With temperatures ranging from 30°F in winter to 80°F in summer, it's a beautiful destination year-round."
Plan for limited facilities: Most equestrian-friendly areas have minimal amenities. Bring adequate water supplies for both humans and horses, especially during summer months when temperatures can reach mid-80s.
Tips from RVers
Check access roads: Some campgrounds have active industrial traffic. A camper at Hult Pond described, "The access road is a still functioning rock quarry road that hosts a never ending parade of old rattling dump trucks and loaders."
Consider seasonal timing: Campgrounds vary significantly between seasons. A visitor to Douglas County Fairgrounds RV Park observed, "Being here in the summer means dead grass and heat. I've been thru in the winter and it's much prettier."
Verify hookup availability: Most equestrian-friendly areas lack traditional RV hookups. Bring sufficient water and power supplies for your stay duration, as most sites are primitive.
Scout suitable parking: Dispersed camping requires finding appropriate spots for larger rigs. One RVer suggested identifying GPS coordinates of suitable areas, sharing their location: "GPS: 44.248357, -123.495729."
