Equestrian camping near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland offers diverse terrain across elevations ranging from 2,500 to over 9,000 feet. The region encompasses over 2.5 million acres of public land where summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F during peak camping season, while nights can drop to 40°F even in July and August. Road conditions accessing horse camps can deteriorate significantly in the final miles.
What to do
Trail riding to alpine lakes: Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp connects to multiple hiking and riding trails where riders can access Three Creek Lake, just 0.75 miles from camp. "Beautiful spot to relax! I didnt hear or see a single person the entire night even though there were other people in the area!" notes Josie M. about the Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp.
Fishing from horseback: Reynolds Pond Recreation Site provides opportunities for anglers with horses to access fishing spots away from the crowds. "Camped here for an overnight on the way from Portland down to Nevada. Looks like it would be a great spot to enjoy for a few days, but it was still perfect for an overnight rest with gorgeous mountain sunrise views in the morning," shares Shane B. about Reynolds Pond Recreation Site.
Explore volcanic terrain: The region's basalt formations and lava fields create unique riding experiences. "Remote campground but accommodates even 40' DP. Road in is pretty rough for last mile. Pit toilets and dumpster," says J D. about Three Creeks Meadow Campground.
What campers like
Spacious corrals and staging areas: Chief Paulina Horse Camp features well-maintained facilities specifically designed for equestrians. "Extremely remote as you can get and still drive in. Absolutely beautiful," states Abe E. about Chief Paulina Horse Camp.
Peace and seclusion: The remoteness keeps many horse camps less crowded than standard campgrounds. "Easy access and larger camp spots. We were there during a few events hosted by the Sisters Rodeo and got to listen to the events," shares Tia A. about Sisters Rodeo Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide opportunities to spot deer, elk, and various bird species. "A great horned owl visited the tree next to my site at 1:00 am and hooted away. Very nice. This is also a dark sky park and if the moon is not bright the stars are amazing," recounts Amy B. about Prineville Reservoir State Park.
What you should know
Limited water access: Many horse camps have no potable water, requiring riders to pack in their own. "No water available," notes William B. about Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp. Always carry sufficient water for both riders and horses.
Road conditions: Access roads to remote horse camps often deteriorate significantly in the final miles. "The road accessing the campground becomes rough in the final miles, requiring careful driving especially with larger rigs or horse trailers," cautions J D. about Three Creeks Meadow Campground.
Seasonal limitations: Most horse camps operate only from late May through September due to snow conditions. "Spent two nights here celebrating a friends birthday party. The weather was a little too cold/windy to enjoy the lake, but the campground is clean and well kept," mentions aaron S. about Cultus Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Horse-friendly educational activities: Some locations offer rangers who interact with children about horse management. "A lot of horse trailers come into the dispersed camping area to park and ride their horses... A couple of the trainers even allowed my oldest onto their horses with permission after she asked," shares Tia A. about Sisters Rodeo Dispersed Camping.
Meadow exploration: Younger family members can enjoy wildflower identification in season. "This is a lovely campground, of course perfect if you have horses, those sites are further in. Many of the sites have lovely views of the meadow with a little creek running through," notes Alex P. about Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp.
Stargazing opportunities: The region's minimal light pollution creates prime stargazing conditions. "There is a hike you can take along the shore of the reservoir - 4 miles out and back. Great geology as well," says Amy B. about Prineville Reservoir State Park.
Tips from RVers
Horse trailer parking considerations: Sites with ample space for both living quarters and horse trailers are limited. "We really like this spot because you can walk into town but far enough outside that it has a lot of privacy. The PRT trail system is close by, Three Creeks and the 3 Sister," recommends Huey W. about Chipmunk Mountain Basecamp.
Generator policies: Many horse camps restrict generator use, so plan your power needs accordingly. "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," shares Amy S. about Bend/Sisters Garden RV Resort.
Dust management: Summer conditions can create significant dust issues around horse areas. "Awesome campground nice big spaces very quiet if you can deal with the Oregon sand and dust other than that very beautiful place to dry camp," advises Rickeyb71 about Three Creek Meadow Campground.
