South Steens Campground provides specialized equestrian camping near Diamond, Oregon, with individual corrals at each site in the equestrian section. The remote location sits at approximately 5,300 feet elevation in the high desert, where conditions can range from hot and dry summers to cool, colorful falls. The 50-mile gravel road access leads to camping areas that serve as gateways to multiple trail systems connecting to gorges and wilderness areas.
What to do
Hiking to Wildhorse Lake: Access this 2.5-mile trail using South Steens Campground as a base camp. "I would come back here. This is a good base camp to go to Wildhorse Lake for a quick hike. It's 2 1/2 miles long but worth it," notes Will B., who stayed at the South Steens Campground.
Explore multiple gorges: The campground connects to several canyon trails. "Either sides of camp offer amazing longer hikes to gorges coming off the steens mountain range. Fall colors were amazing, and still some water from the little Indian and blitzen rivers," reports Ash C., who appreciated the variety of terrain accessible from camp.
Observe wildlife: Look for wild horses in surrounding areas. "We especially enjoyed seeing herds of wild horses, the fall foliage on the quaking aspen, and the hiking trails," shares Tanya B., who visited Palomino Hills Dispersed Camping during fall months when wildlife activity increases.
What campers like
Quiet, remote setting: Most visitors appreciate the solitude. "Remote and quiet, if that's what you're looking for. This will never get much traffic," writes Christopher B., who found the Harney County Fairgrounds provided a good balance of facilities and peace when exploring the region.
Stellar night skies: The remote location offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. "The skies were clear and I was able to get a glimpse of the meteor shower. I've never seen stars like that it was really nice," reports Will B. about his experience camping in the area.
Changing seasonal beauty: Fall brings distinct advantages to horse camping in the region. "We chose F2, a big pull through near the vault toilet and not far from the well. The campground was basic but very tidy and quiet during our stay," notes Tanya B., who camped during October when crowds thin out.
What you should know
Basic amenities only: Come prepared for limited services. "Basic campsites, but some are very private. Coyotes at night, pit toilets, solitude, plenty of trees. Is hot and dry in summer," explains Ash C., highlighting the primitive nature of the facilities.
Road conditions: The access route requires patience and preparation. "Syayed here on Oct 2. Paid $8 with senior pass. Nice campground. Level sites. Can accommodate all sorts of rigs, except big bus campers & long travel trailers," Fred S. notes about the drive to South Steens.
Water availability: Water sources are limited beyond campgrounds. "They have running water (So stock up before headed into the gorge! - next water is Jackman Park!) and clean pit toilets. Not a lot of shade so prep for that," advises Erin P., who visited the area for hiking.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for privacy: Choose carefully for more seclusion. "We stayed here for 1 night during a long weekend escape to Steens. The campsites aren't very private as they sit amongst low sage bushes, and they're not particularly large; only enough space for 1 car and 1 tent," warns Bridget H. from her experience at South Steens.
Alternative camping options: Consider equestrian sites even without horses. "I originally went to the South Steens family Campground to find a site and it was full. I went over to the equestrian campsites even though I didn't have any horses. It worked out just fine," suggests Will B., demonstrating flexibility in site selection.
Weather preparedness: Pack for temperature variations and sudden changes. "Just a little piece of advice is to always have you rain coat with you when you go riding in the Steens, the weather can change fast!" cautions Jacob F. who regularly camps in the area.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare for varied terrain in rustic settings. "This is a small but great camp site. Bathrooms present on site. Each spot has a great picnic table and grill. It is a rocky area so have a pad if tent camping," notes Conor B., highlighting the importance of proper equipment.
Generator restrictions: Check current rules as they vary by season and location. "Campground was clean and quiet, except for a few big RV's with generators," reports Jana M., indicating that noise can occasionally be an issue even in remote locations.
Pull-through accessibility: Larger rigs require careful site selection. "Great place to pull off the road and overnight, graveled 2 tracks, big or small theres room for all. Sunrise was beautiful!" shares Jordon F. about finding suitable dispersed camping spots for different vehicle sizes.
