Equestrian camping is popular in the Mount Hood National Forest near Dufur, Oregon. The region sits at the transition between wetter western forests and drier eastern landscapes, creating diverse terrain for riders at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,500 feet. Many campgrounds feature vault toilets with no running water, making preparation essential when planning trips to horse campgrounds near Dufur.
What to do
Trail riding networks: Access established trails directly from Riley Horse Campground with routes suitable for various skill levels. A camper notes, "The campground is close to many trails in the area, mainly Romano Falls Trail. There are views of Mt. Hood, peeking out through the trees here and there."
Wildlife viewing: Early morning riders often spot deer, elk and various bird species along forest roads surrounding Bonney Crossing Campground. One visitor shares, "Great camp area. Hear and see the water from half the sites."
Water activities: When temperatures rise in summer months, cool off in nearby streams. A camper at Bonney Crossing mentions, "Kids loved spending time exploring the creek and cooling off in it. Campsites are first come first serve and only has 7 established sites."
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: The dedicated horse sites at Riley Horse provide ample room for trailers and equipment. A visitor reports, "The spot I had (Spot 4) was huge, plenty of room for a larger party, felt like a quarter of an acre."
Natural quiet: Many equestrian campers appreciate the relative solitude at Panther Creek Campground. A reviewer notes, "Nice campground that doesn't feel crowded at all. Some camp spots are better situated than others, so do research before making reservation."
Creek proximity: Sites near water offer natural white noise and recreation options. A camper at Panther Creek shares, "we love panther creek. It is a most comfortable place to camp. Peaceful, lots of trees. The creek providing wonderful white noise."
What you should know
Limited water access: Many equestrian sites don't have drinking water. At Clackamas Lake Campground, a visitor cautions, "Water spigots are a little overgrown, look for the spray paint on the campground drive to find them."
Insect preparation: Summer brings mosquitoes to many sites. One camper warns, "Seriously, bring bug spray and put it on the minute you get there. Had a great time, the camp host were cool."
Weather variations: Mountain conditions can change rapidly, with nighttime temperatures dropping significantly. A Bonney Crossing camper explains, "Had a great time camping at Bonney Crossing. We were there for 2 nights and didn't see any other people. The campsites are all well spaced out parallel to a nice clean looking river."
Tips for camping with families
Shade evaluation: Select sites with adequate tree cover during summer months. At Brooks Memorial State Park Campground, a visitor observes, "But, tall pines all around us, and very uncrowded. Wouldn't want to come here if it were full, the sites are very close together."
Fire restrictions: Check current regulations before arrival. A Bonney Crossing visitor notes, "All the campsites had fire rings and there was plenty of scrap wood to be found. The campground had a bathroom that was as clean as one could expect during the off-season."
Campground timing: Arrive mid-week when possible to secure preferred sites. A camper advises, "This is hands down one of my favorite campgrounds, because the spots are large, far apart from the other sites, and very quiet."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites with level parking pads for trailers. At Hunt Park, a camper shares, "This is a county fair grounds with lots of RV space for all sizes. Self register at the gate and find your spot. Nice rest room and showers."
Hookup limitations: Most forest service equestrian campgrounds lack electrical connections. An RVer at Hunt Park notes, "We camped here with our UMCI Motorcycle Group, and had a great time. Good power sites, even though we were in our Motorcycle tent trailer."
Length restrictions: Some forest roads have tight turns limiting access for longer rigs. Before heading to Clackamas Lake, know that "This was a quiet little campground. The sites were big and very clean. It is close to Timothy lake which is where we wanted to go kayaking at. Took us 10 minutes to get there."
