Equestrian camping options near Gresham, Oregon typically operate from late spring through early fall, with most facilities closing by mid-September. The area sits at elevations ranging from 700 to 3,500 feet, creating varied weather patterns throughout the camping season. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 45-55°F at night, making layered clothing essential for overnight stays.
What to do
Trail riding networks: Riley Horse Campground provides access to over 15 miles of established equestrian trails that wind through Mount Hood National Forest. "There are lots of hiking trails nearby, mainly Romano Falls Trail. There are views of Mt. Hood, peeking out through the trees here and there," notes camper Ashley B., who appreciates the proximity to scenic viewpoints.
Swimming opportunities: Oxbow Regional Park offers sandy beaches with water access for both people and horses during summer months. "Recently I visit this place such a great experience... Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, and rafting in the river, or reserve one of its rustic campsites for a truly immersive experience in nature," comments Emille R. about the refreshing water options.
Disc golf courses: Milo McIver State Park Campground features competitive-quality disc golf courses that attract players from across the region. As Steve C. explains, "Milo McIver may be best known for it's twin 18 hole disc golf courses, or single 27 hole layout when tournaments aren't in progress. Home of the annual Beaver State Fling, a PDGA sanctioned National Tour event."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Riley Horse Campground offers generously sized camping spots with ample separation between neighbors. One camper shares, "The spot I had (Spot 4) was huge, plenty of room for a larger party, felt like a quarter of an acre. There were no neighbors on one side of the spot and only the water spigot on the other."
Privacy in forested settings: Equestrian campers value the secluded feel of Panther Creek Campground, located just north of the Columbia River Gorge. "This campground is where I love to camp for a day of gravel biking or hiking, as there are many forest roads to meander off from here," notes camper Candace, highlighting the balance of accessibility and seclusion.
Reliable water sources: Horse owners appreciate campsites with dependable water for their animals. Jeff K. describes Panther Creek as having "Nice big sites with a level tent pad. Multiple access points to the creek and the PCT is just outside the campground. Water, pit toilets (clean) and firewood are available."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most horse campgrounds in the area operate on a limited schedule. As one visitor to Silver Falls State Park Campground notes, "Clean campsite with the basic amenities, conveniently only a 30-minute drive from Portland (but doesn't feel like you're near the city at all when you're there)."
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campsites fill quickly during peak season. At Silver Falls, campers should understand that "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."
Shared facilities: Some equestrian campgrounds have communal fire rings rather than individual ones at each site. At L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park, "There are communal fire rings in the back section (which is great for groups!). There are no trash cans: pack it in, pack it out."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground offers family-friendly facilities alongside horse camping options. "This makes a nice weekend or day trip from Portland. They have a cool volcanic lake with a swimming area and great fishing. Its like a mini crater lake," explains Ashley Y., highlighting the kid-friendly water features.
Safety precautions: Keep children and horses separated at appropriate times. "We love it! For a lot of reasons... You do have a lot of options, in that the first time we went up there was with our hiking club, and we went up there for a hike around the calderas so it's easy to do a day trip in a car," Richard B. shares about Battle Ground Lake's diverse recreational opportunities.
Educational opportunities: Many horse campgrounds offer wildlife viewing or learning experiences for children. "Across the road is a horse camp that the PCT goes through. There is a spur from the PCT directly into the campground for easy access. There is a beautiful view of Mt. Hood just a couple of miles up the trail," explains Lawrence F. about Panther Creek's educational hiking options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Beacon Rock State Park Campground, RVers should carefully choose sites that accommodate their vehicles. "Stayed at the Woodward full hook up sites. Only a small number of them so felt spacious and secluded. Close to a busy train track and you can here some highway noise but overall we felt secluded and enjoyed," advises Joe C.
Power considerations: Not all horse campgrounds offer electrical hookups. Crystal C. explains, "A centralized restroom and bath house was such a perk and justified the higher pricing of the site which I did feel was pretty high overall but somewhat fitting for the area. The showers were coin operated with every 3 minutes costing $0.50."
Maneuverability challenges: Many older campgrounds weren't designed with large RVs in mind. "Sweet little campground with lots of beautiful trees and greenery. Still had spots available on a busy weekend. Best for tents only or a smaller trailer. Some sites are definitely better than others," notes Corinna B. about navigating the narrow access roads.
