Lily Glen Horse Camp offers equestrian camping near Jacksonville, Oregon at an elevation of 4,500 feet with temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than the Rogue Valley. Horse owners access miles of trail systems through mixed conifer forests with sites accommodating tent campers and smaller RVs. During summer months, logging operations in the area can affect the camping experience with truck traffic on nearby roads.
What to do
Lake activities: explore Howard Prairie Lake from Hyatt Lake Recreation Area, located 20 minutes from Ashland. "The campground requires you to make a reservation online even though there are empty sites everywhere... neither of us had cell reception so I find this to be a very odd requirement," notes Sony A. The lake provides opportunities for boating and fishing throughout the summer season.
Trail riding: access multiple routes directly from camp at Lily Glen Horse Camp - Howard Prairie Lake. "A fun little campground that is located right off Dead Indian memorial road. There are a few wooden stalls for horses and campgrounds are first come first served," reports Kassidy D. Trails lead through forested areas with connections to BLM lands.
Hiking: explore natural features at Natural Bridge Campground where visitors can walk to unique geological formations. "The 'Natural Bridge' is a short walk away and is really cool. Lots of informative signs along the path to describe what you are seeing," explains Joe V. The trail system follows the Rogue River with multiple loop options.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Natural Bridge Campground offers well-spaced camping areas. "Lots of space between campsites- we couldn't see anyone else from ours. We stayed at site 4 and had plenty of space," reports Hattie R. Sites back up to the river with tree cover providing shade and separation from neighbors.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The areas surrounding Lake Selmac County Park provide excellent nature observation. "Peaceful. Love watching the water birds. Lots of trees. Even nice in the winter," says Liesa B. Early mornings and evenings typically offer the best wildlife sightings around the lakes and forest edges.
Night sky viewing: The mountain locations provide excellent stargazing conditions. "The night sky was gorgeous," notes camper D D. at Lily Glen Horse Camp. Most equestrian camping areas near Jacksonville sit at higher elevations away from city light pollution, creating ideal astronomy conditions when skies are clear.
What you should know
Limited services: Most equestrian campgrounds have basic facilities only. "Pack it-pack it out. There is no trash service. The trails are amazing. Briggs creek runs all year. The horse camp is getting a little run down, but still nice. We go every year with our horses. Its primitive camping. No drinking water, showers, or cell service," explains Teresa F. about Sam Brown Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Many higher elevation campgrounds have limited operating seasons. "We didn't stay at the campground as it was closed for their season," reports Jacky S. about Lake Selmac County Park. Most mountain horse camps open from May through September depending on snow conditions and road access.
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. "The road up the mountain coming from I-5 was made of narrow switchbacks straight up along the side of a cliff. I white-knuckled it the whole way in my little car... not for the faint of heart," cautions Craig M. about reaching Hyatt Lake Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Lake Selmac Resort offers multiple recreation options. "Great spot for families. There are plenty of things to do from fishing, swimming, and even renting a 'peddle' boat for a leg workout while taking your trip around the lake," suggests Lyndsey. Water temperatures remain cool even during summer months.
Campsite selection for children: Choose sites away from potential hazards. "Some sites here are very private feeling because you park the car up top and walk down (not far at all) to the tent that sits close to the lake," notes Nicole O. at Lake Selmac Resort. Sites near but not directly on water provide safer options for families with small children.
Pack weather-appropriate clothing: Mountain temperatures fluctuate significantly. "We spent a weekend at Lake Selmac camping in our RV with our four kiddos. The hosts were incredibly kind and helpful," shares susanna R. Evening temperatures can drop below 50°F even during summer months at higher elevations.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Medford-Gold Hill KOA accommodates various RV sizes but with limitations. "Pull thru sites are short my 35 footer and car just fit. Multiple sites car were sticking in to the road making it a little close pulling out in the morning," warns Charles S. Measure your combined vehicle length before booking.
Water and power availability: Research utility connections before arrival. "Large RV spaces. Nice staff," reports P & L B. about the Medford-Gold Hill KOA. Most horse camps have limited or no hookups, requiring self-contained units with adequate water storage and power generation.
Level site options: Fourmile Lake Campground offers suitable RV pads. "Camping spot are pretty spread out which was really nice!" says Tylere Y. Check campground information for maximum RV length restrictions, especially at more remote horse camps where turning radius can be limited.
