Clatsop State Forest Northrup Creek Horse Campground sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation in the coastal mountains about 45 miles northwest of Manzanita. The campground opens seasonally from May to November when forest roads are most accessible. Sites accommodate both tent campers and small to medium-sized RVs, with separate areas designated for equestrian users and standard campers.
What to do
Forest exploration on horseback: Trails at Clatsop State Forest Northrup Creek Horse Campground connect riders to miles of logging roads and forest paths. "We plan on taking a trip up with our horses and riding the trails. I definitely plan on returning to this Campground," notes Kelcie T. The campground serves as an excellent staging area with ample parking for horse trailers.
Beach riding opportunities: Horse enthusiasts can trailer to nearby coastal access points for beach riding. At Nehalem Bay State Park Campground, "Always horses riding on the beach too. Super neat experience," reports Jamie B. The park allows beach horse rentals through local outfitters for visitors without their own mounts.
Crabbing and fishing: Area waterways offer excellent fishing opportunities. "We went crabbing just a ways away from the state park, and it was a beautiful day and a lot of fun," writes Aaron R. about Nehalem Bay. Many local bait shops rent crabbing equipment by the day for visitors who don't bring their own gear.
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Horse campgrounds near Manzanita, Oregon consistently receive praise for their upkeep. "This campground was so beautiful and clean! All of the campsites are nestled among big fir trees. The campsites have picnic tables and fire pits," writes Kelcie T. about Northrup Creek Horse Camp.
Secluded forest settings: Many equestrian sites offer more privacy than standard campgrounds. "We had the campground to our self midweek. This is a wonderful campground far enough off the beaten path and being listed as a horse camp most likely keeps the crowds down," notes Dexter I. about Tillamook State Forest Stagecoach Horse Camp.
Non-equestrian accommodations: Even at horse-focused campgrounds, standard camping is available. "While this is a horse campground, only 8 of the sites are for horse campers, a small tent/RV camping loop of 3 sites is also available," explains Dexter I. This makes these locations suitable for mixed groups of riders and non-riders.
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Most equestrian campgrounds offer basic amenities only. At Jones Creek, "Bathrooms were close to sites and decent. The site was pretty quiet. There are ATV trails nearby so lots of dirt bikers in the camp," notes Stephanie Z.
Seasonal considerations: Spring and fall can bring significant rainfall. "It rained the whole 5 days we stayed here. Never the less the campground was very clean," reports Robert D. about camping at L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most horse camping areas operate on first-come, first-served basis except during peak summer season. "The campsites are on a first come first serve basis and many of them are pretty big," explains Katie C. about Jones Creek, which is typical for many forest service horse camps in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly trails: Many equestrian areas also feature hiking paths suitable for children. "Nice hiking trail starts at the tent camping area, 'Big Tree Trail' will take you past some monster sized trees," mentions Dexter I. about Northrup Creek Horse Camp. These trails typically range from 1-3 miles in length.
Splash areas for hot days: Forest streams provide natural cooling opportunities. "Big Tree Trail for hikers was well maintained and we took the opportunity to splash around in the creek," writes Jesse H. about visiting North Fork Trask.
Noise considerations: Some horse campgrounds are quieter than standard sites. "This is a wonderful campground far enough off the beaten path and being listed has a horse camp most likely keeps the crowds down," notes Dexter I. This can be important for families with younger children who need consistent sleep schedules.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most horse campgrounds have limited RV accommodations. "While primarily a horse-friendly campsite, there are few RV/tent sites, but definitely not friendly for larger RVs," warns Daniel S. about Northrup Creek. Sites rarely exceed 35 feet in length and typically lack full hookups.
Limited hookups: Water is available at some sites but electrical connections are rare. "Each campsite has a picnic table and metal fire ring. Nice flat ground for your tent with plenty of shade from the large trees. Campground has a hand pump for water," explains Dexter I. RVers should arrive with full water tanks and charged batteries.
Road conditions: Access roads to horse camps can be challenging. "The road is in great condition and is passable with a 2WD without any issue. There is a sign saying there are logging trucks using the road," notes SpentBrassOffroad B. Most horse campgrounds require navigating unpaved forest roads for at least the final few miles.
