Equestrian camping options extend beyond Howard Creek and Hult Pond Recreation Area for riders seeking horse-friendly accommodations near Marcola, Oregon. The surrounding area contains several campgrounds with facilities for horses within 45 miles of Marcola, at elevations ranging from 800 to 4,000 feet. These sites open primarily from May through October, when trail conditions remain suitable for riding.
What to do
Trail riding at Silver Falls State Park: Silver Falls State Park Campground maintains trails specifically for equestrians separate from the hiking paths. "The campgrounds are nice. The hike is amazing and beautiful though most of the trails are closed to dogs," notes Krystle K. The park restricts pets on certain trails to minimize conflict with horses.
Kayaking at Hult Pond: The lake at Hult Pond Recreation Area provides non-motorized boating opportunities for equestrians wanting alternative recreation. "Nice pond to camp near, several campsites to choose from and trails to explore," reports Aaron. The no-motor restriction keeps the water calm for paddling.
Mountain biking at Howard Creek: Howard Creek Horse Camp offers more than just equestrian trails. "Not a fan of sharing the trail with hikers when on your bike? There are miles of mountain bike trails. Have horses? They have trails too," explains Sherrie B. The separated trail system reduces conflict between different user groups.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the layout at horse-friendly campgrounds. "Sites are big and private. Very quite and tons of near empty trails even with a full campground on a weekend in the summer," says Jennifer H. about Howard Creek Horse Camp. The spacing minimizes noise disruption between campers with horses.
Creek sounds for sleeping: Natural water features enhance the camping experience at Horse Creek Group Campground, where "the sound of the creek is wonderful to sleep to," according to Amber D. The white noise helps mask sounds from restless horses overnight.
Spring camping with fewer crowds: Early season visits offer more solitude at equestrian sites. "I went during my spring break and I was lucky that it was too cold for most people to camp there. It was beautiful and quiet (other than the 9pm daily goose choir)," reports Nicki G. about Hult Pond. Spring camping reduces competition for limited horse camping spots.
What you should know
No cell service: Many horse campgrounds near Marcola lack connectivity. At Hult Pond, "We lost cell service about an hour before we even got there, and didn't have any the whole time there," warns Grace A. This affects emergency communication if issues arise with horses.
Limited drinking water: Water access varies at equestrian campgrounds. Scott Lake Campground offers water access but facilities differ seasonally. "There are fire pits, picnic tables, bathrooms, and plenty of good spots to set up a hammock," reports Hannah S., but water must often be carried in.
Seasonal closures: Weather limits access to higher elevation sites. "This campsite is the perfect place if you enjoy secluded tent camping in a primitive style but still want the comforts of a fire pit, picnic table and a toilet," notes Aaron P. about Scott Lake, though the access road closes from November to June.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Upper Lake Creek - Hult Reservoir offers amenities suitable for families with children. "No motorized boats. Dispersed camping. Excellent hidden creek water. Restroom open during camping season. Store one mile away," reports David B. The restriction on motorized boats creates safer water play areas.
Fire restrictions: Campfire policies vary at equestrian sites. "We loved it here and really lucked out on our spot," Hannah S. says about Scott Lake, mentioning the fire pits available. Families should confirm current fire regulations before arrival, as restrictions change with fire danger levels.
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations bring variable conditions. "Elevation is very high which means incremental weather. Aka woke up in October with snow which happened to us," warns Mavrick S. about Scott Lake. Families camping with horses need extra clothing and shelter options for unpredictable conditions.
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Most horse campgrounds near Marcola accommodate smaller rigs only. "We have a 38 foot rv. We got stuck in a ditch. Rv almost tipped over trying to u turn... if you go down the main lower path you will find a area big enough to u turn! Dont do it until then!" cautions Dillon & Soren A. about navigating Hult Pond with larger vehicles.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary widely between horse camps. Silver Falls State Park provides more services than most, with "very family friendly camp ground, so watch out for all the RVs and kids on bikes," according to Andrea M. The campground includes hookups suitable for horse trailers with living quarters.
