12 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Several horse-friendly campgrounds near Marcola offer equestrian camping facilities within the surrounding Willamette Valley region. Howard Creek Horse Camp at Silver Falls State Park provides camping options for riders with their horses, featuring electric hookups, drinking water, showers, and restrooms. This established campground accommodates both tent and RV camping with picnic tables and fire rings at each site. The campground maintains a strict pets-allowed policy, making it suitable for camping with both horses and dogs. Sites at Howard Creek are reservable and include sewer hookups for extended stays during trail riding excursions.
Hult Pond Recreation Area offers dispersed camping options for equestrians seeking a more primitive horse camping experience approximately 20 miles west of Marcola. The area features several campsites near the pond with space for horse trailers, though no dedicated horse corrals are available. Campers should be prepared for basic amenities with vault toilets but no drinking water. The location provides multiple hiking paths that can accommodate horses, but riders should check current trail conditions before arrival. Fishing opportunities in the pond create additional recreation options for campers when not riding. During spring and early summer, the area remains relatively quiet for those seeking a peaceful equestrian camping experience away from crowds.
"Lots of great trails to hike."
from $25 - $27 / night
Check Availability"If you want to camp in Oregon this is the place to go. There are several waterfalls and hiking trails. You can see wildlife and you can't beat the beauty. You can tent camp and they also have yurts."
"THE most beautiful park in Oregon that we've seen! Hiked for 5 hours! BEWARE: It's WET, so bring your wet weather gear, and good, sturdy hiking shoes for slippery terrain."
from $28 - $92 / night
Check Availability"There are only a few flat spots for RVs but quite a few decent spots for tent camping next to the pond. The west side of the pond has at least 2 spots that are a good distance away from the others."
"The sites are sling the right side of the of the road, the road that leads along the left (west side) of the lake. There are several sites, we stayed in H2, which is painted on the road."
from $23 - $25 / night
Check Availability"Horse Creek group camp is one of my favorite campsites ever."
from $75 / night
Check Availability"It's a drive, hike, bike and walk in. I didn't see any spots big enough for RV but there is space to park that isn't officially a site."
"Views of Three Sisters makes for the most breathtaking sunrise and hiking around the lake is beautiful. There is also hiking up to Tenas Lakes or Scott Mountain that makes for a good day trek."
from $5 / night
Check Availability"Very quite and tons of near empty trails even with a full campground on a weekend in the summer. Walking, bike, and horse trails. Close to the ten waterfall trail on the day use area."
"First and foremost, it's all about the waterfalls - all 10 of them - linked by paved hiking trails. Not a fan of sharing the trail with hikers when on your bike?"
from $29 - $87 / night
Check Availability"Shellburgh Falls is tall with a huge basalt cave that you can walk behind the waterfall and down below to actually stand under the waterfall. Very pretty. No one was camping when I was there."
from $16 / night
Check Availability
TravelerIf you want to camp in Oregon this is the place to go. There are several waterfalls and hiking trails. You can see wildlife and you can't beat the beauty. You can tent camp and they also have yurts.
GuideTHE most beautiful park in Oregon that we've seen! Hiked for 5 hours! BEWARE: It's WET, so bring your wet weather gear, and good, sturdy hiking shoes for slippery terrain. Saw all but the northern most two falls while hiking the trails. So many more to hike! Kids' play area inside Loop B, showers, and nature trails around the campground. RV dump at the horse camp turnoff. I'd try to reserve spots 9 or 12 (next to the playground and sunny spots) or 72 (next to the creek in the shade) next time! We rate this one an 8.
TravelerStunning camping in a temperate rainforest. Sites are big and private. Very quite and tons of near empty trails even with a full campground on a weekend in the summer. Walking, bike, and horse trails. Close to the ten waterfall trail on the day use area.
GuideThis is one of my favorite places to go in Oregon (there are many). The park has about 120 sites, it is ready for RV, Tents, Horses, Boats about anything you could want.
Dogs are welcome, however, some trails (like the Ten Falls) are not allowed. Please pick up after your pet and keep them on a leash!
If you get a chance, do the Trail of Ten Falls, it is a spectacular, nationally recognized hiking trail that weaves through a densely forested landscape. The trail passes a series of breathtaking waterfalls along a rocky canyon and descends to a winding creek on the forest floor.
RangerThis beautiful location is about 30 minutes from any town and is my go to when I need a good hike in the Rim Trail or just a nice nature walk around the 10 Dalls Trail.
In recent years it has become very popular and the main falls area is over run with tourists at most points during the year.
Not the place to go if you are seeking to not see anyone, but once you pass the main falls loop near the lodge the heard things out the further you trek.
Most hiking trails are mild to moderate. Seeking more of a challenge? If you venture out to the rim trail or the K214 trail heads, then you will rarely see anyone; though be aware of cougars and I'd advise a bear bell. I've seen many tracks over the years up there ranging from Cubs to a large cat tracking a horse. Meow! You may meet horse riders on these trails as well.
All and all a beautiful local treasure that is a large enough park to hold many thousands of people and still feel like you are out in the woods enjoying nature.
Camp sites are available across the main road from the park. The main park area is for day use only.
TravelerProbably the easiest accessibility to the most awesome waterfalls per few square miles in Oregon. Ample Parking and many different falls and trails to choose from
GuideThis is one of the best places in all of Oregon. You can hike all around, swim, and even access the prettiest parts in a wheelchair! Also some campground activities like games and playgrounds. The camping is pretty straightforward and clean. There are “bunk houses” in addition to simple tent sites. There are some campsites next to a creek, if you are lucky! It is pretty crowded, so know what you’re getting into...but it’s worth it for the beauty. Get up before sunrise and get on the trails if you can!!
GuideFirst and foremost, it's all about the waterfalls - all 10 of them - linked by paved hiking 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. Big group? Gotcha covered. Need a snack or gift? They're here. The campground is large and well-maintained. Sites are reservable. This is a park for all ages and all seasons.
GuideMy husband and I have tried to reserve a spot at Silver Falls SP in Oregon the last few years. This year we were very proactive in making a reservation as soon as the window opened. This is a beautiful park. Wonderful access to several water falls in the area. Sites are large. We stayed in a non hookup site with our 22 foot trailer. Things to consider - only a few trails are open to dogs so if you want to go close to the falls, visit the park at a time of the year that is cool enough for your furry friend to stay in your car. We visited in July. Skunks and raccoons came out to visit when it got dark. Just be aware that we are all sharing their home. Finally, there’s a little spot in the campground that you can access wi-fi but we weren’t able to sign on to it. If heading towards Salem, there’s a Willamette Valley overlook that can get a phone signal.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Marcola, OR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Marcola, OR is Whispering Pine Horse Camp with a 5-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Marcola, OR?
TheDyrt.com has all 12 equestrian camping locations near Marcola, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
