Knebal Springs offers equestrian-focused camping with dedicated horse corrals in the eastern section of Mt. Hood National Forest. Located near the transitional zone where forest meets high desert, the elevation ranges from 3,800-4,200 feet, creating diverse riding conditions. The campground functions as a gateway to extensive trail networks with direct access to the Pacific Crest Trail, making it popular for riders throughout its May to October operating season.
What to do
Trail connections: Hikers staying at Bonney Crossing can access Badger Creek Trail approximately 100 feet from the campground. "Badger Creek Trail, a versatile, climate-variety hike that sports a good stopping point at Pine Creek about 6 miles in, then to Badger Lake another 6 miles beyond that," according to one reviewer who backpacked in the area.
Water activities: During summer months, several streams provide cooling relief. "Sleeping next to the water is calming and the hikes are top notch. The road down is a little sketchy but as long as you go slow it's well worth it," notes a Bonney Crossing visitor who appreciated the stream access.
Mountain biking: The network of forest roads near Panther Creek Campground creates excellent biking opportunities. "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," reports one camper who uses the area as a base camp for cycling adventures.
What campers like
Trail diversity: The area surrounding these horse campgrounds near Mosier, Oregon offers varied terrain for riders of all skill levels. "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 a camper from Panther Creek Campground.
Seclusion factor: Riley Horse Campground provides spacious sites for equestrians. "This is hands down one of my favorite campgrounds, because the spots are large, far apart from the other sites, and very quiet. The spot I had (Spot 4) was huge, plenty of room for a larger party, felt like a quarter of an acre," describes a camper who appreciated the generous spacing.
Water features: Streams near many campsites enhance the camping experience. "Panther Creek providing wonderful white noise. Could not ask for a better place to park your rv or tent," writes one camper about their peaceful stay.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Spring availability depends on snow melt, while late summer can mean limited water. "The springs are ephemeral, so there wasn't anything to see while we were there," notes a camper at one of the equestrian-focused sites, highlighting the variable nature of water sources.
Road conditions: Access roads to several horse campgrounds in the Mosier area vary in quality. "The road down is a little sketchy but as long as you go slow it's well worth it," advises a Bonney Crossing visitor, suggesting careful driving for those with horse trailers.
Wildlife awareness: Be prepared for wildlife encounters common in the transition zone between forest and high desert. "We stayed on site 15. The sites was a little hard to get into because of all the cars, trucks parked on the roadway, the owners were happy to move vehicles to get us in (5er,34ft)," reports a Panther Creek camper, highlighting the importance of campground etiquette.
Tips for camping with families
Campsite selection: Choose sites with natural features that engage children. At Clackamas Lake Campground, "We stayed in spot 8 which looked onto Clackamas Lake. Which side note is not a 'lake' but more of a marshy pond with reeds and grass around the edge. Still I was able to situate my tent to look onto the lake."
Bug preparation: The marshy areas common to horse campgrounds near Mosier can harbor insects. "Seriously, bring bug spray and put it on the minute you get there. Had a great time, the camp host were cool," advises a Clackamas Lake visitor who learned this lesson firsthand.
Multiple activities: Plan for alternative recreation beyond horseback riding. "Nice campground with sites that aren't too close together. It's near Clackamas Lake which is more like marshland than a lake. The good news is that it's only a mile or so to from beautiful Timothy Lake, where it's hard to get a site in the summer," explains another camper.
Tips from RVers
Site access: RV campers with horse trailers should arrive early to secure suitable spots at Beacon Rock State Park Campground. "Stayed here a couple of nights. Our site was a tenting site, but we were in our mini Meerkat camper and we fit (our choice). Almost abandoned, probably because of huge hail storm," describes one camper about the varying site conditions.
Hookup availability: Most equestrian campgrounds offer limited services. "The spaces are very close together with very few trees separating spaces. Some spots looked barely big enough for a 2 person tent. In this same area is the only flush toilets/showers (Coin operated)," notes a camper about facilities at one state park, highlighting the importance of planning for limited hookups.
Noise factors: Consider campsite location relative to forest roads and trails. "Day and night, semis speed past the state park on either a downhill straight away or an uphill straight away, regardless it sounds like a freight train or military landing pad all night/day long," warns one Brooks Memorial State Park visitor about sites near highways.
