Canby, Oregon serves as an excellent starting point for equestrian enthusiasts seeking outdoor camping experiences. Located in the Willamette Valley at approximately 150 feet above sea level, this area experiences mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers typical of western Oregon. Horse campgrounds near Canby offer specialized facilities between May and October when trails are typically driest and most accessible for riders.
What to do
Trail riding loops: 5-20 miles: At L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, riders find extensive trail systems connecting to different sections of the park. "LOTS of nice, wide horse trails for horse riding enthusiasts. We all made s'mores and sang campfire songs together in the evening after our day of hiking to the horse camp and up to the bat haven (a nice long nature walk for the kids)," notes Melissa L.
Riverside fishing access: Beacon Rock State Park provides shoreline fishing opportunities along the Columbia River. "Beacon Rock is an incredible, tall hill in the Columbia River Gorge and a Washington State Park. The climb up the rock is through a well-built trail. It can get narrow at spots and not for those who fear heights," according to Steve C. The park includes boat launching facilities for water access.
Waterfall exploration: 1-5 mile trails: Howard Creek Horse Camp at Silver Falls State Park connects to the park's famous waterfall trail system. Jennifer H. explains that it offers "stunning 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."
What campers like
Natural swimming spots: Oxbow Regional Park offers river access for cooling off during summer rides. "The river is refreshing on warm days to swim in. We like this because it's an easy day trip from Portland," says J W. The Sandy River provides natural swimming holes throughout the 1,200-acre park.
Secluded campsites with horse facilities: Willamette Mission State Park Horse Camp offers dedicated horse camping areas. "This State Park has a hiker/biker area due to it's location on the Willamette Valley Bikeway... There is also a campground for horseback riders specifically for those who want to ride their horses in the park," explains Jefferson S.
Historical features: Several equestrian campgrounds preserve historical elements. "The largest Black Cottonwood tree resides at this park and is worth seeing!" mentions Kelly N. about Willamette Mission State Park. These historical features provide interesting stopping points during trail rides.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding affects trails: Plan your equestrian camping trips carefully by checking conditions. "This park floods every winter. I advise planning your trip for the spring or summer knowing that there is a lot of shaded trails to keep you cool. Mosquitoes can be a problem at dusk because of the water," warns Kelly N. about Willamette Mission State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most horse camps require advance booking, especially during peak season. "This is a very family friendly camp ground, so watch out for all the RVs and kids on bikes. But once you are out on the trail it gets peaceful and picturesque," advises Andrea M. about Silver Falls State Park.
Wildlife considerations: Secure feed properly when staying at equestrian campgrounds. "Bear Warning - This area is a bear zone however you will not find bear boxes like you will at other campsites in the area. For this reason you need to come prepared and make sure you are able to secure your items in a safe way," cautions Crystal C. when referring to Beacon Rock State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access near horse camps: Many equestrian campgrounds include family-friendly amenities. "The recent upgrades to playgrounds are awesome for the kids and the new welcome center makes check in a breeze," notes Finn M. about Oxbow Regional Park, making it suitable for mixed groups with riders and non-riders.
Educational opportunities: Several equestrian camps offer nature programs. "We take elementary students to this site every spring to have a field science day," shares Kelly N. about Willamette Mission State Park, highlighting its educational value.
Multi-use trail etiquette: Teach children proper trail sharing when riding in mixed-use areas. "Short drive or hike to the falls. Since we were here last time, they now have an off-leash fenced dog area," mentions MickandKarla W. about L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, indicating the variety of users sharing these spaces.
Tips from RVers
RV-friendly equestrian sites: 30-50 amp hookups: Some horse campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "Sites are big and private. Very quite and tons of near empty trails even with a full campground on a weekend in the summer," notes Jennifer H. about Howard Creek Horse Camp, which offers both RV parking and horse facilities.
Water pressure considerations: Check ahead for utility quality at equestrian campgrounds. "Water pressure is the lowest we've ever experienced. Not sure what's going on but all of the folks we've talked to are experiencing the same," reports Jennifer H. about Jantzen Beach RV Park, highlighting the importance of bringing supplemental water for horses.
Maneuverability challenges: Some horse camps have limited turning space for larger trailers. "Best for tents only or a smaller trailer. Some sites are definitely better than others," advises Corinna B. about Beacon Rock State Park's main camping area, though its equestrian area does accommodate horse trailers.
