Equestrian camping near Portland, Oregon offers access to diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 200 feet along the Columbia River to over 1,000 feet in the surrounding hills. The region experiences mild but wet winters and warm summers, with most horse-friendly trails remaining accessible from April through October. Seasonal considerations include muddy conditions in spring and occasional trail closures during high fire danger periods in late summer.
What to do
Trail riding around Stub Stewart: Connected to over 15 miles of multi-use trails, riders can access varying terrain directly from their campsites. "During the main season when the whole place is open you can usually find a spot last min. Lots to do with the Banks / Vernonia trail running through the camp that has over 15 miles of paved walking / biking trails," notes Shane from Hares Canyon Horse Camp.
Fishing access at Beacon Rock: The Columbia River offers year-round fishing opportunities within a 45-minute drive from Portland. "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. Easy day-use area and there is also a popular campsite nearby with hiking trails," writes Brian C. from Beacon Rock State Park.
Mountain biking at Battle Ground Lake: The lake sits in a volcanic crater with surrounding trails open to both horses and mountain bikes. "This little camp ground was great for a two night stay. Lots of hiking near by," shares Laura B. from Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Sites along the water provide natural cooling and recreation during summer months. "We love it! For a lot of reasons. Part of the reason is it's close, so that's part good. Driving up there the way we drive (from Vancouver) you go up through ranching/farming territory and it's nice and green and pretty," explains Richard B. about Battle Ground Lake State Park.
Secluded tent camping options: Walk-in sites offer more privacy than standard campgrounds. "The hike in is pretty easy--about a quarter mile down the up. They have carts to help you get all your stuff to your spot in one trip which is very helpful. When we visited, there were at most 2-3 other groups in the area so we were very spread out and had lots of privacy," shares Jenny R. about Dairy Creek East.
Well-maintained horse facilities: Horse campers appreciate the dedicated equestrian amenities. "The horse camp comes complete with full hookups, a full bathroom with showers, and corrals for the horses. Friendly rangers patrol the camp regularly to make sure there are horses occupying each site," reports Tanya B. from Hares Canyon Horse Camp.
What you should know
Limited availability during peak season: Horse camps fill quickly from June through September. "This year with covid it's been harder to find a spot last min and they would only let you reserve 30 days in advance so planning something in advance was impossible," notes Shane about Hares Canyon Horse Camp.
Wildlife encounters are possible: Be prepared for wildlife in equestrian areas. "When we came back from the shower my wife and I observed a dark shadow darting from the table around the back corner of the tent... it was a bobcat. I yelled at the cat for some time it wouldn't leave it sat there and stared me down," warns Patrick G. from Hares Canyon Horse Camp.
Clean-up requirements: Horse owners are responsible for manure management. "You must clean up after your own horse. Manure bin as well as shovels/brooms are provided onsite," explains a reviewer about Hares Canyon Horse Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer kid-friendly play areas. "This campground is very nice, small, looped campground located across the freeway and about a mile or two away from the amazing hike up Beacon Rock. The first day use area on the right as you enter also has a playground," mentions Corinna B. from Beacon Rock State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly water access: Shallow swimming areas provide safe recreation. "One of the best State parks for camping. Well manicured sites. Plenty of privacy. Great fishing! Trout, bass, blue gill.. swimming area," writes Brian B. about Battle Ground Lake State Park.
Family-friendly cabin alternatives: For those not tent camping with horses. "We love this place. For a lot of reasons. One thing that always looked intriguing is they do have the cabins, so maybe one of these times we'll rent one," shares Richard B. about Battle Ground Lake State Park.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: RV sites with equestrian access provide amenities for both horses and humans. "I bring my R-Pod trailer and every RV spot has full hook-ups," notes Shane about Hares Canyon Horse Camp.
Pull-through access: Some horse camps accommodate larger rigs with trailers. "One of our favorite Oregon SPs. In the middle of a mountainous forest with lots of hiking, paved path & mtb biking, disc golf, horse trails and more. Well maintained full hookup sites with 50amp, most 63' long," shares OregonSteve from Dairy Creek East — L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park.
Horse-trailer parking considerations: Dedicated spaces accommodate horse trailers. "We stayed in the Woodward full hook up sites. Only a small number of them so felt spacious and secluded. Close to a busy train track and you can here some highway noise but overall we felt secluded and enjoyed," notes Joe C. from Silver Falls State Park Campground.
