Equestrian camping near Powers, Oregon offers access to extensive trail systems through coastal and mountain terrain. The area sits at the junction of the Coast Range and Klamath Mountains with elevations ranging from 300 to 4,000 feet. Weather patterns create moderate temperatures year-round, though winter months often bring significant rainfall with seasonal creeks and streams flowing at their highest from November through April.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Campers at Wild Mare Horse Campground can access a variety of trails through coastal forest. As one visitor noted, "This a more peaceful spot, without immediate engine noise but with plenty of room for human and horse at each site. It's a nice size to get to know a few neighbors - but not too many." The trails offer "a great mix of scenery to explore."
Fishing excursions: Bear Creek provides fishing opportunities near Boundary Campground. "The Bear Creek Trail does run along the river, which makes it great for fishing. My family and I hiked this, and stopped on our way back to do some fishing," shares a camper. The trail's proximity to water makes it ideal for anglers looking to combine hiking and fishing.
Lighthouse tours: At Cape Blanco State Park, visitors can explore historic structures. "The lighthouse is a bonus," mentions one camper. Another adds, "Camp with a Lighthouse... The lighthouse is the oldest on the Oregon coast and you can get a tour of it. There are a bunch of trails for people and horses."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The natural vegetation at Cape Blanco State Park creates secluded camping spots. "One of my favorite campgrounds of the summer... Cape Blanco is on top of a cliff and very wooded. It is small-ish with less than 20 sites for cars/rvs/tents, several ocean view yurts/cabins, a completely separate Hiker/Biker area off in the woods and an equestrian camp nearby." Another camper noted, "The sites here really have a large amount of privacy compared to others on the coast."
Waterfront activities: Lake Selmac Resort provides direct access to water recreation. "Some sites here are very private feeling because you park the car up top and walk down (not far at all) to the tent that sits close to the lake," shares a camper. Another visitor commented, "Great spot for families. There are plenty of things to do from fishing, swimming, and even renting a 'peddle' boat for a leg workout while taking your trip around the lake."
Affordable camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the reasonable fees at some locations. One camper noted about Boundary Campground: "It is pretty cheap to stay here as well- only $5 per night. We had a Northwest Forest Pass and were able to use that instead of paying the $5 fee."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Some facilities have limited availability during winter months. A visitor to Bullards Beach State Park mentioned, "We were there off season, so we had no problem finding a site day of. The grounds themselves were clean, but the bathrooms weren't." Plan accordingly if visiting during non-peak seasons.
Facility limitations: Cape Blanco has some infrastructure issues to be aware of. "The dump station is closed because it's broken and they've been trying to secure funding to replace it... You will need to plan on using the dump station at the state park north or south of this park."
Cell service variability: Connectivity can be spotty throughout the region. One camper at Bullards Beach reported, "Cell signal on Verizon was really low speed and mostly useable. But ATT was good with 5-7Mbs without using our outside antenna and cell booster, 10-20mbs when using it."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly trails: For those with children, look for gentler terrain options. "Bear Creek Trail... does run along the river, which makes it great for fishing. My family and I hiked this, and stopped on our way back to do some fishing," notes one visitor to Boundary Campground. The accessible trail provides opportunities for multiple activities.
Protected camping environments: Lake Selmac County Park offers sheltered sites that work well for families. "We love coming to lake selmac to use the yurts for winter camping. They're heated and cozy. The kids enjoy the fishing and I love the view across the lake."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Nature observation can engage children of all ages. "Peaceful. Love watching the water birds. Lots of trees. Even nice in the winter. Clean bathrooms and good hiking," shares one Lake Selmac visitor. Wildlife sightings provide educational opportunities during your stay.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Bullards Beach, RVers have specific recommendations. "Stayed 5 nights site A-40 a very nice spot for our 26ft Class C motor home we fit a-ok an had 30am and 15am at the post, the site and utilities are in great shape... A loop is the best loop of A-B-C loops for privacy."
Dump station planning: Infrastructure limitations require advance planning. A Cape Blanco visitor warned, "The dump station is closed because it's broken... You will need to plan on using the dump station at the state park north or south of this park."
Power options: RVers at Douglas County Fairgrounds RV Park should note, "You have to pay for ALL vehicles and if you have a 5th wheel or any other tow RV you have to keep the tow vehicle WITH the RV the entire stay (and yes you are now charged for the tow vehicle even with a towed RV)." Different parks have varying policies on hookup availability and additional vehicle fees.
