Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp in Sisters, Oregon sits within the Deschutes National Forest at approximately 6,500 feet elevation. The camp primarily serves equestrians with designated sites for horse trailers and proximity to extensive trail systems. Temperatures typically drop to near freezing at night even during summer months due to the elevation, creating ideal conditions for both horses and riders seeking relief from lower-elevation heat.
What to do
Trail riding along Tam McArthur Rim: Access this 5.4-mile round-trip trail from Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp, which connects riders to spectacular views of the Cascade Range. "Beautiful spot to relax! I didnt hear or see a single person the entire night even though there were other people in the area!" reports Josie M.
Fish for trout at Three Creek Lake: Located just 0.75 miles from the horse camp, this mountain lake offers excellent fishing opportunities. "Multiple hiking trails from the campground. 3 Creek Lake is .75 mile away," notes William B.
Explore Sisters Rodeo grounds: During non-event periods, the area around Sisters Rodeo Dispersed Camping provides open riding terrain. "We were there during a few events hosted by the Sisters Rodeo and got to listen to the events. A lot of horse trailers come into the dispersed camping area to park and ride their horses," explains Tia A.
What campers like
Natural water sources: Reynolds Pond provides a refreshing spot for cooling off after trail rides. "We jumped in the irrigation stream to cool off because the pond, even though good sized, looked a bit pondish," shares MeLinda W. about Reynolds Pond Recreation Site.
Dark skies for stargazing: The Central Oregon high desert offers exceptional night sky viewing away from city lights. "This is also a dark sky park and if the moon is not bright the stars are amazing," explains Amy B. about Prineville Reservoir.
Child-friendly swimming areas: Prineville Reservoir Main Campground maintains designated swimming zones suitable for families. "Large grassy areas, big roped off swimming hole... There is a boat marina plenty of parking for trailers. Great Lake for all water sports beautiful full sky view for star gazing," reports Ashley B.
What you should know
Pack extra water for horses: Limited natural water sources require riders to bring additional water. "There werent any firepits or anything that i could find but there was a bathroom nearby, as well as a beautiful creek!" reports Josie M. about Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp.
Road conditions can be challenging: Many horse camps require travel on rough forest roads. "The road to this camp site is just as bad if not worse. Take it slow if you have a big rig or don't have 4 wheel drive," warns Daisee Mae S. about Driftwood Campground.
Seasonal closure considerations: Most equestrian camping areas close during winter months due to snow. "It was around the 15th of the month when we decided to leave because frost was setting in, or we would've stayed a bit longer," notes Daisee Mae S.
Tips for camping with families
Bring river shoes for swimming areas: Rocky lake and pond edges can be uncomfortable for barefoot children. "There is a boat marina plenty of parking for trailers. Great Lake for all water sports... It can get blazing hot a few stickers so wear river shoes for swimming or at least getting there," advises Ashley B.
Look for shaded campsites: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F in lower elevations around Prineville. "Some of the campsites have really nice shade, while others have stunning views over the lake," explains Christian about Prineville Reservoir.
Consider cabin options for cooler nights: Bend/Sisters Garden RV Resort offers cabin rentals with heating for families wanting to explore horse trails by day but sleep comfortably at night. "There's also cabins to rent. Reserve well in advance. Right next to the sisters rodeo and within view of the three sisters mountain," advises Brian C.
Tips from RVers
Arrive with full water tanks: Most horse camping areas lack hookups or reliable water sources. "No amenities - You carry it in, You carry it out. There is fishing in the pond but no motorized boats," explains Lorene H. about Reynolds Pond Recreation Site.
Check forest service road conditions: Contact ranger districts before attempting to access higher elevation sites with large trailers. "This camp was more spacious than the one across the lake, and yes you get to have fires (at designated spots only). No fee, no water, no trash, and no electricity," notes Daisee Mae S.
Look for pull-through sites: Horse trailers require extra space for maneuvering. "Nice spaces with pavement and full hookups. Each space has a nice green lawn and fire ring. Would definitely get reservations as there is always something going on in nearby Sisters and next door to the Sisters Rodeo," advises Dean.