Wild Mare Horse Campground serves as a base for equestrians accessing Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, located 43 miles west of Roseburg. The campground features a cul-de-sac design with sites sized to accommodate both riders and their horses. Recent visitor experiences indicate concerns about non-equestrian campers utilizing this specialized facility, creating potential conflicts between user groups.
What to do
Trail riding access: The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area offers diverse riding terrain directly accessible from Wild Mare Horse Campground. Bjorn S. notes, "I didn't have a horse to hop on, but I did notice a great mix of scenery to explore."
Hiking near water features: Natural Bridge Campground provides excellent hiking opportunities along the Rogue River. Joe V. shares, "The 'Natural Bridge' is a short walk away and is really cool. Lots of informative signs along the path to describe what you are seeing."
Fishing opportunities: Boundary Campground provides access to Bear Creek Trail which runs alongside a river ideal for fishing. Julie P. explains, "This 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."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Natural Bridge Campground offers privacy between sites. Laura M. mentions, "The sites are for the most part secluded from each other and most are along the Rogue River with a mix of sun and shade."
Quiet weekday experiences: For those seeking peace while horse camping near Roseburg, timing matters. Laura M. advises, "It was nice the first day and night during the week but over the weekend it got a bit ridiculous and we left."
Budget-friendly options: Douglas County Fairgrounds RV Park provides affordable equestrian-friendly camping with basic amenities. Mimi notes, "We used it as a base so didn't spend much time there. Host is very nice and showers and bathrooms are clean."
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Natural Bridge Campground undergoes significant seasonal changes. Mimi points out about Douglas County Fairgrounds, "Being here in the summer means dead grass and heat. I've been thru in the winter and it's much prettier."
Weekend crowds: Popular areas become significantly busier on weekends. Laura M. cautions about Natural Bridge Campground, "Off season this place would be great but we strongly suggest not going on a weekend or busy season unless you like people noise constantly all day."
Trail privacy concerns: Some campsites may have unexpected foot traffic. Laura M. warns, "Keep in mind that though the sites near the water are awesome, there is a heavily used trail that runs right along the river so you will have multiple hikers walking near or through your amazing campsite."
Tips for camping with families
Alternative equestrian options: Near Fawn Creek Campground (BLM) provides a family-friendly alternative for horse camping. James S. shares, "The campground offers a quiet retreat with well-maintained facilities, making it a great spot for nature lovers."
Weather preparation: Temperature variations require appropriate gear. James S. notes about Fawn Creek, "With temperatures ranging from 30°F in winter to 80°F in summer, it's a beautiful destination year-round."
Meteor viewing opportunities: Some campgrounds offer excellent night sky viewing. Sony A. reports from Natural Bridge Campground, "Beautiful setting! Trail to natural bridge is awesome and leads to an open area where we watched the Perseid meteor shower."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Douglas County Fairgrounds RV Park offers various hookups for RVs. Dawn comments, "The campground is right off a highly traveled hwy without any natural barrier to prevent road noise. The sites are pretty close to one another. Still a good place for the night."
First-come camping strategy: Some popular equestrian camping areas near Roseburg don't take reservations. Bri C. advises about Natural Bridge Campground, "This is one of our favorite go-to places, but be prepared there are no reservations! It's a small area with 17 sites right on a lazy part of the Rogue."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some camping experiences. Dawn explains about Douglas County Fairgrounds RV Park, "The campground is right off a highly traveled hwy without any natural barrier to prevent road noise."
