Willamette Valley offers diverse horse camping options within a short drive from Salem. The area's temperate climate allows for seasonal trail riding on varied terrain, with most equestrian facilities open from spring through fall. Camping elevations in the region typically range from 200 to 1,000 feet above sea level, with river valley bottomlands providing access to both wooded areas and open grasslands.
What to do
Trail riding on varied terrain: Silver Falls State Park offers extensive equestrian trails that wind through the park's dense forests. Jennifer H. notes, "Very quite and tons of near empty trails even with a full campground on a weekend in the summer. Walking, bike, and horse trails."
Explore riverfront areas: Willamette Mission State Park features scenic trails along the Willamette River. Fidel S. shares, "There is lots to outdoor activities at Willamette mission state park. there is everything from disc golf, mountain biking, fishing, shooting range, hiking, and large enough to host an event."
Visit historic landmarks: The largest Black Cottonwood tree in Oregon stands within Willamette Mission State Park boundaries. According to Brandi L., "This site is soooo beautiful! stayed here a couple times and always enjoyed it. Has an area to go fishing but I never caught anything."
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Howard Creek Horse Camp at Silver Falls State Park provides private sites with good spacing. Jennifer H. comments, "Sites are big and private. Very quite and tons of near empty trails even with a full campground on a weekend in the summer."
Family-friendly amenities: Silver Falls State Park Campground offers dedicated equestrian facilities with convenient access to multiple recreation options. Jeff K. shares, "The cabins are small but comfortable with heat, lights, and beds. Covered porch is nice to sit and listen to the rain."
Evening entertainment: Horse campers often gather around campfires after rides. Sprunki R. mentions, "I had a great weekend at Willamette Mission State Park Horse Camp! The campsites are horse friendly and the trails are absolutely gorgeous- it felt like being out in the wild."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding affects access: Winter months often render trails impassable at lower elevations. Jefferson S. notes, "This State Park has a hiker/biker area due to it's location on the Willamette Valley Bikeway. There is no potable water, so you must plan to pack enough water for the night."
Insect preparation necessary: Milo McIver State Park Campground can have mosquito activity during summer months. Lindsey T. shares, "I was super impressed with the size and location of the tent sites. The tent sites were also secluded and flat. (But a far walk to the bathrooms/showers)."
Water supplies limited: Many equestrian camps require bringing your own water for horses. Jessica M. confirms about Willamette Mission, "Only sites for camping with horses."
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds require advance booking during peak season. Richard H. from Silver Falls says, "Campsites are spaced well apart with lots of room in each site. Bathrooms and showers are super nice and clean."
Tips for camping with families
Horse-friendly playgrounds: Polk County Fairgrounds offers affordable camping with room for both horses and children. Casey P. notes, "Huge gravel lot with RV hookups, no sewer connection but there is an on-site dump station so that's covered."
Educational opportunities: Silver Falls features interpretive programs during summer months. Melissa L. shares, "THE most beautiful park in Oregon that we've seen! Hiked for 5 hours! BEWARE: It's WET, so bring your wet weather gear, and good, sturdy hiking shoes for slippery terrain."
Multi-generational activities: Parks often have both challenging and easy trail options. Sherrie B. observes about Howard Creek, "First and foremost, it's all about the waterfalls - all 10 of them - linked by paved hiking trails. Not a fan of sharing the trail with hikers when on your bike? There are miles of mountain bike trails. Have horses? They have trails too."
Tips from RVers
Designated horse trailer parking: Several equestrian campgrounds offer pull-through sites. Theresa R. states about Polk County Fairgrounds, "Electricity 30 amp and water at the post. Dump station nearby. We were visiting relatives in this area, so really only need a safe place to park the rig."
Level pads available: Jones Creek offers larger sites accommodating horse trailers with living quarters. Katie C. mentions, "We love staying in the campground! There are many river acess points, the forestry center, walking trails and wildlife all within walking distance. The campsites are on a first come first serve basis and many of them are pretty big."
Hookup considerations: Some equestrian camps offer limited electrical service. Lynette W. says about Polk County, "The staff is very friendly. Nothing fancy here but the price is very affordable."
