Equestrian campgrounds near Seneca, Oregon offer access to the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness trail system through forested terrain at elevations between 5,000-7,000 feet. These campgrounds typically operate seasonally from late May through October, with early season visitors occasionally encountering snow at higher elevations. Access roads transition from paved to increasingly rough gravel forest roads requiring careful navigation.
What to do
Trail riding from Slide Creek: Visitors can access numerous trails directly from Slide Creek Campground that connect to the broader Strawberry Mountain Wilderness. "This area is on your up to strawberry campground, its nice and clean and quite! Slide horse has areas for your horses," notes Erin N. about Slide Creek Campground.
Hike to Strawberry Lake: A moderate 2-mile trail from Strawberry Campground leads to Strawberry Lake with alpine views. "Tons of hiking, including a closer one to strawberry lake with stunning views and a waterfall further if you want," reports Ash C. about Strawberry Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts abundant wildlife including deer that frequently visit campsites. "We even got a visit from a few deer every night around dinner time. They kept their distance but still came within 20 feet to check us out," shares Heather B.
What campers like
Creek access: The proximity to running water is particularly valued by equestrian campers. "The creek is just a few feet to go get water for animals and your fire pits and to put your feet in," mentions Erin N.
Temperature relief: Higher elevation camps offer escape from summer heat in the valleys. "Dropped 20 degrees from the hot valley floor. Around 8 spots, first come, but a few other spots on the way up, for dispersed," notes Chris B. about Grant County RV Park.
Seclusion and quiet: Most campgrounds in the area offer separation between sites and peaceful environments. "If you can get up the sketchy and rough road, it's a beautiful site," says Andrew S. about Strawberry Campground.
Natural surroundings: Campsites are often situated among mature trees with creek views. "There was a beautiful creek running through the campsite and great large pine trees," describes Joel M.
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest roads leading to wilderness campgrounds become progressively rougher and may challenge vehicles without high clearance. "The road was slick. The ruts and holes in the road began to increase. When I was about 2 miles away from Strawberry Campground, I turned around. I just didn't trust my Mazda 3 to make it without bottoming out," cautions Mary G.
Water availability: Many campgrounds offer non-potable water sources that require treatment. "Multiple vault toilets available as well as water taps that I don't think are potable but good enough to rinse dishes," explains Andrew S.
Weather variability: Mountain elevations can experience dramatic weather shifts even in summer months. "We got caught in rain, sleet, snow, and graupel all in one day but that's hardly the campground's fault," notes Andrew S.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: The remote location means children may need activities between adventures. "I had my 9 year old nephew with me for this trip and was thankful I brought our bikes and games. Since the campground wasn't busy, there weren't other kiddos for him to play with," advises Heather B. from Depot Park.
Creek safety awareness: Some campsites feature steep drop-offs to adjacent creeks. "There's a steep drop off next to some sites that goes right into the creek. Keep an eye on kiddos or pick a site farther away from the creek if you're worried about that," warns Heather B.
Pack for temperature changes: Even summer nights can be cold at higher elevations. "The only thing I would change is the temperature. We didn't realize it was still so chilly at the end of May and we're thankful for our extra layers and warmer sleeping bags," shares Heather B.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for leveling: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain requiring careful positioning. "Not to hard to level, but kind of tight on some corners for my 30' motor home," explains Mark P. about Harney County Fairgrounds.
Advance planning for remote sites: When bringing larger rigs to wilderness campgrounds, arrive early and consider vehicle capabilities. "It's accessed from a nine or ten mile dirt road, a bit of a challenge to navigate the last mile," notes Joel M.
Wildlife precautions: Secure food and supplies against wildlife encounters. "Lots of wildlife in the area so make sure to keep your food and other items locked up so the critters don't get into it," recommends Heather B.
