Chief Paulina Horse Camp provides one of the premier equestrian camping experiences near Silver Lake, Oregon. Located in the high desert at an elevation around 5,200 feet, this area features juniper woodlands and open rangeland with summer temperatures typically ranging from 45°F at night to 85°F during daytime. The camp operates seasonally, closing during winter months when snowfall makes access difficult.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Several trail systems connect directly from Silver Creek Marsh campground, offering routes through diverse terrain. As one camper noted, "Lovely walks and hikes to be had. Beautiful stargazing. There were corrals at one end for horse camping."
Visit nearby attractions: Thompson Reservoir provides fishing and water activities within riding distance. A camper at Silver Creek Marsh shared, "No frill Forest Service campground in the Fremont-Winemaker National Forest. On a warm June night, it's a pleasure to have a campground like this entirely to one's self."
Explore geological formations: The Christmas Valley area contains unique volcanic features within day-trip distance. From Christmas Valley Base Camp, one visitor mentioned it's "Cozy place great for large groups. Has every thing a campground needs."
What campers like
Quiet, remote setting: Many equestrian campers value the solitude of this region. A visitor to Chief Paulina Horse Camp noted it was "Extremely remote as you can get and still drive in. Absolutely beautiful."
Well-maintained facilities: Despite the remote location, established horse camps maintain quality amenities. At Silver Creek Marsh, campers appreciate that "Sites are level, well shaded and several are long and can handle big trailers. Some sites have less shade if you need StarLink access. Pit toilets are clean and have plenty of TP."
Spacious campsites: Horse campers need additional room, and these sites deliver. One camper at Jackson Creek noted, "Beautiful, remote and quiet. Large camp sites."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many horse camps require careful navigation. A Silver Creek Marsh camper warned, "The paved road in is not maintained well and has huge cracks every 20 feet, some that could take out a wheel. But the slow bumpy trip was worth it."
Limited services: Most equestrian camping areas near Silver Lake lack hookups or modern amenities. When considering Deschutes NF - HWY 31 dispersed sites, be aware that "There will be highway noise, no facilities of any kind, and patchy cell service."
Seasonal considerations: Winter access becomes difficult or impossible due to snow. Regarding dispersed camping along Highway 31, one camper noted these areas "May be blocked by snow in winter."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for limited connectivity: Most horse camping areas have minimal or no cell service. Pack offline entertainment options and emergency communication devices like satellite messengers.
Consider day-use options: For families with mixed interest in horseback riding, Christmas Valley Camping and RV Park offers alternatives. One camper found it a "Great spot for cost effective camping just a few minutes from fort rock."
Bring sufficient supplies: Remote location means limited access to groceries or supplies. Most campgrounds are 30-45 minutes from the nearest stores in Christmas Valley or Silver Lake.
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: While some sites accommodate large rigs, access roads may present challenges. Silver Creek Marsh campers suggest, "Came in on 4th of July and lots of sites were available. Sites are level, well shaded and several are long and can handle big trailers."
Level sites available: Despite the rugged terrain, many established horse camps feature relatively level camping areas suitable for RVs.
Consider generator needs: Most equestrian camping areas near Silver Lake lack electrical hookups, so plan accordingly with solar or generator power for longer stays.
