Horse Creek Campground and Wild Mare Horse Campground serve as primary destinations for horseback riders in the Siuslaw National Forest region. Located in Oregon's coastal range, these areas feature moderate year-round temperatures ranging from 40-70°F with frequent coastal fog and rain. The campgrounds connect to a network of forested trails with elevation changes between 200-1,000 feet throughout the riding areas.
What to do
Trail riding from Baker Beach Campground: A short walk through dunes leads to beach access. "The hike to the beach was fantastic. Eric, the camp host was a great source of information. Gave us some great hikes to do and where to have a shower in town. Could hear the waves crashing all night," notes camper Val at Baker Beach Campground.
Beach riding from Bullards Beach: Located near Bandon, this park offers multiple trail options. "Great camping location with lots of private spots with lots of trees and greenery. They have bathrooms and showers if needed. Close to beach and nice to walk around campgrounds with 3 camping areas," writes Jennifer C. at Bullards Beach State Park Campground.
Forest exploration from Dry Lake: Smaller-scale horse camping with forest access. "Great spot in between Florence and yachats. Close to heceta light house, right before sea lion caves, and close to hikes and away from crowds," reports Ash C. at Dry Lake Horse Camp.
What campers like
Forest privacy: Some equestrian sites offer separation from others. "This a more peaceful spot, without immediate engine noise but with plenty of room for human and horse at each site. It's a nice size to get to know a few neighbors - but not too many," explains Bjorn S. about Wild Mare.
Site improvements: Horse Creek has received volunteer upgrades. "The horse water trough is a short walk away from camp but does not have potable water. If users are not careful it can drain or not be usable so bring horse water," notes Dodie K. at Horse Creek Campground.
Beach accessibility: Some campgrounds offer beach access within walking distance. "There is a beach nearby that would be a long walk or a short bike ride away. The lighthouse is also a nice attraction," writes Emma L. about Bullards Beach.
What you should know
Increasing use conflicts: Non-equestrian campers sometimes create challenges at horse camps. "This is a horse camp, for people who have horses, NOT a car camp. It's not fair that car campers are taking reservation spots away from horse campers. We can not just take our horses into car camps," explains Shannon C. about Wild Mare Horse Campground.
Primitive facilities: Most equestrian campgrounds have basic amenities. "There is no water or any hook ups but the corrals are pretty good except they can get muddy if manure is not carefully picked out," reports Dodie K. about Horse Creek Campground.
Access challenges: Some horse camps have difficult entrances. "The turn into this road from Highway is a sharp one and immediately uphill. Probably not for anyone towing large trailers but if your skilled you can try it out," warns Ash C. about Dry Lake Horse Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids can spot local animals. "The campground itself was quiet and populated with wild turkeys. We were there off season, so we had no problem finding a site day of," shares The School for Y. about Bullards Beach.
Bring water supplies: Most horse camps lack potable water. "There is water for horses, but it's not potable for humans," advises Laura M. from Horse Creek.
Consider alternative campgrounds: Some family-friendly options exist nearby. "Small (only a handful of sites) campground with a moderate walk to the beach. The campground host was very friendly! Most of the sites open up into a shared circular area but it still felt very private and nice!" reports North Idaho N. about Baker Beach.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Larger rigs face challenges at some horse camps. "Each site has a horse corral, fire pit, and picnic table. There are 11 sites, each nicely separated from the other. Some are pull throughs and some are back ins," notes Laura M. about Horse Creek.
Alternative options for hookups: RVers seeking more amenities can consider nearby alternatives. "Stayed 5 nights site A-40 a very nice spot for our 26ft Class C motor home we fit a-ok an had 30am and 15am at the post, the site and utilities are in great shape," shares Robert O. at Bullards Beach State Park.
Weather preparedness: Coastal conditions affect RV camping. "We came in between rain showers and it was just us and the other tent. It's a maybe 1/4 mile walk to the beach over dunes. Very lovely place," notes MeLinda W. about Baker Beach.
