Howard Creek Horse Camp offers equestrian camping in the Silver Falls State Park area near Sublimity, Oregon. Located at an elevation of about 1,500 feet, the camp sits within the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains where Douglas fir forests create natural windbreaks for campers. The camp's terrain features a mix of meadows and wooded areas with soil that tends to be muddy during Oregon's rainy season from November through April.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Silver Falls State Park features an extensive network of horse-friendly trails separate from the park's popular hiking paths. "This is a gorgeous state park, absolutely worth the visit even if you're just coming to the day use area. Amazing hikes, the main one being the one with 10 waterfalls - dogs aren't allowed on this one though and it takes about 3 hours to hike it, so heads up on that," notes a visitor to Silver Falls State Park Campground.
Explore backcountry horse trails: The park's 9,200 acres include several trail systems specifically designated for equestrians. "Stunning camping in a temperate rainforest. Sites are big and private. Very quite and tons of near empty trails even with a full campground on a weekend in the summer. Walking, bike, and horse trails," shares a visitor at Howard Creek Horse Camp.
Waterfall viewing: While horses aren't allowed on the Trail of Ten Falls, riders can access other viewing points. "Top Oregon Waterfall park. Probably the easiest accessibility to the most awesome waterfalls per few square miles in Oregon. Ample Parking and many different falls and trails to choose from," reports a camper at Silver Falls State Park.
What campers like
Private campsites: Horse camps typically offer more spacious sites than standard campgrounds. "Beautiful wooded campsites with epic disc golf course. Milo McIver may be best known for it's twin 18 hole disc golf courses, or single 27 hole layout when tournaments aren't in progress," mentions a reviewer at Milo McIver State Park Campground.
Multi-use trail options: Many equestrian campgrounds provide access to diverse trail systems. "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," shares a camper at Willamette Mission State Park Horse Camp.
Natural terrain variety: The region offers diverse riding environments. "Remote and quiet campground. Only .5 mile hike to the falls. Shellburgh Falls is tall with a huge basalt cave that you can walk behind the waterfall and down below to actually stand under the waterfall. Very pretty," notes a visitor at Santiam State Forest Shellburg Falls Recreation Area.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect availability: Some horse camps close during winter months or following forest fires. "I was planning to potentially camp here but it seems that facilities were damaged in the 2020 fires and they will not be re-established," reports a visitor regarding Santiam State Forest Shellburg Falls.
Permits and reservations: Most equestrian campgrounds require advance bookings, especially during summer months. "This is a hike in only spot (3miles) and special permits are required but it is a beautiful lake with great fishing. Sites are first come first served but there are several established campsites around the lake complete with fire pits and lake views," shares a camper at Pamelia Lake.
Weather impacts: Trail conditions vary significantly with seasons. "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," advises a Silver Falls visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Plan activities for non-riders: Not everyone in your group may want to ride horses. "There is everything from disc golf, mountain biking, fishing, shooting range, hiking, and large enough to host an event. There is plenty to do and area is well maintenance," notes a visitor to Willamette Mission State Park.
Choose camps with amenities: For families, facilities make a difference. "We love hiking the trails and our kids love the playground and river swimming!" shares a camper at Silver Falls State Park.
Check trail difficulty ratings: Ensure trails match your family's skill levels. "The scenery is amazing. The smell of the trees in the summer is my favorite part. Lots of great trails to hike," reports a visitor to Whispering Pine Horse Camp.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Many horse campgrounds offer RV accommodations with varying levels of service. "Huge gravel lot with RV hookups, no sewer connection but there is an on-site dump station so that's covered," notes a visitor to Polk County Fairgrounds.
Parking and maneuvering space: Check site dimensions before booking. "We didn't stay even 24 hours. We only stayed for a place to sleep overnight, but I'm eager to return and stay longer. I was super impressed with the size and location of the tent sites," shares a camper at Milo McIver State Park.
Seasonal access considerations: Road conditions can limit RV access during winter months. "This park floods every winter. I advise planning your trip for the spring or summer knowing that there is a lot of shaded trails to keep you cool," warns a visitor to Willamette Mission State Park.
