Looking for the best horse camping near Umpqua National Forest? It's easy to find Umpqua National Forest campgrounds for horse camping with The Dyrt. These scenic and easy-to-reach Oregon campsites are perfect for your horse camping excursion.
Meandering along most of the east shore of the mile-high Diamond Lake, this large campground boasts spectacular views of both Mount Bailey and Mount Thielsen, and offers visitors abundant recreational opportunities.
At an elevation of 5,183 feet, Diamond Lake provides outdoor enthusiasts with a multitude of recreational opportunities year-round. The area offers a scenic backdrop for swimmers braving its cold, refreshing waters, and anglers casting a lines from boat or shoreline. Rainbow trout thrive in the lake, as it is stocked annually with 300,000 fingerlings. Bicyclists will enjoy riding on the 11-miles of paved trail around the lake, while hikers can head out for the day on one of many trails leaving from the area. Interpretive programs are offered on Saturday evenings at the campground amphitheater.
Explosive geologic events have shaped the distinctive landscape on the 984,602-acre Umpqua National Forest, and the area provides spectacular scenery as well as an abundance of natural and cultural resources. The translation of the word, "Umpqua," meaning "thundering waters," defines the area. High mountain lakes, heart-stopping rapids, peaceful ponds and thundering waterfalls, including the 272-foot Watson Falls on the North Umpqua Highway, are available to visitors. Several designated wilderness areas provide opportunities undisturbed solitude. Encompassing 19,100 acres, Boulder Creek Wilderness is an incredible landscape, with dense old growth forests and steep terrain that tower above Boulder Creek. The most popular area in Boulder Creek is Pine Bench. This flat area overlooking Boulder Creek is home to a grove of old growth Ponderosa pines. Diverse ecosystems support a wide range of habitat for wildlife common to the area. From eagles and owls, to salamanders and salmon, these species, along with many others, depend on surrounding undeveloped wilderness, clean streams, and diverse forests to live.
Access to Diamond Lake is within walking distance, and boat ramps and fish cleaning stations are accessible to visitors. A nearby resort offers bicycle, boat and horse rentals as well as lodging, restaurants, a grocery store, laundry facilities and fuel. Trails for hiking and mountain biking are within 10 miles of the campground. Visitors may want to take some time to visit nearby Crater Lake National Park, the only national park in Oregon! The amazing Crater Lake area offers a glimpse into the volcanic history of the area. The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), one of the world's premier National Scenic Trails, showcases some of North America's most fantastic scenery, winding its way its way from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon and Washington, and is accessible near the campground.
$16 / night
Natural Bridge Campground stretches along the scenic Upper Rogue River, with majestic conifers creating pleasantly shaded sites and privacy between campsites. The Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway and the Rogue Gorge are popular sites nearby. Additionally, the entrance to Crater Lake National Park is 11 miles away, making this campground a popular place for those venturing into the Park for day trips.
$15 / night
Many people enjoy the solitude of camping away from developed campgrounds. Many people prefer to drive out on a Forest Service road and pitch their tent near a stream or at a spot with a nice view. Call any of our ranger stations for recommendations about where to camp.
Be aware that some areas may be closed to dispersed camping and that campfires may be prohibited in the summer, so call a ranger station ahead of time to ask. Generally, you cannot camp within a mile of developed recreation areas such as trailheads or picnic areas. Also, you cannot camp on the Forest for longer than 14 days at a time or more than 28 days in a year.
There are usually no facilities or services available to dispersed campers, such as trash removal or toilets. Please practice Leave No Trace by using existing sites when possible, packing out your trash, camping 100 feet from water, and digging a 6-8 inch hole for human waste.
Waldo Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in Oregon. It offers a uniquely peaceful setting on the water and along remote shorelines, surrounded by forests of Douglas fir and mountain hemlock. Recreation in the area is abundant with the lake an ideal location for water activities like sailing, canoeing and swimming.
Waldo Lake is circled by the Jim Weaver Loop, 20 miles of trail for hiking and biking. Bikes are allowed on the trails, but not in the nearby Waldo Lake Wilderness. There is also easy access to the Pacific Crest Trail and North Waldo is also a popular starting point for many wilderness trails and lakes, most notably the Rigdon, Wahanna and Torrey Lakes. There is a 1-mile Shoreline Trail between North Waldo Campground and Islet Campground which provides a short and pleasant hike along the lakeshore.
Situated high on the western slopes of the Oregon Cascades at 5,400 feet in elevation, Waldo Lake is one of the purest lakes in Oregon (9.8 square miles with a maximum depth of 427 feet). It has no permanent inlet to bring nutrients into the lake for plant growth. The lack of plant life contributes to its purity, allowing you to see to depths of 120 feet on a calm day.
$27 - $40 / night
Sites are located near Imnaha Creek. Activities and points of interest include structures constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corp in the 1930s, hiking trails and Imnaha Springs. Facilities 5 campsites Drinking water Vault toilet No garbage disposal - Please pack it out
This campground and trailhead is located along the Wild and Scenic North Umpqua River. Visitors will experience the river's rushing waters as they pass through lush high Cascade meadows. Spring arrives late in the high country and it is welcomed here with an explosion of colors. Purples, reds, yellows, greens, and white are arranged in a riotous bouquet. This site is designed to accommodate pack and saddle use as well as standard camping.
The campground serves as a base camp for many trailheads that are local favorites for horse riding. Please be courteous and only reserve equestrian site(s) if you bring a horse. Campers in equestrian site(s) without pack or riding horses may be turned away or directed to another campground.
Umpqua National Forest visitors are often taken aback by unique and surprising landscapes shaped by explosive geologic events. The 984,602-acre forest provides spectacular scenery and an abundance of natural and cultural resources. The translation of the word, "Umpqua," meaning "thundering waters," defines the area. High mountain lakes, heart-stopping rapids, peaceful ponds and thundering waterfalls, including the 272-foot Watson Falls on the North Umpqua Highway, offer visitors a renewed sense of spirit. Diverse ecosystems support a wide range of habitat for wildlife. From eagles and owls to salamanders and salmon, these species, along with many others, depend on surrounding undeveloped wilderness, clean streams and diverse forests to live.
This site provides access to Porcupine Connect Trail 1412A , which connects to the North Umpqua Trail 1414 and Windigo Pass Trail 1412 . The North Umpqua Trail heads southeast to enter Mount Thielsen Wilderness where it connects with the Tolo Creek Trail #1466 , Lucile Lake Trail #1459 , Maidu Lake Loop Trail, and the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail #2000 . In addition, Lemolo Lake and Resort are just a short drive away.
$10 / night
Although located away from the lake, this small horse camp offers a quiet camping opportunity for equestrians away from the busy North Waldo and Islet Campgrounds. Ride opportunities include: * The Harralson Trail (#4364), which connects the camp with the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (#2000) * The Jim Weaver Loop (Waldo Lake Trail #3590), which connects with trails in the Waldo Lake and Three Sisters Wildernesses. Note that there no equestrian improvements (corrals and hitching posts), as well as no water on site, so plan your visit accordingly. Picnic tables and fire rings are available. Drinking water can be obtained at North Waldo Campground and horses can be watered near the campground off of the Waldo Lake Trail (#3590). Please note that stock is not allowed in any of the Waldo Lake developed camps. Harralson is a good staging area for those wanting to explore the trails in or around the Three Sisters and Waldo Lake Wilderness areas. The trail around Waldo Lake is another nice ride, but be aware that stock is not allowed in any of the Waldo Lake campgrounds.
In Deschutes National Forest, Whitefish Horse Campground offers visitors some of the most stunning scenery in central Oregon and easy access to an abundance of recreational activities in the Cascade region. A favorite among horse enthusiasts, the campground looks out onto the waters of Crescent Lake. With snow-capped peaks, high elevation lakes, scenic rivers, and several wilderness areas located nearby, this campground offers visitors the opportunity to experience both the serene and wild aspects of central Oregon.
A favorite among horse enthusiasts, the campground provides visitors with access to a variety of trails. Lakes, lava flows, and forested areas provide the backdrop for many of these rides. Whitefish Creel Trail is popular with both hikers and horseback riders. This trail can be accessed from the west end of Crescent Lake and follows Whitefish Creek up through lodgepole pines to a beautiful view of Diamond Peak at Diamond View Lake. From there, the trail descends along Trapper Creek through Engelmann spruce and white fir to the west end of Odell Lake. Equestrians may want to traverse at least a portion of the spectacular Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), one of America's premier National Scenic Trails. This trail showcases some of North America's most fantastic scenery, winding its way its way from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon and Washington. Portions of the trail traverse Diamond Peak at timberline. Wilderness passes are required for this trail.
Cresent Lake is nestled in a naturally glaciated basin behind a moraine dam, east of the towering Cascade Mountain Range. Its brilliant blue-green water, sandy beaches, and water temperature are exceptional for a high-elevation lake. The area provides habitat for mammals such as mule deer, coyote, and cougar. Migratory birds and native fish also call the area home. These species, along with many others, depend on surrounding undeveloped wilderness, clean streams, and diverse forests to live.
Visitors can explore wilderness areas, wild and scenic rivers, lakes and reservoirs, and approximately 1,600 miles of trails in the 2.5 million-acre Deschutes National Forest and adjacent Ochoco National Forest. Lava Lands Visitor Center in Bend, Oregon, is a great starting point for visitors to learn about the diverse landscape and history of the area through interpretive programs and exhibits. Visitors may also enjoy traveling the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. The 66-mile drive through the Cascade Mountain range, weaves through snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes, highlighting the beauty of central Oregon.
Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.
$23 - $25 / night
Legend
This is a large Forest Service campground stretching along the shores of Diamond Lake. It is difficult to do a full review of this campground as we were there at the end of the season when it was cold, windy, and rainy. There was no staff on-site, and it was only the next morning that I saw an occupied host site way at the other end of the southern part of the campground. The north end of the campground had already closed for the season, and I believe the south end closes at the end of October. Reservations are only available June through Labor Day, but we pretty much had our pick of sites on a weekday in mid-October.
The road and camper pads are paved, and a good amount of foliage between sites provides privacy.
As far as activities, there is a paved bike path that winds through the campground. In season, there is boating (there is a boat ramp in each end of the campground), and there is a fishing dock too.
In each end of the campground, there is one “nice” bathhouse that is clean, heated, well-lit, and has showers. Depending on where your site is, it may be quite a walk to get to these bathrooms. Note that showers are free but there is a donation box. I wouldn't be surprised that at some point in the future, they will require payment. Sprinkled throughout the rest of the campground are very basic bathrooms with one sink, two stalls, cold water only, no soap. It had last been cleaned three days before we were there and there was no toilet paper in the men’s bathroom closest to our site.
There is also a dump station with a donation box.
Rates are reasonable, especially if you have the senior Golden Access Pass, however, there was a note that each transaction also incurred a $3 transaction fee. Didn’t know if that was if you reserved online, used a credit card, or no matter. We included it in the envelope for a total of $14.
LegendThis is a highly recommended campground. Great spots right on the lake and it's a huge campground with tons of spots in general. Cellphone service is hit or miss depending on where you are. We found a level spot, not all spots are level. They have trash and a dump/water station.
Showers are available via a donation..campsite rates are very reasonable for amenities and location.
10 miles from Crater Lake, 1 mile from the lodge with a little store and restaurant. Restaurant was pretty darn good for the middle of nowhere. 100 years old.
TravelerStayed at diamond lake for 3 days. The specific site didn’t have any reviews or pics, but took a chance on it. Our site didn’t have any shade so it was a little rough. And it was a little dirty throughly the entire campground. You could tell it’s highly used, sad that people don’t take a little more pride and leave it a little cleaner then they found it.
We have Verizon and had 1-2 bars LTE. Couldn’t make or receive calls and really couldn’t text or email.
The bathrooms were fairly clean given you are in the middle of nowhere. They showers were available, but we didn’t use them.
The camp hosts were awesome! They gave our free firewood and had free WiFi you could use.
Guide
We picked this dispersed camping near Lemolo Lake since it was an open area that we could run our Starlink. There was also some cell service. Lemolo lake also has several Campgrounds to choose from if you want to pay. In the area we visited Lemolo Falls and Warm Spring Falls. We weren't disappointed. The area does have mosquitoes to contend with. Where we camped there was a picnic table and rock fire ring. Be mindful of the no fire season.
GuideI camped at diamond lake for the first time in about 15 years and can’t believe how rundown it has become. Most toilets in bathroom are broken. Our nearby water spigot not functioning. And lots of litter in camp site. Beautiful lake though.
GuideThis is a very large campground with over 200 sites. I stayed overnight, July 3, 2023. I was a walk in . The ranger office was closed when I arrived and they did not have a list of available sites posted. I found a site, K11, without any reserved tag and spent a wonderful night. There was a very strong onshore breeze from the lake that kept the mosquitoes grounded and I didn't really need repellant.
The campground is two halves. In the upper half, the campsites are higher, above the lake. To the south or east, the sites are closer to the lake. Water was only available (non threaded faucets) outside the flush latrines, which were not very well kept (mostly due to the dead bugs). There is not electricity and I was only able to get 2 bars on Verizon. I could get a text through, but rarely a photo.
I have camped throughout Oregon and what impressed me as different were the large number of tent campers. More than half were tent camping, though the site would fit small to medium size rigs. I only saw one Class A and few trailers. Noisy neighbors can be a problem, as the sites though not exactly next to each other, are still close. The roads and parking for sites are paved, but some have very steep driveways. Be careful in your site selection if you have a long trailer or RV.
There are some nearby stores and gas station if you need, but very little else. A very beautiful spot with lots to do and see nearby.
RangerThe scenery is stunning and the sites are large and roomy. The water access doesn’t have much of a beach to speak of, but it is a great lake to paddle.
LegendThis campground was in a great location to go see crater lake (15 min drive or less) as well as nearby Hot Springs (30ish min drive) and waterfalls. The campground itself was wooded and very close to diamond lake, it was a very beautiful location. There were lots of close by walking trails which was wonderful.
The amenities were nice enough, sometimes the showers are hot and others times was not. Most of the laundry machines were working with several out of service, and worked well enough.
The staff was helpful and gave suggestions for nearby hiking and Hot Springs. Sites included fire ring, a picnic table, and full hook ups. The stars at night were incredible.
Traveler
This a lovely forest campground with good spacing between sites. Most sites are right on the river providing a very serene forest feel. A very nice hiking trail takes off from the far end of the campground toward Union creek and runs along the river.
GuideThis is our stop-off as we pass through before heading into the woods to explore waterfalls. It's a clean stop with a picturesque lake, clean sites, restrooms, and showers. Sites are roomy, and all of them are different. There are bookable sites and first come first serve sites. Dog friendly.
Make sure your reserved tag is visible on your site. We have had a few people try to take our site because they were not paying attention. We drive a Jeep with a Roof Top Tent or our Van, so we are self-contained without the need for a tent to leave at the site.
ScoutLoved this campground close to Crater Lake. Good spot for biking around as the campground is long and narrow - I read that the trail goes all the way around the lake, although we didn’t get that far.
Our campsite was pretty close to Diamond Lake Loop Rd and the road noise was not great. Traffic seemed to pick up at around 5:30 with water/garbage trucks noisily passing by. I would try to get a site closer to the lake if possible.
Legend
Being here in the summer means dead grass and heat. We used it as a base so didn't spend much time there. I've been thru in the winter and it's much prettier. Host is very nice and showers and bathrooms are clean. Highway noise, otherwise quiet. Convenient for exploring the area and visiting friends.
LegendDiamond Lake had such great amenities and had all the basics which was very nice. Hot showers, nice bathrooms, picinic tables, fire rings, trash, and boat launch/dock. BUT. The sites were so close together, and there was basically no privacy. I know that isn’t a problem for everyone, but I have done too much dispersed camping to enjoy a packed campground. Great place for families and close to Crater Lake which is why we stayed!
Guide
Wow, this is one of the most pure lakes in the world. Like distilled water! It’s clear and you can see all the way down. Lots of islands to paddle or kayak to. Sites are large and the pit toilets are very clean. Camp Host Doug kept an immaculate campground. The only negative is the massive number of mosquitos, we underestimated their effect. Be conscientious of the lake and respectful.
GuideA very long stretched campground along the water of diamond lake. Nice view on the mountain. Some boats in the water. Swimming not recommended due to algue.
GuideClosed until June I believe. Very frustrating since there was NOTHING open on this entire 5+ hour stretch of road, ended up getting stuck in a storm, would have loved to have stayed here for the night. Wish the parks in the area would coordinate so at least one campsite was open to stay.
LegendIt's beautiful, scenic, and full of mosquitos. Bring long sleeves and some citronella and you'll have a great time though. Excellent paddle boarding and swimming. Loads of stars to look at.
Scout
Picnic tables and fire pits available. Pretty good RV sites. Pretty good tent sites. Somebody even left us some wood. Other wood available in the area. Only one other camper while we were there (4-days).
TravelerBeautiful views over Diamond lake. No leveled tent spots. Nice amount of trees to create shade and some privacy between campsites. Non native tree variety caused me terrible allergies. Hot shower access was a great connivance. They do ask for extra donations for shower use. Employee at entrance booth was extremely unhelpful. Campsite was conveniently close to the north entrance of Cater Lake NP.
GuideLoved the lake, loved the atmosphere but two rows back from the water isn’t quite as spectacular as waterfront. Showers far and older. At some sites it isn’t easy to find a level pad for the tents, ours had that issue. Also, inland sites are closer to the road and do get some noise - not bad but adds to the unevenness. Would def come back but get waterfront next time.
LegendStayed here in late June and found reservations for a week night only a few days before. This campground is HUGE. Water-front sites are hard to get and have amazing views but even second-row sites have views because they are built high above. Site K-15 was on the second row but still had great views for example. Some peak-a-boo views of Diamond Lake and Mount Bayley from many sites.
TravelerThis campground is huge, and it is wonderful. Lots of spaces. Many are on the lake. It’s VERY popular, but we were lucky to get an unreserved space on the lake for our one night stay. If you’re in an RV, leveling can be a challenge, and some of the sites aren’t suitable for RVs but better for tents. Still, there are so many in there, with many loops that you should be able to find something. The lake is beautiful, and you can swim or boat in it. There were bugs - but it’s the outdoors. Cell service was ok - data took some time to load, but it was there, on Verizon. The FS personnel who were working were friendly and helpful. We stayed one night - I could see going back for a week and having so much fun. Wonderful bike trails - we saw many families out biking. Highly recommend.
LegendNice campground with views of the lake. There are several loops to pick from, but the best sites obviously face the lake. I was partial to K 27(and nearby sites) because it wasn’t ON the lake but had great views and nice shade. This is one of the only campgrounds on the lake staffed by actual forest service rangers. You can reserve sites in advance or work with the Ranger to find what suits your needs. You are really close to the marina and the resort with all the resort offers (restaurant, store, rentals). Right across the street from the campground is the forest service office with a cool little museum to check out.
GuideBeautiful!
Fire pit, picnic table, showers, flush toilets and large campsites.
Really good balance of privacy and community.
Bikes and Boat Rentals nearby as well as a small general store and restaurant.
Short drive to Crater Lake National Park.
Note: I recommend getting a site near the water if you can. The Forest is very buddy but better by the water.
GuideWe enjoyed this spacious site with access to the lake and close to the restrooms. It was a little buggy and rainy, and we couldn’t seem to find shower facilities as the park mentioned.
LegendThis is a great campground, very beautiful, but very busy. Off highway 62 take the Natural Bridge turn off and follow the road to the campground. The sites are for the most part secluded from each other and most are along the Rogue River with a mix of sun and shade. All sites have picnic tables and fire pits. There are also multiple outhouses throughout the campground.
Keep in mind that though the sites near the water are awesome, there is a heavily used trail that runs right along the river so you will have multiple hikers walking near or through your amazing campsite. We had site 6 and though it appears to be the best site (large and nearly fully enclosed) it's not because the trail runs at the edge of the spot and you will have loud hikers strolling right through your space.
The hiking nearby is great. There is a loop hike which takes you to the Natural Bridge area which is really cool. There is also a hike to the Rogue Gorge that takes you through another campground further up. On top of the busy trail along the campsites there is also areas where people hang out to swim or fish so you can hear people nearly all day long. It was nice the first day and night during the week but over the weekend it got a bit ridiculous and we left. There are large garbage cans for trash service but no water and no recycling. There is also no cell service from ATT, Verizon and TMobile.
Off season this place would be great but we strongly suggest not going on a weekend or busy season unless you like people noise constantly all day.
GuideMy wife and I stopped here after visiting Crater Lake. This campground is right on the Rogue river and is absolutely gorgeous. The sites are well maintained, and there are toilets. The “Natural Bridge” is a short walk away and is really cool. Lots of informative signs along the path to describe what you are seeing.
Horse camping near Umpqua National Forest in Oregon offers a unique blend of scenic trails and well-equipped facilities for equestrian enthusiasts. With a variety of campgrounds catering to horse camping, adventurers can enjoy the great outdoors while ensuring their horses are well accommodated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Umpqua National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Umpqua National Forest is Diamond Lake with a 4.4-star rating from 58 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Umpqua National Forest?
TheDyrt.com has all 9 equestrian camping locations near Umpqua National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.
