Northrup Creek Horse Campground provides additional overnight options beyond the main equestrian camping near Warrenton, Oregon. The site sits at approximately 800 feet elevation in the dense coastal forest, creating a cooler microclimate even during summer months. Trails range from 2-10 miles in length, offering varied terrain for both novice and experienced riders throughout the Clatsop State Forest trail system.
What to do
Trail riding at Fort Stevens State Park: Located approximately 15 miles from Warrenton, this park offers extensive trails through historic military installations, coastal forests and beach access points. "There is sooo much to do in this area! It's rich with history and we could have easily spent another week touring around. The Maritime Museum is up the road," notes Jill T. about Fort Stevens State Park Campground.
Beach riding at Nehalem Bay: This location about 45 minutes south of Warrenton allows riders to experience coastal horseback riding. "Super cool place! Always horses riding on the beach too. Super neat experience," shares Jamie B. about Nehalem Bay State Park Campground. Riders can access miles of sandy shoreline with mountain backdrop views.
Forest trail exploration: The surrounding state forests contain numerous single-track and wider trails suited for various riding abilities. "This campground was so beautiful and clean! All of the campsites are nestled among big fir trees. The campsites have picnic tables and fire pits. We used the day use area this time but soon we plan on taking a trip up with our horses and riding the trails," reports Kelcie T. about Clatsop State Forest Northrup Creek Horse Campground.
What campers like
Private forest settings: The equestrian camping options feature wooded surroundings and separation between sites. "We stayed on Sunday and Monday nights and had the entire campground to ourselves. Not all of the tent sites can easily accommodate a larger tent. Pit toilets were very clean!" shares Jesse H. about Dairy Creek West — L.L. Stub Stewart Memorial State Park.
River access points: Many nearby campgrounds offer water access for both horses and humans. "Great dune area. Always horses riding on the beach too," notes Jamie B. about Nehalem Bay State Park. The beach provides natural water access points for horses after trail rides.
Large staging areas: The campgrounds designed for equestrian use typically include ample room for trailers and tacking up horses. "There are two drive in sites the rest are walk in. A couple that are a short walk. Great fishing in the lake year round. The road up to campground is pretty rough. Lots of washboard," explains Tony G. about Snag Lake Campground, showing the importance of adequate vehicle access at equestrian sites.
What you should know
Seasonal accessibility: Trail conditions vary dramatically between wet and dry seasons, with some routes becoming challenging during winter months. "The road in was in great condition. Overall, I highly recommend this site. There were even water dump spots for kitchen water," reports Daniel S. about Clatsop State Forest Northrup Creek Horse Campground.
Reservation requirements: Many equestrian campsites require advance booking, particularly during summer weekends when availability becomes limited. "We were fortunate to get a yurt (number 7) for one night in July as a walk in. The ranger was shocked as they are usually sold out months in advance," shares MomSolo about Fort Stevens State Park.
Trail etiquette: Shared-use trails require following established protocols around hikers and mountain bikers. "Mixedfeeling about this place, the trails are great however owners don't clean up after their horses that go on the trail," comments Eric S. about Dairy Creek West, highlighting the importance of responsible equestrian use.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several equestrian campgrounds include amenities specifically for children. "So much for kids to do from exploring, riding bikes, fishing and going to the amphitheater for some stories," explains Jenny M. about Fort Stevens State Park Campground.
Safety considerations: Parents should note specific rules regarding children around horses at mixed-use facilities. "We brought the kids and expected to listen to their complaints the whole time, but they were intrigued by everything!" says Cadie H. about Fort Stevens State Park.
Multi-use recreation: Many sites offer alternatives to horseback riding for family members. "Great for groups. The tent camping area actually leaves a lot to be desired. The group camping areas have lean tos that can accommodate many people in the bunks," explains Don H. about Camp Wilkerson, showing how group facilities can accommodate larger family gatherings.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites at equestrian campgrounds require careful consideration for size limitations. "While this is a horse campground, only 8 of the sites are for horse campers, a small tent/RV camping loop of 3 sites is also available, but the parking pads are small so don't think most RVs will fit in the spots," advises Dexter I. about Clatsop State Forest Northrup Creek Horse Campground.
Hookup availability: Power and water connections vary between equestrian camping areas. "Campground just opened back up after redoing it - the bathrooms are very nice and the rv pads and electric is redone," reports Diana L. about Nehalem Bay State Park.
Specialized equipment needs: RVers with horse trailers should note particular requirements for combined rigs. "Wow, what a hidden gem of a campsite. While primarily a horse-friendly campsite, there are few RV/tent sites, but definitely not friendly for larger RVs," explains Daniel S. about Clatsop State Forest Northrup Creek Horse Campground.
