Equestrian camping options near Wasco, Oregon provide access to the diverse terrain of the eastern slopes of Mount Hood and the high desert landscapes. The region's higher elevation campgrounds typically range from 2,500 to 4,000 feet, offering cooler temperatures during summer months when lower elevations reach into the 90s. Most horse-friendly sites in this area feature primitive facilities requiring campers to bring their own water supplies for both people and animals.
What to do
Trail riding at Bonney Crossing Campground: Located near Tygh Valley, this campground offers direct access to Badger Creek Trail with routes suitable for various skill levels. "The site does have an accessible pit toilet" and "all the campsites had fire rings and there was plenty of scrap wood to be found," according to Scott B., who visited with his family.
Hiking near Brooks Memorial State Park: Brooks Memorial State Park Campground offers multiple walking paths through pine forests and hillsides. A visitor named Garth noted it serves as a "great base camp" with "lots of things to do and see in the area," making it ideal for day trips to nearby attractions.
Water activities at Crow Butte Park: Crow Butte Park provides Columbia River access for swimming and paddling. "The water was super calm, so kayaking was very enjoyable," reports Denise B., who appreciated the well-maintained grounds. The park includes hiking trails over and around the butte with vista points overlooking the Columbia River.
What campers like
Proximity to natural features: At Bonney Crossing, campers appreciate the creek-side setting. Cheryl P. shares, "Sleeping next to the water is calming and the hikes are top notch." Sites positioned along water features provide natural white noise and recreational opportunities.
Spacious sites for horse trailers: Knebal Springs offers "great" options as "each site is different and pretty spacious," according to Bjorn S., who notes the campground's proximity to "really cool, popular trail networks for all abilities." The relative openness allows for better horse monitoring.
Shade and comfort in hot months: Several campgrounds offer tree cover that balances shade with sunlight. Fred F. noted that Crow Butte provides "plenty of shade" making it "great for weekend getaways," while Ben B. mentioned the "lots of shade and grass" at his "clean and level" site.
What you should know
Water availability is limited: Most equestrian campgrounds in the area lack potable water. At Hunt Park, campers find electric hookups and water connections, making it a good option when traveling with horses that need reliable water sources.
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant wind, particularly at exposed sites. At Crow Butte Park, Patrick M. observed that "the campground can be windy, although the higher numbered sites, roughly 32-50 (toward the butte, away from the mainland) tend to be calmer."
Wildlife awareness: Campers should prepare for encounters with local wildlife. Taleah U. reported at Crow Butte: "I don't think I've ever seen so many spiders in one place," while others mentioned rattlesnake warnings on trails. Proper food storage and site maintenance reduce unwanted visitors.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly horse trails: Knebal Springs accommodates families with varying riding abilities. Stephanie K. found it a "nice quiet campground" that she "would stay again," making it suitable for groups with children learning to ride.
Kid-friendly activities: Hunt Park provides open spaces for children to play safely while adults manage horses. Dennis P., who camped there with his motorcycle group, mentioned "open area sites" and "beautiful areas to explore close by."
Swimming opportunities: When temperatures rise, Crow Butte Park offers relief with "a nice little beach for swimming," according to Ben B., who found it a "fun little park for the kids." The calm water areas provide safer swimming for children than the main river current.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Many horse camps have limitations for larger rigs. Brooks Memorial State Park accommodates smaller trailers but spaces "are very close together with very few trees separating spaces," according to Ashley B., who noted some spots "looked barely big enough for a 2 person tent."
Hookup availability: For those requiring electricity while traveling with horses, Hunt Park provides power hookups at reasonable rates. David B. reported it has "lots of RV space for all sizes" with "self register at the gate" making arrival convenient regardless of time.
Road conditions: Access roads to several horse camps may present challenges. Cheryl P. mentioned that at Bonney Crossing, "The road down is a little sketchy but as long as you go slow it's well worth it." Allow extra travel time when pulling horse trailers to these locations.
