Equestrian camping near Yachats, Oregon offers riders access to coastal forest trails through the Siuslaw National Forest. The area sits at approximately 300 feet elevation with annual rainfall exceeding 70 inches, creating lush vegetation and occasionally challenging trail conditions. Camping options range from primitive horse camps with corrals to beach-accessible equestrian sites, each with varying amenities and trail access points.
What to do
Beach riding access: Baker Beach Campground provides equestrian trail access to the ocean through sand dunes. "The walk to the ocean was through soft/deep sand (watch out for horse manure as there are horse tours happening nearby)," notes North Idaho N. The trail system includes commercial riding tours from nearby stables.
Forest trail exploration: Horse Creek Campground offers multiple trail options through dense coastal forests. "The trails are wonderful!! But hilly so make sure your horse is fit or you are willing to take it easy," advises Dodie K. Many trails include partial ocean views, though some overlooks are becoming overgrown.
Pond-side camping: Campers seeking freshwater options can visit Hult Pond for non-equestrian camping alternatives. "The pond was great for kayaking and there is plenty to explore if you aren't worried about a little elevation in your hike," shares Nicki G. The area offers dispersed camping with varying levels of privacy.
What campers like
Secluded forest settings: Many horse campers appreciate the privacy between sites at the equestrian campgrounds. "The thick forest of trees make each spot peaceful and private," explains Britany R. about Horse Creek Campground, located about 3 miles up a dirt road from Highway 101.
Corral availability: Each site at Horse Creek Campground includes horse corrals maintained by local equestrian groups. "OET horse group paid for all the gravel on road, put up all corrals, and fixed the water trough," Shannon C. points out, highlighting the equestrian community's investment in these facilities.
Alternative beach access: Baker Beach Campground provides equestrian-friendly beach access different from more crowded areas. "Small (only a handful of sites) campground with a moderate walk to the beach," reports North Idaho N. The campground offers a more intimate camping experience compared to larger coastal parks.
What you should know
First-come, first-served only: All equestrian campgrounds in the area operate without reservations. "Cost is $14.24/night, self pay, no reservations, no host on site," explains Laura M. about Horse Creek, while Baker Beach costs $16.43 per night with discounts available for seniors.
Limited facilities: Prepare for primitive camping conditions. "There is a nice toilet at the front of the campground. The campground is about 4 miles off Hwy 101 between Florence and the Sea Lion Caves... this is definitely a dry camp. There's no water so pack in your water," advises Jill R.
User conflicts: Competition between horse campers and non-equestrian users has increased. "If you don't show early in the week with your big rig and all your horses you will not get a spot. It's over run with car camping sucking up all the spots with horse corrals," complains Laurie S. about Dry Lake Horse Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose appropriate sites when camping with children. "Each site has a horse corral, fire pit, and picnic table (but it looks like #2 does not have a horse corral?)," notes Laura M. Families should target the two non-stock camper sites at Horse Creek if not bringing horses.
Water planning: Bring all drinking water for both people and horses. "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," advises Dodie K.
Trail preparation: Prepare children for challenging terrain. "The trails are wonderful!! But hilly so make sure your horse is fit or you are willing to take it easy," suggests Dodie K. Families should research trail difficulty before embarking with younger riders or less experienced horses.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Beverly Beach State Park Campground provides better RV options than equestrian camps. "This campground has definitely picked up a seedy vibe in the last couple years," Michael B. warns about Horse Creek, suggesting RVers might prefer established parks with hookups.
Turn radius considerations: Horse Creek has limited maneuvering space for larger rigs. "Good turnarounds for trailers," notes J R., but this primarily applies to horse trailers rather than large motorhomes or fifth wheels. The access road includes tight turns and sometimes muddy conditions.
Weather preparedness: Coastal camping requires preparation for all conditions. "It was too rainy and muddy for us to feel like hiking the trails, but they look beautiful," shares Laura M. RVers should pack appropriate gear and consider weather forecasts when planning trips to coastal horse camps.
