Horse enthusiasts and Mount Rainier visitors will find a forested basecamp at Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp, where equestrian sites mix with standard camping areas near Ashford. This Washington State Department of Natural Resources facility sits within deep shade from mature trees, creating what campers describe as a quiet atmosphere despite nearby shooting range activity and occasional highway noise.
The campground operates on a pack-in, pack-out basis with vault toilets that reviewers consistently note stay clean. Sites include picnic tables and fire rings, though the rocky soil can challenge tent staking. An ADA-accessible trail provides level walking for dogs and visitors with mobility needs. While many sites are designated for horse camping only, several accommodate tent campers and smaller RVs, though access conditions may limit larger rigs.
Fern notes the campground is "free WITH your Discover Pass," available at gas stations in nearby campsites near Ashford. The heavy tree cover that keeps sites cool also limits solar charging potential for those depending on panels. Firewood is available down the road for evening campfires.
Located 15 minutes from Mount Rainier's entrance, the campground serves as a convenient staging area for park exploration. Bring a Washington Discover Pass and plan to pack out all trash during your seven-day maximum stay.
Description
The Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp, maintained by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, lies just a stone's throw from the entrance to Mount Rainier National Park. The camp provides great access to the state-managed Elbe Hills and Tahoma State Forests through the Nicholson Horse Trail System. Campground has 20 campsites, picnic tables, hitching rails, and vault toilets.
The Nicholson Horse Trail System has been maintained especially for equestrian use, with wide trails and sturdy bridges providing safe, enjoyable passage for all.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsSahara Creek DNR Horse Camp is located in Washington near Ashford
Directions
Take State Route 7 to Elbe, then head east on State Route 706 for about 6 miles. Signage for the horse camp will direct you to a left turn, where the campground is easily found.
Coordinates
46.75861474 N
122.086282 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileLTEGood CoverageVerified by 39 usersLast on 5/12/26
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 5/12/26- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 5/12/26
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileLTEGood CoverageVerified by 39 usersLast on 5/12/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 5/12/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 5/12/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 10 min from Olympia, WA
- 1 hr 23 min from Bremerton, WA
- 1 hr 26 min from Longview, WA
- 1 hr 27 min from Seattle, WA
