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Camper submitted image from Harry Osborne State Forest - TEMPORARILY CLOSED 2023View 3 Photos
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Harry Osborne State Forest - TEMPORARILY CLOSED 2023

2 ReviewsAdd Review

Part of Washington State's forest system, Harry Osborne State Forest operates as a free equestrian-focused campground that remains temporarily closed in 2023. The facility accommodates both large rigs and walk-in camping through drive-in access, though campers report rough road conditions leading to the site.

Designed primarily for horse camping, the grounds feature high-line poles for tying horses, vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Water access requires hiking horses down trails to a creek, as the previous stockwater source has been gated due to vandalism. The forest setting includes both wooded and open terrain areas. Cell service reaches the campground, and campers can expect potential log truck traffic during active forestry operations when gates remain unlocked.

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Map & DirectionsHarry Osborne State Forest is located in Washington near Hamilton

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

48.54074568 N
121.99154936 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/18/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 6/18/26

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/18/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 6/18/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Dispersed
  • Group
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

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Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Harry Osborne State Forest

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4.0

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 13, 2023

Update

Update. Stockwater has been gaited off due to vandalism and trash dumping. You may utilize trails to walk your horses down to the water. This is primarily a horse/hiking camp. There is not access for motorized Vehicles on the mountain Any longer. There are 2 manure pits, a vault toilet, some fire pits, and a group covered table area. This is dry camping with no potable water or garbage.

Note that this is a working forest and may have heavy log truck traffic at times...the gates will be locked otherwise.

Reviewed Aug. 11, 2020

Quiet and Lots of Space

Great place to bring your LQ (any size rig) and camp with your horses. There are a few non-equestrians, but we need to keep this a place for equestrians because we are losing more and more campsites.  Trails are well maintained and extensive.

No water or electric at the camp, but you can drive down to a creek and pump or collect water for your horses. You will be boondocking.

High-line poles are available to high-tie your horses. We set up a portable corral and were fine. Picnic tables and fire rings are also available.

No manure pile or wheel barrow. There is a vault toilet and I got cell service on my phone.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Harry Osborne State Forest - TEMPORARILY CLOSED 2023 by Elise M., August 11, 2020
  • Review photo of Harry Osborne State Forest - TEMPORARILY CLOSED 2023 by Elise M., August 11, 2020
  • Review photo of Harry Osborne State Forest - TEMPORARILY CLOSED 2023 by Elise M., August 11, 2020
Showing results 1-2 of 2 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Harry Osborne State Forest located and how do I access it for camping?

Harry Osborne State Forest is primarily an equestrian camping area with facilities for horse owners. Access is available for campers with various rig sizes, including larger living quarters. The forest is designed to accommodate equestrian campers, though some non-equestrian camping does occur. Note that motorized vehicle access on the mountain trails has been restricted. When planning your visit, be prepared for primitive camping conditions as this is primarily a horse/hiking destination.

What is the best time of year to visit Harry Osborne State Forest?

The best time to visit Harry Osborne State Forest is during the drier months when trails are more accessible and camping conditions are optimal. The area is primarily used by equestrians and hikers who benefit from firmer trail conditions. Since the campground offers primitive facilities with no water or electric hookups, visiting during moderate weather conditions makes for a more comfortable experience. Consider that access to water has been restricted, so planning accordingly for both human and horse needs is essential regardless of season.

What trails and recreational activities are available at Les Hilde Trailhead?

Les Hilde Trailhead offers extensive, well-maintained trails primarily designed for equestrian use and hiking. The trail system is a significant draw for horse owners, providing ample riding opportunities throughout the area. Hiking is also popular for those without horses. Note that motorized vehicles are no longer permitted on the mountain trails. For water access, trails lead down to water sources where horses can be taken, though the main stockwater area has been gated off. The area is specifically maintained to preserve equestrian recreation opportunities.

Are permits required for camping in Harry Osborne State Forest?

While specific permit requirements aren't detailed, Harry Osborne State Forest is set up as a designated camping area for equestrians. The campground offers primitive facilities including vault toilets and manure pits for horses. Given its status as a state forest, it's advisable to check with the Washington Department of Natural Resources for current permit requirements before your visit. As regulations can change, verifying this information with official sources will ensure you're properly prepared for your stay.

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