Capitol State Forest offers multiple equestrian campgrounds near Aberdeen, Washington. The forest spans 110,000 acres with elevations ranging from 200 to 2,600 feet. Annual rainfall averages 70 inches, creating lush vegetation and muddy conditions during winter and spring months.
What to do
Trail riding: Porter Creek Campground provides access to numerous riding trails with varying difficulty levels. "There are hiking trails close by but be sure to do your homework because there are many trails that allow ATV, horses, bikes, and people on them," notes Vikky S.
Fishing opportunities: Visit Snag Lake Campground for stocked rainbow trout. "The lake is stocked and our son caught some rainbow trout (approx 8 inches) so we put them back to get bigger for the next person," reports Pinkie K. The lake features numerous old stumps and fallen trees, creating habitat for fish.
Swimming spots: During summer, Rainbow Falls State Park Campground offers river access for cooling off. "We loved that this was right by the river and we could go swimming. Also there was a giant field that was great for playing soccer and baseball with the kids," says Kirstin K.
What campers like
Secluded camping: Campbell Tree Grove Campground offers primitive sites in old growth forest. "Very secluded, deep wood camping. About an hour on unpaved road until you get to the actual camp but the drive is gorgeous! Old growth and new baby trees line the roads," writes Socks S.
Horse-friendly facilities: Beyond Margaret McKenny, other horse campgrounds near Aberdeen provide essential amenities. "The campground has a huge horse stall area for a group site/horse trailer," notes Socks S. about Campbell Tree Grove facilities.
Lake activities: Millersylvania State Park Campground features Deep Lake with paddling options. "A very pretty and clean lake, Beer Garden at the lake, clean bathrooms, shower requires tokens but shortens the shower time if you have to wait," states John G.
What you should know
Discovery Pass requirement: Most state forest campgrounds require a Washington Discovery Pass for overnight stays. "You need a Discovery Pass to camp here but it's either $10 a night at various campgrounds around WA (so I read) or $30 for the annual pass," explains Pinkie K.
Limited facilities: Prepare for primitive conditions at most equestrian sites. "No trash, no water, no hook ups so come prepared," warns Abby M. about Margaret McKenny's facilities.
Accessibility challenges: Some horse campgrounds have difficult access roads. "The road out to it is pretty treacherous also. Not for beginners, we had to help some people who put their car in a ditch by wrecking it," cautions Cheese H.
Tips for camping with families
Look for open play areas: Screamin' Eagle Campground offers space for children plus beach access. "Just a five minute walk from the beach," notes Nicola M., making it convenient for families wanting to combine forest and coastal activities.
Consider noise factors: Some campgrounds experience significant traffic noise. "The only downside is the road noise nearby. People zooming by on the country road. Outside of that, it's a beautiful spot," mentions L & K S.
Check for playground availability: Several campgrounds include play structures. "The campground was on the smaller side with only one loop but it had a huge field to play in and a small playground," shares Allisha M.
Tips for RVers
Size limitations: Most equestrian campgrounds have tight access roads. "Not for beginners, we had to help some people who put their car in a ditch by wrecking it," warns Cheese H. about Campbell Tree Grove's access road.
Electrical concerns: Watch for power limitations even at sites with hookups. "Our circuit breaker kept tripping during peak times and interrupted our ability to run the coffee pot," reports Karin A. about Screamin' Eagle.
Leveling requirements: Look for sites with level parking areas. "Extremely nice rv park. Level gravel parking sites. Good Wifi. Very clean restrooms," notes Rick M. about Screamin' Eagle Campground.
