Littleton Horse Camp occupies a strategic location 4.4 miles past Fairholm in the Olympic National Forest. The campground serves dual purposes as both an equestrian facility and overflow camping for the eastern Olympic Peninsula during peak season. While primarily designed for horse owners, the campground permits non-equestrians to use unoccupied sites after 6:00 PM when horse campers haven't claimed them. The cost runs $5 for seniors with lifetime passes and $10 standard fee.
What to do
Trail access convenience: Multiple hiking options start directly from Littleton Horse Camp, including the Mount Muller Trail. "Littleton serves as a convenient base for accessing nearby trails including the Mount Muller Trail, which begins directly from the campground," according to Charlotte L. The trailhead provides moderate to challenging terrain suitable for different skill levels.
Beach exploration: Drive 15 minutes to experience Murdock Beach from Sadie Creek Campground. "You have Murdock Beach down the road which gives great views of the Salish Sea," notes Zach A. who describes the coastal access points as an easy addition to your camping itinerary.
Water recreation: Lake Crescent sits approximately 15 minutes from the campground. "It's about a 15 minute drive to Crescent Lake," confirms Heartworn H. The lake offers swimming, kayaking, and fishing opportunities throughout the warmer months when visiting horse campgrounds near Beaver, Washington.
What campers like
Budget-friendly alternative: Littleton Horse Camp provides substantial savings compared to nearby Olympic National Park sites. "Littleton Horse Camp is on the edge of the very popular Lake Crescent area of Olympic National Park. It's hidden away from the crowds, but still super close and convenient to all of the ONP activities and hikes on the eastern part of the peninsula," writes Stephanie Z., noting the significant cost advantage over national park campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained vault toilets. "The vault toilets were spotless, the campsite was quiet, and there are nearby hiking and biking trails that are wonderful!" reports Charlotte L. Maintenance quality varies seasonally, with peak season receiving more frequent attention.
Hammock-friendly sites: The large sites designed for horses create perfect hammocking opportunities. "Each site has a table and firepit as well as an area with the posts to tie up your horses (or your hammock). There were lots of trees as well for hammocking!" notes Stephanie Z., highlighting the unexpected benefit of the equestrian design.
What you should know
Water requirements: Salt Creek Recreation Area offers showers at $0.25 for 2 minutes for those camping at waterless sites. No water exists at Littleton, requiring campers to bring all necessary water supplies. "If you really need water and have a filter, there is a creek when you begin go on the trail to Mt Muller which is located along the road heading into campground," suggests Heartworn H.
Peak season overflow: During summer months, expect significant competition for non-equestrian sites after 6:00 PM. "Most campgrounds I planned to go to were not only completely full, but has so many cars and campers on a frantic hunt for a place to stay for the night," explains Heartworn H., who found Littleton when other options filled up.
Site availability: Littleton serves as a reliable backup when other campgrounds reach capacity. "Like others we ended up here after checking a number of other campsites that were full. The camp is usually for horse people but unoccupied spots are up for grabs after six," explains Spencer J., describing the common experience of finding Littleton as a last resort.
Tips for camping with families
Nature programs: Lyre River State Forest offers family-friendly river access. "There's a nice short trail on the right side that takes you to a riverbed, perfect for taking a dip or doing dishes," reports Emily U., noting the gentle water access suitable for supervised children.
Playground access: Look for nearby recreational facilities when selecting horse campgrounds near Beaver, Washington with children. "Although we were surrounded in fog, enjoyed the playground, tide pools and private site number 51," shares Shina W. when describing family-friendly amenities at Salt Creek Recreation Area.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for potential wildlife encounters at area campgrounds. "On the picnic table raccoons and incredible views of the sound," notes Michael K. at Salt Creek, warning that animals frequently visit campsites when food is present.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Last Chance Camp Equine and Rest Stop offers grassy sites suitable for recreational vehicles. "Tent and RV sites. Some shade sites. Portable toilets for those not self-contained. Great rates. Host is very friendly and accommodating. Quiet. Grass," shares Laurie, highlighting the surface conditions important to RV campers.
Hookup limitations: Most equestrian campgrounds have minimal or no hookups for RVs. "It was nice and clean, quiet, and right next to a pretty stream. Beware though, i think the derections might be slightly wrong... the campground is on the east bank of the creek," notes Brant T. about Lyre River, advising RVers to prepare for self-contained camping.
Host communication: Some private camping areas have on-site management with flexible policies. "Peaceful RV and tent campground. Close to town and nearby sites. The owner, Veronica lives in the house on site. Veronica is very friendly and an awesome host," advises Greg E. about Last Chance Camp, suggesting the benefits of working directly with property owners.
