Knebal Springs Campground serves equestrian visitors with its specialized horse facilities in a forested setting within Mount Hood National Forest. Located approximately 35 miles south of Bingen, Washington at an elevation of 3,200 feet, this first-come, first-served campground sits in the transition zone between forest and high desert terrain. The campground typically experiences warm, dry summer days and cool nights, with temperatures dropping significantly after sunset.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Access scenic waterfall trails near Panther Creek Campground. "Further up the road is a short hike to some beautiful falls. The road continues for a long way, eventually looping up to Cougar, making for a lot to do in the area," shares Lawrence F.
PCT trail access: Connect directly to the Pacific Crest Trail from Riley Horse Campground for day hikes. "It is close to many trails in the area, mainly Romano Falls Trail. There are views of Mt. Hood, peeking out through the trees here and there," notes Ashley B.
Mushroom hunting: Fall visitors can find mushroom gathering opportunities near Panther Creek. "So close to Panther Creek for swimming on a hot day, taking off to the PCT for a hike, or foraging for mushrooms in the fall," mentions Candace.
Lake activities: Enjoy fishing and swimming in Walupt Lake. "Lake is pristine, calm and gorgeous. Easy to kayak," reports Peter J., while Teresa H. adds "Clear and cold water, good crawdad catching/eating."
What campers like
Secluded forest settings: Bonney Crossing offers quiet, stream-side camping. "The campsite is clean with no over growth. Sleeping next to the water is calming and the hikes are top notch," writes Cheryl P., while Greg L. notes, "The campsites are all well spaced out parallel to a nice clean looking river."
Privacy between sites: Many equestrian-focused campgrounds provide extra space. "For a lot of reasons. Part of the reason is it's close, so that's part good. Driving up there the way we drive (from Vancouver) you go up through ranching/farming territory and it's nice and green and pretty," describes Richard B. about Battle Ground Lake State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Forest settings around horse campgrounds near Bingen support diverse wildlife. "Pristine campsites and beautiful cool lake that's not far from the city. Good trails and plenty of space," reports Matt W. about Battle Ground Lake State Park.
Natural springs: Some campgrounds feature natural water sources. "Water sources and restrooms are such a luxury out here," notes Candace about Panther Creek Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to remote horse camping requires preparation. "The road down is a little sketchy but as long as you go slow it's well worth it," cautions Cheryl P. about Bonney Crossing.
Water availability: Always verify water sources before arrival. At Clackamas Lake Campground, "Water spigots are a little overgrown, look for the spray paint on the campground drive to find them," advises Alan L.
Insect activity: Summer brings mosquitoes to many campgrounds. At Clackamas Lake, Colby M. warns, "Seriously, bring bug spray and put it on the minute you get there."
Weather patterns: Temperature fluctuations affect comfort at higher elevations. "Cold in the morning (Aug) but warms up quickly," notes Peter J. about Walupt Lake, reflecting similar conditions at other mountain horse camps near Bingen.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Kids enjoy cooling off in streams and lakes near many equestrian campgrounds. "Clackamas Lake is a great campsite. Fairly easy to find and navigate. Great for when you don't want to deal with the more crowded campgrounds," suggests Guinevere H.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer developed recreation areas. At Beacon Rock State Park, Corinna B. notes, "The first day use area on the right as you enter also has a playground, while the second area on the left has great views of Beacon Rock."
Kid-friendly hikes: Look for shorter trails with interesting features. "Battle Ground Lake Campground has lots of tent sites, and some cabins. There's a swim area roped off, and a small sand area for the kids to play. There are two hikes around the lake; an upper, and a lower one. Both are easy hikes, and are dog and kid friendly," shares Wendy C.
Camp host assistance: Friendly staff can enhance family experiences. "The 2018 season had excellent campground hosts, I hope they return next year! They were very friendly and had helpful tips for trails in the area," reports Heartworn H. about Panther Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Equestrian campgrounds often accommodate larger vehicles. "This campground is absolutely gorgeous. Most of the lots are quite private, with a shared trail system in the middle to the restrooms and community spigot," shares Kenny about Beacon Rock State Park.
RV size limitations: Check whether horse campgrounds can fit your rig. At Battle Ground Lake State Park, "The only thing to keep in mind is that you have to park down below and walk to the site, the furthest ones being over a quarter mile away," explains Matt W.
Power options: Some horse campgrounds offer electrical connections. At Hunt Park in Tygh Valley, "We camped here with our UMCI Motorcycle Group, and had a great time. Good power sites, even though we were in our Motorcycle tent trailer," reports Dennis P.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal needs. "This county fair grounds with lots of RV space for all sizes. Self register at the gate and find your spot. Nice rest room and showers," says David B. about Hunt Park.
