Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp serves equestrian campers near Mount Rainier's western access points. The campground sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation, with a gravel access road suitable for horse trailers. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, with summer daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Most equestrian sites accommodate both tents and portable corrals or highline setups, with 60 miles separating the camp from Black Diamond.
What to do
Trail riding access: The Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp provides direct connections to forest riding paths. "Lovely area such beautiful surroundings," notes Lewis G., who recommends caution with children due to potentially harmful plants near some camping areas. The camp requires a Washington Discover Pass for entry.
Lake activities: Bumping Lake Campground offers boat rentals and lake access for riders seeking water activities after trail time. "The lake is within a short walk from the camp sites. The sites are also somewhat secluded which is nice for me since it provides some privacy," reports Katie O., who appreciates the campground's policy allowing campers to collect fallen branches for firewood.
Winter exploration: When snow covers the trails, some areas remain accessible for winter riding. "23 May 2020 - you can drive to the 'Y' intersection for the camp grounds and horse camp, but the snow was so deep that walking is the only option," notes Eric H. about Soda Springs Campground, where winter horseback riding requires weather awareness.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Tolt MacDonald Park, campers enjoy adequate spacing. "Told macdonald is super cute park and campground! they offer the typical primitive campsites with fire pits and picnic tables, as well as yurts and shipping container conversions for those who want more of a 'GLAMping' outdoor experience," writes Mercedes D., who appreciates the convenient location near Carnation.
Water features: "This is near the Tinkham Campground. Plenty of dispersed sites with fire pits. Some sites are close together however if you keep going down the road you'll find plenty of quiet and private places," explains Mario E. about South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site, where equestrian campers can access creek-side primitive sites during summer months.
Natural setting: Horse campers value the undeveloped atmosphere. "Nice campground with vault toilet. Very quiet. Small spring and running creek. Cowlitz Trail is here. Horse camping and trail in separate area," shares Breanna R. about Soda Springs, noting the two isolated sites available for those with 4WD vehicles.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most equestrian sites around Black Diamond operate seasonally. "I stayed at one of these sites on Tinkham road while hiking a section of the PCT. Get there early to get the better sites. Plenty down the road though if all of the initial sites are full," advises Caroline E., who found South Fork Snoqualmie River accessible for early-season camping.
Amenities limitations: Vault toilets are standard at most equestrian campgrounds. "This site only has one vault toilet," notes Chris about Soda Springs, where facilities are minimal but functional. Pack toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
Road conditions: Access roads to horse camps may require high-clearance vehicles. "The drive up was rough, steep, and slick. I would never attempt with a trailer or even cab over camper," warns Shay F. about Corral Pass Campground, which has since been affected by wildfire damage.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Keep children supervised near water features. "You can hear the road from most camping spots. When we arrived at our site there was garbage all over the place in a fire pit so we cleaned it up," reports Adrian E. about South Fork Snoqualmie River, highlighting the need to inspect sites upon arrival.
Camping options: For families wanting alternatives to tent camping with horses, consider cabin options. "Yurt was clean and warm. Spent a night in the yurt. Everything worked," shares Chris A. about Tolt MacDonald Park, which offers yurt accommodations separate from equestrian areas.
Weather preparation: Pack for temperature fluctuations. "Even in heat waves this area is cooler and at night it is perfect," shares Chris about Soda Springs, where summer nights can still require warm clothing even after hot days.
Tips from RVers
RV accessibility: Limited full-hookup options exist for equestrian camping. "The only campground we've been to where we didn't need to level the trailer. RV sites are all pull through its fairly quiet," notes Russ H. about Owhi Campground, adding that "there's a charge dump station at the ministorage at the turn off."
Space requirements: Horse trailers with living quarters need extra room. "Access road is right off the highway and unpaved, has a TON of holes so I wouldn't recommend driving down it without good ground clearance," cautions Parker C. regarding South Fork Snoqualmie River dispersed camping, where equestrians should scout sites before attempting access with large rigs.
Site selection: Choose sites based on trailer size and horse containment needs. "I travel and work remotely so I'm always looking for free places that have cell reception and this place hits the jackpot," reports Austin R., who successfully brought an 18-foot travel trailer to South Fork Snoqualmie River sites.
