Equestrian camping near Selah, Washington extends beyond the immediate area, with several campgrounds within 60 miles accommodating horses and riders. The eastern foothills of the Cascade Mountains provide varied terrain for trail riding, with elevations ranging from 1,400 to 5,000 feet. Summer temperatures in this region typically reach 85-95°F during daytime hours, dropping to 50-60°F at night.
What to do
Trail riding at Teanaway Campground: Located about 60 miles north of Selah, this campground serves as an access point for multiple trail systems in the Teanaway Community Forest. "Relaxing spot nestled within the Teanaway Community Forest. A few basic toilets dot the area and campsites are separated by picnic tables and fire rings," notes Daniel in his review of Teanaway Campground.
Fishing at Bumping Lake: The lake provides excellent fishing opportunities for anglers with various species available. "The lake is pristine, calm and gorgeous. Easy to kayak. Easy trail access to hikes," shares Peter J. about his experience at Bumping Lake. Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased in nearby towns before heading to Bumping Lake Campground.
OHV riding near camp: For equestrians who also enjoy motorized recreation, some areas allow both horse and OHV access. "You can ride your OHV right out of camp and up the roads for some great views. They also have horse tie ups and an elevated ramp for easier mounting of horses," reports Jacob V. about Tree Phone Campground.
What campers like
River access for cooling off: Many campsites offer river access, which is valuable for both humans and horses during hot summer months. "River runs right along the campground and makes for a very peaceful night sleep," explains Jacob about Tree Phone Campground, which includes horse tie-ups and access to trails.
Private, wooded sites: Campers appreciate the natural separation between sites for added privacy. At Cottonwood Campground, Rachel M. reports, "The sites along the river have good privacy, river access, and the sound of the river drowns out the sound of the nearby road as well as other campers."
Camp hosts and facilities: Well-maintained facilities enhance the camping experience. At Walupt Lake Campground, Kate G. notes, "We had site 16 which offered great privacy and close to a bathroom. We were there in the middle of the week and the camp was busy but quiet which was great."
What you should know
Water availability: Not all campgrounds provide running water for horses, requiring riders to bring their own. "No water/electricity. T-mobile was hit or miss - couldn't connect hot spot," reports Callie C. about Teanaway Campground, emphasizing the need to bring sufficient water for both people and animals.
Seasonal challenges: Bug activity can impact both horses and riders during certain months. At Walupt Lake Campground, Kate G. warns, "I'd give this campground four stars but we battled mosquitoes constantly," highlighting the importance of bringing insect repellent for both humans and horses.
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds involves rough roads that may challenge horse trailers. "It's not the greatest road getting up there. For the most part the road isn't bad but I was hauling a camper and a 20' trailer," explains Jacob V. about Tree Phone Campground, information valuable to those hauling horse trailers.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Look for campgrounds with gentle water access for children and horses. "Sites 9-12 are reservable, walk in and right against the river. The river was running high while we were there, so it drowned out most of the road noise," reports Stephanie S. about Hause Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. "From the top of the hike we were able to see Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Rainier. It doesn't get any better than that," enthuses Sasha W. about the hiking trails accessible from Walupt Lake Campground.
Day trips to nearby attractions: Plan day excursions to break up the camping routine. "We drove into Yakima to check out WilRidge winery and go pick cherries," shares Erica B. about her stay at Hause Creek Campground, suggesting activities beyond horse riding.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: When bringing horses and RVs, site selection becomes crucial. "Plenty of spots for tents and RVs. Clean and well maintained bathrooms. There is plenty of space for kids to play and visibility is high," explains Mary C. about Yakima Sportsman State Park Campground, a location closer to Selah than other options.
Parking considerations: Some campgrounds have limited turning space for trailers. "If you have a trailer there is not much room to turn around," warns Jacob V. about Ahtanum Meadows Campground, important information for those hauling horse trailers.
Hookup availability: Most horse-friendly campgrounds near Selah lack full hookups. "Some sites don't have any privacy but other have plenty. The showers are by tokens 2 for $1, each token gives you 3 minutes of shower time," notes Jorge H. about Yakima Sportsman State Park, one of the few locations offering some amenities while still being accessible for day trips with horses.
Traveler
