Margaret McKenny Equestrian Campground sits within Capitol State Forest at approximately 46.9 latitude and -123.06 longitude. The campground provides dedicated sites for horseback riders with corrals on-site and offers easy access to Capitol Forest's extensive trail system. Camping requires a Washington Discovery Pass, with sites available on a first-come basis. The facility maintains primitive conditions with vault toilets but no running water or electricity.
What to do
Trail riding: Connect to multiple forest roads and equestrian paths from Fall Creek Campground, which offers similar forest experiences nearby. "Very pleasant campground. We had our choice of campsites, near hiking trails and the creek. The road wasn't too rough to get there, and we were able to park nearby," reports Zin C.
Old-growth forest exploration: Visit Lewis & Clark State Park Campground for unique old-growth cedar forests about 45 minutes south of Bucoda. "When venturing to Mount St Helens area I wanted to find a campground relatively close by to stay before visiting the next day. The site looked comfortable and quiet and was well shaded and welcoming," notes Crystal C.
Family recreation: Millersylvania State Park Campground offers lake activities just 15 minutes from Bucoda. "Lots of walking trails and a lake. Many families and kids running free. Quieted down around 10pm. A bit pricey ($37 peak season) but very convenient if you're in Olympia and need a campsite late/on the fly," writes Anna P.
What campers like
Quiet weekday camping: Horse campgrounds near Bucoda provide peaceful midweek experiences. At Porter Creek, "This is a family favorite and enjoy the time we spend camping here," shares SIMPLEGRINN A. The campground features primitive sites along a creek that attract horseback riders seeking solitude.
Easy trail access: Capitol Forest equestrian trails connect directly to most camping areas. "Kids really enjoyed the creek nearby and it was great for our tent camping. We were able to hike around and had water, and restrooms that were clean," notes Mayna M. about Fall Creek Campground.
Natural surroundings: Forested settings create a woodland atmosphere. "Sitting in our peaceful and private campsite amid a grove of trees, I felt I must share kudos for this state park. Many of the structures were built in the 1930's by the CCC and it has an iconic feel," writes Janet S. about Lewis & Clark State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Check current status before visiting equestrian camping areas near Bucoda. A Porter Creek visitor notes, "We arrived at the end of the road to find the campground closed, so we ended up abandoning our final night and driving home. The campground is pretty, the creek is clean, the 16 (?) sites are fairly well maintained and could be really lovely mid-week when not full."
Permit requirements: Washington Discovery Pass needed for camping in Capitol Forest. "You are supposed to have a Washington State Discovery pass to stay here, also they want you to fill out self registration once you arrive, fyi there are no pens onsite to do so," advises Samuel H. about Fall Creek.
Limited amenities: Rainbow Falls State Park Campground offers more facilities than forest campgrounds but still maintains a rustic atmosphere. "Rainbow Falls themselves aren't too impressive but my kids still had fun playing in the river. The campground was on the smaller side with only one loop but it had a huge field to play in and a small playground," explains Allisha M.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose campgrounds with play areas for children. "The campground is well kept. There is a large field with a playground, pavilion, and playground. The river had a lot of great swimming holes for all ages," shares Rich M. about Rainbow Falls State Park.
Water activities: Summer months offer swimming opportunities. "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," reports Kirstin K.
Educational options: Seaquest State Park Campground offers nature programs approximately 60 minutes south of Bucoda. "At night the campground had a great Junior Ranger program with a very enthusiastic park ranger that kept the almost 50 people/kids entertained. She was great at engaging all the kids and teaching them about the park, highly recommend this for anyone bringing kids," says Ashley B.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Capitol Forest equestrian campgrounds lack hookups, but nearby options exist. "Well-kept campground. Friendly owners/managers. Nice grass areas and playground. Quiet and relaxing. Would have given five stars but spots were a bit tight," notes L & K S. about Riffe Lake Campground, which offers electric and water connections.
Size considerations: "A little hard to find but we figured it out without too much difficulty. There's little to no cell service," mentions Lucy about Riffe Lake Campground. When bringing an RV to horse camping areas near Bucoda, scout ahead as many forest roads have tight turns and limited space.
Seasonal planning: Visit during spring or fall for fewer crowds. "Stayed here for 2 nights at the end of December and had almost the whole place to ourselves - there were only 2 other campers. It was lovely and quiet, but expect to hear road noise from the nearby highway," advises Rachel about Rainbow Falls State Park.
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