Green Mountain offers equestrian camping sites 20 miles west of Burton in Kitsap County. The campground allows both horseback riding and motorcycles on the trail system, creating a multi-use recreational area. Vault toilets are available, but campers must bring their own drinking water as none is provided on-site.
What to do
Trail riding options: At Tolt MacDonald Park, riders can access multiple trail systems. "It was quiet and peaceful," notes LColleen R., who appreciated the natural setting. The park features a distinctive suspension bridge connecting different trail areas.
Swimming and water recreation: Cool off during summer months at nearby lakes and rivers. "The lake is great," shares Jed G. about Millersylvania State Park Campground, which offers swimming areas with "a nice shallow area and two large swimming areas as well as a fishing dock."
Motorcycle trails: For motorized recreation, Kammenga Canyon Campground provides direct access to ORV trails. Tim notes the "nice open sites with space for multiple vehicles or trailers" and mentions you should "expect lots of noise from off-road vehicles and music."
What campers like
Private river sites: Many campers enjoy waterfront camping. At Collins Campground, "There are 15 sites and most are along a river with private access from your campsite," reports Asia M., adding "There is a lot of privacy between each site too."
Close proximity to urban areas: Multiple campgrounds offer convenient access to nearby towns. Kayko S. describes Tolt MacDonald Park as "a great spot close to the city if you want to get away but not drive too far," making it ideal for weekend getaways without extensive travel.
Group camping areas: Several horse campgrounds near Burton provide options for larger parties. "It had its own bathrooms," reports Ellen T. about Millersylvania State Park Campground's group site, noting it was "set back in the woods with tons of places for tents. The shelter was large and had water and power."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Check current burn bans before planning campfires. "Fire rings are available at each site, allowing for campfires when seasonal restrictions permit," mentions Caren M. about Green Mountain, highlighting the need to verify conditions before arrival.
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. "This is free camp ground if you have a WA 'Discover Pass,'" notes GrandpaMoto B. about Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp, which has a "7 day limit in a 30 day period."
Trail sharing expectations: Multi-use trails mean encountering various recreational users. Ivy K. points out that at Green Mountain, "Trails are open to hiking horseback riding and motorcycles," requiring awareness and courtesy among different user groups.
Limited services: Most horse campgrounds offer basic amenities only. "Primitive camping, no water, no restrooms just vault toilets, no trash pickup either so you need to pack everything out," explains Callie S. about Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Youth-oriented activities: Some locations cater specifically to younger campers. "Great place lots of fun but it is not a campground... It's a summer camp for teenagers," clarifies Tyler S. about Crista Ministries - Crista Camps, offering organized activities rather than traditional camping.
Lake swimming areas: Families appreciate designated swimming zones with gradual entry points. At Millersylvania State Park Campground, Ellen T. notes that "the lake is the main attraction and it is hopping" with "a nice shallow area" that's "great for letting kids go out in kayaks."
Playground facilities: Look for campgrounds with built-in entertainment options. "The park itself is huge offering lots of options for campers," says Charyl B. about Sahara Creek, which includes accessible trails that work well for children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV campers should verify electrical and water connections before arrival. Russ H. notes at Tolt MacDonald Park, "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."
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal needs. "There's a charge dump station at the ministorage at the turn off," advises Russ H., providing a practical tip for RVers staying at Tolt MacDonald Park.
Site size considerations: Check whether your vehicle fits comping spaces. "Was hard to stake my tent down bc of rocky soil," mentions Callie S. about Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp, adding an important note that "to my understanding there is NO RV CAMPING HERE," highlighting the need to verify accommodations.
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