Kalama Horse Camp sits in the mountainous landscapes of southwest Washington, providing access to Mount St. Helens trails and the surrounding Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Located at an elevation around 2,000 feet, the area experiences warm summer days with cooler nights and seasonal trail conditions that vary with snowmelt. The campground's design prioritizes equestrian access with sites specifically engineered for horse trailers.
What to do
Trail riding near Mount St. Helens: Kalama Horse Camp connects to an extensive trail system that winds through diverse terrain. "Most all of the campsite have horse corrals. There are several awesome trails you can take right from the campground and there is a campground trail that guides you around the whole campground area," notes Kelcie T. from Kalama Horse Camp.
Mushroom hunting in fall: The forests provide excellent mushroom foraging opportunities during autumn months. A camper at Kalama Horse Camp shares, "And if you like mushrooms... O M to the G. Check out the photos! We woke up in the morning and marched up Mt. Saint Helens. With or without horses (they couldn't fit in the trunk), with or without beer, it just doesn't get any better than this," according to Bjorn S.
Day trips to Mount St. Helens visitor centers: Multiple visitor centers provide educational opportunities within a short drive. "It's a great campground for those that are spending multiple days in Mt. Saint Helen's since it was a very short drive away," explains Ashley B. of Seaquest State Park.
What campers like
Forest canopy for shade: The tree coverage provides natural temperature regulation during summer months. "Very private and great tree cover. We had an awesome weekend," reports Joshua T. about Kalama Horse Camp, highlighting the natural shelter that keeps sites cooler.
Large, well-designed sites: Equestrian camping sites offer ample space for horse trailers and equipment. Mari R. explains, "Sites are nice sized, it's generally peaceful under the large fir trees with just enough canopy to provide shade and for the wood corrals. Trails are in abundance and usually maintained by volunteers and USFS."
Mountain views from higher trails: Elevated trails provide scenic vistas of the surrounding mountains. "Great views up on the high trails of the mountains. We enjoy it and go at least annually!" says Mari R. about Kalama Horse Camp Campground.
What you should know
Water availability: No drinking water is available on site, requiring campers to bring their own supply. "This is primarily a spot where you go to park your horse trailer and go from there! However it's 'first come first served'. Has few amenities, pit toilets.... clean and composting," notes A.M.C.
Composting toilets only: The campground features basic sanitation facilities without showers. "There are several compost toilets that are available for campers and day use. Each Campsite has a firepit and picnic table," explains Kelcie T.
Trail maintenance conditions: Trail quality depends on volunteer maintenance and seasonal factors. At Lewis & Clark State Park Campground, a visitor notes, "When venturing to Mount St Helens area I wanted to find a campground relatively close by to stay before visiting the next day. I found Lewis and Clark State Park along the way and opted to give it a shot for an overnight."
Tips for camping with families
Off-site water planning: Families should calculate their water needs carefully before arrival. "Pit toilets are pretty good but just in case, bring TP! Each site has a nice picnic table and fire pit," advises Mari R. about the basic but functional amenities at horse campgrounds near Castle Rock.
Creek access for hot days: Some sites provide creek access for cooling off during summer. Jessica C. from Kalama Horse Camp mentions, "The sites are nice and close to a creek which was nice since it was hot. Our site had a fire pit and a picnic bench."
Alternative non-equestrian camping nearby: For families without horses, nearby campgrounds offer similar forest settings. "This campground is split into three loops; an RV loop, Mixed loop, and a predominantly tent loop. As with other Washington State Parks, the loop and camp spots each have a different cost ranging from $20-$30+ a night," explains Tom K. from Seaquest State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Trailer size limitations: The campground accommodates medium-sized trailers but isn't suitable for large RVs. At Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground, "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," notes Matt W., highlighting access considerations relevant to all camping in the region.
Level site selection: Choose sites carefully to ensure proper leveling for RVs and trailers. "Each spot is large and quite private. The spot felt very private even though it's next to other sites," mentions Lillie P., describing the site spacing that allows for comfortable trailer placement.
Stock water availability: Horse corrals have access to stock water separate from drinking water. "There is stock water and wheelbarrows for mucking. Pit toilets are pretty good but just in case, bring TP!" adds Mari R. about equestrian camping facilities near Castle Rock, Washington.
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