Equestrian camping near Chelan, Washington offers access to diverse terrain within the Wenatchee National Forest. The region sits at elevations between 1,100-4,000 feet, creating varied riding conditions from riverside trails to mountain paths. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F during peak riding season, with cooler nights that provide relief for horses after day trips.
What to do
Trail riding along Entiat River: Cottonwood Campground provides direct access to several equestrian-friendly trails following the Entiat River. "Several spots on both sides of Entiat River. Typical NForest type campground with little visual privacy but decent space between spots!" notes Teresa H.
Swimming with horses: At Lake Wenatchee State Park Campground, riders can cool off their horses in designated areas. "Amazing! Our spot faced the lake and surrounding mountains. The lake has such a nice beach!! Great swimming for adults and kiddos!" says Hailey T. The sandy beach areas provide safe entry points for horses.
Alpine lake exploration: Pack trips from equestrian sites can reach alpine lakes within a day's ride. The Alta Lake State Park Campground area offers moderate trails suitable for intermediate riders. "We take our kayaks and explore. Hiking trails are close by," shares Shay F., highlighting the mixed-use trails accessible to horseback riders.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Equestrian campers appreciate the well-maintained amenities at Chiwawa Horse Camp. "The campground was in good shape, nice and clean," reports Jeff C., noting that the vault toilets and water facilities are regularly serviced.
Creek access for cooling horses: Nason Creek Campground offers strategic spots where horses can safely drink and cool down. "Our site was right on the river it was huge could fit lots of tents and hammocks... and so close to the river," explains Garrett T., highlighting the spacious nature of sites that accommodate horse trailers.
Seasonal variations: Fall riding presents unique opportunities with fewer crowds. "After camping here for the maximum two week period, I was absolutely in love. Being surrounded by the tall Washington trees and a distant sound of the babbling creek felt like a dream," writes Amanda E. about her extended stay at Nason Creek Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During summer months, equestrian sites fill quickly. "Make sure you reserve a site online. If you just show up last minute you may be Sol," warns Kevin K. about Lake Wenatchee State Park.
Mosquito preparedness: Insect protection for both riders and horses is essential. "Be prepared for mosquitoes. But other than that very clean nice campsite," advises Jin about conditions at Lake Wenatchee State Park.
Fire restrictions: Check current regulations as they vary seasonally. "We ended up with an ant infestation in our camper and we camp very clean. It's very barren and hot," reports Lorrie K. at Alta Lake State Park Campground, highlighting how dry conditions can create both insect and fire concerns.
Tips for camping with families
Equestrian-friendly playgrounds: Some campgrounds offer facilities for children when not riding. "There is also a playground that my niece loved. Only downside was it could get a bit windy," shares Hailey T. about Lake Wenatchee State Park.
Multi-activity options: American Legion Park provides alternative activities for family members who don't ride. "Nice park beside very slow river adjacent to busy road. No dogs on grass. Garbage. Picnic tables. Shaded," notes DL M., describing the convenient amenities.
Shower facilities: After dusty trail rides, shower access becomes important. "I like this area very much. Nothing spectacular, but free showers, free WiFi, bathrooms, water faucet, and water spigot is hard to beat," explains Jonathan T. about American Legion Park, which offers these conveniences for $10/night.
Tips from RVers
Horse trailer positioning: RVers with horse trailers should arrive early to secure optimal sites. "We got lucky on a Friday with a FCFS site when all the reservable sites were marked as 'reserved' for the weekend," shares Laura M. about Nason Creek Campground.
Water access considerations: "Hard to get a site with an open sky view for solar. Many of the sites are pull through (curve along the camp site type)," continues Laura about Nason Creek, pointing out features particularly relevant to RVers with horse trailers who need specific positioning.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for servicing needs. "Easy to access dump station. No hookups. There are trash dumpsters but no recycling," reports Laura M. about the facilities at Nason Creek Campground, information particularly useful for extended horse camping stays.
