Teanaway Community Forest offers diverse equestrian recreation approximately 20 miles northwest of Ellensburg. Located at elevations between 2,200-5,200 feet, this 50,000-acre landscape connects the eastern Cascade Mountains with shrub-steppe terrain. The forest experiences hot, dry summers with daytime temperatures often exceeding 90°F from July through August, contrasting with cold winters where snow accumulation limits access.
What to do
Mountain biking on forest trails: Access the trail system directly from Teanaway Campground with routes suitable for intermediate riders. "If you are a mountain biker, this spot will not disappoint with the trail system right out of camp," notes Silas about Teanaway Campground.
Lake fishing: Cooper Lake near Cle Elum offers trout fishing in a non-motorized lake setting. "Rainbow trout are available to catch for the crafty fisherman," according to Megan C. at Owhi Campground.
Off-road vehicle recreation: The Riders Camp area provides designated ORV trails with varying difficulty levels. Bruce S. explains, "This is a great place to camp and ride ORVs they have a beginners loop trailhead attached to this site as well as a trail head to a larger trail system."
Water activities: The North Fork Teanaway River offers cooling spots during summer heat. "River access for the kids. If you are a mountain biker, this spot will not disappoint with the trail system right out of camp," mentions Silas about the area.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: Clear skies make for excellent night viewing in summer months. "Get there a little early to get a good spot so you can see those brilliant stars at night," recommends Cassiey K. at Teanaway Campground.
Weekday camping: Sites are notably less crowded midweek with improved ambiance. "By Sunday evening 90% of the crowd had left and it was heavenly!" shares Callie C. about her experience.
Riverside camping: Several sites offer direct water access for cooling off during hot days. "The sites were a little over grown when we were there. The pit toilets were clean," says Chad K. about Hause Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning visitors may encounter small animals and birds. "Wake up to the sounds of ravens yelling and chipmunks trying to climb in your car throughout the day!" reports Alexia D. about the forest environment.
What you should know
Summer dust conditions: The dry climate creates dusty campsites and trails during peak season. "Got a little dusty and windy but once it died down the the view of the starts was worth the minor hassle," notes Ginger M.
Camp early for prime spots: Equestrian sites fill quickly during weekends, especially in summer. "We talked to some gals up the trail in sites #9 & 10 and they arrived on Tuesday evening to claim their sites for a large group for the weekend," explains a camper at Bumping Lake Campground.
Limited services: Most horse camping areas have minimal facilities. "No water/electricity. T-mobile was hit or miss - couldn't connect hot spot," explains Callie C.
Toilet facilities: Vault toilets are standard but conditions vary by location. "Bring your own toilet paper because there wasn't any in the bathroom," advises Shaelyn B.
Tips for camping with families
River cooling spots: The North Fork Teanaway offers safe wading areas for children during hot days. "There is a pretty little calico cat that hung out with us for a bit, who happily plopped around us outside," mentions Cassiey K. about unexpected wildlife encounters.
Kid-friendly activities: Several sites offer open spaces for play away from horse areas. "The surrounding grounds is a park with playground equipment and a huge field. There are tons of hikes and a small pond to explore...with turtles!" says Mary C. about Yakima Sportsman State Park.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience significant weekend crowds affecting atmosphere. "Not what I was expecting. Not ideal for tent camping, and the river was nowhere to be found," reports one tent camper about overcrowded conditions.
Accessible horse trails: Several routes are suitable for beginners and younger riders. "We've been coming here since a child and I bring my kids here to learn how to ride and enjoy all the great outdoor have to offer," notes Bruce S.
Tips from RVers
Site access: Gravel roads to equestrian sites can be navigated with larger rigs but require caution. "About a 20 minute drive from Clu Elum. Free with a Discovery Pass but no one checked while I was there," notes Katy W.
Parking capacity: Designated horse camping areas provide sufficient space for trailers. "The camp sites were larger than expected; we reserved 2 sites for 4 people but would have been all right with just one site," mentions Wendy at Hause Creek.
Water management: No hookups means bringing sufficient water for both campers and horses. "No water or trash but some vault toilets," reports Katy W.
