Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp provides equestrian-focused camping options with specific sites reserved for horse owners approximately 15 minutes from Mount Rainier National Park. The campground requires a Washington State Discover Pass for entry, which covers the camping fee with a 7-day limit in a 30-day period. Beyond the dedicated equestrian areas, trail riders appreciate the ADA-accessible path that offers level terrain for shorter rides or walking dogs. The campground's heavily wooded setting limits solar charging capabilities while providing natural shade during warmer months.
What to do
Explore hiking trails near Cooper Lake: At Owhi Campground on Cooper Lake, visitors can access multiple trails including routes to Pete Lake. "There are plenty of hiking trails located close by. You can hike to Pete Lake by either driving or hiking the remaining mile down the road to the trailhead from Owhi Campground," notes Megan C.
Practice target shooting: Near Sahara Creek, recreational shooting areas provide opportunities for target practice. One visitor mentions, "Shooting range is close by, doesn't bother me but it's pretty noisy." This makes the area good for groups who want to combine camping with target practice.
Fish for trout: Bumping Lake Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities in a scenic mountain setting. "There is a boat dock right near the campground. A small general store is open until 5pm," says Keli S. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, making it popular with anglers.
What campers like
Free camping with proper permits: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the value at certain sites. "If you have a Discover Pass already you are good to go. Love of area for Horses, trailers and regular camping. Vault toilets. No views but who doesn't like Free?" notes Charyl B. about one of the equestrian camping options near Enumclaw, Washington.
Privacy between sites: At Soda Springs, campers enjoy more secluded spots. "Sites are pretty spread out offering a good amount of privacy, all are along the Bumping River. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring, with bbq grate," explains Mary C. This separation provides a more private outdoor experience.
Off-grid experience: Soda Springs Campground offers a true disconnect from technology. "This is a perfect getaway for people looking to unplug as no cell service (tested on sprint, verizon, and google fi) is available. There is tons of wildlife and lots of trails and riverbank to explore," adds Mary C.
What you should know
Early arrival recommended: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak season. At South Fork Snoqualmie River, "There are a ton of really great sites along this road, although most of the drive-in sites will be taken if it's a busy weekend, so get there early!" advises Parker C.
Weather considerations: The area can experience rapid temperature changes even in summer. At Bumping Lake, one visitor notes, "Always windy and temps drop at night even after warm days so dress accordingly."
Road conditions vary: Access roads to many sites require appropriate vehicles. "Access road is right off the highway and unpaved, has a TON of holes so I wouldn't recommend driving down it without good ground clearance," warns Parker C. about South Fork Snoqualmie River.
Tips for camping with families
Picnic shelter for gatherings: The picnic shelter at Sahara Creek offers protection during inclement weather with closable sides. "There is also a nice picnic shelter with closable sides for in climate weather and lovely trails," notes Amy K., making it ideal for family meals regardless of conditions.
Watch for hazardous plants: Exercise caution with children at certain sites. At South Fork Snoqualmie River, Lewis G. cautions, "Lovely area such beautiful surroundings. But be very cautious as near one of the camp sites are very dangerous plants that are fatal and they are lined all around the campground so not recommended if you have children."
Consider day trips: Tolt MacDonald Park offers family-friendly amenities within reach of Enumclaw. "This park is big, beautiful, and very family friendly. I've been camping in this park a few times and the only complaint I have during a high traffic weekend is that there are not enough rest rooms!" reports Dawnielle C.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most equestrian camping near Enumclaw has restrictions on RV access. At Sahara Creek, one camper clarifies, "Most of the sites are horse camping only, but there are a handful that allow other types EXCEPT FOR RV, to my understanding there is NO RV CAMPING HERE," according to Callie S.
Level sites are rare: RV campers should prepare for potentially uneven ground. At Millersylvania State Park, Christina F. mentions, "The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is because our site had a huge mud puddle from the road going to the power and water hook-up. The thin layer of mud on the pavement made things quite slick as I was trying to get leveling blocks down."
Campsite size restrictions: Many horse-friendly campgrounds have size limitations for rigs. "I would never attempt with a trailer or even cab over camper. We took the tent and my Subaru Crosstrek up, took it slow and did just fine," reports one visitor about the challenging access roads to certain areas.
