Equestrian camping near Gig Harbor, Washington sits on the Kitsap Peninsula between Puget Sound and Hood Canal. The area receives approximately 40 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forest conditions throughout the region's 320-foot elevation changes. Camping facilities operate primarily during summer months when average temperatures range from 60-75°F, with significantly reduced services from October through April.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Green Mountain provides direct access to multiple forest trails with connected logging roads that accommodate horses, hikers and motorcycles. As Ivy K. notes, "Nice clean camping area with easy access to multiple trails and logging roads. Trails are open to hiking horseback riding and motorcycles."
Fishing excursions: Porter Creek offers quality fishing opportunities along with hiking options. "This is a family favorite and enjoy the time we spend camping here," says SIMPLEGRINN A., while other visitors mention the clean creek for water activities during summer months.
Swimming holes: The Duckabash River at Collins Campground provides natural swimming areas during summer months. "Amazing little campground all sites except for two or on the river quiet clean bathrooms," mentions Tyler S., highlighting the riverside locations of most sites.
What campers like
River access: The sound of flowing water enhances the camping experience at Collins Campground. Kathleen J. shares, "Enjoyed the sound of the river right there. Restroom was not too smelly, no tp when we arrived, but most of us prepare for that."
Horse-friendly facilities: Margaret McKenny Equestrian Campground offers dedicated equestrian camping areas with corral facilities. According to Rachel W., "We have thoroughly enjoyed ourselves every time we have called at Margaret McKenny! The camp hosts Steve and Ginny are helpful, kind and keep it maintained well."
Proximity to urban areas: Locations near Gig Harbor provide quick access to urban amenities while maintaining a forest setting. Caren M. mentions Green Mountain has "about 5 tent spots with picnic tables and fire pit. Had a bathroom but no other amenities- drinking water, shower, firewood/ice for sale."
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most equestrian campgrounds near Gig Harbor operate on limited schedules. Porter Creek has specific opening dates as noted by Phoebe B.: "We arrived at the end of the road to find the campground closed. DNR would do well to post closure information so that apps like The Dyrt can more easily pick it up."
Permit requirements: Washington Discovery Passes ($35 yearly) are required at certain campgrounds. Samuel H. notes about Fall Creek Campground: "You are supposed to have a Washington State Discovery pass to stay here, also they want you to fill out self registration once you arrive, fyi there are no pens onsite to do so."
Noise levels: Motor vehicles frequently access trails near horse camping areas. Tim from Kammenga Canyon Campground states, "Nice open sites with space for multiple vehicles or trailers. Easy access to ORV trails. Expect lots of noise from off-road vehicles and music."
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration options: Children enjoy wading in the shallow creeks at multiple sites. Regarding Fall Creek, Mayna M. says, "Kids really enjoyed the creek nearby and it was great for our tent camping. We were able to hike around and had water, and restrooms that were clean."
Trail difficulty levels: Tolt MacDonald Park offers varied hiking options suitable for different ages. Mercedes D. comments, "tolt macdonald is super cute park and campground! they offer the typical primitive campsites with fire pits and picnic tables, as well as yurts and shipping container conversions."
Facilities planning: Most horse-friendly campgrounds offer limited amenities. Abby M. reports about Margaret McKenny: "There's a vault toilet per loop. No trash, no water, no hook ups so come prepared. There's a host onsite and they are very kind."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to equestrian camping areas often present challenges. Lawrence F. notes about Collins Campground: "The road from highway 101 to the campground has SO MANY potholes. Big ones that we had to navigate in our RV but nothing that made it too hard to access the campground."
Site configurations: RV spots at horse campgrounds typically lack hookups but provide adequate space. At Porter Creek, VIKKY S. explains, "This Campsite is in the woods and does not have basic amenities. It's a very rustic outdoor experience, Frequented by ATV and motorcycle and mountain biking people."
Level parking areas: Look for sites with natural level surfaces for RV parking. Russ H. appreciated Tolt MacDonald, saying, "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."
Guide
