Capitol State Forest offers equestrian camping near Hoquiam, Washington, with designated sites for horses approximately 40 miles from the city. The region receives significant rainfall during winter months, making summer and early fall the ideal seasons for trail riding. Horse-friendly campsites typically have little to no cell service, requiring riders to plan accordingly for emergency contact options.
What to do
Riverside exploration: At Porter Creek Campground, visitors can explore along the water. "The river is gorgeous and fun to explore!" notes Jessica A. This primitive campground has over 12 sites available and serves as an excellent base for hiking and creek activities.
Hiking old-growth forests: Campbell Tree Grove Campground provides access to numerous forest trails. "There's river access and lots of trails to explore. There's even horse trails and a huge horse stall area for a group site/horse trailer," mentions Socks S. The campground sits in a secluded area about 90 minutes from Hoquiam.
Fishing for trout: Snag Lake Campground offers productive fishing opportunities. "It's stocked with trout. We saw many fishermen catch a lot of fish in a short time," reports Anna N. The lake name comes from the "old, picturesque trees/stumps in the lake," according to Pinkie K.
What campers like
Secluded camping: Campers appreciate the quiet atmosphere at Screamin' Eagle Campground. "We came in late and the owner/operator was very helpful and found us the last dry camping site available," writes Nicola M. The campground sits just "a five minute walk from the beach."
Clean facilities: At Porter Creek, visitors note the basic but functional amenities. "The trail and creek are beautiful," remarks E V., though she recommends bringing extra trash bags. The campground provides vault toilets but no water hookups.
Horse accommodations: Dedicated equestrian facilities at Margaret McKenny Campground receive positive feedback from riders. "The camp hosts Steve and Ginny are helpful, kind and keep it maintained well," writes Rachel W. Another camper mentioned, "There are 3 loops, one is dedicated to horses M-F" (Abby M.).
What you should know
Primitive conditions: Most equestrian camping options have minimal amenities. "You do need a discovery pass in order to stay and just register up front," explains Abby M. about Margaret McKenny. "No trash, no water, no hook ups so come prepared."
Seasonal limitations: Fall Creek Campground works best during drier months. "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," notes Samuel H.
Road conditions: Access roads to many campgrounds require slow, careful driving. Campers heading to Campbell Tree Grove should note that "the road in is incredibly bumpy, we actually popped a tire on the way in," warns Jess G. Similarly, at Snag Lake, "The road up to campground is pretty rough. Lots of washboard," according to Tony G.
Tips for camping with families
Large play areas: Rainbow Falls State Park offers family-friendly spaces. "There is a large field with a playground, pavilion, and playground. The river had a lot of great swimming holes for all ages," shares Rich M. The campground has a "huge field to play in and a small playground," adds Allisha M.
Bring entertainment: At Rainbow Falls, families can enjoy various outdoor activities. "Big open field for playing, horseshoe pits, small playground, river trail, and fishing," mentions ashley E. Another camper added that "We loved that this was right by the river and we could go swimming" (Kirstin K.).
Consider privacy needs: Some campgrounds offer limited separation between sites. At Rainbow Falls, "Some sites are huge and others are tiny so be sure to check out the pictures beforehand to know what you're booking," advises Allisha M. During peak season, "expect to hear road noise from the nearby highway" (Rachel).
Tips from RVers
Utility limitations: Most equestrian campgrounds have no hookups. At Margaret McKenny, one RVer notes "I was able to get decent sun for my solar so was able to stay for a couple of days with no issues" (Abby M.). Plan to bring all necessary water and power.
Size restrictions: RV sites at Campbell Tree Grove have tight access roads. "Next time we took a small trailer," mentions Merrie S., who first visited with a tent. The road is "1 lane, gravel but nicely maintained. Not many areas to pull over so go slow and prepare to back up if necessary," advises Pinkie K.
Level sites: Some campgrounds offer more RV-friendly parking. At Screamin' Eagle, Rick M. found "Level gravel parking sites. Good Wifi. Very clean restrooms." However, he noted electrical issues: "Our circuit breaker kept tripping during peak times and interrupted our ability to run the coffee pot" (Karin A.).
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