Equestrian camping near Klickitat, Washington provides riders access to expansive trail networks through diverse terrain at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 4,500 feet. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F while spring and fall bring moderate conditions ideal for trail riding. Seasonal campground closures typically occur between October and May due to snowpack and muddy conditions.
What to do
Trail riding at Pacific Crest Trail: Access sections of the PCT directly from Panther Creek Campground, where trails wind through old growth forests. "The PCT was a great for day hikes. Definitely on our list to return to!" notes Heather P., who appreciated the easy trail access.
Fishing opportunities: Cast for trout in nearby streams and lakes, especially during spring and fall. According to Lawrence F., "There are several places to access the creek and play in the cold, shallow water. The stones in the stream are a rainbow of metamorphic rock."
Huckleberry picking: Late summer brings abundant huckleberries to higher elevations. "It's right by Mt. Hood, Hood River and the wind surfing, Pacific Crest Trail, huckleberry picking, Portland, Vancouver, etc.," writes Bjorn S. about regional attractions accessible from camp.
Waterfall hikes: Explore several nearby waterfall trails within 30-minute drives from base camps. Ashley B. notes that at Keenes Horse Camp, "The campground was next to the creek and had multiple horse trails leaving from the campground... There were also a ton of wildflowers each time I went."
What campers like
Spacious corral setups: Most equestrian sites feature corrals that accommodate multiple horses with room for gear. "The horse pens were huge and we used them to help hang our hammocks," notes Gretch H. about Riley Horse Campground.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between sites. "The sites are pretty well spread out in a double loop with 3 double pit toilets and 2 hand pumps for water," writes Lawrence F. about Panther Creek Campground.
Stream access: Nearly all equestrian campgrounds feature creek or river access for horses and riders. "So close to Panther Creek for swimming on a hot day, taking off to the PCT for a hike, or foraging for mushrooms in the fall," explains Candace at Panther Creek Campground.
Clean facilities: Despite primitive amenities, campers consistently report well-maintained facilities. As Jeff K. notes, "Water, pit toilets (clean) and firewood are available. Good spacing between sites, but not a ton of privacy."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with minimal shade at some sites. Bill M. cautions, "During the peak summer months, being in a wind break makes for a hot, stuffy, buggy experience."
Limited water access: Many equestrian camps have seasonal or limited water facilities. At Bonney Crossing, Scott B. notes the site is "primitive so you must bring your own potable water."
Road conditions: Forest service roads leading to camps frequently have rough sections. Ashley B. warns that near Keenes Horse Camp, "The road all the way to the campground was very bad with holes, washouts, downed trees, huge dips... low clearance cars could do damage."
Reservation requirements: Some horse camps operate on first-come, first-served basis while others require advance booking. "It fills up quickly on the weekends, so if you don't have a site reserved I highly recommend getting there early," advises Heartworn H.
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration: Children enjoy wading in the shallow creeks adjacent to many camps. Scott B. shares that at Bonney Crossing, "Kids loved spending time exploring the creek and cooling off in it."
Wildlife viewing: Bring binoculars for spotting birds and small mammals around camp. Jeff K. mentions, "Saw lots of birds" during his stay at Panther Creek.
Campfire alternatives: During seasonal fire bans, plan alternative evening activities. Brooks Memorial State Park Campground offers "a few walk about simple hiking paths" according to Susan L., making it suitable for evening strolls.
Bug protection: Mosquitoes can be intense at higher elevations, particularly July-August. Jenna B. warns about Walupt Lake Campground: "Lots of mosquitoes in July so bring your bug spray."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most equestrian campgrounds accommodate smaller trailers but have tight turns. Susan L. notes that at Brooks Memorial, "Our site was a tenting site, but we were in our mini Meerkat camper and we fit."
Full hookup options: For longer stays with horses, consider the limited full-service sites. Joe C. reports that Beacon Rock State Park Campground offers "Woodward full hook up sites. Only a small number of them so felt spacious and secluded."
Leveling challenges: Many forest service sites require leveling equipment. Lawrence F. advises that access to Panther Creek involves "a double loop" and the "interior dirt road erodes more every year."
Year-round alternatives: When seasonal horse camps close, Hunt Park remains open. David B. describes it as having "lots of RV space for all sizes" and "borders a large cattle ranch so you may hear cattle mooing but that's about it."
