Horse campgrounds near Marysville, Washington are situated within the temperate climate of the Puget Sound region, where summer temperatures average 70-75°F and winter months see frequent rainfall. The area sits at elevations ranging from sea level to 500 feet, with surrounding foothills offering access to higher terrain. Camping conditions vary significantly between the wetter western slopes and the drier eastern portions of Snohomish County.
What to do
Trail riding at Harry Osborne State Forest: Though temporarily closed in 2023, this equestrian-focused area offers extensive trail networks when open. "This is primarily a horse/hiking camp. There is not access for motorized Vehicles on the mountain Any longer," notes reviewer Deb E., who also mentions the facility has "2 manure pits, a vault toilet, some fire pits, and a group covered table area."
Beach exploration from Dungeness Recreation Area: Located about 2.5 hours from Marysville, this campground provides access to unique coastal features. "You can take a short walk down to the spit to explore the sandy beaches. You are a short drive from the Olympic Game Farm, well worth a visit. Check it out online, the kids will love feeding the buffalo and elk," shares Melissa J.
Hiking near Maple Grove Campsites: For those willing to travel farther from Marysville, this hike-in or boat-in site offers nature trails. "The trail is relatively flat and goes through some beautiful old growth forest," explains Ethan A., adding that "the forest is full of huge, old growth trees, some trees still showing the evidence of old lumbar scars."
What campers like
River access at Collins Campground: Located on the Olympic Peninsula, this campground features waterfront sites. "There are 15 sites and most are along a river with private access from your campsite," writes Asia M., who adds, "There is a lot of privacy between each site too."
Equestrian facilities at Sage Horse Camp: This horse-friendly campground provides basic amenities for equestrians. "There is a community fire pit area as well as fire rings at each site. 2 porta potties," notes Lillie P., who stayed there without horses but found it "a pleasant area to stay in still."
Mountain views at Baker Lake: The boat-in or hike-in Maple Grove Campground offers spectacular scenery. "STUNNING sunset views of Baker and (if you get into the water) Shuksan. Bunch of flat sites, great fire-rings, and even an old dock if you have a boat," writes Christian N., who hiked the entire Baker Lake Trail and concluded, "from what we saw, this was the best site!"
What you should know
Limited toilet facilities: Many horse campgrounds have basic sanitation. At Harry Osborne State Forest, there's "no potable water or garbage" service according to Deb E., while Collins Campground has just "2 outhouses" per Asia M.
Seasonal considerations: Campgrounds like Evergreen State Fairgrounds operate seasonally. "This is under Snohomish county park system. Rates are good price. Notable considerations, near racetrack ongoing races and trials usually quiets down early evening this time of year," explains Tracy P.
Water access challenges: At Harry Osborne State Forest, reviewer Deb E. notes that "Stockwater has been gaited off due to vandalism and trash dumping. You may utilize trails to walk your horses down to the water." Similarly, at Maple Grove, "there is no running water on this side of the lake so bring your water filter."
Tips for camping with families
Consider fairground facilities: The Evergreen State Fairgrounds offers convenient camping for families attending events. "Perfect for a vendor at the fair, not great for someone who wants a peaceful spot to park an RV," notes Dene H., highlighting its utilitarian nature.
Look for playgrounds: Dungeness Recreation Area caters to families with amenities. "This campground is great for families and people with kids. There are playgrounds near the bathrooms. The bathrooms have showers, and are clean and accessible," shares Melissa J.
Pack for weather: The Puget Sound region experiences significant rainfall, particularly from October through April. At Collins Campground, Kathleen J. notes they "got an awesome river spot with our brand new set up. It rained but was a beautiful and oh so green area to camp."
Tips from RVers
Fairground hookup limitations: At Whidbey Island Fairgrounds Campground, RVers should note the basic setup. "It's at the fairgrounds on the edge of town, there's a largely unlandscaped grass field with electrical boxes & (some) water connections. There is a dump out on site and potable water," explains Christine.
Consider pedestal placement: At Evergreen State Fairgrounds, Adam A. observes that "The power pedestals is set up for 2 rv's per pole so it might be on the wrong side so you need to run an extra cord or hose. Not a problem if your set up for it."
Expect limited amenities: RV sites at equestrian campgrounds are typically basic. Adam A. describes Evergreen State Fairgrounds as "more of a place to park then a full on campground. It has water and 30 amp power at all spots with access to a dump station. You are limited to 7 nights per month."
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