Equestrian camping opportunities near McKenna, Washington provide access to forest trails through Capitol State Forest. The area sits at approximately 400-600 feet elevation with a maritime climate featuring mild, wet winters and dry summers. Trail systems connect through DNR lands, offering riders access to miles of maintained routes through second-growth forest areas where camping permits are typically required.
What to do
Trail riding access: At Fall Creek Campground, riders can access nearby forest trails. "Very pleasant campground. We had our choice of campsites, near hiking trails and the creek. The road wasn't too rough to get there, and we were able to park nearby," notes Zin C.
Water recreation: Millersylvania State Park Campground offers lake access for riders who want to cool off after trail time. "A very pretty and clean lake, Beer Garden at the lake, clean bathrooms, shower requires tokens but shortens the shower time if you have to wait," reports John G.
Forest exploration: Capitol Forest trails provide extensive riding opportunities connecting to camping areas. "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," explains Mayna M. about Fall Creek.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp offers spacious sites for horse trailers. "Very shady and quiet, not crowded at all. Primitive camping, no water, no restrooms just vault toilets, no trash pickup either so you need to pack everything out," reports Callie S.
Clean facilities: Equestrian campers appreciate maintained bathrooms at established sites. "Clean facilities, some nice perks like a beer garden and ice cream and the lake is great. You're packed in pretty close to each other, but the trees provide pretty good insulation," notes Jed G. about Millersylvania State Park.
Affordability: Many equestrian camps operate on permit systems rather than per-night fees. "YOU NEED A WA DISCOVER PASS TO CAMP HERE!!! But it is free with the pass. And there's a gas station 5 minutes down the road in Ashford where you can buy one," shares Callie S. about Sahara Creek.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Most equestrian camps in the area require Washington Discover Passes. "Not sure why it says $30, this place is free WITH your Discover Pass, 7 day limit in a 30 day period," notes Fern about Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp.
Reservation systems: While Margaret McKenny requires permits, Lewis & Clark State Park Campground operates on reservations. "The reservation system is very strict and though you can change your reservation online for eight dollars a change, there are hefty penalties for canceling," warns Theresa R.
Site differences: Campgrounds vary significantly in layout and amenities. "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," points out Samuel H. regarding Fall Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Rainbow Falls State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "Big open field for playing, horseshoe pits, small playground, river trail, and fishing," notes Ashley E.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer water access for children. "We loved that this was right by the river and we could go swimming. Also there was a giant field that was great for playing soccer and baseball with the kids," shares Kirstin K. about Rainbow Falls.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience varied noise levels. "We enjoyed our stay at Millersylvania. It's a beautiful place. We purchased firewood from the Boy Scout troop here for $6/bundle. The only downside for us is that it is really crowded, and a few dogs and some very rude people kept us up until about 1 am," reports Carrie S.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Riffe Lake Campground offers multiple hookup options. "They have several back-in spots, some with partial hookups and some with full hookups. Most of the spots are well-shaded from the trees," explains Kevin W.
Site sizing: Check site dimensions when booking for equestrian rigs. "It took a long time to get set up because of the ridiculously small amount of space I had to maneuver my 33ft RV and my 8ft extended cab truck," cautions Savannah H. about Majestic Mobile Manor & RV Park.
Road access: Some campgrounds present challenges for large horse trailers. "The RV park is separate from the camping tents and smaller campers. Those are in a beautiful forest. Unfortunately, we had to stay in the RV section. The RV section had six spots. 3 of those spots back up to a busy paved road with traffic," warns Lisa P. about Lewis & Clark State Park.
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