Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp provides horseback riding trails directly from the grounds, eliminating the need to trailer horses to trailheads. This equestrian-centered facility requires a Washington Discover Pass but is otherwise free to use with a 7-day limit within a 30-day period. Vault toilets serve as the only sanitation facilities while a covered picnic shelter can be closed on the sides for protection during inclement weather.
What to do
Trail access for riders: The grounds provide direct connection to forest trails suitable for day rides. The Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp features an "ADA trail is level for walking the dog" according to Fern's review, providing accessible options for those not on horseback.
Lake activities: At Walupt Lake Campground, the pristine water offers recreation opportunities. "Lake is pristine, calm and gorgeous. Easy to kayak. Easy trail access to hikes," notes Peter J. The lake's clear water makes it ideal for paddling, and one reviewer mentioned, "Our camp site number was 38 and we had our own beach area."
Wildlife viewing: The region surrounding equestrian camping near Morton offers wildlife observation opportunities. "My kids think it is the best place. They can ride their bikes, play at the park, and see lots of wildlife," shares Sharla H. about Taidnapam Park. The varied ecosystems between lake shores and forested areas create diverse habitats.
What campers like
Primitive camping experience: For those seeking horseback riding opportunities with minimal facilities, the rustic nature appeals. "This is a tents only campground. Boats and boat ramps are right there. All sights are walk in," reports Shannon B. about Merrill Lake Campground, which offers a similarly primitive experience to Sahara Creek.
Family-friendly spaces: Multiple campgrounds in the Morton area accommodate families well. At Taidnapam Park, Rachel K. explains, "We love this campground to go to with kids - the walk-in tent sites are great and the water is so shallow now for quite a ways out so the kids can play in the water and the sand/mud along the edge of the lake."
Accessibility to trails: Horse camping areas typically provide excellent trail connections. Mari R. notes about Kalama Horse Camp Campground, "Trails are in abundance and usually maintained by volunteers and USFS. There is stock water and wheelbarrows for mucking." These maintained trails make day rides convenient directly from camp.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The Morton area experiences typical Pacific Northwest seasonal changes. "Cold in the morning (Aug) but warms up quickly," reports Peter J. about Walupt Lake. Camping during summer months brings warmer days but still cool mornings, requiring layered clothing.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location. At Lewis & Clark State Park Campground, Theresa R. notes, "We stayed at a full hook up campsite that included electricity sewer and freshwater," but many primitive horse camps have no connectivity options.
Supply planning: Remote horse camps require thorough preparation. "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," advises Callie S. about Sahara Creek. The reminder about permits applies to many state lands in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Families find plenty to do at the region's campgrounds. "This campground is a strange hidden gem... We have camped for three years now at the walk-in tent sites and it's a bit tougher to access the water but you definitely can still find plenty of places to get in or take a kayak down to the water," explains Rachel K. about Taidnapam Park.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Millersylvania State Park Campground, Mary C. observed, "My kids loved the addition of a playground. Many parks dont have this and it kept them entertained for hours. There is a bathroom and extra parking right next to the playground."
Noise considerations: Family campers should be aware of ambient noises. At Sahara Creek, GrandpaMoto B. notes, "It is a pleasant campground but can be noisy at times as there is a shooting range not to far away." This kind of specific information helps families plan appropriately.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing and access: RV campers face specific considerations at horse camps. "RV spots are gravel pads and had water and electric, some had full hook up too. Some spots are better suited for larger rigs (ours was a little tight) but we were only doing a one night stop," explains Erin A. about Riffe Lake Campground.
Hookup availability: Most equestrian camping areas near Morton have limited or no RV hookups. Kevin W. reports about Riffe Lake, "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."
Leveling challenges: The terrain at many horse camps creates challenges for RVs. Fern notes about Sahara Creek, "I depend 100% on solar. There is deep shade in all camp spots, I chose a fairly sunny spot, but it wasn't enough to charge my batteries." This highlights the need for alternative power sources in heavily wooded camps.
