Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp serves as a central access point for equestrian trail riding near Mount Rainier National Park. The campground sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation in the Ashford area, with the shooting range located less than half a mile away creating periodic noise during daylight hours. Multiple connecting forest trails provide immediate riding access without needing to transport horses between locations after arrival.
What to do
Trail ride from camp: Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp offers direct access to forest trails, eliminating the need to haul horses to separate trailheads. According to one visitor, "There is also a nice picnic shelter with closable sides for in climate weather and lovely trails. It's also near Mount Rainier."
Fish in nearby waterways: Bumping Lake Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities with boat rentals available. "The lake is within a short walk from the camp sites. The sites are also somewhat secluded which is nice for me since it provides some privacy. They also let you scrounge around for your own firewood from fallen trees and branches," notes one camper.
Explore mountain lakes: Walupt Lake Campground offers pristine waters surrounded by forest. A visitor reports, "Lake is pristine, calm and gorgeous. Easy to kayak. Easy trail access to hikes. Cold in the morning (Aug) but warms up quickly."
What campers like
Shaded, private sites: The tall trees at Sahara Creek create well-spaced, shady camping areas. "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," explains one camper.
Easy park access: The campground's location just minutes from Mount Rainier National Park's Nisqually entrance makes it ideal for park exploration. A visitor noted, "This was a great spot right by the park for us to crash for the night. We pulled in on a Tuesday night and there were lots of spots open."
Waterfront camping: Hause Creek Campground offers sites along the river. "We found a site right by the river. Some shaded sites are available too. Camp host was very friendly and helpful," shares a satisfied camper.
What you should know
Discover Pass required: Camping at Sahara Creek requires a Washington State Discover Pass, functioning effectively as a free campground for pass holders. One camper clarifies, "This is a free camp ground if you have a Wa 'Discover Pass.' It is a shady campground not great for solar."
Limited reservations: Most equestrian sites operate on a first-come basis. "Sites 9-12 are reservable, walk in and right against the river," notes a visitor to nearby Hause Creek Campground.
No drinking water: Bring sufficient water for both people and horses as no water sources exist at the campground. "There is no running water at this time so bring your own," advises a camper.
Pack out trash: Follow strict pack-in, pack-out practices. "There is NO trash here, pack it in, pack out. Keep it clean. Lots of horses here which is enjoyable. An ADA trail is level for walking the dog," explains one visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible trails: The ADA-compliant trail near Sahara Creek provides easy riding for beginners and children. "Gorgeous site with large sites. However many are reserved for horse campers only. There is also a nice picnic shelter with closable sides for in climate weather and lovely trails," notes a visitor.
Playground options: Taidnapam Park offers recreational facilities for children. "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."
Level sites: Most camping areas feature flat terrain suitable for family tents. "The site was mostly sandy and the tent area was very flat. There was a woodsy area behind the site where kids could play," reports a camper at Bumping Lake.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: The majority of Sahara Creek sites accommodate horse trailers rather than recreational vehicles. One visitor warns, "Most of the sites are horse camping only, but there are a handful that allow other types EXCEPT FOR RV, to my understanding there is NO RV CAMPING HERE."
Alternative nearby options: South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site accommodates smaller RVs despite rough access roads. "A lot of the spots are on the smaller side, so we had a bit of trouble finding one that could fit our motorhome, but it was worth it. The place is beautiful. Super dark at night, and besides the sound from the interstate and cars driving up and down, it's quite."
