Equestrian camping options near North Cascades National Park provide access to hundreds of miles of mountain trails. The national forest lands surrounding the park contain several designated horse camps with corrals, high line posts, and manure bunkers. Elevation in these camping areas ranges from 1,700 to 4,800 feet, with seasonal accessibility typically limited to May through October due to snowpack conditions.
What to do
Trail riding on the Pacific Northwest Trail: At Junction Camp, hikers and equestrians access segments of this 1,200-mile trail. "While the hike is relatively easy-moderate while passing through the other camps, once you get pass camp Tricouni you have 2.2 miles until camp Junction and it's a strenuous hike up the mountain for about a mile," notes Jen M.
Stargazing opportunities: The high elevation at Harts Pass Campground creates exceptional night sky viewing. "Great place for star gazing!" confirms Brian L. The campground sits at the highest maintained road in Washington state, offering unobstructed celestial views.
UTV trail exploration: From several forest service campgrounds, motorized trail networks extend for miles. "Awesome trails from this spot to ride UTVs," reports Joseph P. about Salmon Meadows Campground. These designated trails connect multiple camping areas throughout the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
What campers like
Mount Baker viewpoints: Maple Grove Campsites offers prime mountain viewing across the lake. "STUNNING sunset views of Baker and (if you get into the water) Shuksan," writes Christian N., who adds, "Hiked the whole Baker Lake Trail and from what we saw, this was the best site!"
Group facilities: Many horse camps include gathering areas for larger parties. "The gazebo is always awesome for a large family gathering and the views of the meadow are very peaceful," notes Joseph P. about Salmon Meadows. These central facilities help coordinate multi-family equestrian camping trips.
Privacy between campsites: Despite being established campgrounds, many maintain good spacing. Teresa H. observes about Cottonwood Campground: "Typical NForest type campground with little visual privacy but decent space between spots!"
What you should know
Road conditions can be challenging: The access routes to high-elevation horse camps require appropriate vehicles. "The road to Hart's pass is carved into the side of a mountain and NOT for the faint of heart," cautions Brian L. "You need good weather, 4W drive and high clearance. Yep, sedans might be able to do it but they shouldn't, plain and simple."
Bear safety measures: Most campgrounds provide bear storage. "There are bear boxes located at almost every site to store food and scented items," notes Megan C. about lakeside campgrounds. Bears remain active throughout the region, particularly during berry season from July through September.
Insects vary by season: Planning for bug protection remains essential. "Was here last summer and the bugs were BAD, like hiding in the car and tent bad. Left with more bug bites than I could count," warns PJ H. about Upper Bobcat Dispersed Camping.
Tips for camping with families
Seek campgrounds with open spaces: Sites with meadows allow children to play within view of camp. "Big, open sites. Quiet spot. Room to roam," recommends B T. about Salmon Meadows, making it ideal for families needing space for activities.
Consider camping near water features: Lakes and creeks provide natural entertainment. "The lake is great and the views can't be beat! Head up in the spring to catch the amazing display of wildflowers," suggests Jessica M. about Baker Lake Horse Camp.
Look for established campground amenities: Facilities reduce camping complications with children. Emma notes at Upper Bobcat: "There were a lot of people, mainly families, but everyone was super respectful and it honestly made me feel safer and a solo traveler."
Tips from RVers
Plan for seasonal closures: Most equestrian campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Chiwawa Horse Campground maintains a May to November season, providing drinking water and toilet facilities during this operating window.
Seek level sites for parking stability: Not all horse camps accommodate larger RVs. "We no longer even bother heading up to Baker Lake or any of the surrounding campgrounds in July or August unless we are there to fish and/or already have a reservation," advises Megan C., highlighting competition for suitable sites.
Check campground availability before travel: Holiday weekends fill quickly, particularly at accessible horse camps. "Lots of spots even late on a holiday weekend, but definitely was not our first choice," notes PJ H. about Upper Bobcat, suggesting better planning when possible.
