Equestrian camping near Oysterville, Washington centers around several state forests and parks offering trail access within the coastal terrain. The area sits at sea level along the Pacific coast with a temperate marine climate that averages 71 inches of rainfall annually. Forest roads accessing many campgrounds can be rough with washboard conditions during dry summer months.
What to do
Trail riding networks: At Fort Stevens State Park Campground, riders find extensive trail systems. "There is sooo much to do in this area! It's rich with history and we could have easily spent another week touring around. The Martime Museum is up the road," shares Jill T.
Fishing opportunities: Snag Lake Campground offers stocked fishing areas that complement horseback riding day trips. "It's stocked with trout. We saw many fishermen catch a lot of fish in a short time," reports Anna N., who noted the lake is good for floating but too dirty for swimming.
Beach access riding: Seasonal horse access points along the coast allow riders to experience shoreline trails within a 30-minute drive. "The campground is huge, probably some 400+ spaces; well cared for & clean, with an abundance of hiking trails & historical sites to explore," notes Gary M. about nearby options.
What campers like
Private horse-friendly sites: Many campers appreciate the spacious layout at equestrian sites. "Very roomy sites and Richard the care taker is an amazing camp host! He has always made our stay wonderful," writes Erica G. about Screamin' Eagle Campground, which offers access to beach trails.
Clean facilities: Rainbow Falls State Park Campground maintains well-kept amenities despite high seasonal usage. "Big open field for playing, horseshoe pits, small playground, river trail, and fishing," mentions ashley E., highlighting the recreational options beyond riding.
Natural settings: The forest terrain provides natural cooling for horses and riders. "This campground was so beautiful and clean! All of the campsites are nestled among big fir trees. The campsites have picnic tables and fire pits," notes Kelcie T. about camps in the region.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most horse camps operate from May through November with limited winter options. "Stayed here for 2 nights at the end of December and had almost the whole place to ourselves - there were only 2 other campers. It was lovely and quiet, but expect to hear road noise from the nearby highway," notes Rachel about winter camping.
Road conditions: Forest access roads can challenge trailers. "A bit of a climb for our truck camper so 4x4 was handy. There were some lower tree branches but easy to (delicately) pull to the side to get by," shares Pinkie K. about approaching Porter Creek.
Corral availability: Not all horse camps provide corrals. "The horse camp sites all have corrals for the horses," mentions Dexter I., noting this feature at Northrup Creek, while other sites require portable corrals or high-line setups.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Find sites with safe water options for horses and humans. "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.
Educational opportunities: Williams Park Campground offers river access with learning opportunities. "Beautiful grassy areas on the North Nemah River," notes marlisa W., describing spaces where children can explore while horses rest.
Multi-use trails: Look for trail systems designating horse-only and multi-use sections. "Campground is okay when its not overly full with people. There is a bunch of awesome trails with beautiful surroundings for every level of hikers," explains Brittany E., pointing out options for mixed-skill riders.
Tips from RVers
Site size verification: RV sites at horse camps often accommodate smaller rigs only. "While primarily a horse-friendly campsite, there are few RV/tent sites, but definitely not friendly for larger RVs. My 2001 Tacoma with a RTT was perfect, but I don't think the sites are built for large-ish RVs," advises Daniel S. about Clatsop State Forest Northrup Creek Horse Campground.
Electrical capacity: Monitor power usage at partial hookup sites. "Our circuit breaker kept tripping during peak times and interrupted our ability to run the coffee pot," warns Karin A. about electrical limitations at some campgrounds.
Level sites: Look for mentions of level parking areas in reviews. "Level gravel parking sites. Good Wifi. Very clean restrooms," notes Rick M., highlighting features important for RV stability.
