Best Equestrian Camping near Packwood, WA
Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp provides direct access to dedicated horse trails with vault toilets and drinking water available in a forested setting. Visitors need a valid Discover Pass for this free campground that operates with a 7-day limit within a 30-day period. The campground features spacious areas suitable for horse trailers and accommodates both tent and RV camping. Located near the entrance to Mount Rainier National Park, this campsite offers a clean, well-maintained environment for riders and their horses. The shooting range nearby creates some noise, as does highway traffic, though most campers report these sounds don't significantly impact their stay. Deep shade covers most camping spots, which can limit solar charging capabilities.
Cody Horse Camp stands out among equestrian campgrounds near Packwood with individual sites featuring picnic tables, fire pits with grates, and well-designed picket lines for horses in each site. Campers should remain vigilant as bears are abundant in the area, and cougars have been sighted nearby. The horse camp includes a watering trough for horses and decent outhouse facilities for riders. Trail access from these equestrian sites connects to the broader trail network in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Soda Springs, another horse-friendly option in the region, maintains separate areas for horse camping and trails. The Cowlitz Trail runs through this area, providing excellent riding opportunities. During early season visits, snow can make access challenging, sometimes requiring hikers and horseback riders to walk in from the main intersection when vehicle passage becomes impossible.
