Equestrian camping near Port Townsend, Washington offers access to forested trails across the Olympic Peninsula's northeastern section. The region receives approximately 20 inches of annual rainfall, significantly less than other parts of western Washington. Camping facilities for horseback riders span from basic sites to full-service fairgrounds, with most locations open from May through September when trail conditions remain firm and accessible.
What to do
Trail riding from Lyre River: Access miles of connected forest trails directly from camp. "There is an easy, 1.25-mile (2.5-mile round trip) walk to the beach—trailhead at the entrance to the campground—that is really nice," notes one Lyre River visitor.
Visit Murdoch Beach: Located near horse camping areas, this beach offers shoreline riding opportunities. "There's a restaurant in Joyce called Blackberry Cafe; we didn't make it there, but were told they have the best fruit pies. Also very close to Murdoch Beach," shares a Lyre River camper.
Hiking with family: Trails near equestrian camps accommodate mixed hiking and riding groups. "You can take a short walk down to the spit to get a unique perspective of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. This is a USFWS refuge and campground, so if your into seabirds, this is the place to go," explains a visitor at Dungeness Recreation Area.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Horse campers appreciate well-maintained sanitation facilities. "Warm showers, flushing toilets, sparkling clean restrooms," shares one Dungeness Recreation Area visitor, highlighting amenities not always found at equestrian camps.
River access: Many equestrian sites include water features for cooling horses after rides. At Collins Campground, "Amazing little campground all sites except for two or on the river quiet clean bathrooms," according to a reviewer who appreciated the waterfront location.
Wildlife viewing: Horse camps provide opportunities to spot native animals. "The Valley is home to a herd of Elk as well as deer, bears and other wildlife. There are spectacular views of snowy mountains and you can hear the rumbling of avalanches," describes a visitor at Enchanted Valley.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Some horse camps require advance planning. "We were able to drive in and reserve a spot on the fly. Free hot showers. RV dump site for a $10 fee, $40 for a site per nite," explains a Dungeness Recreation Area visitor.
Seasonal limitations: Certain trails close during wet weather to protect surfaces. "Dungeness gets the least amount of rainfall for western Washington, so don't be surprised if it's sunny," notes another visitor.
Bear safety: Equestrian campers must secure feed and food. "Bear canisters are a must here as it is in prime bear country, even though we didn't see any. The campground is a little tricky as there aren't any designated camp spots, you just choose somewhere and you set up camp," shares an Enchanted Valley visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some horse camps include play areas for children. "This campground is great for families and people with kids. There are playgrounds near the bathrooms. The bathrooms have showers, and are clean and accessible," writes a Dungeness Recreation Area visitor.
Budget considerations: Family camping costs vary widely. One Salt Creek Recreation Area visitor noted, "Located on the east side of the Olympic Peninsula, Collins campground is a bit off the beaten path, which was what I was looking for during peak season in August."
Activity planning: Schedule non-riding activities between trail rides. "Located in walking distance to the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge ($3 family admission/day or with National Parks Pass), we found this campground to be just what we were looking for! A family campground with cheap and clean showers (50 cents/2 minutes)," shares a Dungeness camper.
Tips from RVers
Trailer access: Check road conditions before bringing horse trailers. At Greenstone Farm Camping, "Host was very friendly and accommodating. The grounds are well kept. Nice fire pit and Beer Garden area and a great view with mountains and trees surrounding you."
Hookup availability: RV sites with horse facilities often provide limited services. "Sites are very tight, not much room. The cost is $55.00 unless you are a resident," notes a Salt Creek Recreation Area camper.
Overflow options: Consider fairground camping during busy periods. "It's at the fairgrounds on the edge of town, there's a largely unlandscaped grass field with electrical boxes & (some) water connections. There is a dump out on site and potable water," explains a visitor at Whidbey Island Fairgrounds Campground.
