Horse campgrounds near Randle, Washington attract visitors year-round with several options beyond the popular Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp. Located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest region at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 feet, these campgrounds serve as gateways to extensive trail systems. Most equestrian sites remain open from late spring through fall, though accessibility can be limited by snow until May in higher elevation areas.
What to do
Explore trail systems: The Cody Horse Camp provides access to numerous riding trails through the forest. "Use caution, since there is an abundance of bear in the area. And cougar have been sighted around the area," notes Tony G. The campground features quality picket lines for horses at each site.
Hike near alpine lakes: For non-horse camping options, the Walupt Lake Campground offers beautiful lakeside sites with nearby hiking trails. "From the top of the hike we were able to see Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Rainier. It doesn't get any better than that!!" reports Sasha W. The campground provides direct trail access to the Goat Rock Wilderness.
Fish in nearby waters: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing opportunities in lakes and rivers. Kate G. mentioned of Walupt Lake: "There are some great hikes close by and the lake is gorgeous. One hike left us awestruck with the gorgeous water falls." The clear waters support various fish species throughout the camping season.
What campers like
Quiet forest settings: The Soda Springs Campground receives positive reviews for its peaceful atmosphere. "Nice campground with vault toilet. Very quiet. Small spring and running creek. Cowlitz Trail is here. Horse camping and trail in separate area," writes Breanna R. The campground offers sites spread apart for privacy.
Accessibility to mountains: Many campers appreciate the strategic location between major peaks. "We stayed here one night while heading north. Hoped to see Mt. St. Helens but it was overcast," notes Kim G. about Seaquest State Park, adding it has "clean bathrooms, one women's shower. Walk to Mt. St. Helens visitor center."
Natural cooling: The heavily forested areas provide natural temperature control. Chris noted about Soda Springs: "Even in heat waves this area is cooler and at night it is perfect. If you aren't afraid to wander into the woods with no trail. Lots to explore and see." This natural cooling makes summer camping more comfortable than in exposed areas.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have limited or no connectivity. Rachel K. points out about Taidnapam Park: "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."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly, so pack accordingly. "Sites were super shaded. Lots of trees for some privacy. Easy lake access close by... Lots of mosquitoes in July so bring your bug spray," advises Jenna B. about Walupt Lake Campground.
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires traveling on unpaved roads. For End of High Valley, Evan D. notes: "The road is quite bumpy, and the river is dry. But there are plenty of spots to camp that are level with rock fire pits." Many forest service roads require higher clearance vehicles.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer specific amenities for children. "Taidnapam is a great place to bring your kids. There are some great spots to camp on both sides. The bathrooms are kept clean and super warm in the winter. The camp hosts are always very kind and drive by to offer firewood," shares Sharla H.
Playground access: Some established campgrounds include playground equipment. Mary C. describes Seaquest State Park: "My kids loved the addition of a playground. Many parks don't have this and it kept them entertained for hours. There is a bathroom and extra parking right next to the playground."
Educational opportunities: Packwood Lake offers learning experiences about wilderness areas. Shariah T. explains: "This place is the best because the only way to get to the camping spots at Packwood Lake is to hike in or the use of ATV's. The views are AMAZING, and it's right next to the lake, however the water may be very cold."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should research specific site dimensions before booking. Chris B. notes about Taidnapam Park: "We stayed in an RV. While some sites are better than others, there really aren't any bad sites here. We had full hookups. I think about half the park does. All the sites are nicely spaced apart and we didn't feel cramped at all."
Dump station access: Many campgrounds offer dump facilities. Erin A. mentions about Riffe Lake Campground: "RV spots are gravel pads and had water and electric, some had full hook up too. Some spots are better suited for larger rigs (ours was a little tight) but we were only doing a one night stop."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts RV accessibility to many sites. Kevin W. advises about Riffe Lake Campground: "They have several back-in spots, some with partial hookups and some with full hookups. Most of the spots are well-shaded from the trees... It was a 5-minute walk downhill to reach the lake, which had a very long and nice boat ramp deep enough to accommodate just about any boat."
