Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp accommodates equestrians with free camping for Discover Pass holders near Ashford. The campground features multiple sites specifically designated for horse camping, with large areas suitable for horse trailers and RVs. Vault toilets are maintained throughout the grounds, though campers must bring their own water for themselves and their animals. The campground connects directly to an ADA-accessible trail that provides level terrain for walking horses. Most sites are situated in deep shade, which keeps horses cool during summer months but limits solar charging capabilities for campers with electrical needs.
Located approximately 15 minutes from Mount Rainier National Park entrance, Sahara Creek offers direct access to multiple horse-friendly trails through forested terrain. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with a 7-day limit within any 30-day period. Horse owners appreciate the spacious layout that provides ample room for multiple vehicles and trailers at each site. A picnic shelter with closable sides offers protection during inclement weather, making this a practical option for group equestrian outings. The campground's proximity to Ashford means supplies are accessible just minutes away, though campers should note this is a pack-in, pack-out facility with no trash service available. The rocky soil can make staking tents challenging, but the lack of wind in the protected forest setting minimizes this concern.
"The campground is next to a classy laundromat, and I say classy because it’s probably one of the nicest laundromats in the area that even has a dumpsite for RVs."
"The campground is in 500+ acre Tolt-McDonald Park, far enough away from any busy road so that there is no traffic noise, just the sound of the Tolt River rapids."
"Lovely area such beautiful surroundings."
"Very cool spot with new generation trees growing out of old generation stumps, close to river for water, very popular spot so found a lot of trash but loved the sites and hiking trails nearby"
"Lake access. Trail access. Pristine wilderness. Horse trails. Hunting. Fishing. Scenery. I would rather not tell you about it and keep it to myself."
"There was a woodsy area behind the site where kids could play. The bathrooms are fancy out houses no place to wash hands. Lots of bugs in the evening."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $24 - $48 / night
"It has water and 30 amp power at all spots with access to a dump station. You are limited to 7 nights per month. It's right next to the fairgrounds so you have all the sounds that come with that."
"Notable considerations, near racetrack ongoing races and trials usually quiets down early evening this time of year. Great place to go adventure for the day. A couple major stores to stock up on."
from $35 / night
"Very remote woodsy area around the lake. Pristine waters, state fish stocked lake, bring drinking water."
"Cooper Lake is absolutely stunning and admittedly the campsites are situated pretty well for views and privacy but there are definitely Pros and Cons to this campground."
from $14 / night
"Horse camp but sites 21-30 are for non equestrian campers."
"Lots of horses here which is enjoyable. An ADA trail is level for walking the dog.
Shooting range is close by, doesn’t bother me but it’s pretty noisy."
from $30 / night
"Tons of options just off the beaten path. This is another gateway location which holds entrances to dozens of roads each with their own selection of dry camp sites."
"Once you arrive in the zone most of the camps are located along either Howson Creek, Little Salmon la Sac River or the backside of Lake Cle Elum. "
"Horses are welcome too! The new owners are doing a great job turning the property around. There is a large recent renovated cabin that fits up to 20 people you can stay as well. "
RangerVery nice! Horse camp but sites 21-30 are for non equestrian campers. Sites are wooded between and large with table, firepits/grill combo, and level wooded spaces. 2 clean, well stocked pit toilets are available. Water faucets available at several locations. WA discover pass but free otherwise. It is patrolled regularly.
TravelerThe campground itself is wide and quaint with decent privacy, a creek, and also has equestrian site options. Pit bathrooms are decently clean. Neighboring ranch land's cows will walk right through your campsite unbothered though, so be aware.
RangerThis went from a four star stay to one star in the blink of an eye. There is a shooting range directly behind this campground, and the horse trails lead right past it. On August 8th 2026 around 2PM, someone’s horse was shot while they were riding less than a half a mile away from camp and when they called 911, animal control came but police would NOT come even to investigate. This was reckless use of a firearm, animal endangerment, and honestly should be a felony. There is no way to accidentally be shooting at the trails from the shooting range, you have to DECIDE to do that. Police are absolutely useless, and now I know especially in this area the cops don’t give a damn about anyone’s safety.
You can hear shooting nearby all day and all night despite the posted hours at the range. Although it’s a free stay with a discover pass, I will NOT EVER stay here again and would not recommend this place to anyone with horses.
GuideBeautiful well maintained sites with tables and fire rings. Washington Pass required. Plenty of room for RVs at many of the sites - it was mostly empty when we came.
ScoutArrived pretty late. In daylight sites are easy to find but a bit hard in twilight/dark but lots of open spots and an easy going camp hosts makes that better.
Think more tailgating than camping on event nights.
Back in camping, ADA portapotty, showers are well used but clean and great water pressure.
For the cost and same day late booking good option for a day to come Clean up yourself and the car.
GuideUSE AS A LAST OPTION ONLY - It's right behind the racetrack so if you like rednecks reving engines until midnight less than 100yds from your campsite you'll love it here! Didn't even bother with the restrooms or showers, everything looks pretty run down at the RV-2 site. Overall, a pretty crap operation. The other parks in the county are AMAZING, just steer clear of this place
GuideWe stayed at one of these dispersed camping spots memorial weekend. Wonderful spot. Plenty of room for our 3 dogs to play around in. Only one issue. Whoever was there before is pretty much emptied all their trash out there. We had extra trash bags so we bagged it all but we didn’t have a truck to load it and take it out. It was like 4 or 5 bags full and some random shelving. So weird. Why are some people like this.
Other than that it was a perfect spot for us.
Scoutwas awesome my friend and i stayed 2 nights. first night we got there late so we skipped the lower level of camping by the river and went up the road and found a pull off, very quiet and no one bugged us. 2nd night we packed up and moved down to the river, was just as good! had neighbors but not close and didn’t bug us. overall an amazing spot, would love to bring dirt bikes here!
GuidePlenty of ground to lay down tents and park vehicles. Filled with flowers. Quiet. Easy river access. A little bit of noise from trucks passing by. Not too hard to access. The roads are pretty rough in some areas. Huge potholes filled with water. But my friend made it in a Prius. Not too buggy in April! Amazing star gazing. Disappointed by how much trash was on the ground. Not the worst, but it was noticeable.
Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp is situated in a forested area with deep shade from mature evergreen trees. Campers with Discover Pass enjoy free access to this equestrian-focused campground about 15 minutes from Mt. Rainier National Park. The area features rocky soil with limited wind exposure due to the dense forest canopy, which creates a sheltered environment for camping year-round.
Hiking accessible trails: The ADA-accessible trail at Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp provides level terrain ideal for walkers and equestrians alike. "There are plenty of hikes and areas to explore," notes Brittany S., who enjoyed the natural setting during her overnight stay.
Fishing opportunities: Cooper Lake at Owhi Campground offers excellent fishing for rainbow trout. "Rainbow trout are available to catch for the crafty fisherman," mentions Megan C., who enjoyed spending time at the lake. The campground connects to multiple trails through Alpine Wilderness areas.
Water recreation: Non-motorized boating is popular at Cooper Lake, where the peaceful environment supports various water activities. "We canoed on the lake and saw a few Elk bugling. Really amazing views," writes Kerrie L., highlighting the wildlife viewing opportunities from the water.
Affordability with proper permits: Equestrian camping near Ravensdale, Washington often includes free options with the right documentation. At Sahara Creek, "YOU NEED A WA DISCOVER PASS TO CAMP HERE!!! But it is free with the pass," explains Callie S., adding that passes can be purchased at nearby gas stations if needed.
Privacy between sites: Many campsites in the region offer good separation between camping areas. At South Fork Snoqualmie River, "There are a ton of really great sites along this road, although most of the drive-in sites will be taken if it's a busy weekend, so get there early!" advises Parker C.
Natural sounds: The forest setting creates a peaceful soundscape at many campgrounds. "We slept in our rooftop tent and loved the nature sounds throughout the night," shares Brittany S. about her Sahara Creek experience, emphasizing the tranquility found even at campgrounds near roadways.
Pack-in, pack-out requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds in the area have limited waste services. At Sahara Creek, "There is NO trash here, pack it in, pack out. Keep it clean," reminds one camper named Fern, highlighting the environmental responsibility expected of visitors.
Variable cell reception: Connectivity differs significantly between campgrounds. At South Fork Snoqualmie River, Austin R. notes, "I travel and work remotely so I'm always looking for free places that have cell reception and this place hits the jackpot. I've come in twice on a Saturday afternoon and have been able to find an open spot with my 18 ft travel trailer, I have Verizon and have 2-3 bars of service."
Solar limitations: Dense forest cover affects power generation options. "I depend 100% on solar. There is deep shade in all camp spots, I chose a fairly sunny spot, but it wasn't enough to charge my batteries. Just a heads up," warns Fern about Sahara Creek's limitations for solar-dependent campers.
Nearby supply access: Proximity to services makes meal planning easier for families. At Tolt MacDonald Park, "it's located right smack in the middle of carnation so on a nice sunny day you could walk out of the park to get pizza, ice cream or even mexican food," explains Mercedes D., highlighting the convenience for families who forget essentials.
Campground noise considerations: Be aware of potential noise sources when selecting sites. "Shooting range is close by, doesn't bother me but it's pretty noisy. Can hear some highway noise, but again, hasn't bothered me," notes Fern about Sahara Creek, providing context for families sensitive to sound.
Safety awareness: Some areas require extra vigilance with children. Lewis G. cautions about South Fork Snoqualmie River: "Lovely area such beautiful surroundings. But be very cautious as near one of the camp sites are very dangerous plants that are fatal and they are lined all around the campground so not recommended if you have children."
Road condition alerts: Access roads to some campgrounds present challenges for larger vehicles. At South Fork Snoqualmie, Parker C. advises, "Access road is right off the highway and unpaved, has a TON of holes so I wouldn't recommend driving down it without good ground clearance."
Site leveling realities: Some campgrounds offer naturally level parking. At Bumping Lake Campground, sites are well-designed for various vehicle types. As Russ H. notes about a similar campground, "The only campground we've been to where we didn't need to level the trailer. RV sites are all pull through its fairly quiet."
Early arrival importance: Competition for limited RV-suitable sites can be fierce. "If you are looking for an easy trip, or something a little more remote on the other side of the bridge, this is the spot for you," mentions Dawnielle C. about Tolt MacDonald Park, where both developed and more secluded options exist within the same facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Ravensdale, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Ravensdale, WA is Tolt MacDonald Park, WA with a 4.3-star rating from 22 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Ravensdale, WA?
TheDyrt.com has all 19 equestrian camping locations near Ravensdale, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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