1 campground with availability this weekend
Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp provides free camping with a Washington Discover Pass, featuring dedicated sites for equestrians with horse stalls in a common area. Located near Ashford, the campground offers multiple sites specifically reserved for horse campers, with vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. The campground sits near Mount Rainier National Park, making it a convenient base for exploring the area's trails. Green Mountain also accommodates horses with multiple stalls in a common area, though it's only open on weekends. Both campgrounds maintain clean facilities and spacious sites that can accommodate horse trailers and camping equipment.
Trails accessible from these horse camps connect riders to extensive networks suitable for day rides. At Sahara Creek, an ADA-accessible trail provides level terrain for walking dogs and horses, while Green Mountain offers multiple trails and logging roads open to horseback riding, hiking, and motorcycles. Riders should note that some campgrounds require a Washington State Discover Pass for entry, which costs $35 annually. Most equestrian sites are first-come, first-served, though some may be reservable. The shooting range near Sahara Creek creates noticeable noise that may affect some horses, but most equestrians find the facilities well-maintained and suitable for weekend trips. Horse campers should come prepared with water for their animals, as drinking water may not be available at all locations.
"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."
"This is a very nice, typical Washington state park with plenty of trees, greenery, hiking, pathways and even a lake."
"This is a beautiful park located on Deep Lake just outside of Olympia. The park itself is huge offering lots of options for campers. "
Available this weekend
from $12 - $140 / night
"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"
"Nice clean camping area with easy access to multiple trails and logging roads. Trails are open to hiking horseback riding and motorcycles. Camp ground has multiple horse stalls in a common area."
"Easy access to ORV trails. Expect lots of noise from off-road vehicles and music."
"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
"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."
"Disclaimer: the road from highway 101 to the campground has SO MANY potholes. Big ones that we had to navigate in our RV but nothing that made it too hard to access the campground."
"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
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.
GuideQuiet, but we were here mid week in late August….
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.
GuideI camped here in spring. Minus two stars because the campsites are wrecked with trash. But still beautiful, and I had great reception. There were lots of open spots and I only ran to it two other campers.
TravelerFantastic area
Equestrian camping near Des Moines, Washington offers access to woodland trails within 30-60 minutes of the city. The Puget Sound region receives an average of 38 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forest environments that remain accessible for horseback riding throughout much of the year. Most horse-friendly campgrounds in this area are located between 500-2,000 feet elevation, providing moderate terrain suitable for riders of various experience levels.
Trail riding year-round: Tolt MacDonald Park provides extensive trail networks that connect to the surrounding forest. "The suspension bridge is pretty cool, but hold onto your phones tight because it could slip through the holes into the river below," notes Mercedes D. The park offers access to both hiking and riding trails.
Day trips to Mount Rainier: Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp serves as a convenient base for exploring the national park, located just 15 minutes from the entrance. "An ADA-accessible trail provides level terrain for walking dogs and horses," reports Fern. This accessibility makes it suitable for riders of all abilities.
Fishing opportunities: Collins Campground provides direct access to riverfront sites where you can fish. "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," writes Heartworn H. The Duckabash river offers steelhead and salmon fishing opportunities.
Peaceful riverside camping: At Collins Campground, most sites feature direct water access. "Amazing little campground all sites except for two or on the river quiet clean bathrooms," Tyler S. shares. The river provides a relaxing backdrop and natural white noise for sleeping.
Free camping with Discover Pass: Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp requires only a Washington State Discover Pass for overnight stays. "If you have a Discover Pass already you are good to go. Love of area for Horses, trailers and regular camping. Vault toilets. No views but who doesn't like Free?" notes Charyl B. The annual pass costs $35 and provides access to multiple state recreation areas.
Variety of accommodation options: Millersylvania State Park offers choices beyond traditional tent sites. "They have glamping! Or as the campground calls it: pampered camping," explains Mary C. "The canvas tent option was one I didn't know about until I got there. The tents are cabin shaped and have a few chairs and BBQ grill outside it."
Discover Pass requirements: Several horse camps require Washington's Discover Pass for entry. At Sahara Creek, it's essential: "YOU NEED A WA DISCOVER PASS TO CAMP HERE!!! But it is free with the pass. And there's a gas station 5 minutes down the road in Ashford where you can buy one," advises Callie S.
Site availability considerations: Many equestrian sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. For Green Mountain, note that it's "Only open on weekends," according to Ivy K., who also mentions that the "Camp ground has multiple horse stalls in a common area."
Weather preparedness: The Pacific Northwest climate can affect trail conditions. "It rained for nearly our entire time here, but we still enjoyed the close/easy access to bathrooms, showers, potable water, and hiking trails," reports Geanna R. about Millersylvania State Park. Rain gear is essential year-round.
Lake activities for kids: Millersylvania State Park offers swimming areas suitable for children. "The beach is the main attraction and it is hopping. We went early in the morning and staked a claim and were happy all day. There is a nice shallow area and two large swimming areas as well as a fishing dock," Ellen T. explains.
Campground amenities: Tolt MacDonald Park provides family-friendly facilities. "This park is big, beautiful, and very family friendly... There are plenty of huge camping spots that include fire pits, picnic tables, and room for your car," writes Dawnielle C.
Safety considerations: When horseback camping with children, be aware of potential hazards. "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," warns Lewis G. about dispersed camping near South Fork Snoqualmie River.
Level sites: At Tolt MacDonald Park, RVers appreciate the well-maintained grounds. "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. Nice setting lots of outdoor and indoor activities with in a short drive," shares Russ H.
Cell service for remote work: South Fork Snoqualmie River provides connectivity despite its natural setting. "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," reports Austin R.
Road conditions: When approaching horse camps, be prepared for rough access roads. "Dirt road, lots of potholes, lots of fun," notes Ray D. about Tahuya River Campground. Many equestrian facilities have unpaved access roads that may require higher clearance vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Des Moines, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Des Moines, 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 Des Moines, WA?
TheDyrt.com has all 18 equestrian camping locations near Des Moines, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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