26 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Cayuse Horse Camp features water hookups and accommodates large vehicles, making it an ideal destination for horse enthusiasts with trailers. The spacious, well-maintained sites provide necessary clearance for horse trailers while maintaining the rustic feel of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Located about 16 miles from Cle Elum, this reservation-required campground receives excellent ratings from equestrian campers who appreciate the straightforward access and spacious setup. The campground provides direct access to nearby trails through the surrounding forest terrain, with ample room for both horses and riders to rest between trail excursions.
Multiple trail systems accessible from South Cle Elum offer excellent riding opportunities throughout the Teanaway Community Forest. Riders Camp Campground connects directly to both beginner loops and more extensive trail systems, perfect for introducing new riders to trail experiences or challenging more experienced equestrians. The $5 per night fee grants access to well-maintained trails that have been enjoyed by generations of riders. Teanaway Campground, located in the community forest, provides an alternative camping option with vault toilets and picnic tables. During summer months, water access points along the Teanaway River offer horses convenient drinking opportunities after trail rides. The campground fills quickly on weekends but typically has availability midweek.
"There are walk in (50 to 100 feet walk) sites as well as horse camping sites. Pit toilets are clean, don’t smell, and have TP. Road in campground is in good condition with pretty new gravel."
"I was able to come stay here in the fall, and hike Lake Ingalls. It was absolutely gorgeous! Hands down the best decision my friends and I have made. The campground was actually somewhat busy."
"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. "
from $25 - $75 / night
"This is a great place to camp and ride ORVs they have a beginners loop trailhead attached to this site as well as a trail head to a larger trail system."
"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
Check Availability"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. "
from $27 - $54 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $24 - $48 / night
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TravelerThe heated bathrooms with showers were definitely comfort on our cross country road trip. We arrived after hours but because we already had made reservations that morning we were able to use the slider and enter the campground. Star gazing is always top priority. We headed down to the lake’s beach to snap some shots with my iPhone 14 Pro night, setting on a tripod and remote.
TravelerWe decided to try out our new Jeep toad as well as invite son/family with his new travel trailer to Yakima Sportsman. There was a bit of reluctance to book on rumors of homeless issues, but we went ahead and I'm glad we did. Other than a couple homeless cars in the day use area, we had no problems in the RV/Travel Trailer camping areas. In fact, we really had no issues anywhere as we walked all over the place. We took the grandkids fishing in the small pond on site. Drove to Sarge Hubbard Park and walked to river to fish, caught a nice trout and set it free. There was a homeless camp across the river from our fishing spot but again it had no impact on our stay. All in all, a very nice get away!
RangerBeautiful setting Hot clean showers Good cell service Leave it Better Than you found it!
ScoutIt was easy to find flat areas to camp. I was careful about setting up too much. because there were several bear sightings in this area, so I wanted to avoid cooking odors and such.
GuideThis is probably my favorite campsite I have ever stayed at. Everything is far enough apart to where it doesn’t feel over crowded or crammed. It was a noisy campground, so if you are looking for something quiet this is not going to be for you… but the views, beach, cleanliness, and free shower make up for it ten times over. They also have a very cute gift shop with some merch to check out. The south lot has the more wooded and private campsites whereas the north lot is more of an open space with few tress providing any privacy. The beach is a very rocky beach, and you will need water shoes. Paddle board and kayak rentals were available as well. Onsite campfire wood, ice, snacks, basic camping supplies, and ice tram truck, etc all available at the main store.
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.
LegendNot much privacy but nice free spot to camp if you need
TravelerI’ve been camping here for several years now in my travel trailer. Lots of space between hookup sites and some vegetation to create some privacy. Park and facilities are very clean and well maintained. Lake Wenatchee is a beautiful lake. No campsites are on the lake but a short walk to the lake and beach areas. Very family and dog friendly. The town of Leavenworth is about 20 minutes away. Fun town although touristy and busy. The tall trees and wind thru the trees lull you to sleep.
GuideTwo sections. Not sure what it is called. Site 3 right on the water. Level. Stayed on a Monday night. Only a few other campers here. Trees around this pull in made it feel even cozier.
The Teanaway Community Forest and surrounding Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest areas sit at elevations ranging from 2,000-5,000 feet with a climate that transitions from hot, dry summers to snowy winters. Horse campgrounds near South Cle Elum, Washington provide direct access to hundreds of miles of trails through diverse terrain including pine forests, river valleys, and mountain ridges. Several equestrian camping options include both reservation-based and first-come sites.
Trail riding through Teanaway: Explore the extensive trail network with various difficulty levels. At Teanaway Campground, riders appreciate the direct access to trails. "Lake Ingalls is a must hike if you are staying here. It was incredible. We saw some mountain goats and the colors were beautiful this time of year. Hike was 9 miles round trip and does require some path finding to the lake," notes Shaelyn B.
Mountain biking from campsites: Several camping areas connect to dedicated mountain bike trails. "If you are a mountain biker, this spot will not disappoint with the trail system right out of camp," says Silas about Teanaway Campground.
Fishing in nearby waters: Lakes and rivers in the area provide fishing opportunities throughout spring and summer. "Rainbow trout are available to catch for the crafty fisherman," according to a review of Owhi Campground. Bring appropriate fishing licenses and gear.
Riverside camping spots: Sites along waterways offer natural cooling and relaxing sounds. "Relaxing spot nestled within the Teanaway Community Forest. A few basic toilets dot the area and campsites are separated by picnic tables and fire rings," shares Daniel about Teanaway Campground.
Night sky viewing: The area's limited light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "Get there a little early to get a good spot so you can see those brilliant stars at night, and maybe have a nice fire in the designated spaces (barring bans!), while enjoying the space," recommends Cassiey K.
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more separation than others. "Small distances in between each site so you don't feel like you're camping ontop of other people. Wake up to the sounds of ravens yelling and chipmunks trying to climb in your car throughout the day!" says Alexia D. about Cottonwood Campground.
Water availability varies: Not all equestrian campgrounds provide water hookups. "No water/electricity. T-mobile was hit or miss - couldn't connect hot spot," notes Callie C. about Teanaway Campground.
Permit requirements: Many areas require passes or permits. "Free with a Discovery Pass but no one checked while I was there. Plenty of spots even late on a Friday. No water or trash but some vault toilets," explains Katy W.
Seasonal limitations: Late spring through early fall offers the most reliable conditions. At Bumping Lake Campground, "It was still chilly in mid June and there were plenty of open sites. I would imagine this is a very popular campground in the summer," reports one camper.
Fire restrictions: Summer often brings fire bans. "There are also burn bans July-September due to extremely high fire danger," warns a review for Kachess Hidden Camp.
River access for cooling off: Several campgrounds offer water access that's suitable for supervised children. "River access for the kids. If you are a mountain biker, this spot will not disappoint with the trail system right out of camp," mentions Silas.
Quieter weekday stays: Weekends can become crowded and noisy at popular sites. "By Sunday evening 90% of the crowd had left and it was heavenly!" shares Callie C. about Indian Camp Campground.
Bring entertainment: Limited cell service means planning non-electronic activities. "Camp here for free for 7 days with a discover pass! 2 pit toilets, fire ring and picnic table at each site. Big areas for RVs, horse trailers and group sites," notes Jess G.
Horse trailer accommodations: Several campgrounds specifically cater to equestrian camping with trailers. At Riders Camp Campground, "This is a great place to camp and ride ORVs they have a beginners loop trailhead attached to this site as well as a trail head to a larger trail system," says Bruce S.
Site selection for large vehicles: Choose carefully for adequate clearance. "Lots of room and lots of trees between our campsite and the others. The lot was mostly sandy and the tent area was very flat," reports a Bumping Lake Campground visitor.
Water hauling preparation: With limited hookups, bring containers. "About a 20 minute drive from Clu Elum. Free with a Discovery Pass but no one checked while I was there. Plenty of spots even late on a Friday. No water or trash but some vault toilets," Katy W. mentions about camping in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near South Cle Elum, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near South Cle Elum, WA is Teanaway Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 15 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near South Cle Elum, WA?
TheDyrt.com has all 26 equestrian camping locations near South Cle Elum, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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