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.
What to Do
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.
What Campers Like
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.
What You Should Know
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.
Tips for Camping with Families
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.
Tips from RVers
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.
Traveler
