Equestrian camping near Oak Harbor, Washington offers terrain ranging from coastal bluffs to forested trails with elevations typically between 0-400 feet. The Olympic Peninsula influence creates a rain shadow effect, with many campgrounds receiving less precipitation than other parts of western Washington. Most horse-friendly sites accommodate trailers up to 40 feet, though access roads to some camps contain numerous potholes requiring careful navigation.
What to do
Trail riding on Olympic Peninsula: At Dungeness Recreation Area, riders can access nearby wildlife refuge trails with ocean views. "It's connected to wildlife refuge where you can take a 5 mile stroll on a spit to a public light house where you can see across to Canada and other parts of the Sound," notes Alex S. The area provides opportunities to observe seabirds in their natural habitat.
Lighthouse excursions: From Dungeness Recreation Area, equestrians can plan day trips to the lighthouse. "You are a short walk away from bluffs overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca and British Columbia. Beautiful sunset views!" shares Rachel G. The lighthouse area requires a $3 daily entry fee or National Parks Pass.
Farm and fairground events: Greenstone Farm Camping offers a rural setting for horse enthusiasts. "Really nice farm with a great mountain view. Quiet rural setting but close to town (Mt. Vernon) if you need anything or just want to explore the farmer's market," writes Ken F. The property includes woodland trails ideal for short rides.
What campers like
Private river access: At Collins Campground, equestrians appreciate the natural water features. "There are 15 sites and most are along a river with private access from your campsite. We loved staying here! There is a lot of privacy between each site too," reports Asia M. The campground offers spaces large enough for trailers and horses.
Mountain views: Horse campers at Greenstone Farm value the scenery. "Wonderful location with fabulous view of Mt Baker," writes Ken F. The farm provides designated areas for horses with mountain backdrops that enhance the rural camping experience.
Family-friendly amenities: Dungeness Recreation Area provides facilities that accommodate both riders and non-riders. "A family campground with cheap and clean showers (50 cents/2 minutes), great play area, not a bad amount of mosquitoes for location, and quiet unlike many state park campgrounds," Charlotte H. mentions. The campground balances equestrian needs with family comforts.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Some horse camps close during winter months. Harry Osborne State Forest trails have specific access considerations: "Update. Stockwater has been gated off due to vandalism and trash dumping. You may utilize trails to walk your horses down to the water," warns Deb E. Forest management practices affect access.
Water limitations: Lily and Lizard Lakes present challenges for horses. "The only water source is from the lakes which is not the cleanest water so bring a good filter," cautions Sean M. Most equestrian sites require bringing water for horses or filtering from natural sources.
Road conditions: Routes to horse camps often contain rough sections. Regarding Collins Campground, Asia M. notes: "The road from highway 101 to the campground has SO MANY potholes. Big ones that we had to navigate in our RV." Trailer access requires careful driving and appropriate clearance.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment options: Dungeness Recreation Area offers activities beyond riding. "You are a short drive from the Olympic Game Farm, well worth a visit. Check it out online, the kids will love feeding the buffalo and elk," suggests Melissa J. This provides alternatives when everyone doesn't want to ride.
Choose sites strategically: At Collins Campground, site selection matters. "Would go again but would be more selective of site. Our spot was a little more marshy but the river spots looked fantastic," advises Kathleen J. Sites vary significantly in quality and dryness for tent placement.
Plan for bathroom logistics: Evergreen State Fairgrounds has limited facilities. "The toilet/shower building is a hike from the campground and is LOCKED during the night and even during the day on random days," warns Matthew P. Families should prepare for inconsistent bathroom access.
Tips from RVers
Electric needs: Whidbey Island Fairgrounds Campground offers hookups but with limitations. "They did repair the electrical system this year and just reopened. It's at the fairgrounds on the edge of town, there's a largely unlandscaped grass field with electrical boxes & (some) water connections," reports Christine. Not all sites have equal utility access.
Extension cord requirements: At Evergreen State Fairgrounds, hookup positioning creates challenges. "The power pedestals is set up for 2 RVs per pole so it might be on the wrong side so you need to run an extra cord or hose. Not a problem if your set up for it," notes Adam A. RVers should bring longer-than-standard power cords.
Noise considerations: Fairground locations experience event-related disruptions. "Unless you're going to the fairgrounds, this'll probably be torture. The racetrack here is non stop noise when they're racing," cautions Dene H. Horse events often coincide with other fairground activities that create noise.
