Kalama Horse Camp Campground is located in Washington's Gifford Pinchot National Forest at an elevation of approximately 2,300 feet. The area's volcanic terrain creates unique trail conditions for both horses and hikers, with varied terrain throughout the Mount St. Helens region. Summer temperatures typically range between 55-80°F, while spring and fall can bring unpredictable weather conditions with frequent rainfall.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Riders can access multiple interconnected pathways directly from Kalama Horse Camp Campground. "There are several awesome trails you can take right from the campground and there is a campground trail that guides you around the whole campground area," notes Kelcie T. The trails offer diverse terrain suitable for various riding abilities.
Disc golf at nearby parks: For a change of pace, head to Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground which features a disc golf course within a volcanic setting. "They have a cool volcanic lake with a swimming area and great fishing. Its like a mini crater lake. I mean mini like pond size," explains Ashley Y., making it ideal for a day trip from horse campgrounds near Toutle.
Mushroom foraging: Fall visitors to the area can enjoy mushroom hunting. "And if you like mushrooms... O M to the G. Check out the photos! We woke up in the morning and marched up Mt. Saint Helens," shares Bjorn S. about his experience at Kalama Horse Camp. The forest floor often hosts diverse fungi species after rainfall.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: The campgrounds offer good separation between sites. At Lewis & Clark State Park Campground, "Sitting in our peaceful and private campsite amid a grove of trees, I felt I must share kudos for this state park. Many of the structures were built in the 1930's by the CCC and it has an iconic feel," writes Janet S., highlighting the historical elements and privacy.
Proximity to Mount St. Helens trails: Campers value the location for Mount St. Helens exploration. "This campground wasn't on our radar for this last weekend camping trip. We stumbled across it looking for a spot to camp. Only about 10 camp sites but in very good condition. Very private and great tree cover," Joshua T. explains about his experience at Kalama Horse Camp.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms matter to campers. At Seaquest State Park Campground, "Beautiful forest, hot showers! Limited cell service with T-Mobile but it still works! Free WiFi in the day use area. Adequate bathrooms with mirrors, flushing toilets, hot shower!" reports Jess W., noting the amenities available for those seeking more comfort near equestrian camps.
What you should know
Water availability: No drinking water exists at Kalama Horse Camp. "This is primarily a spot where you go to park your horse trailer and go from there! However it's "first come first served". Has few amenities, pit toilets.... clean and composting," notes A. M. C. Campers must bring water for both themselves and their horses.
Weather considerations: The Mount St. Helens area experiences significant weather variations. At Merrill Lake Campground, "There are 8 walk in sites and one drive up site, all first come first serve discovery pass required. Some sites are larger than others, but in ours we were able to fit two 6p tents and one 2p tent," reports Brooke S., also mentioning the need to "Make sure to bring toilet paper, the bathroom seems to never be stocked."
Limited cell service: Connectivity is unreliable throughout equestrian campgrounds near Toutle. "A little hard to find but we figured it out without too much difficulty. There's little to no cell service," Lucy mentions about Riffe Lake Campground, a common situation in most forest campgrounds in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Bring games for campsite activities: Children enjoy open spaces at campgrounds. At Rainbow Falls State Park Campground, "Big open field for playing, horseshoe pits, small playground, river trail, and fishing," says ashley E., highlighting features that keep children entertained between trail rides.
Pack essential supplies: Since most horse campgrounds have limited facilities, prepare accordingly. "Short trailed from the campsite, very close to the Mt. St Helens trails! Very nice area, we will be back!!" shares A. M. C. about Kalama Horse Camp, emphasizing the need to be self-sufficient with supplies.
Consider beginner-friendly trails: Not all trails are suitable for young riders. "Trails are in abundance and usually maintained by volunteers and USFS. There is stock water and wheelbarrows for mucking," Mari R. explains about Kalama Horse Camp, noting features that make the experience more manageable for families with horses.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access at horse camps: Most equestrian campgrounds prioritize trailer space over RV amenities. "This is a great rustic campground for horse camping and family oriented. Sites are nice sized, it's generally peaceful under the large fir trees with just enough canopy to provide shade and for the wood corrals," Mari R. notes about Kalama Horse Camp, indicating the rustic nature of facilities.
Alternative RV-friendly options: RVers should consider nearby campgrounds with full hookups. At Millersylvania State Park Campground, "We stayed at a full hook up campsite that included electricity sewer and freshwater," writes Theresa R. about Lewis & Clark State Park, which provides options more suitable for RV camping while still allowing access to regional horse trails.
Check road conditions: Access roads to campgrounds can present challenges. "The RV section had six spots. 3 of those spots back up to a busy paved road with traffic. The road is mere feet from the camper," warns Lisa P., highlighting the importance of researching site specifics before bringing larger vehicles to the area's campgrounds.
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