Green Mountain near Vaughn offers equestrian-focused camping with spaces designed for horses and riders. The area sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation with a temperate climate typical of the Kitsap Peninsula. Most campsites remain open seasonally from late spring through early fall, with trail conditions varying based on recent rainfall and maintenance schedules.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Green Mountain's trail system extends beyond the immediate campground area. As one visitor noted at Green Mountain: "Nice clean camping area with easy access to multiple trails and logging roads. Trails are open to hiking horseback riding and motorcycles."
Hiking with waterfalls: For those interested in day trips from their equestrian base camp, Porter Creek offers scenic waterfall access. A camper at Porter Creek shared: "There is a bunch of awesome trails with beautiful surroundings for every level of hikers and if you can find your way to Porter Falls, you definitely wont be disappointed with the view!"
Water activities: Several nearby locations offer water recreation options for when you want a break from horseback riding. At Collins Campground, a visitor reported: "We got an awesome river spot with our brand new set up. It rained but was a beautiful and oh so green area to camp."
What campers like
Quiet weekday atmosphere: Most equestrian campers prefer visiting Green Mountain during weekdays when there's less traffic from other recreational users. A visitor observed: "Very close to Bremerton, Silverdale, Kitsap county. Has about 5 tent spots with picnic tables and fire pit."
Multi-use trail system: The extensive network of trails allows for diverse recreational activities. At Kammenga Canyon Campground, a camper noted: "Nice open sites with space for multiple vehicles or trailers. Easy access to ORV trails."
Natural water features: Many campers appreciate the creek access at nearby campgrounds. A visitor at Collins Campground mentioned: "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."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most equestrian camping in this region offers basic facilities only. A camper at Green Mountain reported: "Had a bathroom but no other amenities- drinking water, shower, firewood/ice for sale."
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds in the area operate on limited schedules. At Fall Creek Campground, visitors should note: "You are supposed to have a Washington State Discovery pass to stay here, also they want you to fill out self registration once you arrive, fyi there are no pens onsite to do so."
Shared recreational use: Be prepared to encounter other recreational users on the trails. As one camper experienced: "Can be noisy due to dirt bike traffic. Escape the city and enjoy the outdoors while recluse to home and comforts."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access options: For families seeking equestrian camping near Vaughn with easier access, consider campgrounds with drive-in sites. A visitor at Millersylvania State Park Campground shared: "Nice state forest with old growth. Lots of walking trails and a lake. Many families and kids running free."
Backup activities: Plan alternative activities for when younger riders need a break from horseback activities. One camper suggested: "The lake 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."
Safety considerations: When camping with horses and children, establish clear boundaries. A family camping at Tolt MacDonald Park noted: "It was quiet and peaceful" - important qualities when managing both animals and children in a campsite environment.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: When bringing horses, choose sites with adequate space for both RV and horse trailer. At Tolt MacDonald Park, an RVer mentioned: "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."
Water access planning: RVers with horses should note the limited water facilities. Bring additional water containers for your animals, as one camper pointed out: "No drinking water access I could find and the directions said to get water from the near by trail head pump but that pump is broken so bring water or a filter."
Road conditions: Some access roads to equestrian camping areas may present challenges for larger rigs. A camper reported: "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."
Traveler
