Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp, near Ashford, Washington, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying some free camping. With a focus on equestrian activities, this campground is a hit among horse lovers and offers a relaxed atmosphere for both tent and RV campers.

The campground features clean vault toilets and picnic tables, making it a comfortable place to settle in. Visitors have noted that it can get a bit noisy due to a nearby shooting range, but many find the overall experience enjoyable. One camper mentioned, “It’s a pleasant campground but can be noisy at times.” The deep shade in the camping spots is great for keeping cool, but if you rely on solar power, you might want to choose your spot wisely.

Located close to Mount Rainier, Sahara Creek is perfect for those looking to explore the stunning landscapes of the national park. Reviewers have praised the friendly atmosphere and the cleanliness of the area, with one saying, “Super clean, friendly people, and very close to the entrance to the park.” Just remember to pack out what you pack in, as there are no trash services available.

Whether you're riding horses or just soaking in the natural beauty, Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp offers a unique camping experience that’s hard to beat.

The Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp, maintained by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, lies just a stone's throw from the entrance to Mount Rainier National Park. The camp provides great access to the state-managed Elbe Hills and Tahoma State Forests through the Nicholson Horse Trail System. Campground has 20 campsites, picnic tables, hitching rails, and vault toilets.

The Nicholson Horse Trail System has been maintained especially for equestrian use, with wide trails and sturdy bridges providing safe, enjoyable passage for all.

Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Ashford. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Ashford campgrounds just for you. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Ashford and user-submitted reviews.

Ashford

The Best Camping Near Ashford, Washington

If you have a Discover Pass already you are good to go.  Love of area for Horses, trailers and regular camping.  Vault toilets.  No views but who doesn’t like Free?

I love Free Camping

Decided super last minute to go up to mount Rainier and found this campground. Super clean, friendly people, and very close to the entrance to the park. Definitely planning to come here again when I come up 

Amazing place 

Not sure why it says $30, this place is free WITH your Discover Pass, 7 day limit in a 30 day period. 

Vault toilets are pretty clean. 

There is NO trash here, pack it in, pack it out.  Keep it clean.  Lots of horses here which is enjoyable.  An ADA trail is level for walking the dog.   

Shooting range is close by, doesn’t bother me but it’s pretty noisy. Can hear some highway noise, but again, hasn’t bothered me 

I depend 100% on solar. There is deep shade in all camp spots,  I chose a fairly sunny spot, but it wasn’t enough to charge my batteries.  Just a heads up. 

Will return if visiting rainier again :) 

Nice campground 

This a a free camp ground if you have a Wa “Discover Pass”  it is a shady campground not great for solar.  It is a pleasant campground but can be noisy at times as there is a shooting range not to far away. 

Photos of Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp

Real photos from real campers