Box Canyon Horse Camp

For Oregonians who love to explore the wilderness with their equine companions, or simply seek a rustic base for extensive hiking and biking adventures, Box Canyon Horse Camp near McCredie Springs offers an exceptional experience. Nestled within the expansive Willamette National Forest, this specialized campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a gateway to over 30 miles of scenic multi-use trails, leading into stunning areas like the Three Sisters Wilderness and Waldo Lake Wilderness.

Box Canyon Horse Camp caters specifically to horse owners, providing amenities designed to accommodate both riders and their horses. However, its appeal extends beyond the equestrian community, with its direct access to trails making it a fantastic spot for hikers, mountain bikers, and anyone looking for a deep dive into the Central Oregon Cascades. The "no frills" nature of the camp ensures a genuine connection with the outdoors, where the sounds of nature and the rustle of leaves replace urban clamor.

Even in winter, with snow blanketing the ground, the area transforms into a picturesque wonderland, offering a beautiful drive and unique opportunities for exploration. This blend of dedicated equestrian facilities and broad appeal for various outdoor activities makes Box Canyon Horse Camp a standout destination for Oregon locals seeking an immersive and trail-focused adventure in a truly beautiful setting.

Box Canyon Horse Camp is strategically located near McCredie Springs, Oregon, with its address being McCredie Springs, OR 97477, USA. This places it within the vast and diverse Willamette National Forest, approximately 80 miles east of Eugene. The campground is notable for its position directly off paved Forest Road 19, also known as the West Cascades National Scenic Byway (Aufderheide Drive). This accessibility is a significant advantage for campers, especially those towing horse trailers.

Visitors can reach Box Canyon Horse Camp by traveling either south from Highway 126 (about 4 miles east of Blue River) or north from Highway 58 (about 3 miles west of Oakridge). Both routes offer incredibly scenic drives, winding through old-growth forests, past rushing rivers, and alongside various natural attractions. The convenience of a paved access road right up to the campground entrance makes it relatively easy to navigate, even with larger rigs.

One of the unique aspects of Box Canyon Horse Camp's accessibility is its year-round availability. While the camp itself remains open, it's crucial to note that Forest Service Road 19 is

not maintained for snow and ice in the winter

Box Canyon Horse Camp is primarily designed to support equestrian activities, providing specific amenities for horse owners, while still offering basic necessities for all campers. It's a rustic campground, so visitors should plan for a self-sufficient experience.

• Campsites with Horse Corrals:

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings:

• Vault Toilets:

• Stock Water Trough:

• Day-Use Parking Area:

• No Potable Water for Humans:

• No Hookups:

• Manure Bins, Wheelbarrows, and Shovels:

• Reservations/First-Come, First-Served:

Box Canyon Horse Camp stands out not just for its equestrian-friendly facilities, but for the wealth of natural features and recreational opportunities that make it a truly memorable destination in Oregon:

• Extensive Trail Network:

• Chucksney Mountain Loop:

• Three Sisters Wilderness Access:

• Erma Bell Lakes Loop (Short Drive Away):

• Winter Wonderland Potential:

• Old-Growth Forests:

• Proximity to Box Canyon Guard Station:

• Abundant Wildlife:

Box Canyon Horse Camp is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, specifically under the Willamette National Forest. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the campground, trail conditions, and any alerts or fire restrictions, it's best to contact the relevant Forest Service district.

While a general contact number is provided, specific inquiries for this area might be best directed to the local ranger district that oversees McCredie Springs and the surrounding national forest lands.

General Information Phone: (541) 225-6300

Mobile Phone: +1 541-225-6300 (This is the same primary contact number)

Address: McCredie Springs, OR 97477, USA

For additional or more localized information, consider reaching out to the McKenzie River Ranger District, as the Box Canyon Guard Station (a nearby historic site) falls under their jurisdiction, and information for the horse camp is often associated with this area:

McKenzie River Ranger District

57600 McKenzie Hwy

McKenzie Bridge, OR 97413

Phone: (541) 822-3381

It is highly recommended to check official U.S. Forest Service websites (such as Recreation.gov or the Willamette National Forest site) or call one of these numbers just prior to your visit. This is crucial for verifying operational status, checking for fire bans, road conditions (especially in winter), and any other alerts that could impact your trip.

For Oregon locals, Box Canyon Horse Camp offers a distinct and highly appealing outdoor experience that taps into the state's love for both equestrian pursuits and expansive wilderness adventures. It's a place that perfectly blends dedicated facilities for horse owners with abundant opportunities for hikers and mountain bikers, making it a versatile destination for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.

The primary allure for Oregonians is the unparalleled access to miles of scenic trails directly from the campsite. Whether it’s exploring the challenging terrain of Chucksney Mountain or the gentler paths leading towards the Waldo Lake Wilderness, the camp serves as an ideal base for multi-day excursions or simple day trips. This direct connection to the trail system is a significant advantage, eliminating the need for extensive travel between camping and recreation.

Furthermore, the rustic "no frills" nature of the campground aligns with the self-sufficient spirit of many Oregon outdoorspeople. The focus here is not on luxury, but on authentic immersion in nature, where the quiet of the forest and the clear night skies are the main attractions. The ability to visit even in winter, experiencing the unique beauty of a snow-covered landscape, adds another layer of appeal for locals who embrace Oregon's seasonal changes.

Box Canyon Horse Camp provides a unique niche for the equestrian community, offering well-maintained corrals and stock water, a rare find in many public campgrounds. Yet, its appeal transcends this niche, inviting anyone who appreciates a tranquil, trail-centric camping experience within the breathtaking Willamette National Forest. For Oregon locals, it’s not just a campground; it’s a portal to countless adventures and a cherished opportunity to connect with the wild beauty that defines their home state.

Box Canyon Horse Camp

McCredie Springs, OR 97477, USA