Chief Paulina Trailhead

For Oregon locals who combine their love for the outdoors with a passion for horseback riding, Chief Paulina Horse Camp offers a truly unique and exceptional experience. Nestled within the breathtaking Newberry National Volcanic Monument in the Deschutes National Forest near La Pine, this is the only dedicated horse campground within the caldera. It serves as an unparalleled basecamp for equestrian enthusiasts eager to explore the dramatic landscapes, ancient lava flows, and pristine lakes that define Central Oregon's volcanic heart.

Chief Paulina Horse Camp is specifically designed with the horse and rider in mind, providing amenities that cater directly to their needs. This commitment to the equestrian community makes it a standout choice for Oregonians who understand the joys of exploring trails from the saddle. As one review enthusiastically states, "Great Horse Trails, plenty of parking." This highlights the camp's core appeal: excellent access to a vast network of horse-friendly trails.

While the natural beauty is undeniable, visitors should be prepared for varying seasonal conditions. One reviewer mentioned, "Still snow but can still get up a ways. Beautiful." This indicates that early or late season visits might encounter snow, adding to the adventurous spirit but requiring appropriate preparation. However, the overarching theme is one of unparalleled beauty and access to an incredible outdoor playground. The camp's location at the base of Newberry Crater provides a starting point for exploring trails that circumnavigate the crater rim, offering panoramic views of Paulina and East Lakes, as well as the distant Cascade Range. For locals seeking a deep immersion in Oregon's diverse landscapes, combining the thrill of horseback riding with the tranquility of a dedicated forest camp, Chief Paulina Horse Camp is an essential destination.

Chief Paulina Horse Camp is strategically located within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, part of the Deschutes National Forest, near the town of La Pine, Oregon. Its address, La Pine, OR 97739, USA, places it within a renowned volcanic landscape in Central Oregon.

Access to the campground is typically via Paulina Lake Road (County Road 21), which branches off Highway 97. From Bend, travelers would drive about 24 miles south on Highway 97, then 14 miles east on Paulina Lake Road. From La Pine, it's about 5 miles north on Highway 97, then 13.9 miles east on Paulina Lake Road. The roads within the campground are unpaved, as are the parking spurs, reflecting its rustic, forest setting. It's designed to accommodate larger vehicle and trailer combinations, with some sites specifically modified for pull-through parking, a significant convenience for horse trailers.

It's important for Oregon locals to be aware that while the roads leading to the Newberry National Volcanic Monument are generally well-maintained, conditions within the Monument can vary seasonally. The road to the caldera (where the camp is located) typically closes due to snow in winter, often from mid-November to late May or early June, making the camp accessible primarily from late spring through fall. Visitors should always check current conditions, especially snow levels, before planning their trip. While relatively close to La Pine for basic needs, amenities within the Monument itself are limited to what might be available at Paulina Lake Resort or East Lake Resort, which can offer some camping supplies and restaurants. Cell phone coverage can be limited or nonexistent within the Monument, so planning and self-sufficiency are key.

Chief Paulina Horse Camp is specifically equipped to serve the needs of equestrian campers, providing essential amenities for both horses and their riders.

• Equestrian Campsites: The campground offers dedicated campsites, many of which are large and designed to accommodate horse trailers and multiple horses. Some sites feature double or quadruple corrals.
• Horse Corrals: Each campsite generally comes equipped with horse corrals and hitching posts, ensuring a secure and convenient space for horses.
• Stock Water: While potable drinking water for humans may not be directly at every site (it's advised to verify current conditions as some sources indicate a pump for horses only, and Paulina Lake Campground has general drinking water access), stock water is available at a water tank for horses. Campers should plan to bring their own potable water or filter/purify if needed.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets for human use, which are typically well-maintained.
• Manure Bins: A manure bin is located on site, often near the day-use parking area, for convenient and responsible disposal of horse waste.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite generally includes a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings: Fire rings or pits are provided at each site for campfires and cooking, though campers must always check for current fire restrictions, which are common in Central Oregon during dry periods.
• Spacious Parking: Sites offer ample room for parking vehicles and trailers, a crucial feature for horse campers.
• Weed-Seed-Free Feed Requirement: To prevent the spread of invasive species, horse campers are required to use certified weed-seed-free hay.
• Reservations Required: All sites at Chief Paulina Horse Camp are reservable, typically through Recreation.gov, and advance reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.

• Premier Horse Camping Destination: Chief Paulina Horse Camp is the only dedicated horse campground within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, making it the top choice for equestrian enthusiasts in the region.
• Extensive Horse Trails: The campground provides direct access to a vast network of horse-friendly trails that explore the caldera floor, loop around the crater rim (a 25-mile loop), and connect to upper and lower trails. These trails offer manageable elevation changes and no steep drop-offs.
• Spectacular Volcanic Scenery: Campers can ride through and explore fascinating geological features, including lava flows, cinder cones, the Paulina Lake and East Lake (formed within the caldera), and the Big Obsidian Flow.
• Panoramic Views: Trails, particularly those on the crater rim, offer breathtaking panoramic views of Paulina and East Lakes, Paulina Peak, and the distant Cascade Range, including the Three Sisters and Mt. Hood on clear days.
• Access to Paulina Lake and East Lake: While the camp is specifically for equestrians, its location allows access to the nearby lakes for fishing (known for trout and Kokanee salmon) and non-motorized boating, as well as opportunities to visit Paulina Falls.
• Newly-Refurbished Campsites: The campground has seen recent improvements, with some campsites expanded and others converted to pull-throughs to better accommodate modern, larger horse trailers.
• Opportunities for Solitude: Compared to more crowded areas, the horse trails in Newberry Crater often provide a quieter experience, allowing riders to enjoy the landscape without heavy foot or bike traffic.
• Day-Use Parking Available: For those just visiting for the day to ride, dedicated day-use parking is available.

Address: La Pine, OR 97739, USA (This is a general town location for the campground, which is within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument.)

Phone: (541) 383-5300 (This number is for the Deschutes National Forest Supervisor's Office in Bend, which oversees the Newberry National Volcanic Monument and its campgrounds.)

Mobile Phone: +1 541-383-5300 (Same contact number, formatted for international dialing.)

For specific facility information, including real-time operational updates, current fire restrictions, and detailed site availability, it is highly recommended to use the official reservation system and website.

• Online Reservations: Recreation.gov (Search for "Chief Paulina Horse Camp").
• Paulina Visitor Center: While not a direct contact for the campground, the Paulina Visitor Center within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument can provide local information and is a good resource upon arrival.
• Deschutes National Forest Website: The official USDA Forest Service website for Deschutes National Forest provides alerts, current conditions, and general information for Chief Paulina Horse Camp.

Always check for current conditions and make reservations well in advance, especially for this popular and specialized campground.

For Oregon locals, especially those who cherish their horses and seek unique outdoor adventures, Chief Paulina Horse Camp is an ideal and indispensable destination. It offers a specialized and authentic experience that perfectly aligns with the state’s diverse natural beauty and the active outdoor lifestyle of its residents.

Firstly, its singular focus as a horse campground within the iconic Newberry National Volcanic Monument makes it a premier and often unrivaled choice for equestrian enthusiasts. Locals owning horses have a dedicated, well-equipped facility where their passion is not just accommodated but celebrated. The ample parking, corrals, and stock water demonstrate a deep understanding of what horse campers need, ensuring a comfortable and practical base for both rider and steed. This specialized offering fills a crucial niche for Oregonians who often struggle to find truly horse-friendly camping options.

Secondly, the direct access to an extensive network of horse-friendly trails through a truly unique volcanic landscape is a significant draw. Exploring cinder cones, lava flows, and the serene caldera lakes from horseback offers a perspective that few other places can provide. This isn't just a place to camp; it's a launchpad for deep immersion into Central Oregon's geological wonders and natural beauty. The scenic rides, offering panoramic views of the Cascades and the twin lakes, are an experience that resonates deeply with those who appreciate Oregon's diverse and dramatic scenery.

Finally, the camp provides a peaceful and often less crowded alternative to more general campgrounds, allowing locals to enjoy the tranquility of the forest without the hustle and bustle. While seasonal considerations like snow are a part of the experience, they simply add to the authentic high-desert adventure. For Oregonians seeking to combine their love of horses with the raw beauty of their state, fostering a deeper connection to its natural heritage, Chief Paulina Horse Camp is not just suitable; it's a must-visit destination that strengthens the bond between local adventurers and the wild spaces they call home.

Chief Paulina Trailhead

La Pine, OR 97739, USA