Hares Canyon Horse Camp

For Oregon’s passionate equestrians and outdoor adventurers, Hares Canyon Horse Camp stands out as a truly exceptional destination. Nestled within the expansive and beautiful Tillamook State Forest near Buxton, this campground is specifically designed to cater to horse owners and their equine companions, providing an unparalleled experience in the Pacific Northwest. If you’ve been searching for a premier facility that combines the rugged beauty of Oregon’s wilderness with the essential amenities for a comfortable horse camping trip, look no further. Hares Canyon Horse Camp is not just a place to stay; it's a gateway to incredible trail riding and a community for fellow horse enthusiasts right here in our beloved state.

With decades of experience in horse camping, many seasoned equestrians consider Hares Canyon Horse Camp to be the best they’ve ever encountered. This reputation isn't built on hyperbole but on the thoughtful design and excellent maintenance of its facilities, all geared towards making your horse camping adventure as smooth and enjoyable as possible. From the convenience of full hookups to the dedicated horse stalls at each site, every detail is considered. Even if unforeseen circumstances prevent you from bringing your horses, the camp's friendly staff and accommodating policies ensure a positive experience, highlighting its dedication to guest satisfaction. This article will delve into what makes Hares Canyon Horse Camp an absolute must-visit for Oregonians looking for their next equestrian getaway, providing all the details you need to plan your trip to this top-tier facility.

Hares Canyon Horse Camp is conveniently located at Boomscooter Trail, Buxton, OR 97109, USA. Its position within the vast Tillamook State Forest makes it an ideal central point for accessing a wide network of horse trails, mountain biking routes, and general forest exploration. For Oregon locals, the drive to Buxton is manageable from various parts of the state, making it an excellent choice for weekend trips or longer equestrian holidays without needing to travel far. While providing a truly immersive forest experience, its relative proximity to towns ensures accessibility for supplies and any unforeseen needs.

Access to the campground is generally straightforward, following well-maintained roads within the state forest. Upon arrival, visitors will find a well-organized and clearly marked camp layout. The design of the camp prioritizes ease of use for horse trailers and recreational vehicles, with spacious sites that allow for comfortable maneuvering and setup. The camp's popularity, especially among horse campers, means that reservations are required. This system helps manage the flow of visitors and ensures that a site is available upon your arrival, contributing to a smoother and more predictable camping experience. Although the immediate trails might sometimes be temporarily limited, the overall network within the Tillamook State Forest offers abundant riding opportunities, making the camp an excellent base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty.

Services Offered:

• Full Hookups: A significant highlight for horse campers, each site is equipped with full hookups, typically including water, electricity, and sewer connections. This amenity greatly enhances the comfort and convenience of your stay, especially for those with living quarter horse trailers or RVs.
• Manure Bins: Two dedicated manure bins are provided, making it easy and responsible for campers to manage waste from their horses. This thoughtful provision underscores the camp's commitment to cleanliness and environmental stewardship.
• Horse Stalls: Each individual campsite includes four dedicated horse stalls. This generous provision ensures that your horses have a safe, comfortable, and defined space during your stay, a crucial feature for equestrian campers.
• Friendly Staff and Camp Hosts: Reviews consistently praise the friendly and accommodating nature of both the camp hosts and state personnel, contributing to a welcoming and positive atmosphere.
• Cleanliness and Maintenance: The camp is noted for being very nice and well-maintained, indicating a high standard of cleanliness for sites and facilities.
• Restroom Facilities: While not explicitly detailed, the overall "best camp ever" sentiment and comparison to "better than Idaho" suggest adequate and well-maintained restroom options, which are typical for state park facilities.

Features / Highlights:

• Premier Equestrian Facility: Hares Canyon is specifically designed for horse camping, offering unparalleled amenities and a supportive environment for horse owners. This focus makes it a standout choice for the equestrian community.
• Spacious and Well-Spaced Sites: Campsites are generously sized and well-spaced, providing ample room for trailers, horses, and personal privacy. This design contributes to a comfortable and uncrowded camping experience.
• Dedicated Horse Stalls at Each Site: The provision of four horse stalls per site is an exceptional feature, ensuring convenience and safety for your horses directly at your campsite.
• Full Hookup Availability: The inclusion of full hookups (water, electric, sewer) at every site is a major draw, allowing for a more luxurious and convenient camping experience, especially for longer stays.
• Two Double Sites: The presence of two double sites offers flexibility for larger groups or multiple families camping together, providing ample space and shared amenities.
• Reservations Required: While it necessitates planning, the reservation system ensures that a site will be available upon your arrival, preventing disappointment and enhancing the overall experience.
• Proximity to Tillamook State Forest Trails: The camp serves as an excellent base for exploring the vast network of trails within the Tillamook State Forest, perfect for both horse riding and mountain biking.
• Mountain Bike Area: In addition to horse trails, the camp is situated in an area conducive to mountain biking, offering diverse recreational opportunities for all members of the camping party.
• Accommodating Staff: The willingness of staff to allow stays even when horses couldn't make it (due to unforeseen issues like trailer problems) highlights their understanding and guest-focused approach.

Contact Information:

Address: Boomscooter Trail, Buxton, OR 97109, USA

While a direct phone number for Hares Canyon Horse Camp isn't typically provided for individual sites, reservations and inquiries are generally handled through the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Department. For the most accurate and up-to-date contact information, including reservation procedures, it is highly recommended to visit the official Oregon State Parks website or search for "Hares Canyon Horse Camp reservations Oregon State Parks." They typically have online reservation systems or contact numbers for their park offices which oversee such facilities. The friendly staff and camp hosts on-site are also an excellent resource for information once you arrive.

Hares Canyon Horse Camp is uniquely suited for Oregon locals, particularly those who are passionate about equestrian activities and seek a seamless outdoor experience with their horses. As Oregonians, we cherish our state's diverse landscapes and abundant outdoor recreation, and this camp truly epitomizes that spirit. Its location within the vast Tillamook State Forest provides easy access from many parts of the state, making it a convenient escape for a weekend or longer without excessive travel time.

The specialized amenities, such as full hookups and individual horse stalls at each site, are incredibly valuable for local horse owners. This level of dedicated infrastructure for horses is a rarity and sets Hares Canyon apart as a premier destination. It eliminates many of the logistical challenges often associated with horse camping, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable trip. Knowing that your horses are safe and comfortable right at your campsite offers immense peace of mind, freeing you up to fully enjoy the natural surroundings and the company of fellow equestrians.

Furthermore, the reputation for friendly staff and excellent maintenance means that locals can expect a high-quality camping experience every time. The requirement for reservations, while a planning step, ensures that the camp remains well-managed and not overcrowded, preserving its tranquil atmosphere. For Oregon's vibrant community of riders and outdoor enthusiasts, Hares Canyon Horse Camp isn't just a place to camp; it's a cherished resource that supports our love for the outdoors and our equine partners, making it an indispensable part of our local recreational landscape. It's a place where memories are made on and off the trails, reflecting the very best of Oregon's outdoor offerings.

Hares Canyon Horse Camp

Boomscooter Trail, Buxton, OR 97109, USA