Quinn Meadow Horse Camp

For horse enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers across Oregon, Quinn Meadow Horse Camp stands as a premier destination within the spectacular Deschutes National Forest. Located southwest of Bend, on the scenic south side of Mt. Bachelor, this dedicated equestrian campground offers a truly immersive experience for riders and their equine companions. It's more than just a place to park your trailer; it's a gateway to an expansive network of trails, a vibrant community of fellow horse lovers, and the stunning natural beauty that defines Central Oregon.

Quinn Meadow Horse Camp is renowned for its commitment to providing excellent facilities for both horses and their riders. Visitors consistently praise the recent updates and maintenance efforts. As one satisfied camper noted, "Corrals updated to pipe corrals with the ability to put up tarps or shade cloths for the horses. Many trails now need advance paid trail passes to traverse them. Planning exactly what trail what day? Geese. Isn’t paying campground fees enough? Whose forests are these?" This highlights the significant improvements made to horse accommodations, ensuring comfort and safety for your animals, while also touching upon the evolving nature of trail access in popular forest areas. Another reviewer enthusiastically stated, "Nice campground for horse people! Lots of wonderful trails. Corrals are all updated with pipe panels, not the old wood corrals." This confirms the high quality of the facilities, a crucial aspect for any equestrian camp.

Beyond the practicalities, Quinn Meadow Horse Camp offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Central Oregon's diverse landscapes from horseback. The camp's location provides direct access to trails that wind through lush forests, past serene meadows, and offer breathtaking views of the Cascade Range. It's a place where you can forge deeper connections with your horse, experience the tranquility of nature, and create unforgettable memories with every ride. The friendly atmosphere, often enhanced by helpful camp hosts, further contributes to its appeal, making it a beloved spot for the local equestrian community and beyond.

Quinn Meadow Horse Camp is strategically situated in the Deschutes National Forest, easily accessible from Bend, Oregon. Its address is Bend, OR 97701, USA, placing it along the scenic Cascade Lakes Highway (Forest Service Road 46). From Bend, travelers can journey southwest on the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway for approximately 31.2 miles to reach the campground entrance. This well-known route is paved and generally in good condition, accommodating trailers and RVs.

While the campground offers a feeling of remote wilderness, its relative proximity to Bend provides convenient access to supplies and services if needed. The elevation of approximately 5,106 feet means it typically operates from mid-June through late September, depending on snowmelt and seasonal conditions. The approach to the campground is straightforward, making it a popular choice for those towing horse trailers or larger recreational vehicles, though some sites may require careful maneuvering for the biggest rigs, as one reviewer pointed out ("Sites are hard to fit the bigger trailers into"). The surrounding area is part of the extensive Deschutes National Forest, offering a beautiful drive and stunning vistas as you approach this equestrian haven.

• Equestrian Campsites: The campground features 26 individual campsites specifically designed for equestrians. Each site includes a picnic table, a fire ring with a grill, and either a double or quadruple horse corral (updated to pipe panels), allowing for secure and comfortable housing for your horses.
• Vault Toilets: Two pit toilets are available within the campground, maintained for visitor use.
• Potable Water (Hand Pump): Drinking water is available from a hand pump. While a vital service, one reviewer noted the effort required to fill large quantities for horses: "The BIGGEST down side is the hand pump for water. Each horse can drink 15+ gallons per day. The hand pump cannot be fitted with a hose. Each gallon of water is 8 lb, 30 gallons is 240 pounds hauled by hand to you site. The water hand pump is at the far end of the camp With 26 sites." Campers should be prepared for this physical task, or consider alternative water solutions for their animals.
• Manure Dump: A designated manure dump is available for proper disposal of horse waste, contributing to the cleanliness and maintenance of the camp.
• Garbage Bins: Multiple garbage bins are provided for waste collection, promoting a clean environment for all campers.
• Camp Host: A super nice and helpful camp host is typically on-site, providing assistance and ensuring a pleasant stay for visitors.
• Firewood: Firewood may be available for purchase from the camp host, though bringing your own is always a good idea.
• Reservations: Campsites can be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov, which is highly recommended due to the campground's popularity.
• Cell Service: Unlike some more remote forest camps, Quinn Meadow Horse Camp reportedly has fair cell service in the area, offering a balance between wilderness and connectivity.

• Extensive Trail System: Quinn Meadow boasts direct access to a vast network of equestrian trails. The Quinn Creek Trail begins right in the campground, connecting to the renowned Metolius-Windigo Trail, a long-distance route spanning over 100 miles. Other accessible trails lead to picturesque destinations like Sisters Mirror Lake, Moraine Lake, Sparks Lake, and provide routes for scenic loops.
• Updated Corrals: A significant highlight is the recent upgrade to durable pipe corrals at each campsite, replacing older wooden structures. These modern corrals are designed to accommodate tarps or shade cloths, enhancing comfort for horses.
• Beautiful Location: Situated amidst a forested area next to a beautiful meadow, the camp offers a serene and picturesque setting. Quinn Creek flows nearby, adding to the natural ambiance.
• Proximity to Wilderness Areas: The camp serves as a gateway to the Three Sisters Wilderness, offering opportunities for riding into stunning backcountry, though wilderness permits may be required for certain trails.
• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse forest and meadow environment provides habitat for various wildlife, including mule deer, coyotes, bears, and numerous migratory birds, offering excellent viewing opportunities.
• Well-Maintained Trails: Recent chainsaw clearing ensures that trails are in good shape, providing clear and enjoyable riding paths.
• Level Sites: Almost all campsites are reported to be level, making it easier to set up trailers and camp.
• Varied Terrain: The trails offer horse-friendly terrain with no overly steep hillsides or drop-offs, suitable for a range of riding experiences.
• Scenic Drives: The camp's location off the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway means visitors can enjoy a breathtaking 66-mile drive through the Cascade Mountain Range, featuring snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes.

Address: Bend, OR 97701, USA (specifically, 63095 Deschutes Market Road, Bend, OR 97701, within the Deschutes National Forest)

Phone: (541) 383-5300 (Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor's Office)

For campground-specific inquiries, the Sisters Ranger District may also be a direct contact, or checking Recreation.gov is recommended.

For Oregon locals who share a passion for equestrian pursuits, Quinn Meadow Horse Camp is an unparalleled resource. Its prime location near Bend offers relatively easy access, yet transports you to a dedicated equestrian haven deep within the Deschutes National Forest. The thoughtful design, with updated pipe corrals at every site, directly addresses the specific needs of horse owners, ensuring their animals are comfortable and secure. This level of dedication to equestrian amenities makes it a standout choice among Oregon's campgrounds.

The extensive network of well-maintained trails accessible directly from the camp provides endless opportunities for exploration, catering to various riding preferences and offering stunning views of Central Oregon's iconic landscapes. While the hand pump for water may require a bit of effort, the overall experience of camping with your horse in such a beautiful, trail-rich environment far outweighs this minor inconvenience. The presence of a helpful camp host, clear guidelines for trail passes, and the option for advanced reservations all contribute to a smooth and enjoyable visit. Quinn Meadow Horse Camp is truly a community hub for horse people, a place where locals can fully embrace their passion for riding, connect with nature, and create cherished memories in the heart of Oregon's magnificent outdoors. It’s a vital part of the recreational fabric for Oregon’s equestrian community.

Quinn Meadow Horse Camp

Bend, OR 97701, USA