Riley Horse Campground

For Oregon locals with a passion for the outdoors, especially those who love to explore on horseback, Riley Horse Campground in the majestic Mt. Hood National Forest presents an unparalleled camping experience. This unique facility is specifically designed to accommodate equestrian campers, offering dedicated amenities that make adventuring with your horses a seamless and enjoyable endeavor. However, its appeal isn't limited to equestrians; general campers seeking spacious, clean sites and direct access to a fantastic trail system will also find Riley Horse Campground to be a serene and highly rewarding destination. It's a place where the beauty of the Pacific Northwest truly shines, providing a perfect base for hiking, biking, fishing, and simply soaking in the tranquility of the forest. If you're looking for a well-maintained campground that truly connects you with Oregon's natural wonders, Riley Horse Campground is a premier choice.

Riley Horse Campground is conveniently located within the vast expanse of the Mt. Hood National Forest, near the charming community of Rhododendron, Oregon. Its address, NF-1825, Rhododendron, OR 97049, USA, places it northwest of Oregon's iconic Mt. Hood, nestled close to Lost Creek and the Sandy River. For Oregon residents, accessing this beautiful area is straightforward. From Sandy, you'll travel along Highway 26 for approximately 18 miles to Zigzag, then turn north onto Lolo Pass Road (Forest Road 18). After about 4 miles, you'll turn right onto Forest Road 1825, continuing for less than a mile. A slight right, staying on Forest Road 1825, will lead you across the Sandy River Bridge, and after another half-mile, you'll turn right onto Forest Roads 1825-382, crossing the Lost Creek Bridge, with the campground appearing almost immediately on your right. This access via well-maintained forest roads ensures a relatively smooth journey for vehicles and trailers, allowing locals to quickly transition from their daily routines to the peaceful embrace of the wilderness. Despite its forest setting, the campground remains well-connected, making it an ideal local escape.

Riley Horse Campground offers a thoughtful selection of services and amenities, specifically catering to the needs of equestrian campers while also providing essential comforts for all visitors. The focus here is on facilitating a comfortable and self-sufficient outdoor experience, allowing you to fully enjoy the natural surroundings.

• Single-Family Campsites: The campground features 14 individual campsites designed for single-family use. Each site is generously sized, offering ample space. As one reviewer noted, "Big site for each camper," with some sites being large enough to fit "three two person tents."
• Equestrian Facilities: 11 of the 14 campsites are equipped with horse corrals, making it an excellent choice for those camping with their equine companions. Hitching posts are also available.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings with Grates: Every campsite includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires (fire restrictions permitting).
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available throughout the campground, ensuring basic restroom needs are met. While one review wished the toilets "can be better," another mentioned "clean toilets," indicating varying experiences but a general standard of cleanliness.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available through spigots, though visitors should note that some users have experienced issues with the well water (e.g., iron smell/color), suggesting it's wise to bring your own drinking water or a filter.
• Garbage and Manure Bins: Designated dumpsters are provided for waste and manure disposal, contributing to the overall cleanliness of the campground.
• Gravel Parking Surfaces: Parking surfaces are graveled, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs (up to 50 feet in maximum equipment length).
• No Cell Service: Visitors should be aware that cell service is generally not available, allowing for a true unplugged experience.

The distinctive features and highlights of Riley Horse Campground are what truly set it apart as a premier outdoor destination in Oregon. These elements contribute to a memorable and authentic Pacific Northwest camping adventure, particularly for those passionate about equestrian activities and forest exploration.

• Exceptional Horse Trails: The campground offers "amazing" access to a network of horseback riding trails, including the 5.3-mile Cast Creek Trail, the Zigzag Mountain Trail, and the 4.9-mile Horseshoe Ridge Trail. These trails also welcome hikers and mountain bikers, providing diverse recreational opportunities.
• Dedicated Equestrian Focus: The facility was specifically constructed by Oregon Equestrian Trails (OET) volunteers, ensuring it meets the unique needs of horse campers, from corrals to easy access to riding routes. This makes it a top choice for horse owners in Oregon.
• Spacious and Private Sites: Despite being a popular campground, the generous size and thoughtful layout of the campsites mean your "spot feels very private," as noted by campers. This allows for a sense of seclusion and personal space amidst nature.
• Scenic Forest Setting: Situated in the Old Maid Flat geologic area of Mt. Hood National Forest, the campground is surrounded by lush forest, close to Lost Creek and the Wild and Scenic Sandy River. This provides a stunning backdrop for all activities.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The diverse ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife, offering opportunities for nature enthusiasts to observe local fauna. One reviewer even spotted a rabbit hopping around.
• Resilience to Weather: The ground's ability to remain "not muddy" even after significant rain ensures a more comfortable camping experience regardless of weather conditions.
• Proximity to Natural Attractions: Beyond the immediate trails, the campground is a short drive from other popular Mt. Hood attractions, including the trailhead for spectacular Ramona Falls on the Sandy River, offering more exploration options.
• Quiet and Courteous Environment: Campers consistently report that other visitors were "very courteous during quiet hours," contributing to the overall peaceful atmosphere of the campground.
• Versatile Use: While primarily a horse campground, non-equestrians are welcome, making it a viable option for a wider range of outdoor enthusiasts seeking a serene forest setting. However, there is a strong sentiment among horse campers that non-equestrians should respect the intended use of sites and facilities like horse corrals.

For reservations, current conditions, or more specific information about Riley Horse Campground, please use the following contact details. It's highly recommended to check current forest service alerts and reservation policies before planning your trip, especially given its popularity and seasonal considerations.

Address: NF-1825, Rhododendron, OR 97049, USA

Phone: (503) 622-3191

Mobile Phone: +1 503-622-3191

You can also typically find reservation information and further details through the Recreation.gov website or the official Mt. Hood National Forest website.

Riley Horse Campground is exceptionally well-suited for Oregon locals seeking an immersive and authentic outdoor experience within the stunning Mt. Hood National Forest. For equestrian enthusiasts, it is simply unmatched, providing dedicated corrals and direct access to a network of incredible horse trails, making it easy to bring your equine partners along for an unforgettable adventure. However, even for non-equestrian campers, the campground’s appeal is significant. The generously sized and private campsites offer a peaceful retreat, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility of the forest without feeling crowded. Its location ensures convenient access to some of Oregon's most beloved hiking and mountain biking trails, making it an ideal base for exploring the diverse landscapes of Mt. Hood. The presence of essential amenities like clean vault toilets, water access (though personal potable water is advised), and fire rings ensures a comfortable stay, while the absence of cell service provides a true opportunity to disconnect and recharge. Whether you're an experienced horse packer, a family looking for a serene tent camping spot, or an adventurer eager to hit the trails, Riley Horse Campground offers a well-maintained, welcoming, and deeply satisfying gateway to the natural beauty that makes Oregon so special. It's a true local treasure for embracing the wilderness.

Riley Horse Campground

NF-1825, Rhododendron, OR 97049, USA