Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp

For Washington residents with a passion for horseback riding and immersive outdoor experiences, Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp stands as a unique and invaluable resource. Nestled amidst the verdant landscapes of Ashford, Washington, this dedicated horse camp offers not just a place to stay, but a gateway to an expansive network of equestrian trails within the Elbe Hills and Tahoma State Forests. It’s a destination where the love for horses meets the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest, providing an unparalleled opportunity to explore the wilderness on horseback or simply enjoy a rustic camping adventure.

Managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp provides a more primitive, yet well-equipped, camping experience. While it caters primarily to equestrian users, it warmly welcomes all campers, including those with RVs and tents, making it a versatile option for various outdoor enthusiasts. The camp’s design emphasizes accessibility and functionality for horse owners, featuring ample trailer parking and specific amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for both riders and their equine companions. However, all visitors, regardless of whether they bring horses, can appreciate the natural setting and the extensive trail system that emanates from the campground. It’s a place where the sounds of hooves on trails blend with the rustling leaves, offering a true escape into Washington’s wild heart.

Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp is conveniently located at 262nd Ave E, Ashford, WA 98304, USA. This strategic position places it just a short distance from the western entrance of Mount Rainier National Park, typically around a 15-minute drive to the Nisqually Entrance. This makes it an excellent base camp for those looking to explore the iconic national park’s breathtaking vistas, hiking trails, and natural wonders.

The campground's accessibility is a key advantage for local Washington users. It is situated approximately 5 miles east of the town of Elbe on State Route 706, a well-traveled road leading directly to Mount Rainier. While the camp sign on SR 706 E can be small and easily missed, being aware of mile marker 5 when heading east from Elbe will help campers locate the turn onto 262nd Ave E. The nearby towns of Elbe and Ashford offer limited services, but the primary draw is the direct access to the vast natural areas of the Elbe Hills and Tahoma State Forests, as well as the proximity to Mount Rainier. It’s important to note that cell service can be limited or nonexistent in this area, which is a consideration for planning and reservations.

• Campsites: Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp features 20+ large campsites designed to accommodate horse trailers, RVs, and tents. Many sites are pull-through, making them suitable for larger rigs. All sites include a picnic table and a fire ring for campfires.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides clean vault toilets for guest use. While they are primitive, they are generally well-maintained.
• Water Spigots: Water is available in several locations throughout the camp, accessible via spigots. This fresh running water is convenient for both campers and horses.
• Hitching Rails/Highline Posts: A key amenity for equestrian campers, hitching rails or highline posts are available at most sites, and often around the perimeter of the campground, for securing horses. Campers are advised to bring their own highline rope.
• Mounting Blocks: Specific mounting blocks are available, particularly useful for horse riders.
• Picnic Pavilion/Group Shelter: A large common area with a fully enclosed group shelter and numerous picnic tables is available, ideal for group gatherings, especially during inclement weather.
• Horseshoe Pits: Horseshoe pits are available in the central grass area, perfect for a bit of recreation (bring your own horseshoes).
• No Trash Services: Campers are required to pack out all trash, adhering to Leave No Trace principles.
• No Showers: There are no shower facilities at this campground.
• Discover Pass Required: Camping at Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp is free, but requires a valid Washington State Discover Pass for both camping and day use. This pass supports outdoor recreation on state lands.
• No Sewer Hookups: RV campers should be aware that there are no sewer hookups at the campsites.

• Extensive Equestrian Trail System: The primary highlight of Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp is its direct access to the Nicholson Horse Trail System, a vast network of over 65 miles of trails within the Elbe Hills and Tahoma State Forests. These trails are designed for both horses and hikers, offering a variety of routes from easy to challenging, with enough elevation change for conditioning.
• Horse-Friendly Trails and Amenities: The trails are wide and feature sturdy bridges, ensuring safe passage for horses. Along the trails, there are amenities like Beaver Creek, which serves as a rest stop with an outhouse, picnic tables, and fresh running water for horses.
• Proximity to Mount Rainier National Park: Located just minutes from the Nisqually Entrance, it serves as an excellent staging point for exploring one of Washington's most iconic natural landmarks.
• Beautiful Forest Setting: Campers are immersed in stands of Douglas-fir and alder, with an understory of vine maples and sword ferns. While active logging creates occasional clear-cuts, these spots often offer seasonal wildflowers and spectacular views of Mount Rainier.
• Year-Round Creek Access: The presence of Sahara Creek itself means there's readily available water along some trails for both pets and horses, adding to the convenience for equestrians.
• Wildlife Awareness: The area is known for wildlife, including bears, so campers should be aware and practice safe food storage.
• Remote Feel with Essential Amenities: Despite its rustic nature and lack of cell service, the camp provides clean and functional basic amenities, allowing for a comfortable immersion in nature.
• ADA Accessible Trail: An ADA-accessible trail loop is available, making it suitable for walking dogs or for those with mobility considerations.

Address: 262nd Ave E, Ashford, WA 98304, USA

Phone: (360) 902-1125

For Washington locals, particularly those with horses or a desire for a more rustic, trail-focused camping experience, Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp offers a distinct and highly appealing outdoor destination. Its placement in Ashford provides convenient access to the majestic Mount Rainier National Park, allowing for easy day trips to one of the state's most cherished natural wonders. However, the true gem for locals lies in its specialized focus on equestrian activities and its status as a DNR-managed site.

The camp provides direct access to an extensive and well-maintained network of horse trails within the Elbe Hills and Tahoma State Forests, a feature that is invaluable for the local equestrian community. The ability to ride for miles directly from your campsite, exploring diverse loops and enjoying features like the Beaver Creek rest stop with water for horses, makes it a unique and sought-after location. For non-equestrians, the trails are also open to hikers, providing ample opportunity for exploration within a tranquil forest setting.

While the reservation system may require some planning (with a recommended minimum of 3 days' notice for online reservations, and limited on-site cell service potentially complicating last-minute bookings), the overall value of a free campsite with a valid Washington Discover Pass is undeniable. This accessibility, combined with the availability of clean vault toilets, water spigots, and a communal pavilion, ensures that campers can enjoy a comfortable experience without many of the costs associated with private campgrounds. The rustic nature of the camp, including the proximity to a shooting range and the need to pack out your own trash, contributes to its authentic outdoor appeal, favored by those who prefer a less commercialized camping environment. For Washingtonians looking to immerse themselves in nature, whether on horseback or on foot, and appreciate the state’s efforts to preserve and provide access to its wild spaces, Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp is an excellent choice for a genuine Pacific Northwest adventure.

Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp

262nd Ave E, Ashford, WA 98304, USA