Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp
3.739 reviewsP.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR, 97759, USA
Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp
$23.00 - $23.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Equestrian Nonelectric sites are charged $23 per night during the peak season (June 13 - September 27, 2025), with an additional $2 fee on holidays.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Oregon's high country, Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp beckons equestrian adventurers with its specialized facilities and breathtaking alpine setting. This thoughtfully designed horse camp features sturdy corrals and dedicated equestrian amenities, all set against a backdrop of wildflower meadows that seem to stretch endlessly toward crystal-clear mountain lakes. Whether you're saddling up for a day ride through pristine wilderness trails or simply enjoying the evening alpenglow from camp, this unique destination offers an authentic Western experience at the doorstep of the Three Sisters Wilderness.
Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp offers a mix of camping options suitable for horse campers, RVs, trailers, and tents. Sites are divided into regular camping (001-011) and horse camping (012-020).
Historical SignificanceStanding in the shadow of the legendary Three Sisters volcanic peaks, this campground serves as a gateway to some of Oregon's most cherished wilderness. These ancient sentinels have watched over the landscape for millennia, their snow-capped summits serving as beacons for Native Americans, early explorers, and modern adventurers alike. The surrounding trails wind through ecosystems that have remained largely unchanged for centuries, offering riders and hikers a chance to experience the raw beauty that has captivated visitors to the Cascade Mountains for generations.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives late but gloriously at this elevation, with the camping season typically opening in mid-June as wildflowers burst into bloom across the meadows. Through September, you'll enjoy crisp mountain mornings that warm to perfect riding temperatures by midday, with afternoon thunderstorms occasionally rolling through to water the meadows and clear the air. Come October, golden aspens signal the approaching winter, when deep snows transform this landscape into a silent wonderland accessible only to the most intrepid winter adventurers.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 6,550 feet above sea level, Three Creeks Meadow offers a true high-altitude camping experience. At this elevation, the air is refreshingly thin and crisp, stars shine with remarkable clarity, and summer temperatures remain delightfully cool even on the warmest days. Visitors should take time to acclimate and stay hydrated, as the altitude can be noticeable, especially for those arriving from sea level. The reward? Spectacular views and a climate that feels worlds away from the valleys below.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the sight of morning mist rising from a pristine 28-acre alpine lake, its waters reflecting ancient volcanic peaks and stands of towering old-growth forest. Three Creeks Lake, cradled in its glacial cirque beneath the dramatic cliffs of Tam McArthur Rim, serves as the jewel of this remarkable landscape. Alpine meadows painted with Indian paintbrush and lupine carpet the approaches to camp, while the surrounding forests of mountain hemlock and whitebark pine provide both shade and a sense of timeless tranquility. This is nature's amphitheater at its finest.
Geological RegionCarved by ancient glaciers into the flanks of Tam McArthur Rim, this spectacular campground occupies one of the Cascades' most dramatic geological settings. The centerpiece, Three Creeks Lake, fills a classic glacial cirque with waters that plunge to depths of 28 feet. The lake's personality changes with each curve of its shore – from gentle, grassy slopes perfect for watering horses to dramatic rocky cliffs that showcase the raw power of ice-age forces. Above it all, the rim's volcanic origins tell a story millions of years in the making, where fire and ice have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is designed for equestrian use, with each site featuring corrals for horses. It is unclear if additional accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are provided.
Sites SizeSites are designed to accommodate RVs, trailers, or tents, but specific dimensions are not provided.
Sites PrivacySites are dispersed, providing some privacy between users. "Nice campground, sites dispersed well. We'd come back." (Howard Snell)
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSome reviews suggest avoiding sites with broken corrals (e.g., sites 16-18) and highlight the scenic surroundings despite maintenance issues.
Best CampsitesSites 012-020 are designated for horse campers, while sites 001-011 are for regular camping. Specific recommendations are unavailable.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Reserved sites are held until 12:00 PM the day following the arrival date.
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 14 consecutive nights per visit, with a 28-night total limit per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One RV with tow vehicle per single site or one vehicle per tent site. Most sites can accommodate 1 extra vehicle.
Groups
No group camping details are specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two sections: sites 001-011 for regular camping and sites 012-020 for horse camping.
Open and Closed SeasonJune 13 to September 27 (reservable dates vary within this window).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityReserved sites will be held until checkout time (12:00 PM) the day following the arrival date. Walk-up availability may vary.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the arrival date for a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (less than 1 day before arrival) will incur an additional fee equal to the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers various outdoor recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking on nearby trails, fishing, and non-motorized boating at Three Creeks Lake. The natural beauty of the area, including views of the Three Sisters volcanic peaks, adds to the experience.
Hiking
The Tam McArthur Trail, accessible near the campground, is described as a short and reasonably easy hike offering stunning views of the Three Sisters, Oregon's third, fourth, and fifth-highest peaks.Fishing
Fishing at Three Creeks Lake is supported from the shore, by wading, or via non-motorized boats, which are the most popular method. No specifics about the types of fish are provided.Biking
The nearby Metolius-Windigo Trail offers biking opportunities over its 100-mile stretch. Details about terrain and difficulty are not provided.Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed on Three Creeks Lake. No details about docking facilities are provided.Wildlife viewing
Opportunities for wildlife viewing exist in the surrounding forests and meadows, but no specific species are mentioned.Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby attractions such as the Lava Lands Visitor Center, Newberry National Volcanic Monument, and fish hatcheries offer educational opportunities, but no organized programs are detailed within the campground.Winter Activities
The data does not provide specific information about winter recreation options.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are possible, but details are limited.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry weather conditions.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM for generator use.
Hazards
General hazardsSome reviews note issues with broken corrals and dry rot, posing potential safety hazards for livestock.
Active alertsSeasonal fire restrictions may apply due to dry weather conditions.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Sisters, OR, which is approximately 15.2 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 13 to September 27.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information is provided about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Three Creeks Lake, which is ideal for non-motorized boating and fishing.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention broken corrals and malfunctioning stock water troughs. Several users reported mismanagement of reservations with campers occupying reserved spots.
HostMultiple user reviews describe the campground hosts as helpful and accommodating.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR, 97759, USA
Driving directionsFrom Sisters, OR: Travel 15.2 miles south on Forest Road 16 (Elm Street in Sisters).
The campground is accessible via paved roads from Sisters, OR. However, one user review notes that the signage for the horse camp is set back from the main road behind trees, making it somewhat difficult to locate.Nearby places
Sisters, OR: 15.2 miles, approximately 30 minutes drive.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials can be sourced in Sisters, OR, approximately 15.2 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
3.7
9 reviews
Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives mixed reviews, with positive feedback regarding the scenic surroundings and helpful hosts, but concerns over the maintenance of horse corrals and water facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Scenic natural surroundings, proximity to trails and Three Creeks Lake, and the helpfulness of the camp host were praised. One reviewer noted, "The host is an awesome lady."
Based on 9 reviewsCommon Concerns
Several reviews expressed frustration over broken or unsafe corrals, malfunctioning stock water troughs, and issues with site reservations being incorrectly occupied. "The stock water in the 17 loop...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Horse campers should inspect corrals upon arrival, as some have been reported as unsafe. Bringing extra livestock water containers may be helpful due to reported issues with water troughs.
Based on 9 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the primary season for activity, with reviews indicating trail rides and fishing are key highlights during this period. Winter usability is not detailed.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The lake was a nice place to just hang out," remarked Jeannie York. "Amazing scenery, some of the best riding in the state," shared Verena S.
Based on 9 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 17 and Site 18 have been specifically criticized for issues such as broken corrals and non-functional stock water. "Many of the corrals are no longer safe to use," highlighted Verena S, while...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility for disabled visitors are available.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews related to pets or pet policies were provided.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025