Riley Horse Campground

Star4.42
21 reviews
MT. HOOD
Riley Horse Campground
$23.00 - $23.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season equestrian nonelectric sites are priced at $23/night, with an additional $2 charge on holidays. Prices do not reflect discounts, taxes,...
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Standard Site Fee$23.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$23.00

Share this campground
Recreation.gov
Provider
503-630-5721clm@clm-services.com

About this campground

Nestled in the shadow of Mt. Hood's northwestern slopes, Riley Horse Campground beckons equestrian enthusiasts and nature lovers alike to experience the Pacific Northwest's untamed beauty from horseback. This unique campground seamlessly blends rustic charm with practical amenities, featuring dedicated horse corrals that serve as your trusty steed's home base while you explore miles of scenic trails winding through ancient forests. Though designed with riders in mind, Riley Horse welcomes all outdoor adventurers seeking a peaceful retreat in one of Oregon's most spectacular landscapes.
Riley Horse Campground is primarily designed for equestrian campers, but it also accommodates other visitors when sites are unreserved by horse owners.
Historical SignificanceThese ancient forests have witnessed centuries of stories, from indigenous peoples who first traversed these trails to early settlers who carved paths through the wilderness. Today, Riley Horse Campground continues this legacy of exploration, where modern adventurers create their own tales against the backdrop of timeless Mt. Hood National Forest.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Riley Horse Campground with its own distinct palette. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing streams, while summer brings warm days perfect for long trail rides. Autumn transforms the canopy into a tapestry of gold and crimson, and winter occasionally dusts the landscape with snow, creating a wonderland for the hardy souls who venture here year-round.
ElevationPerched at 2,100 feet above sea level, Riley Horse Campground offers the perfect balance of mountain atmosphere and accessibility. This gentle elevation provides cooler temperatures during summer months while remaining low enough to extend the camping season, making it an ideal basecamp for exploring the varied terrain of Mt. Hood's foothills.
Natural Features and ScenerySet within the fascinating Old Maid Flat geologic area, Riley Horse Campground is a naturalist's dream where ancient volcanic forces have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary beauty. The melodic babbling of Lost Creek provides a constant soundtrack as it meanders through camp, while the nearby Sandy Wild and Scenic River carves dramatic channels through the forest floor. Towering Douglas firs and western hemlocks create a cathedral-like canopy overhead, sheltering abundant wildlife including deer, elk, and countless bird species that make this pristine corner of Mt. Hood National Forest their home.
Geological RegionRiley Horse Campground sits atop the remarkable Old Maid Flat, a geological treasure trove formed by ancient mudflows from Mt. Hood's volcanic past. This unique terrain, carved by Lost Creek and influenced by the nearby Sandy Wild and Scenic River, showcases nature's raw power through exposed rock formations, river-polished stones, and the ever-changing interplay between water and land that continues to shape this dynamic landscape.

Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible vault toilets. No other specific disability-related features were mentioned.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious with ample privacy between most of them.
Sites PrivacyCampers generally find the sites private and quiet, although the absence of enforcement of equestrian-preference policies sometimes leads to crowding by non-horse campers.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended sites for equestrian use include those with newly installed corrals. Sites 5 and 7 are better shaded and flat.
Best CampsitesSites 5 and 7 are rated highly for shade and layout.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSmall campground with 11 sites; spacious and well-separated areas. Sites have horse corrals and hitching posts.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 22, 2025, and closes September 8, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations should be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly stated, though McNeil Campground (0.25 miles away) is noted for non-reservable options.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made before the date of arrival for a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 24 hours before arrival) will forfeit the first night's recreation fee. Additional change fees may apply.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors to Riley Horse Campground can enjoy a range of activities, especially those designed for equestrians, such as horseback riding on extensive trails. Other recreational opportunities include hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
The campground provides access to several hiking trails, including the 5.3-mile Cast Creek Trail, which connects to the Zigzag Mountain Trail for a nearly 14-mile loop combined with other trails. The nearby Sandy River Trail offers a 3-mile scenic walk.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at Lost Creek and the nearby Sandy River, where anglers can catch trout, salmon, and whitefish. Fly fishing is particularly popular.
Biking
Biking is allowed on some trails, and the campground's proximity to biking trails in Sandy makes it a good spot for mountain bikers.
Wildlife viewing
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, and reviews suggest that the forested setting offers good opportunities for wildlife observation.
Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned, but snow may impact trail access during colder seasons.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not explicitly mentioned as an activity at this campground.

Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Fire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry weather conditions.
  • Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.

Hazards

General hazardsBrown water from the well pump unsuitable for drinking; campers should bring potable water. Horse dung is common.
Active alertsNo active alerts are listed.

Weather forecast

46
°F
Oct 11
Saturday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Humidity: 84%

High humidity, may feel muggy

Wind: 5.5 mph

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Overcast
7-Day Forecast

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Temperature Trends

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Precipitation Trends

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Weather Summaries

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Emergency Services

Nearest emergency service details are unavailable.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 22, 2025 - September 08, 2025
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash or recycling facilities was provided.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Lost Creek and Sandy Wild and Scenic River.
Common complaintsWater quality issues: 'The water from the well pump is brown and not even suitable for the horses to drink.' Non-equestrian campers occupying equestrian sites: 'Beautiful place to camp with your horses. I just wish non equestrians would stay out of the sites that are meant for horse campers.'
HostCamp host presence is sporadic but noted as professional and accommodating.

Campground Map

MT. HOOD
Driving directionsFrom Sandy, travel Highway 26 for 18 miles to Zigzag. Turn north onto Lolo Pass Road. Continue for about 4 miles, then turn right on Forest Road 1825 and continue for less than a mile. Bear right, staying on Forest Road 1825, and cross the Sandy River Bridge. Continue for another half-mile, to Forest Roads 1825-382. Turn right, cross Lost Creek Bridge, and the campground will be almost immediately on the right.
Accessible year-round via paved roads, though rough terrain on Forest Road 1825 could be problematic in winter conditions or heavy rain.
Nearby places
Sandy (18 miles)
Nearby supplies
Nearest detailed information about supplies is not provided.

Camper Reviews

4.4
21 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Riley Horse Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Riley Horse Campground generally receives positive reviews, with particular appreciation for its equestrian-focused facilities and access to scenic trails. However, recurring complaints include water quality issues, non-equestrians occupying horse-designated sites, and occasional late-night noise.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers praise the spacious and private sites, clean vault toilets, and the beauty of the surrounding area. The trails are noted for their variety and suitability for horseback riding.
Based on 21 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the poor quality of the well water (described as brown with iron), lack of enforcement of equestrian-only policies, and occasional shortages of toilet paper in the vault...
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Based on 21 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing your own drinking water due to the poor quality of on-site water and packing all needed supplies, including toilet paper. Horse campers are advised to book early to ensure...
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Based on 21 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews note the area's beauty and tranquility but highlight the importance of bringing mosquito repellent and drinking water. Late summer and early fall may experience smoke from wildfires in...
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Based on 21 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Trails are amazing, clean toilets.' - Amber Drinks 'Water from the well pump is brown and not even suitable for the horses to drink.' - LAURA S 'Spent four nights. Camp sites are spacious and...
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Based on 21 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #7 is highly recommended for its spaciousness and privacy. Site #4 was noted to have a slight incline, while sites #5 and up offer more shade. Horse corrals are not available at all sites; some...
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Based on 21 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressed accessibility for individuals with disabilities beyond mentioning the accessible vault toilets.
Based on 21 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and user reviews mention dogs enjoying nearby creeks and trails.
Based on 21 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

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