Kalama Horse Camp
4.6532 reviews46° 8'33.15"N, 122°19'36.71"W
Kalama Horse Camp
$23.00 - $23.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Facility rates are $23.00 per night during Peak Season and First-Come-First-Served Season. Extra Vehicle Fee is $8.00 per night. Firewood is available for sale for $10.00/bundle.
About this campground
Nestled in the shadow of Mount St. Helens, Kalama Horse Camp beckons equestrian enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike to experience the Pacific Northwest's volcanic wilderness. This unique 27-site campground seamlessly blends the thrill of horseback exploration with the raw beauty of one of America's most dramatic landscapes. While designed with riders in mind, the camp warmly welcomes all nature lovers, offering walk-up sites for those traveling without their four-legged companions.
Kalama Horse Camp is primarily an equestrian-focused facility with additional accommodations for tents and RVs. Group camping options are also available, with some sites designed to host larger parties.
Weather and SeasonsThe camping season truly comes alive between May and September, when gentle summer breezes replace the region's characteristic rain and snow. Early season visitors might encounter dramatic weather transitions, with misty mornings giving way to sun-dappled afternoons. The dry summer months transform the landscape into a rider's paradise, where moderate temperatures and clear skies create perfect conditions for both trail riding and stargazing around the campfire.
ElevationCampground elevation not specified.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the enchanting tapestry of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, where ancient evergreens frame breathtaking vistas of Mount St. Helens' transformed landscape. The campground serves as your gateway to a world where volcanic history meets vibrant forest life, offering trails that wind through moss-draped Douglas firs and open onto panoramic viewpoints. As one delighted visitor, Angela Potter, shared: 'Awesome views, riding & hiking' - a testament to the diverse natural splendor that surrounds every campsite.
Geological RegionPositioned strategically along the western boundary of Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, Kalama Horse Camp offers front-row seats to one of nature's most powerful geological stories. Here, within the embrace of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, visitors witness the fascinating interplay between volcanic rebirth and ancient forest ecosystems. The landscape tells a tale of destruction and renewal, where new growth emerges from volcanic soils, creating a living laboratory of ecological succession that captivates both scientists and casual observers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features such as designated accessible spaces or ADA-compliant facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeSites are large and can accommodate both standard and equestrian camping setups. Some sites have corrals that vary in size: 'The sites on the outside of the loops have 4 pens, inside have 2 pens.'
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a fair amount of privacy. Reviewers highlight that 'there is plenty of room between sites for privacy.'
Total Campsites27 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOutside loops have four pens, inside loops have two pens (Michelle Murphy). Loop B considered 'LQ friendly' (Deb H).
Best CampsitesReview highlights Loop A site 1 (group site) as popular, as well as Loop B site 27 praised for privacy and roominess.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in: 2 PM
Check-out
Check-out: 12 PM (noon)
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights during a visit.
Groups
Details about group sites are minimal, though it is noted that larger parties can be accommodated. 'Group Facility' cancellation policies suggest these options are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground is divided into Loop A and Loop B. Loop A is newer, with most sites pull-through; Loop B is older, with a mix of walk-in and horse sites.
Open and Closed SeasonReservable between May 23, 2025, and September 28, 2025. First-come-first-served from June 20, 2025, to June 21, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, contact center, or mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up/first-come-first-served sites available during non-peak season and specific dates in peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (day before or day of arrival) incur a $10 fee and forfeit first night’s use fee. No-shows are assessed a $20.00 fee and forfeit first night’s rate.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Kalama Horse Camp provides a range of activities, particularly tailored for equestrian users and outdoor enthusiasts. Key recreational options include horseback riding, hiking, and biking trails that vary in difficulty levels. Interpretive sites and well-maintained trails add to the recreational offering.
Hiking
Numerous trails are available, ranging from easy to challenging. One reviewer noted, 'Trails are numerous, plenty for a week of riding. Some easy some harder,' and another commented on the well-marked trails: 'Trails were cleared and well marked.'Biking
Biking is supported on shared trails. Details on specific trail terrain or difficulty are not elaborated.Wildlife viewing
While specific wildlife species are not mentioned, the natural environment and trail access provide opportunities for wildlife observation.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive sites are mentioned, though specific details about their content or topics are not provided.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are noted.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as part of the recreational offering.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed; campfire rings available at each site.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rocky trails (Amy Lu mentions 'far too rocky to consider a beginner trail') and dips in the road to the campground as noted by Pacific Avril. Other hazards like bees near water troughs are noted by Kimberly S.
Weather forecast
84
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025, - September 28, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided, and manure pits are available for equestrian users. 'Each loop has a couple manure pits and wheel barrows' for convenient waste handling.
Proximity to water featuresTrails by river and waterfalls noted by Pacific Avril.
Common complaintsComplaints include rocky terrain unsuitable for beginners (Amy Lu states 'far too rocky to consider a beginner trail'), dips in the road (Pacific Avril), and limited/no cell service availability.
HostHosts frequently praised in user reviews for friendliness and helpfulness. Jenny specifically mentioned as excellent (e.g., 'Jenny couldn’t have been sweeter and more helpful' - Tiffany H).
Campground Map
46° 8'33.15"N, 122°19'36.71"W
Driving directionsFrom Portland, OR take I-5 north to Woodland, WA. Take Exit 21 for WA-503 E toward Woodland/Cougar. Follow WA-503 East; turn left onto Forest Road 81, following signs for Kalama Recreation Area. Travel 8 miles north; turn right and continue following signs for Forest Road 81. Campground is on the right.
The paved road (Forest Road 81) provides access to the campground; however, user reviews mention that it is uphill and has dips requiring caution. Review by Pacific Avril states 'lots of dips' and suggests driving at 20mph to avoid rough sections.Camper Reviews
4.7
32 reviews
Kalama Horse Camp is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users have a positive perception of Kalama Horse Camp. Highlights include its suitability for equestrian users, clean facilities, and well-maintained trails. The helpfulness and friendliness of the camp host, often referred to as Jenny, are frequently praised.
Review Summaries
Based on 32 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the cleanliness of the camp, the well-maintained and marked trails, and the spacious sites designed for equestrian use. Many users highlight the excellent service provided by the...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users express concerns about the rocky terrain on certain trails, which can be challenging for barefoot horses. The lack of cell service and occasional road conditions leading to the campground...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest preparing adequately for the rocky trails to ensure horses are well-shod or booted. It's recommended to bring a method to transport water around the campsite. For reservations, early...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with trails being more accessible and reserved campsites being in high demand. Some reviewers noted fewer campers during non-holiday weekends, making it quieter.
Based on 32 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Trails are numerous, plenty for a week of riding. Some easy some harder.'
- 'Pit toilets were very clean, hosts were friendly and helpful.'
- 'The camp host gets 10 stars, she was great!'
-...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Multiple reviewers highlighted specific sites: Campsite 27 (in Loop B) is noted for being spacious, with 'lots of room to spare.' Campsite 2 (Loop A) also received positive feedback for its setup and...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific feedback on accessibility features is provided in the reviews.
Based on 32 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but users emphasize leashing pets, particularly around horses, for safety. 'Please use caution around horses in the campground--leash pets,' advises the official guidelines.
Based on 32 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025