Whispering Pines Horse Camp

4.57

41 reviews

PO BOX 249, SISTERS, OR 97759, USA

Scenic ViewsPeace & Quiet

Quick Facts

407 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Reservable season ru...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Deschutes National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

407 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Reservable season ru...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Deschutes National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Whispering Pines Horse Camp

$25.00 - $25.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Equestrian campsites are charged at $25 per night, with an additional $2 fee for holidays. Rates are subject to change and do not include taxes or...

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

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

541-323-1746

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.57

Top-Rated

Based on 41 reviews

19 Google reviews

Most mentioned

sceneryquietpeacefulfriendly

"User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground's peaceful atmosphere, good layout for horse campers, and the scenic beauty of the area. Some complaints include maintenance issues, such as poorly constructed corrals and lack of toilet paper."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

PO BOX 249, SISTERS, OR 97759, USA

Whispering Pines Horse Camp

PO BOX 249, SISTERS, OR 97759, USA

Driving directionsTravel approximately 6 miles west on Highway 242 (McKenzie Pass Highway) then follow the signs into Whispering Pine Horse Camp.

The campground is accessed via a gravel road that is reportedly in bad shape, featuring washboards and ruts for 4 miles. Some campers have noted that these road conditions may require higher-clearance vehicles. Despite this, user reviews often describe the drive as 'well worth it.'

Nearby places

Sisters, OR (approximately 6 miles west)

Bend, OR (approximately 22 miles southeast)

Nearby supplies

Closest grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel stations are located in Sisters, OR, approximately 6 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Whispering Pines Horse Camp

Mountain weather here dances between extremes – glorious mornings often give way to blustery evenings that remind you of the wilderness's wild heart. Summer visitors should come prepared for nature's smaller residents: July and August bring mosquitoes to the party, making bug spray as essential as your saddle. As the season progresses and the forest floor grows dry, fire restrictions may shape your camping experience, so check current conditions before your journey. Despite these considerations, each season paints the camp in different colors, from spring's fresh greens to autumn's golden light filtering through the pines.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season May-Oct; excellent trail access though mosquitos reported in late July.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Forest setting likely very scenic and quieter in fall; trails remain accessible.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Opens late May; wet pockets and blustery weather noted — quieter but potentially buggy/wet.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground is seasonal (reservable May 23–Oct 18); winter closed.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 23, 2025 - October 18, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Reservable season runs from May 23, 2025, to October 18, 2025. First-come, first-served season begins May 08, 2026.
Current Alerts: Corrals were under renovation as recently as May 2022, with some labeled 'Do Not Use.' Campers should confirm facility conditions prior to arrival.

About Whispering Pines Horse Camp

Eleven miles west of Sisters, Oregon, where the forest grows thick and the trails stretch endlessly into the Three Sisters Wilderness, Whispering Pine Horse Camp awaits equestrian adventurers. This intimate, nine-site campground serves as a gateway to some of Oregon's most spectacular backcountry, purpose-built for those who explore on horseback. Each spacious site welcomes up to four horses, complete with dedicated livestock water facilities and sturdy vault toilets. While you'll need to pack your own drinking water, the trade-off is worth it – this peaceful retreat sees fewer visitors than other camps, offering a genuine escape into nature. Here, beneath towering ponderosa pines interwoven with delicate birch trees, riders and their horses find the perfect basecamp for wilderness adventures.

Whispering Pines Horse Camp caters primarily to equestrian campers but also welcomes general camping enthusiasts. The facility provides rustic, non-electric sites with basic amenities.

Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here dances between extremes – glorious mornings often give way to blustery evenings that remind you of the wilderness's wild heart. Summer visitors should come prepared for nature's smaller residents: July and August bring mosquitoes to the party, making bug spray as essential as your saddle. As the season progresses and the forest floor grows dry, fire restrictions may shape your camping experience, so check current conditions before your journey. Despite these considerations, each season paints the camp in different colors, from spring's fresh greens to autumn's golden light filtering through the pines.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral of towering ponderosa pines, where sunlight filters through ancient branches to create a natural mosaic on the forest floor. In the camp's wetter pockets, graceful birch trees add splashes of white bark against the darker pines, creating a stunning visual contrast. This diverse forest ecosystem attracts an array of birdlife – early risers are often rewarded with nature's own symphony. The profound quiet here isn't empty but full of subtle forest sounds: wind whispering through pine needles, birds calling from hidden perches, and the gentle movements of wildlife going about their day. It's a place where the natural world feels close enough to touch.

Geological RegionCradled within the vast Deschutes National Forest, Whispering Pine Horse Camp occupies a special corner of Oregon's volcanic landscape. The thick canopy of ponderosa pines mixed with moisture-loving birch trees tells the story of this unique microclimate, where forest meets wilderness at the doorstep of the Three Sisters Wilderness Area. This positioning offers more than just shade and beauty – it provides direct access to a network of trails that wind through some of the Pacific Northwest's most dramatic terrain, from dense forests to alpine meadows, all shaped by the region's volcanic past.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in begins at 11:00 AM local time.

Check-out

Check-out time is at 12:00 PM local time.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights per visit and 28 nights total within a calendar year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each site accommodates up to 4 horses. Limitations on human guests are not explicitly stated.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground features nine individual sites, each designed to accommodate horse campers with corral facilities. Sites are spacious and include picnic tables, fire pits, and hitching posts.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov or through their app.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is offered during the first-come, first-served season starting May 08, 2026. Limited spots may be available during this time.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations prior to arrival are subject to a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of reservation fees. Late cancellations (starting from midnight 1 calendar day before scheduled check-in) will also result in forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee. Changes to reservation dates incur a $10 fee per site. Once the reservation start date begins, modifications are not allowed, and refunds must be requested through Recreation.gov.

AccessibilitySpecific accessibility features for campers with disabilities were not detailed in the source materials.

Site SizeEach site is equipped to accommodate up to four horses and is suitable for trailers. Some reviews indicated that the sites are spacious: "Roomy, well laid out horse camp.

PrivacySites are described as quiet and peaceful, with limited guests enhancing the sense of seclusion: "Limited number of guests makes for a quiet getaway.

Total Campsites9 campsites

Recommended SitesCampsites with left-side trailer access are most convenient for horse campers, as noted by user reviews. Bringing bug spray is highly recommended during mosquito season.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Whispering Pines Horse Camp is primarily designed for equestrian enthusiasts, offering access to numerous trails within the Three Sisters Wilderness Area. Other recreational activities include hiking, bird watching, and nature observation. Proximity to attractions like the Windigo Trail adds more opportunities for outdoor adventures.

HikingThe campground offers easy access to the Three Sisters Wilderness trails and other nearby paths. One user highlighted the variety of options: "Easy rides right out of camp. Many trails to choose from."

Wildlife viewingThe ponderosa pine forest provides a habitat for bird watching and other nature observation: "The pine forest provides shade as well as the chance to go bird or nature watching."

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsGravel road conditions leading to the campground are described as rough and may pose challenges for low-clearance vehicles. Mosquito activity during summer months has been noted in user reviews.

Active AlertsCorrals were under renovation as recently as May 2022, with some labeled 'Do Not Use.' Campers should confirm facility conditions prior to arrival.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyFire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry weather conditions. Campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed during these times.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM, with generator use prohibited.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are located in Sisters, OR, approximately 6 miles away, including hospitals and police stations.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not specifically mentioned, but users noted the need for campers to be self-sufficient, especially with water and toilet paper supplies.

Water FeaturesThe campground lacks potable water sources, requiring campers to bring their own drinking water. Livestock water is available.

Camp HostUsers frequently mentioned the campground host as 'helpful' and 'friendly,' with regular visits to check on campers and clean restrooms. Some noted the host resides at Cold Springs Campground but visits Whispering Pines daily.

Weather at Whispering Pines Horse Camp

Reviews

4.6

41 reviews

Top-Rated

Whispering Pines Horse Camp is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground's peaceful atmosphere, good layout for horse campers, and the scenic beauty of the area. Some complaints include maintenance issues, such as poorly constructed corrals and lack of toilet paper.

Review Summaries

Based on 41 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the campground for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere: "We love the place, it was quiet and peaceful." The trails and scenery were also highly rated: "Beautiful and quiet horse camp with...

Based on 41 reviews

Common Concerns

Maintenance issues such as damaged corrals and lack of toilet paper were frequently mentioned: "Corrals are labelled 'Do Not Use' and some bolts stick out which can harm horses." Other concerns...

Based on 41 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing bug spray for mosquitoes, self-supplying toilet paper, and preparing for a rough access road. One user suggested improving corral safety to accommodate larger trailers.

Based on 41 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is notably quieter in off-peak times, but during summer, mosquitoes can be a nuisance. One review noted, "Mosquitos still out in late July, bring bug spray!"

Based on 41 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Fav remote campground. Great cell signal too." "Roomy, well laid out horse camp. Needs reservations." "Beautiful and quiet horse camp with access to gorgeous trails."

Based on 41 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 005 was noted for a pleasant experience but highlighted mosquito presence in late July: "Mosquitos still out in late July, bring bug spray!" Site 006 had issues with heavy day use visitors...

Based on 41 reviews