How much does camping cost at Wild Mare Horse Camp?

Camping fees at Wild Mare Horse Camp are $22/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Wild Mare Horse Camp first-come first-served or reservation?

Wild Mare Horse Camp accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Wild Mare Horse Camp before I book?

Yes! Wild Mare Horse Camp has 4 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Wild Mare Horse Camp?

Wild Mare Horse Camp is open May 01 to September 30. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Wild Mare Horse Camp?

Wild Mare Horse Camp does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Wild Mare Horse Camp have?

Wild Mare Horse Camp has 12 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Wild Mare Horse Camp?

Yes, pets are allowed at Wild Mare Horse Camp. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Wild Mare Horse Camp?

Wild Mare Horse Camp offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Wild Mare Horse Camp

Q: Can I have a campfire at Wild Mare Horse Camp?

Fire policies at Wild Mare Horse Camp: Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

3.66

71 reviews

855 HWY 101, Oregon Dunes Visitor Center, Reedsport, OR, 97467, USA

Top 8% in ORFall

C-Report Card

Featured in:Beach Camping Oregon

Quick Facts

26 ft

Price

$22/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Siuslaw National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

26 ft

Price

$22/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Siuslaw National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Wild Mare Horse Camp

$22.00 / night

Campsite Fees

EQUESTRIAN NONELECTRIC: $22.00; MANAGEMENT: $22.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Provider

541-271-6000

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Campground Map

855 HWY 101, Oregon Dunes Visitor Center, Reedsport, OR, 97467, USA

Wild Mare Horse Camp

855 HWY 101, Oregon Dunes Visitor Center, Reedsport, OR, 97467, USA

Nearby places

Reedsport (22 miles, approx. 30 minutes), North Bend (2 miles, approx. 5 minutes)

Driving directionsFrom Reedsport, Oregon, follow Highway 101 south for about 22 miles to the Horsfall Dunes and Beach road sign. Turn right onto Trans Pacific Lane and proceed for 1.1 miles to the intersection with Horsfall Beach Road. Turn right onto Horsfall Beach Road and proceed for 1.9 miles. At 1.9 miles, the campground entrance will be on the left. From North Bend, Oregon, follow Highway 101 north for about 2 miles to the Horsfall Dunes and Beach road sign. Turn left onto Trans Pacific Lane and proceed for 1.1 miles to the intersection with Horsfall Beach Road. Turn right onto Horsfall Beach Road and proceed for 1.9 miles. At 1.9 miles, the campground entrance will be on the left.

Weather at Wild Mare Horse Camp

Current alerts(10)

For more information on Siuslaw National Forest, click here
Forest Service-operated campsites on the Siuslaw National Forest are currently available by online reservation only. Visitors can make reservations online through this website (preferred), or via phone by calling the recreation.gov phone line at 877-444-6777.
Guidelines for a safe visit to the Siuslaw National Forest The Siuslaw’s campgrounds, day use areas, and trails continue to be open for public enjoyment . While you are visiting the Forest, please adhere to the following guidelines.
Hay brought to this facility must be certified weed-free

Best Time to Camp at Wild Mare Horse Camp

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of mild weather, quieter trails, and reliable riding conditions — daytime highs typically range from the low 50s to mid-60s°F (10–18°C) with fewer summer crowds and cooling nights. September and October bring drier stretches and steady ocean breezes that keep horses comfortable, while migrating birds and autumn tones on the dunes and shore pines make rides especially scenic. After Labor Day you’ll usually find more open corrals and less vehicle traffic on beach- Peak months: October, September, November

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 8% in OR

Fall cited as best season: mild temps, quieter trails and reliable riding conditions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 01 to September 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Wild Mare Horse Camp

Wild Mare Horse Camp sits in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area near Reedsport, operated by Siuslaw National Forest. This small, low-elevation campground provides equestrian-focused tent and RV sites with direct trail access to the dunes and beach. Facilities include vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables, with a 14-day stay limit and strict no-show policy.

Wild Mare Horse Campground primarily serves equestrian campers but is also open to tent and RV camping. It is noted for its corrals and unique accommodations for horses.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of mild weather, quieter trails, and reliable riding conditions — daytime highs typically range from the low 50s to mid-60s°F (10–18°C) with fewer summer crowds and cooling nights. September and October bring drier stretches and steady ocean breezes that keep horses comfortable, while migrating birds and autumn tones on the dunes and shore pines make rides especially scenic. After Labor Day you’ll usually find more open corrals and less vehicle traffic on beach- Peak months: October, September, November

Elevation26 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies the transition zone where shore pines and Douglas firs meet the coastal sand dunes. Wind-sculpted dunes rise to 500 feet, creating a shifting landscape that changes with each season. Hardy huckleberry bushes grow in the sandy understory. The Pacific Ocean sits less than a mile away. At 26 feet elevation, the campground stays sheltered by the forest canopy while the open dunes stretch beyond.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground is exclusively designed for camping and equestrian use; no hotel-style lodgings are available.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 nights during a visit and a rolling limit of 14 nights within 30 days.

Groups

Group camping sites are not explicitly mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov either online or by calling the contact center at 877-444-6777.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly detailed. However, vault toilets and water spigots are present and may provide basic accessibility.

Site SizeThe campsites are described as 'large, level, and spacious,' capable of accommodating big rigs and horse trailers.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary, with some users appreciating the quiet and spaciousness, while others were concerned about unauthorized users and high vehicle traffic.

Total Campsites12 campsites

Recommended SitesSites with metal corrals are recommended for larger groups. Avoid sites with sharp gravel if camping with horses.

Best CampsitesSites with metal corrals offering 4 stalls are most popular. Avoid sites 3, 7, and 8, which have large gravel unsuitable for horses.

Need help booking Wild Mare Horse Camp?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Wild Mare Horse Campground is a year-round facility that caters to equestrian campers. It offers essential amenities such as drinking water, vault toilets, picnic tables, campfire rings, trash bins, and recycling receptacles. The campground is tailored for horse campers, with 12 corrals available for horses. Guests should be aware that the facilities are maintained but may be minimal compared to other campgrounds. For example, as noted in user reviews, 'the only amenities are pit toilets, water spigots, and horse corrals.'

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Wild Mare Horse Camp

Wild Mare Horse Campground offers a unique range of activities, focusing on horseback riding. The nearby Wild Mare Horse Trail #4500 is a highlight, allowing riders to traverse diverse terrain from forested areas to open dunes that lead to the beach. However, reviews highlight that trails are limited and can be challenging due to deep sand. The campground is also close to several scenic attractions, such as the Pacific Ocean and Horsfall Lake.

Beach activities4.0/5Top 25% in Oregon

Campground is less than a mile from the Pacific with dune-to-beach trail access; beach is a highlight.

Water Sports1.5/5

Kayaking/boat launches not mentioned; ocean nearby but no onsite launch info.

Winter Activities

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsOnly vault toilets are provided, and their cleanliness and maintenance vary. Some reviews mention they are 'well cared for,' while others noted instances where 'the bathrooms were always out of toilet paper and filthy.'

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.

Trash & RecyclingTrash bins and recycling receptacles are available, although some reviewers noted issues with garbage around campsites, which attracted raccoons.

Cell CoverageCell service can be patchy depending on the direction one is facing, as noted by a reviewer: 'Cell service is better in some directions than others.'

Trip Planning Tools

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Questions & answers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.7

71 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Wild Mare Horse Camp has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews of Wild Mare Horse Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment score of 3.58 specific to campgrounds. Positive reviews highlight the unique equestrian facilities, spacious sites, and proximity to the beach. Negative reviews often mention issues with mosquitoes, unauthorized campers, and maintenance concerns.

Review Summaries

Based on 71 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 71 reviews.

Site 003Mentioned
Site 003 is frequently mentioned as a good spot for families.
Site 012Issues noted
Site 012 received mixed reviews, with some praising its size and accessibility but others noting issues with maintenance and unauthorized campers.

What Campers Love

Campers appreciated the campground's quiet atmosphere, spacious sites, and convenient access to trails and the beach. One reviewer remarked, 'Wild Mare is a very peaceful part of the dunes.' Another...

Based on 71 reviews

Common Concerns

Criticisms include rampant mosquitoes, 'garbage around campsites,' and non-equestrian campers occupying spaces. Some reviewers expressed concerns about safety, with mentions of unauthorized...

Based on 71 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring heavy-duty bug spray to combat mosquitoes. Consider visiting during cooler months to avoid biting insects. Horse campers should bring their own wheelbarrows for manure. Ensure your reservation...

Based on 71 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Mosquitoes are particularly problematic from late spring to early fall. Winter offers a quieter experience with fewer bugs. Summer brings moderate weather but increased visitor activity and...

Based on 71 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Nice trail out to the ocean, right from camp.' 2. 'Mosquitoes were horrible, like the worst I’ve ever seen.' 3. 'The corrals were good, trails were good.'

Based on 71 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility features, but the campground's spacious sites and basic amenities suggest moderate accessibility.

Based on 71 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but some reviewers complained about unleashed dogs causing disturbances and safety concerns for horses.

Based on 71 reviews

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Wild Mare Horse Camp

$22.00 / night

Campsite Fees

EQUESTRIAN NONELECTRIC: $22.00; MANAGEMENT: $22.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

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

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

541-271-6000

Go if

You want horse-friendly camping with direct dune and beach access in a peaceful setting.

Skip if

You're not bringing horses or can't tolerate mosquitoes during summer months.

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Campgrounds

Siuslaw National Forest

Wild Mare Horse Camp

C-

Camper Report Card

How campers graded it

Rated higher than 8% of graded campgrounds

Graded on what 58 campers actually wrote - graded on 14 things that make or break a trip. Each topic is graded against every other campground on it - A is among the best, C about average. No star ratings.

Strengths

Grade A-.Things to do
Grade B-.Facilities
Grade B-.Value

Watch-outs

Grade F.Safety
Grade F.Rules & policies
Grade F.Belonging

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Each topic is graded against every other campground on it; a topic campers liked never grades below C−. ± shows the 95% confidence range from the sample size.

How we grade →See how Oregon grades overall

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Wild Mare Horse Camp sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

Tucked among shore pine, Douglas fir and huckleberry, Wild Mare is part of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. The 12-site campground is located along the central Oregon coast, 22 miles south of the town of Reedsport, and 2 miles north of Coos Bay. The year-round campground is equipped with drinking water, vault toilets, a picnic area, trash bins and recycling receptacles. Horses are welcome in the 12 corrals provided. Head to Horsfall Campground for the use of token operated showers.Some parts of the dunes are designated for hiking and horseback riding only, while off-road vehicle enthusiasts can roam free on the dunes north of the campground. Horse campers come here to explore the <a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/siuslaw/recreation/recarea/?recid=42665">Wild Mare Horse Trail</a> which begins at the <a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/siuslaw/recreation/recarea/?recid=42645">Wild Mare Day Use</a> under a canopy of alder and spruce, and then emerges into an open dune area that crosses down to the beach.<h3>History of the Wild Mare</h3>In the mid-twentieth century, the Nels Peterson family of Coos County, Oregon raised livestock, providing animals for rodeos. They leased property for grazing, including the dunes along ocean beaches.In 1954 they took a group of horses to the dunes. One horse was a year-old filly. A year later, when the Petersons weren’t able to use that area any longer, they rounded up the horses to transport them to another place. As the animals were being herded into a corral, the filly, then two years old, jumped over the eight-foot fence and ran into the dunes.The Petersons tried many times to catch her, even using relay teams to run her down, but she always escaped. After an announcement that anyone could have the horse if they could catch her, other people tried. But her brown coloring was good camouflage and her splayed hoofs enabled her to run through woods, water, wet sand, and steep-sided dunes.Known as the Wild Mare, she survived without human help and lived wild and free for thirty-two years. A local legend, she has been celebrated in prose, poetry, song, and in the naming of the Siuslaw National Forest campground at Horsfall Beach, north of Coos Bay.Source: Caldera, Melody J., Editor, South Slough Adventures: Life on a Southern Oregon Estuary, Coos Bay, Oregon: South Coast Printing, Inc., 1995; U. S. Forest Service, Reedsport, Oregon

Open Season: May – September

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