Thursday ยท July 13, 2023
Blackpine Horse Camp: A Hidden Gem for Equestrian Campers in Washington
Author: Admin

Nestled along Icicle Road in Washington, Blackpine Horse Camp offers a charming and intimate camping experience for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those with a love for horses. While it may be considered a modest option compared to nearby campgrounds, Blackpine Horse Camp provides spacious sites, native surroundings, and convenient access to an array of trails, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a serene and horse-friendly camping destination.

Campground Layout and Natural Setting

Blackpine Horse Camp is arranged in a single open loop, featuring ten generously sized and adjoining sites. The campground's intimate layout, coupled with the native understory, creates a sense of privacy and tranquility. Towering firs and cedars provide ample shade throughout the afternoon, ensuring a comfortable camping experience even on warm days. Moreover, some sites offer the pleasant ambiance of Black Pine Creek flowing nearby during certain seasons.

Proximity to Trails and Outdoor Activities

One of the notable advantages of choosing Blackpine Horse Camp as a camping base is its close proximity to various trailheads and outdoor recreational opportunities. The Blackpine Trailhead is conveniently situated nearby, providing access to the picturesque Blackjack Ridge Trail. Additionally, the Icicle Creek Trailhead is just a short distance away, offering hikers and riders the chance to explore the captivating Icicle Creek Trail #1551, Jack Creek Trail, and Blackjack Ridge Trail #1565. These trails showcase the natural beauty of the surrounding area and provide an opportunity to immerse oneself in Washington's stunning wilderness.

Camping Amenities and Facilities

Blackpine Horse Camp is a first-come, first-served campground that caters to both campers with and without horses. While equestrians are the primary focus, individuals without horses are still welcome to enjoy the campground's serene atmosphere and amenities. The campground offers vault toilets and potable water for visitors' convenience.

Though Blackpine Horse Camp does not provide hookups or dump stations, its spacious layout can accommodate trailers up to 60 feet in length. Horse trailer parking and tie-downs are also available, ensuring that equestrian campers have the necessary facilities to comfortably accommodate their four-legged companions.

Reservation Policy and Etiquette

As mentioned earlier, all campsites at Blackpine Horse Camp are available on a first-come, first-served basis. However, due to its popularity among equestrian campers, priority is given to parties with horses when the campground is full. In such instances, the campground host will kindly request campers without horses to vacate their spots to accommodate those with equestrian needs. This policy ensures that the campground remains accessible and enjoyable for all visitors, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.

 

Directions:

From Leavenworth, WA, head southwest on US-2 West for 0.8 miles. Turn left onto Icicle Road and follow for about 18 miles. The road becomes gravel at about a 13-mile point (now called Forest Road 7600) and makes a left turn to cross Icicle Creek at about a 15-mile point. At about 18 mile point, Black Pine Horse Camp is on the left.

 

Blackpine Horse Camp offers the following facilities and amenities:

  • 10 single horse campsite
  • Picnic tables
  • Vault toilets
  • Solar pump

 

For those seeking a peaceful camping experience amidst the scenic beauty of Washington, Blackpine Horse Camp offers an ideal retreat. Its unique combination of spacious campsites, natural surroundings, and proximity to picturesque trails makes it a haven for equestrian campers and nature lovers alike. Whether you're exploring the Blackjack Ridge Trail, traversing the Icicle Creek Trail, or simply enjoying the tranquil ambiance of the campground, Blackpine Horse Camp promises an unforgettable outdoor adventure. So, gather your camping gear, saddle up your horse, and embark on a memorable journey to this hidden gem in Washington.

 

Cost Details:

  • Site: $18 / night Extra vehicle: $8 / night

 

Note: First Come First Served. 50% discount for single-site camping with any of these passes: Interagency Senior, Interagency Access, Golden Age, or Golden Access.

 

If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:

ALPINE LAKES WILDERNESS - Cradle Lake Loop

ALPINE LAKES WILDERNESS - Lake Margaret via Icicle Creek and Wildhorse Trail

MOUNT BAKER SNOQUALMIE NATIONAL FOREST - Tunnel Creek Trail to Hope Lake

OKANOGAN-WENATCHEE NATIONAL FOREST - PCT: WA Section K - Stevens Pass to Rainy Pass

 

Blackpine Horse Camp does not require reservations for overnight accommodations. Please visit their page here on Top Horse Trails - Blackpine Horse Camp for more information