Located within the expansive Steamboat Rock State Park, Northrup Canyon offers horse campers an extraordinary experience in the heart of Washington’s Pacific Northwest desert. This serene oasis, surrounded by towering basalt rock formations and lush green trails, offers a unique contrast to the arid landscape. With miles of scenic paths to explore, it’s a perfect destination for equestrians seeking a peaceful retreat amid the natural beauty of Grand Coulee.
Steamboat Rock State Park spans an impressive 5,043 acres and features 50,000 feet of freshwater shoreline along Banks Lake. Though it is well-known for its recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and climbing, Northrup Canyon stands out as a paradise for horseback riders who wish to immerse themselves in the striking desert-meets-lake scenery of the area.
Explore Miles of Horse and Hiking Trails
For equestrian campers, Northrup Canyon offers miles of multi-use trails that wind through the park’s unique landscape. Riders can traverse through vibrant green meadows, shaded canyon paths, and open ridges that provide stunning vistas of the Grand Coulee and the distant Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. The trails are shared with hikers, making the area a welcoming place for outdoor adventurers of all kinds.
For those seeking to test their endurance, there’s also the opportunity to climb the columnar basalt rock formations that rise dramatically from the surrounding flatlands. With over 600 acres of rock surface to explore, campers can enjoy an unparalleled vantage point from which to take in the panoramic views of the desert landscape and the shimmering Banks Lake below.
A Range of Campsites for All Types of Visitors
Northrup Canyon is located within Steamboat Rock State Park, which offers a variety of camping options to accommodate all kinds of visitors, including equestrian campers. Whether you prefer the simplicity of primitive campsites or the convenience of full hookups for your RV, there are plenty of choices for an extended stay. The park also features cabins for those looking for a more comfortable lodging option, along with accessible restrooms and showers for added convenience.
One of the highlights of camping in Northrup Canyon is the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to be close to your horses in such a natural, scenic setting. There’s plenty of space for trailers, and the proximity to trails ensures you and your equine companions are never far from your next adventure.
Outdoor Recreation Beyond Horseback Riding
In addition to its equestrian trails, Steamboat Rock State Park is home to an abundance of activities for campers to enjoy. The freshwater shoreline of Banks Lake invites visitors to cool off with water activities such as swimming, fishing, and kayaking. The park’s diverse landscape, which includes rock formations, open meadows, and desert flats, makes it a favorite among climbers, bird watchers, and nature photographers.
During your stay at Northrup Canyon, be sure to explore the area’s unique geological features. The columnar basalt rocks, formed by ancient volcanic activity, give the landscape a rugged and dramatic appearance. The park is also rich in wildlife, with opportunities to spot native species like mule deer, hawks, and even the occasional bighorn sheep.
Year-Round Camping in Steamboat Rock State Park
Whether you visit in the heat of summer or the chill of winter, Steamboat Rock State Park is open year-round for campers looking to experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest desert. The mild climate of the region makes it an attractive destination for outdoor activities in every season, and the park’s wide variety of amenities ensures a comfortable stay no matter the time of year.
Equestrian campers can enjoy the quiet solitude of winter riding or take advantage of the long summer days to explore every corner of the park’s vast trail network. No matter when you choose to visit, Northrup Canyon offers an unforgettable horse camping experience that will leave you feeling rejuvenated by the natural wonders of Washington’s desert landscape.
Plan Your Horse Camping Trip to Northrup Canyon
Northrup Canyon in Steamboat Rock State Park is the ultimate horse camping destination for those seeking adventure in Washington’s scenic desert terrain. With miles of trails, diverse camping options, and proximity to Banks Lake’s refreshing waters, it offers the perfect blend of tranquility and excitement. Whether you’re an avid rider or just starting out, the beauty of Northrup Canyon and the surrounding park will captivate and inspire you.
For your next horse camping trip, Steamboat Rock State Park awaits with open trails, scenic views, and a one-of-a-kind natural experience that you’ll never forget.
Facilities and Amenities at Northrup Canyon
- Equestrian trails
- Accessible Campsites
- Automated Pay Station
- Accessible Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Park Ranger Station
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Trash Service
- Dock
- Picnic Tables
- Accessible Parking
- Parking
- Trailer Dump
- Accessible Trails
Cost Details:
- Primitive and water trail campsites - $12
- Standard campsites - $20 to $43
- Partial utility campsites - $30 to $51
- Full-utility campsites - $35 to $56
- Extra vehicle per night - $10
Notes:
- Campsites range from primitive to full hookups and cabins, with accessible restrooms and showers available. Camping is open year-round, and reservable from April 1 to Oct. 31. Maximum site length is 50 feet (limited availability).
- Pull-through sites are available.
- A reservation is required for an equestrian site at Northrup Canyon. To make a reservation, call (509) 633-1304.
- Contact Details: (509) 633-1304 and steamboat.rock@parks.wa.gov
If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:
Steamboat Rock State Park - Northrup Canyon
Colville National Forest - Sherman Pass Trail
Colville National Forest - Sherman Peak Loop Trail
Northrup Canyon requires reservations for overnight accommodations. For more information, please visit their page on Top Horse Trails - Northrup Canyo