BBQ flats Horse camp

For outdoor enthusiasts across Washington State, especially those who cherish adventures with their horses or off-road vehicles, discovering the perfect wilderness escape is paramount. Allow us to introduce you to BBQ Flats Horse Camp, a remarkable destination nestled within the scenic Wenas area near Selah, WA. This isn't your typical structured campground; it's a slice of vast, open Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, offering a more rustic and authentic experience for those who truly want to immerse themselves in nature.

BBQ Flats Horse Camp stands out as a unique and highly valued spot for its expansive access to trails and its laid-back atmosphere. It's a place where the equestrian community and responsible off-road vehicle riders coexist harmoniously, enjoying the freedom that comes with dispersed camping on public lands. As highlighted by local users, it's known for its "nice relaxing campground" where "no crazy loud and fast sxs through camp to upset people or horses" disrupt the peace. This commitment to a tranquil environment, combined with direct trail access, makes BBQ Flats Horse Camp a treasured location for those seeking genuine outdoor freedom in Washington.

BBQ Flats Horse Camp is located at V59Q+GC, Selah, WA 98942, USA, placing it within the larger Ahtanum State Forest, specifically in the Wenas area. This location is approximately 22 miles northwest of Yakima and about 14 miles southwest of Ellensburg, making it a relatively accessible backcountry destination for many Washington residents. Reaching BBQ Flats involves traversing a significant stretch of gravel road – approximately 18 miles, as noted by visitors. While this might sound daunting, it's a testament to the secluded and unspoiled nature of the camp, ensuring that those who make the journey are truly seeking an immersive outdoor experience.

The remote setting is part of its charm, offering a true escape from city life and paved roads. Despite its rugged approach, the location provides unparalleled access to extensive trail systems within the Ahtanum State Forest, which is managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This vast area is a playground for outdoor activities, extending for miles through open meadows and mixed conifer forests. It's important for visitors to be aware of the seasonal closures; vehicle access to BBQ Flats is typically unavailable from December 8th through May 1st to preserve roads during inclement weather. Additionally, a Discover Pass is required for camping and riding, which must be obtained prior to entry. While a Discover Pass is not required for vehicles with a current ORV permit/tab, it is needed for the street-legal vehicle used to transport the ORV. This strategic location truly offers a sense of wilderness, yet remains within a reasonable drive for many Washingtonians ready for adventure.

BBQ Flats Horse Camp provides essential, rustic services tailored for backcountry enthusiasts, particularly equestrians and off-road vehicle riders. It's important to understand that this is a primitive camping area, meaning services are minimal but functional, designed to support self-sufficient outdoor recreation.

• Free Dispersed Camping: One of the most significant services offered is free camping. Visitors can pretty much "park anywhere with any sized rig" within the big, flat, treed, open area. This dispersed camping model allows for flexibility and a sense of privacy, enabling campers to find their ideal spot.

• Vault Toilets: The campground is equipped with vault toilets. As noted by visitors, there are "three bathrooms in a row along the loop road," providing basic restroom facilities. Users are reminded that these are primitive toilets, and visitors should be prepared for a rustic experience.

• Horse Water Trough: A crucial amenity for equestrians, a spring-fed water trough is available for horses only. This ensures that horses have access to water, which is a significant convenience given the "pack in pack out no trash service" policy for human water.

• No Potable Water for Humans: Visitors must "bring your own water." There is no potable water supply for human consumption, emphasizing the need for self-sufficiency and proper planning before arrival.

• No Trash Service: BBQ Flats operates on a "pack in pack out" policy for trash. There is no on-site garbage service, requiring all visitors to be responsible for removing all their waste, maintaining the pristine condition of the BLM land.

• Plenty of Shady Spots: The presence of many trees provides abundant shady spots, which is a valuable "service" in itself, offering relief from the sun during warmer months and enhancing the overall comfort of the campsites.

BBQ Flats Horse Camp is celebrated for several unique features and highlights that cater specifically to its primary user base – horseback riders and off-road vehicle enthusiasts. These elements create a distinctive and highly appreciated outdoor experience in Washington.

• Extensive Trail Access for Horseback Riding and ATVs: A major highlight is the direct and immediate access to miles of trails and old logging roads that wind through open meadows and a mixed pine, fir, and spruce tree forest. This makes it an ideal hub for both horseback riding and ATV/ORV exploration, offering diverse terrain with light to moderate elevation changes. Some gated roads are non-motorized, and horse people have also created their own trails, providing variety for different user groups.

• Peaceful Coexistence of Users: Reviews consistently praise the "nice relaxing campground" atmosphere where there are "no crazy loud and fast sxs through camp to upset people or horses." This respectful coexistence between equestrian and motorized users is a significant feature, fostering a pleasant environment for all.

• Free Camping on BLM Land: The fact that camping is free is a huge draw. As BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land, it offers a more raw, undeveloped camping experience, perfect for those who prioritize freedom and self-reliance over campground amenities.

• Shady Campsites: The presence of "lots of shady spots" throughout the treed area is a highly valued feature, providing natural cooling and comfort, especially during sunny days.

• Dedicated Horse Water Trough: The availability of a spring-fed water trough specifically for horses is a crucial highlight for equestrians, saving them the effort of packing in large quantities of water for their animals.

• Backcountry Authenticity: For those who love truly getting away from it all, the 18 miles of gravel road leading to the camp and the "pack in pack out" policy contribute to an authentic backcountry experience. It's a place where visitors feel truly immersed in the wilderness.

• Seasonal Beauty and Views: The area connects to higher country with views to several mountain ranges. Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy wildflowers and lush greenery, even in areas next to dry hillsides, adding to the scenic appeal.

For those planning a visit to BBQ Flats Horse Camp, please note the following contact information. Given its nature as BLM land and a more primitive site, direct phone lines for the camp itself are generally not available.

• Address: V59Q+GC, Selah, WA 98942, USA

As BBQ Flats is located within the Ahtanum State Forest and managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR), it is recommended to consult the WA DNR website or contact their Southeast Region Office for the most current information regarding conditions, fire restrictions, seasonal closures, and Discover Pass requirements. This will ensure you have the most up-to-date details for a safe and enjoyable visit.

For Washington locals seeking an authentic and unfettered outdoor adventure, BBQ Flats Horse Camp offers a uniquely appealing proposition. Its suitability lies in several key aspects that resonate strongly with those who embrace the Pacific Northwest's rugged beauty and recreational opportunities.

Firstly, its designation as free BLM land provides an accessible and budget-friendly option for camping. In a state where many popular campgrounds require reservations and fees, the "free camping" aspect of BBQ Flats is a significant draw, especially for those who appreciate self-sufficiency and fewer regulations. This appeals to the independent spirit often found among outdoor enthusiasts in Washington.

Secondly, and perhaps most crucially for its target audience, BBQ Flats provides unparalleled access to extensive trail systems for both horseback riding and off-road vehicle (ORV) use. For Washingtonians who own horses or ATVs, finding a dedicated and well-regarded area like this, with miles of diverse terrain right from their campsite, is invaluable. The harmonious coexistence of these two user groups, as noted by local reviews, means that riders and drivers can enjoy their respective passions without undue disturbance, fostering a respectful outdoor community. This caters directly to a passionate segment of our local outdoor community.

Furthermore, the primitive nature of the camp – with vault toilets, a horse water trough, and a "pack in pack out" policy – encourages responsible recreation and a deeper connection to the wilderness. This aligns well with the "Leave No Trace" principles often embraced by Washington's outdoor community, promoting environmental stewardship. The challenge of the 18-mile gravel road also acts as a natural filter, ensuring that those who make it to BBQ Flats are truly committed to a more rustic experience, contributing to the peaceful and less crowded atmosphere cherished by its regulars.

Finally, for locals, BBQ Flats offers a genuine escape into the Ahtanum State Forest's natural beauty, with plenty of shady spots and the promise of stunning views of surrounding mountain ranges. It’s a place where Washingtonians can truly disconnect, enjoy their chosen outdoor pursuits, and revel in the raw, untamed splendor of their own backyard, making it a perfectly suitable and highly recommended destination for the adventurous at heart.