For horseman who love the outdoors , horse camping is a fun amateur activity that combines sleeping under the stars with endless trail riding . California ’s stunning landscape extend legion horse tenting opportunity across the nation , rank from rude sites to full - service amenities .
1. Lake Perris
Lake Perrisis located in Southern California , southeast of Riverside . This state - own campground has seven horse campsites with ardor pits , picnic tables , and two horse corrals . camper have access to knight tearing troughs , drinkable piddle , and chemical toilets . Each bivouac can admit up to eight people and two Equus caballus . The encampment accepts reservations in betterment , or campers may choose from available sites on a first - come , first - served basis .
Be prepared for longsighted lines at the check - in gate on the weekends , or plan on visiting Lake Perris midweek to avoid the crowds . fetch spook and sunscreen because the campground have very few trees . The winding typically bulge blow around 2 p.m. each day , furnish some relief from the heat , but stir up the rubble . The lake is warm , percipient , and loose of leeches .
Trail Riding Opportunities
Riders can enter the 9.1 - nautical mile longLake Perris Loop Trailfrom the campground , and this trail passes beautiful rocky hills and battleground of wildflowers . The trail features a gentle climb ( less than five percent incline ) , though it can be steeper in plane section . The overall elevation gain is less than 500 feet .
Season Dates and Cost
The Lake Perris recreation area is open year - pear-shaped . twenty-four hour period fees are $ 10 per vehicle and campsites are $ 21 per night .
2. Green Valley Falls
Green Valley Fallscampground is part of Cuyamaca Rancho State Park , locate 15 mile to the south of Julian or 80 miles east of San Diego . This camping area has 15 Equus caballus campsites , and two of these are ADA - accessible . Each campsite can accommodate two horses and eight campers . motor home have approach to moneyed bathroom , camp piece of furniture , drinkable weewee , and pay off shower .
Many camping site have thick brush around them , make a private environment . Campers can gather firewood from downed arm , or they can take their own , but the campground does not have any vendors on site who sell firewood . Due to California ’s linger drouth , the waterfalls dry out up in late summertime , pull up stakes stagnant water kitty that attract mosquitos , so wreak adequate microbe atomiser . Visitorsreportthat the camp host are exceedingly welcoming and the can are clean .
cavalry trails pass through oak tree forest and open meadows in Rancho Cuyamaca State Park . The Creek have several swimming trap for chill off on a hot solar day . For extra riding opportunity , the horse trails in Anza - Borrego Desert State Park are a short drive from the campground . The trail here are purple but can be sandy and loaded with cactus spines , so design accordingly .
Due to inclement weather , this camping site is undefended from April 1st to November 29th . This campground requires reservations , and the cost is $ 30 per dark .
3. Jack Brooks Horse Camp
Jack Brooks Horse Campis located in Sam McDonald Park in San Mateo County , 11 miles east of Pescadero . This camp has three freestanding areas that accommodate dissimilar sized groups . orbit 1accommodates 40 people and 40 horses . Area 2andArea 3hold 10 people and 10 horses each . All three field share 48 paddock , six tie station , and one wash rack . Campers may wreak portable cattle pen , as well . The bivouac has convenience with sluice toilets and shower . Campers in any area have access to an outdoor kitchen with a refrigerator , freezer , and microwave oven .
The Northwest share of the parking lot includes sequoia forests , while the southeastern portion features grassy meadows . rider can see the Pacific Ocean from the ridge tops . Popular equestrian - friendly trail include :
The campground is open from mid - May to mid - November each year , and campers must make reservations in advancement . arena 1 costs $ 150 per night Sunday through Thursday , and $ 275 per nighttime on Friday and Saturday . Areas 2 and 3 cost $ 75 per dark Sunday through Thursday , and $ 150 per Nox on Friday and Saturday .
4. Dripping Springs Campground
Dripping Springs Campgroundis within the Cleveland National Forest , just adjacent to the Agua Tibia Wilderness in Southern California , and 40 mile east of Escondido . The campground has five horse campsites with knight corrals , potable H2O , and vault toilets . All internet site are nonelectric and do not have showers . Each campsite can accommodate eight multitude and two horses .
A web of trails lead in the south from the campsite into the Agua Tibia Wilderness ’s chaparral forests . A few of the pop path includeWild Horse Trail(10.1 miles ) andDripping Springs Campground Trail(13.2 miles ) . reader onAllTrails.comnote these trails are stunningly beautiful when the wildflowers blossom , especially the California poppy .
The trails are clear with very few rocks , but be aware of poison oak in the field . remark that summer months can be very unreliable due to the minimum shade covering along the trails . Opt for cool seasons , if you could .
The camping area are open twelvemonth - round . The monetary value for equestrian and standard sites is $ 15 per night .
5. Montaña de Oro State Park
Montaña de Oro State Parkis 6 miles southwest of Morro Bay and collimate the San Luis Obispo seacoast . Hazard Canyon Horse Campsby way of Islay Creek Campground has three equestrian campsite and two equestrian group campsites uncommitted by reservation from mid - May through mid - October , and on a first - come - first - served basis the rest of the year . The campsites are slightly inland , but camper can still see the sea . camping area let in water for horses and stone toilet , but drinkable water is not available .
SeveralTrip Advisorreviewers say this state ballpark is beautiful , and February to mid - March is the idealistic time to visit . The cliffs are breezy , extend ease from the summertime heat . For passenger who wish to watch the sundown , arrive at the cliffs early on to get the best spot because gang gather at this time .
rider follow trails from the camping area to the beach or through the eucalyptus forests . The capricious eucalyptus are a high spot for most visitant . Take them in by following the Bloody Nose lead ( 5 miles ) , which has the most trees of the track in the area . TakeCable Trailfor beach access .
The campgrounds are open yr - round . Equestrian campsites are $ 50 per night , and the group campsites are $ 150 per night . The common has free entrance for mean solar day manipulation .
6. Bridalveil Creek
Bridalveil CreekCampground in Yosemite National Park has three sites available for sawhorse bivouacking , and each of these can conciliate up to six multitude and six horse . Campers must hale out horse manure at the end of their stop . Campsites include fire rings , walkover table , and food locker . On - site lav feature crimson toilets and drinkable H2O . Bridalveil Creek is located 3,000 foot above the Yosemite Valley base , and motor home access it by a two - lane road .
ATrip Advisorreviewer warn this campground is moth-eaten , even in mid - summer , so pack appropriate clothing . Be prepared for bears and memory board food consequently because this campsite is in the wilderness .
Riders can access trails throughout Yosemite National Park from Glacier Point , located near the campground . The Bridalveil Creek Loop is a nearby 6 - mile trail that features a few brook crossing and is approachable year - pear-shaped . Ostrander Lake Trail ( 12.1 miles ) is another popular lead . For a multi - sidereal day equestrian trek ( 30 mile ) , you could consider pick out the Buena Vista Crest Trail to Royal Arch Lake .
The elevation is 7,200 feet above ocean horizontal surface , so this campground is only exposed from early July through Labor Day each yr . Campers must make reservation in advance , and the monetary value is $ 30 per night .
7. Whiskeytown National Recreation Area
Whiskeytown National Recreation Areain Shasta County is 20 international mile west from Redding . Horse Camp is the only campground that let horses within the recreation expanse . This campground sport two site that accommodate six people and two tents each . These camping ground are primitive but have bank vault toilet and potable water .
The creeks have several pools for taking a inclination , but reviewers onAllTrails.comsay the water is frostily cold year - circular . Late spring is the best time for view the fall , and the valley views are sensational from the acme of the trail .
horse cavalry trails perish stunning waterfalls and old - growth forests as they wind to the peak of the mountains . meridian graze from 1,000 to 3,500 feet above sea level . The Swasey Recreation area has some shaded , well - dress lead shared by mountain bikers and horseback rider .
The encampment is capable year - round , and bivouac are on a first - come up - first - served basis . The cost is $ 20 per Nox , although you ’ll also need to pay an entrance fee for function of the recreation area , which is $ 25 per fomite .
8. Lake Oroville
Lake Orovilleis 8 miles east from Oroville and 76 geographical mile northerly of Sacramento . This refreshment area allows cavalry camping on the southeast side of the lake at its Loafer Creek Equestrian Campground . The campsite has 15 campsites that accommodate eight camper and two horses each . conveniences include knight slipstream wheel , tether station , feeding stations , and a round pen for warming up horses before riding . The campsite also has flush toilets and showers .
For those who want to camp out in solace with their horse , this is the maculation to go , accord to commentator inYelp . The bathrooms are white and well maintain , and campers who wish to have a fire can purchase firewood on site . The horse adroitness are in good repair .
Equestrians can ride directly from the campsite into the Sierra Nevada Mountains . Riding trails are suitable for tiro , and rider have accession to several 8- to 9 - naut mi loops directly from the campsite . Of these , Loafer Creek Loop and Freeman Trail are very democratic . Feather Falls is also an incredible sight to see .
The camping ground is open from mid - April to October , and the price is $ 45 per nighttime .
9. Vern Whitaker Horse Camp
The Vern Whitaker Horse Camp is located within theAnza - Borrego Desert State Park , less than two minute south of Palm Springs . It ’s an equestrian - only camping site with 10 sites . Each can accommodate a vehicle with a trailer , eight multitude , and two horses . Each site has four cow pen , so you’re able to play up to four horses for an extra fee . You ’ll also have access to amenities , let in a fire ring , barbeque grills , drinkable water , affluent toilets , and shower .
elevation season is from belated declivity to early spring due to the weather in the desert park . During warm calendar month , the temperature can reach unendurable stature ( 100 to even 120 academic degree Fahrenheit ) , so caution are necessary . Shade is throttle everywhere , even within the campground . However , each camping ground should have at least a small tree diagram to provide some shielding from the Lord’s Day .
camper and mean solar day riders have promiscuous memory access to over 30 mi of trails from the ground . Coyote Canyon is a historical route , as it was part of theJuan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail . strain Lower Coyote Canyon Trail or the South Coyote Canyon route . Ocotillo Flats Trail is another pop trail rider can take , and it ’s a great place to see wildflowers .
The Vern Whitaker equestrian campground is candid all twelvemonth , but reservations are highly recommended during peak season from October to April . Fees for encampment are $ 35 per Nox or $ 10 for twenty-four hours consumption .
10. Mount Tamalpais State Park
If you ’re planning to go camping with both equestrians , mountain bikers , and beach leaver , Frank Valley Group Horse Camp is the unadulterated location . After all , Mount Tamalpais is referred to as the birthplace of mountain biking . Frank Valley campground is settle within theMount Tamalpais State Parkbut just 1 mile off from Muir Beach .
The campground bid a single site that can adapt up to 25 hoi polloi , 10 vehicles , and 12 horse . It ’s a tent - only priming with no assemblage . However , you ’ll have access to potable water , fossa toilet , a fire anchor ring , corrals , and troughs .
Take the Miwok or Coast View Trail to explore the web of trails within the state parking area . Dias Spur , Dias Ridge , and Redwood Creek are other noteworthy multi - use trails . TheMuir Woods National Monumentis also nearby ( although horse are not permitted within the monument ) , or you’re able to head 1 mile west toward Muir Beach .
Season Dates and Costs
The Mount Tamalpais State Park is open for camping and day usance year - orotund . Reservationsare recommend for Frank Valley Horse Camp , give the fact that there ’s only one site at this campground . Each Nox is $ 75 .
11. Horseshoe Meadow Equestrian Campground
you could findHorseshoe Meadow Equestrian Campgroundin the Inyo National Forest . It ’s closest neighboring townsfolk is Lone Pine , and it ’s also secretive to Mount Whitney , the tallest vizor in the continental United States . Horseshoe Meadow has 10 drive - in camping site , limit to four heads per site . Each is equip with a horse cow pen and hitch rails . You ’ll also discover potable water , hurdle toilets , fervidness ring , and bear - proof storehouse lockers .
The drive to the campgrounds is winding and steep , so rive trailer with care . And be cognizant of the upgrade , as the final elevation at the yard is just over 10,000 feet . It ’s also site in an active bear area , so utilise necessary precautions , such as storing food in bear boxes .
From the equestrian camp , you could make your fashion ripe to the neighboring Cottonwood Lakes camping ground , where you ’ll come up theCottonwood Lakes trailhead . This stunning 16.1 - naut mi track accept you through the John Muir Wilderness and aboard all five of the Cottonwood Lakes . Creek crossings might be inescapable . There are several side track you could venture off on along the way . Permits are n’t involve for day usance of the lead , though you ’ll need to get one if you intend to do any overnight tenting in the wild .
This well - known horse camp is open from June through October due to inclement atmospheric condition . Camping costs $ 12 per Nox . However , you ca n’t make advanced reservation ; all campers must register at the campsite .
12. Cuneo Creek Horse Camp
Cuneo Creek Horse Campin theHumboldt Redwoods State Parkis an excellent plaza to get a true Northern California horse camping experience . The parking area sweep 53,000 acres and houses redwoods over 1,600 years old . The horse camp vaunt five equestrian family sites and two group horse web site . Family sites can put up one vehicle and two Equus caballus . The small group campground can reconcile 25 hoi polloi with 12 corrals , and the second is large enough for 65 people with 22 cow pen .
The campground offers drinkable water , flush toilets , and rain shower , although they are coin - operate . There are also conveniences for your equine friend : a gumption rolling pit , H2O troughs , tube cow pen , and bind rails .
The Cuneo Creek grounds offer leisurely access toseveral equestrian trail . A few of the most popular are Indian Orchard Trail and Homestead Trail . Expect brook crossings on both . These trails plug into with other networks , so you could go for as short or as longsighted a drive as you ’d wish . Take Johnson Trail by way of Homestead Trail or take Indian Orchard Trail to Fox Camp Trail .
The campgrounds are open from the first Friday in May until mid - October , depending on the atmospheric condition . kinfolk situation are $ 35 each nighttime , whereas the smaller grouping site is $ 135 per night and the enceinte is $ 200 .
The Perfect Escape
California ’s horse camping option deviate as much as the state ’s landscape painting . For equestrians essay dangerous undertaking and lam from hectic daily lifespan , horse encampment is the perfect chance for extra saddle prison term while enjoying California ’s beautiful open .
