Tuttle Creek Campground offers equestrian camping near Alabama Hills, California with suitable terrain for horses. Located approximately 2 miles from the Alabama Hills, this Bureau of Land Management campground sits at higher elevation with temperatures typically 10-15°F cooler than the valley floor. The campground has vault toilets maintained throughout the year, though water and dump stations operate seasonally.
What to do
Mountain trails exploration: Several challenging trails lead from Whitney Portal into the surrounding Sierra Nevada wilderness. "Lone Pine Trail, which leads up to an alpine lake, is absolutely gorgeous. Meysan Lake was also beautiful," notes Elise F., highlighting options beyond the main Whitney summit route.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear night skies provide exceptional stargazing conditions at Lone Pine Campground. "The night sky splashed with the Milky Way visible most nights," reports Michael A. about nearby camping areas. The minimal light pollution and high elevation create optimal viewing conditions.
Wildlife observation: Campers regularly spot various wildlife species. "Coyotes, fox, deer and if you hike high enough you might see some bighorn sheep," explains Michael A. about the Horseshoe Meadow area, noting that "marmots popping up from the rocks" are common in meadow areas.
What campers like
Creek access: Multiple campsites feature creek access for fishing and natural cooling. "There was a nice stream you could fish with some trout," shares Mark G. about Lone Pine Campground, adding that this provides recreational opportunities directly from camp.
Spacious campsites: Horseshoe Meadow Campground offers well-spaced sites designed for equestrian needs. "There's 21 sites spread out amongst Jeffrey pines as well as others. Tent pads and fire pits and bear boxes," mentions Michael A., noting the abundant space rarely found at standard campgrounds.
Bear-proof storage: Bear boxes at most established campgrounds provide secure food storage. "Bears will break into vehicles with food, scraps, wrappers, etc. Even a cardboard box can invite the critters' attentions," warns Jeff V., emphasizing the importance of using provided bear boxes.
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Water systems operate seasonally at most campgrounds. "Labor day weekend and half the campground is closed, water faucets are locked, and dump station is closed," reports K L. about Tuttle Creek Campground. Always verify current status before arrival.
Wildlife caution: Rodents can become problematic in certain areas. "We were invaded by deer mice. They got in our campervan. We killed more than 10 of them," warns Deb H. about Tuttle Creek, noting there were "posters on the vault toilets warning about hantavirus in the area."
Temperature fluctuations: Significant temperature changes occur between day and night. "It did get chilly at night, but as long as you bundle up in your tent, you'll be completely fine," advises Elise F. about camping at higher elevations in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Boulder climbing: Natural boulders provide climbing opportunities for children. "There are a couple big boulders the kids can climb on and around," mentions Mark G. about Lone Pine Campground, providing natural play structures.
Educational opportunities: Whitney Portal Store offers local information and supplies. "The Whitney Portal store is a stroll away with famously good food, run by the same family since before I was a ranger there back in the 1990s," says Jeff V., noting they "have some last minute supplies too."
Stream access: Children enjoy exploring small waterways. "There is a creek that runs throughout the campground that provides perfect background noise," observes Elise F., highlighting how natural water features engage children.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites require leveling equipment. "Most sites are very close to level. Packed dirt roads around campsites in good condition," reports Leonard H. about Tuttle Creek Campground, noting the terrain is generally manageable but preparation is needed.
Seasonal road concerns: Fossil Falls offers accessible dispersed camping for larger rigs. "This is a nice and flat area just off the 395 freeway plenty of room for large rigs," confirms Jeffrey F., though warning that "it got super windy around 1 AM and never stopped the entire evening."
Dump station availability: Dump stations operate seasonally. "Dump station closed until May," notes Leonard H., emphasizing the importance of planning waste management when visiting during shoulder seasons.
