Cowboy Camp offers dispersed camping sites for equestrians approximately 30 miles northeast of Angwin, California. The area sits at 1,200 feet elevation in the Cache Creek Natural Area managed by the Bureau of Land Management. The primitive camping area features an open grass field with limited shade and exposure to seasonal temperature extremes, which can exceed 100°F in summer months and drop below freezing in winter.
What to do
Trail riding access points: Cache Creek Ridge Trail system connects directly from Cowboy Camp, with routes varying from 3-15 miles round-trip. "Great place to stay at when visiting the Napa wine valley that is halfway between St Helena and Calistoga, two nice tourist towns," notes a visitor to Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, which offers additional riding options.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning hours provide best chances to spot local wildlife including deer, wild turkey, and various bird species. "We saw a doe within 10 mins of setting up camp just a few steps away," reports a camper at Skyline Wilderness Park, located 25 miles south of Angwin.
Seasonal creek exploration: During spring months, Cache Creek offers shallow wading areas for horses. "The area features vault toilets but no drinking water, making it essential to bring water for both campers and horses." However, conditions change rapidly as "during summer months, the area becomes extremely hot and dry," requiring additional water supplies.
What campers like
Wide open spaces: The layout at Cowboy Camp provides ample room for multiple horse trailers without crowding. "Great free campground! We've stayed here many times. It's open, grassy level and quiet. Next to a stream and surrounded by hills," shares a camper who visited Cowboy Camp.
Proximity to wine country: Many equestrians combine trail riding with wine tasting excursions in nearby Napa Valley. "Traditional campground, yurts and a seasonal pool make this a fun place to go with the kids. St. Clement Vineyards is a fun stop on the way out of town and is kid-friendly," suggests a visitor to Bothe-Napa Valley State Park.
Budget-friendly alternative: Free camping at Cowboy Camp contrasts with costly accommodations in nearby wine regions. "We have rented at this campground many times. Never had any trouble getting a reservation in spring or fall. Camping here leaves lots of money for food and wine splurges!" notes another Bothe-Napa Valley State Park visitor.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Equestrian camping options near Angwin require self-sufficiency. "RV campsites are close together and semi-level. Bathrooms could use some TLC. But the park is nice with lots of hiking, views and close to Napa," explains a visitor to Skyline Wilderness Park.
Seasonal closures: "The camp area is closed, as of 2/9/2024. No indication of that on the BLM website," reports a recent Cowboy Camp visitor, highlighting the importance of calling ahead before planning trips to horse campgrounds near Angwin, California.
Insect concerns: "FLIES! No trees just dry open land inhabited by an unusual amount of flies. It was crazy how thick they were. An almost dry creek runs alongside the open field of camping pads," warns another Cowboy Camp visitor, noting this issue is most problematic during warm months.
Tips for camping with families
Beach alternatives: For family camping near Angwin with water activities, consider Bodega Dunes Campground on the coast. "There are lots of RV campers here but some with tents... If you want a sunny site, go for the center of the loop in the 60s/70s. We prefer shade and some space," advises a visitor.
Bring entertainment: Limited activities for children at primitive horse campgrounds means families should pack games and activities. "Staff are friendly. Native garden is very nice. Hiking is nice too especially in winter when everything is green. It's like a fairy wonderland on the Manzanita trail," shares a Skyline Wilderness camper.
Temperature preparation: Wide temperature fluctuations near Angwin require proper planning. "During our hike in and out we hung out at site #2 as this site didn't have people currently camping there. I'd be cautious about actually staying at this site as unfortunately it had the horse riders come right by," notes a visitor to Wildcat Camp.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Horse campgrounds near Angwin typically lack RV amenities. "Clean showers and bathrooms, some trees, close to Raley's Grocery store. Easy drive to the wineries of Napa Valley, a little further to Sonoma but a nice drive," explains a Skyline Wilderness Park visitor regarding nearby alternatives.
Level site selection: "We always manage to level out in our 23" Winnebago View. There is lots of open space so no crowding. There is a rural road near by but traffic noise isn't a problem," reports a Cowboy Camp visitor, noting the importance of bringing leveling blocks for uneven terrain.
Water considerations: "The lack of hookups makes it best suited for self-contained units or those prepared for primitive camping conditions." RVers should arrive with full water tanks when visiting horse campgrounds near Angwin as potable water sources are limited. "We pulled in with a travel trailer and an SUV with small cargo trailer. They made us rent 2 spots even tho we could have fit it one as the sites are HUGE," shares a visitor to Dixon May Fair.
