Best Equestrian Camping near Bakersfield, CA
KCL Campground in Carrizo Plains National Monument provides free camping for equestrians with horses on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. The campground features 12 dispersed sites under shade-providing eucalyptus trees, each equipped with picnic tables, fire rings with grills, and gear poles with hooks for hanging equipment. The campground includes an area specifically designated for horses. Trail riders note that the remote grassland location offers multiple hiking and riding options with connections to open plains and rolling hills, creating excellent opportunities for exploring California's largest remaining native grassland.
Located approximately 35 miles from Bakersfield, the dirt access road to KCL Campground can be rough with washboard sections, requiring careful navigation with horse trailers. The campground provides vault toilets but no potable water, so equestrians must bring sufficient water for themselves and their horses. Riders can access numerous trails directly from the campground, with options ranging from gentle rides across the plains to more challenging terrain in the nearby hills. The monument offers extensive bridle trails through diverse landscapes where equestrians frequently spot wildlife including owls, hawks, rabbits, and ground squirrels. Night skies at KCL provide exceptional stargazing due to minimal light pollution, making it ideal for overnight group equestrian camping trips where horses and riders can experience the peaceful high desert setting.