Loafer Creek Horse Campground offers equestrian camping within Lake Oroville State Recreation Area, approximately 55 miles from Beale Air Force Base. The campground sits at around 900 feet elevation in the Sierra foothills, experiencing hot summer temperatures that regularly exceed 90°F. Trail networks connect directly from the horse campground to wider riding routes that circle the reservoir and extend into surrounding public lands.
What to Do
Horseback riding on designated trails: Access multiple interconnected riding routes directly from Dru Barner Campground in the Eldorado National Forest. "Must visit for horse lovers!" notes one rider, Maxim B. The campground features dedicated horse corrals and access to forest service trails.
Kayaking on Lake Oroville: Paddle the calm waters around Bidwell Canyon Campground at Lake Oroville. "Spotty cell service" makes this location ideal for disconnecting while exploring the lake's many coves and inlets, according to reviewer mp. The campground provides boat-in access with staging areas for loading equipment.
Hiking to seasonal waterfalls: Follow the trail from Sly Park Recreation Area to see local cascades. "It's just a 1 mile walk along the lakeshore from the Hazel Creek day use parking area," shares Patricia O. The relatively flat terrain makes this accessible for most fitness levels and provides good views of Lake Jenkinson.
What Campers Like
Year-round availability: Many equestrian camping sites near Beale AFB remain open throughout all seasons. At Beals Point Campground, Brian A. notes, "Very green early in the season, lake extremely low, warm evenings already. GREAT cell service for working remotely. 5G with 5 bars."
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives positive reviews across most sites. At Bidwell Canyon, Jessica P. reports "Bathrooms were top notch clean!" while cautioning visitors to "Careful for poison ivy nearby." Regular maintenance schedules help maintain standards even during busy periods.
Lake access for swimming: Proximity to water provides relief from summer heat. Abigail S. describes Beals Point as "a great family friendly area. I suggest staying on the main beach with the provided lifejacket area if with children as the other rock areas near the beach suddenly can drop off underwater very deep."
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping sites near Beale Air Force Base require advance booking, especially during peak riding seasons. At Ruck-A-Chucky Campground, Kevin W. advises, "Definitely the best campground in the Auburn area, though only 5 walk-in spots." Limited availability makes advance planning essential.
Water level fluctuations: Seasonal and drought conditions affect water levels at reservoirs. Melissa S. observed at Beals Point: "Nice campground. As with most of California everything is dry. The lake is very low and a half mile walk from park to get to."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds involves unpaved routes. Jason A. cautions about Ruck-A-Chucky: "Long scenic trek down the easily accessible maintained dirt road. Stop along the way for some epic photos. (Small cars made it down there without difficulty)." Bring appropriate vehicles for the terrain you plan to access.
Tips for Camping with Families
Shade considerations: Summer temperatures demand careful site selection. "The Sacramento area gets very hot in the summer, and this campground provides some but not a ton of shade," warns Lizzy C. about Beals Point, suggesting families "bring plenty of sunscreen."
Look for educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer nature programs and wildlife viewing. At Ghost Mountain RV Campground, amenities include "Pools, kids rooms and hot showers with laundry," though Emmanuel L. notes it can feel "crowded and more like staying in another suburbia."
Check beach safety features: When swimming with children, select monitored areas. Abigail S. recommends Beals Point's "main beach with the provided lifejacket area" because "other rock areas near the beach suddenly can drop off underwater very deep."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Full-service sites are uncommon at equestrian campgrounds. Crystyn C. notes Bidwell Canyon "has full hookups for $45/night, is small, and on the lake" but cautions that "the campsites aren't huge or very level."
Showers may require payment: Prepare with coins for facilities. Emmi O. warns Beals Point visitors that "showers need QUARTERS and we were out of coins. So remember to take quarters with you if you want to shower."
Campsite leveling challenges: Many sites require adjustment for comfortable parking. Chris M. observed at Loafer Creek that "most of the sites were not very level" which can pose challenges for larger rigs.
