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Eagle Meadow Horse Camp accommodates tent camping for equestrians near Bear Valley, California, with direct drive-in access for horse trailers and trail access straight from camp. The campground permits alcohol and allows pets, with fires permitted in designated areas. Situated within the Stanislaus National Forest, this campground provides good separation between camping areas, allowing horses and riders adequate space. While the facility lacks drinking water and toilets, its primitive setting appeals to equestrians seeking a more rustic experience. Many visitors report excellent trail access directly from the campground with minimal crowds compared to other regional options.
The surrounding Stanislaus National Forest offers extensive trail systems suitable for day rides or longer excursions on horseback. Bear Valley Dispersed Camping provides an alternative free camping option in the area with drive-in and walk-in access, though it lacks dedicated equestrian facilities. This dispersed camping area features basic vault toilets but no running water, requiring riders to pack in water for themselves and their horses. The road becomes unpaved as riders approach higher elevations, with increasingly curvy sections that may challenge larger horse trailers. During summer months, cattle graze in nearby meadows, something horse owners should consider when planning trail routes. The high elevation horse camping near Bear Valley also provides excellent star gazing opportunities while offering convenient access to regional trails.
"Bear valley is my favorite place to go camping, the most you get close to the top of the mountain, the most curvy the road is, so be prepare."
"Lots of trails to ride your bike and walk."
"Clark's Fork is a large campground with 88 sites – all of which are situated with lots of space so that you aren’t too close to your neighbors."
"It’s a nice quiet place away from cell service and nice hikes you can do."
"This campground is about an hour’s drive to any kind of amenities or cell phone service."
"The views at the lakes are breathtaking. The campground is next to the smaller lake and has two sections."
"Rocky and steep road access to Scott’s lake, but easy camping on the edge of the valley."
"come early for a spot. nice views around. lots and lots of bugs. i sleep in my car and crack the windows a little bit and i woke up to a shit ton of bugs that got in my car. even more surrounding the cars"
"We got one close to the walking trail down to the lake, which took just a couple minutes. The lake is nice but better for fishing than swimming/paddle boarding/kayaking."
"Great swimming and hiking around Elephant Rock and Union Res too. An easy weekend away!"
"The drive here is wonderful. There didn't seem to be to many sites. It was very basic with toilets. It was very quiet here and way different than the other camp grounds in the park..which i love."
"Historically this was the location of a pack station supplying goods to the silver mines over the pass. Many opportunities for fishing and hiking here."
"Its less then a ten minute walk to silver lake. I’d come back again."
"Silver Lake, hiking, trails (tons!), kayaking, boating, fishing, swimming with ducks and geese, upper lakes to find. 8000 ft elev. some permanent loops with season-long residents. Open Jun-Sep."
"The campground itself is beautiful, walking distance to Fallen Leaf Lake and short drive to South Lake Tahoe. My husband, my pup and I liked the campsite a lot."
"From the East you’ll pass thru all of that, past the Camp Richardson and finally turn away from Lake Tahoe into Fallen Leaf Campground."
from $47 - $128 / night
Check Availability"There were a couple of other spots taken, but it was off the beaten path and very quiet. I was able to watch the sunset from some rocks across the road."
"Be sure to obtain a fire permit from Cal fire and check fire restrictions in the area have a bucket full of water and a shovel next to your fire at all times again this place was amazing"
"The roads are not four-wheel drive and are perfect for van lifers. I would not pull a trailer of any kind up here. Or a vehicle with low clearance."
TravelerBear valley is my favorite place to go camping, the most you get close to the top of the mountain, the most curvy the road is, so be prepare. There is a point where the paved road disappears and is only dirt road, you can keep driving as far as you want, it is easy to find a good spot to park and set your camp. The night views are amazing!
ScoutClark's Fork is a large campground with 88 sites – all of which are situated with lots of space so that you aren’t too close to your neighbors. The availability of adjacent “double sites” makes this campground a great place for larger groups of families and friends. The 25 sites on Loop A offer vault toilets and cost $19 an night. Loop B sites offer flush toilets and cost $20 a night. There are also 14 nice family-sized equestrian sites and one group equestrian site. Sites are within easy walking distance of the water. No matter what kind of camping you want to plan, Clark's Fork offers options. A RV dump station is located near the entrance to the campgrounds. The Clark's Fork Campground is on a first-come, first-served basis. This beautiful wooded campground is on the Stanislaus River, recommended for your fishing and scenic pleasure.
GuideBeen here many times with my son and my horses over the years. Still quiet and not over ran. Close to fishing streams, high mountain lakes, hiking trails, off roading and don't forget that trip into Bridgeport and Bodie.
Obsidian took a beating two cleaned up and they are still fixing some things. I would vonsider Obsidian more of a primitive campground, not dispersed but minimal.
Outhouse is clean, bring your own water, can get 5G/LTE here.
Tables, campfire rings, park at your site, tent, small camp trailer. At the end of the campground there is a bigger spot for groups.
Horsetrailer parking/camping across from campground in a turn around spot.
$12/Night for single unit $6/Night for extra vehicle
TravelerThis is a well-kept and forest-dense camping spot. There are tons of activities to partake in: relax and do nothing, hike (entire lake is 9.5 miles with a waterfall!), kayak, fish, sun bathe, swim, play games at your camp, if you have a horse- camp with your horse in one of those sites). It just really is amazing that this gem is only (approx) 1 hour from Sacramento! I cannot wait to go again!
LegendWe got a last minute cancelled site at the Fallen Leaf Campground, and thought we’d truly lucked out. We stayed at site 87 which is nestled among towering native pine trees on the South end of the campground and one of the few sites which doesn’t have neighbors on all sides. The sites have the standard standing BBQ's and fire rings at all sites (but we couldn’t utilize them because of the fire ban), old picnic tables and various amounts of space for RV’s/cars and the tried and true bear box. In this campground you NEED to utilize the bear boxes. They have signs everywhere about the mass amount of bear activity and how there is a mother and her 2 cubs which have been terrorizing the campground for some time this season (2018). Again, you need to keep everything (food, toiletries, etc.) in the bear box at all times. The sites are reservable, and on top of the $35 (nonelectric) per site there is a $7 fee for a second vehicle, Yurts go for $86 which do have power and a nonrefundable $10 service fee…. While the campground allows dogs, they aren’t allowed in the Yurts.
There’s lots of bear proof dumpsters around the campground, lots of potable water in strategic spots and a number of decent restrooms, and it was nice that at some of them they provided hot (pay) showers (at $1 per 3 minutes) and while the ADA has some control the standard one has no control over the heat or pressure its simply on or off. Also, the restrooms have no soap, paper towels, or hand dryers, etc. Which was a little disappointing for the cost.
My biggest disappointment in the setup of the campground has to do with the bears and cleaning your dishes. There is no dish-washing area in the entire ~200 site, ~14 bathroom campground. They specifically ask that you don’t wash your dishes in the sinks or at the water spigots as they don’t want any food particles going down the drains. So, when I asked about disposing of the dish water they said to just toss it at the base of a tree, as it’s dry and the trees would appreciate it. This doesn’t help keep the bears away… While we scrapped and collected every bit of food waste we could and tossed it into the dumpsters, ff you’re just tossing food scrap-soaked water at the base of the trees the bears are going to come for the smell… I’ve stayed at other sites in bear country which have setups for disposing of the waste water and food scraps to detract bears and Fallen Leaf definitely is lacking and this is possibly part of the reason they’re having such an issue with bears.
While, our site (87) would probably normally be a great location with the Fallen Leaf Lake being the only thing behind you and no neighbors on at least 2 of your sides, we happened to somehow book the same weekend that a corporate event was taking over the vast majority of the campground with almost 200 people….
While, not entirely the campgrounds fault it was a little disruptive to have this mass number of people come directly next to us in site 88 for their meals as they’d decided to make that site the meal prep site for breakfast (they started prep at 5:30 am) and dinner (we actually had to ask the drunk group to stop screaming at midnight) these were both well outside the “quiet hours” and definitely surpassed the “6 people per site” rule.
Otherwise this campground is in a great location to see the area as it’s only approximately one-quarter mile north of Fallen Leaf Lake. The trail from the campground was only 3 sites over from us. The Taylor Creek Visitor Center is directly across Highway 89 and is a great location to talk to the Rangers about other potential hikes in the area. They also have interpretive programs, guided walks on the Rainbow Trail and to the Stream Profile Chamber (which was closed because someone decided to break it. Although it should be repaired now… end of September 2018). Also, nearby Baldwin Beaches or Pope Beach, which cost $10, or you can go to the Tallac Historic Site with tours and events at its historic buildings and grounds and the free (dog friendly) Kiva beach which is exactly the same as the other pay access beaches….
There’s also a really nice paved bike trail that runs 3 miles along Highway 89 and can be used to access all of the above. You have access to excellent day hiking and backpacking in Desolation Wilderness via the Glen Alpine or Mt. Tallac trailheads which are also nearby.
GuideThe campground itself is beautiful, walking distance to Fallen Leaf Lake and short drive to South Lake Tahoe. My husband, my pup and I liked the campsite a lot. The only downside was our campsite was pretty close to our neighbors' on either side. When walking through the campgrounds, other sites were more spaced out and secluded than ours. Overall the ease of location, along with beautiful Fallen Leaf Lake walking distance made the campsite a great spot for a visit to Lake Tahoe!
GuideThis place is amazing. I’ve been five times since I discovered it late last year. This campground is about an hour’s drive to any kind of amenities or cell phone service. The road in is bumpy and there is a shallow creek that you will need to drive across, but I had no problems driving a 2wd Honda Fit compact car up. This park didn’t even open until late July this year due to all the snowfall. There is 1 vault toilet and an old-school hand pump for water, which isn’t always functioning so bring plenty of water. All of the sites are first come first served, each has a fire pit with grill plate, and a picnic table. No dumpsters for trash, pack it in and pack it out.
There is plenty of hiking, both steep and moderate. Folger peak trail can be very challenging due to all the loose shale. There is an equestrian trail that is more flat going the other direction which is less steep but still a very scenic hike. Ranchers bring their cattle up to graze during the summer months so you’ll hear their cowbells all day long. There is a weather station in the valley and it’s fairly accurate so you can get the forecast before you go, just google weather Highland Lakes. I would recommend a 4 season tent, even in the summer. On my last trip it was a little to cold for my taste so we drove back down the road and camped along the creek the last few nights.
RangerStayed here for 2 nights during the 2019 Pursuit Norcal Event (outdoor adventure camp for adults). Due to the nature of the event, we were very close to other campers but the site itself had a lot of tree cover, shade and probably awesome camping at any other time. There is open field adjacent that was used as the event hub. Location was near trails to rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking.
RangerWe had just bought our trailer and went there with check it our with our daughter and son-in-law as a day trip to mountains. It reminded me of Lake Pillsbury north of Clear Lake Ca where we as a family had been camping since 1981. But with just over 2hr drive not 6hr with trailer. There is a pool, and kids pool. Great showers, basketball courts, volleyball, you can bring your horse. Trails to ride a mountain bike ride or hike. There is a nice dump station. There is also a honey bucket truck that comes around to all camp sites Mon, Wed, and Fridays to dump your gray and black tanks. Breakfast Lunch and dinner are available at clubhouse in the ghost town great price. About 20 minutes down Hy50 is the Red hawk casino. We were not going to buy in to the CRA Colorado River Adventures membership. But it came with a Coast to Coast membership. So with our CRA and Coast to Coast memberships we can stay up to 14 days in one campground for free. Figuring say $50 a night that would be $700 saved for a 14 day stay.
Stanislaus National Forest encompasses over 898,000 acres surrounding Bear Valley, California, at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 11,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F, while spring and fall nights can drop below freezing. The region's diverse terrain accommodates various camping styles from developed sites with amenities to remote primitive options for those seeking solitude.
Mountain biking trails: 7+ miles accessible from Bear Valley Dispersed Camping. The area features trails suitable for intermediate to advanced riders with rocky sections and elevation changes. "Location was near trails to rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking," notes Esther Y. who visited for an outdoor adventure camp.
Fishing in Stanislaus River: Access from Clark Fork Campground. The river offers rainbow and brown trout fishing opportunities throughout summer months. "We have been camping here for years it's a great camp ground and the river is very shallow in most spots and good for fishing," reports Mike F., who recommends exploring the hiking trail beyond the first bridge.
Stargazing: Best from higher elevation sites. Clear mountain skies provide exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. "Perfect spot for star gazing!" shares Josie H. about Bear Valley Dispersed Camping. The limited light pollution and open meadow areas create optimal conditions for viewing constellations and meteor showers.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between camping areas. At Clark Fork, "All of the sites seemed to be large and separated from each other. Privacy was guaranteed," according to Melissa B., who visited during a busy holiday weekend but still found it peaceful.
Convenience to alpine lakes: Multiple access points within 30-minute drives. Highland Lakes Campground provides direct access to two mountain lakes. "The views at the lakes are breathtaking. The campground is next to the smaller lake and has two sections," reports Hector R., noting drinking water is available from well pumps.
Diverse camping environments: From wooded to meadow settings. The region offers sites with various natural features. "Wooded campground, cool weather, good phone reception, many spots taken with no activity probably by locals. Lake, hiking, close shopping," notes DJ M. about his experience at Bear Valley.
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access roads become increasingly challenging at higher elevations. "Bear valley is my favorite place to go camping, the most you get close to the top of the mountain, the most curvy the road is, so be prepare," advises Claudia M., adding "There is a point where the paved road disappears and is only dirt road."
Weather fluctuations: Even summer months can bring unexpected storms. At Highland Lakes Campground, Hector R. experienced "unpredictable weather (hail storm on July 25)," recommending 4x4 vehicles even though they're "not strictly necessary."
Limited amenities at most sites: Many campgrounds lack standard facilities. "There are no Volt toilets here nor running water but pretty good Verizon signal. Lots of trails to ride your bike and walk," says Serena W. about dispersed camping options. Plan accordingly by bringing sufficient water and sanitation supplies.
Choose developed campgrounds for amenities: Sites with toilets and water access simplify family camping. "Loop A sites offer vault toilets and cost $19 a night. Loop B sites offer flush toilets and cost $20 a night," explains Aaron S. about Clark Fork, which also features sites "within easy walking distance of the water."
Consider Plasses Resort for convenience: Plasses Resort offers family-friendly facilities beyond typical campgrounds. "Convenient, has a general store as well as a restaurant/bar. Staff is welcoming. Ports pottys, but there are showers," reports Kaela L., noting their "large spot right on the creek" was just "a ten minute walk to silver lake."
Seek out shallow water areas for safer play: Some river and lake areas provide kid-friendly water access. "The river could be heard from our site and the birds chirped while the trees blew slightly in the breeze," describes Melissa B. about Clark Fork, mentioning how families filled the campground during holidays but it remained peaceful.
Choose sites with adequate clearance: Many access roads have overhanging branches. "Dirt roads all the way in from Hwy 4 so be prepared for mild offroading and dust," advises Eric A. about Highland Lakes, recommending vehicles with higher clearance for comfort.
Plan for limited hookups: Most campgrounds near Bear Valley lack electrical connections. At Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping, Austin M. notes it offers "plenty of campsites down either side of a nice dirt road" but warns about "rocky and steep road access," requiring careful planning for larger rigs.
Prepare for equestrian camping needs: Several horse campgrounds near Bear Valley, California accommodate special requirements. Eagle Meadow Horse Camp provides more isolated options for those with trailers. "Eagle Meadows is about the halfway point to the best camping. Stay to the right after the second creak and there are camping spots all along the creak. Very secluded and beautiful views," suggests Cara V.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Bear Valley, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Bear Valley, CA is Bear Valley Dispersed Camping with a 3.9-star rating from 7 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Bear Valley, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 32 equestrian camping locations near Bear Valley, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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