Horse camping options near Bell Gardens, California range from primitive trail camps to full-service facilities. Most equestrian campsites in the area lie within 20-50 miles of Bell Gardens, typically in mountainous terrain with elevations between 2,000-5,500 feet. Summer temperatures can reach 90-100°F in these locations, while winter camping often experiences nighttime lows in the 30-40°F range.
What to do
Trail riding with creek access: The Bear Canyon Campground provides access to several miles of scenic trails. "Great campground with multiple sites. Fire pits & along Bear Creek (seasonal). Can be reached from Tom Sloan Saddle or Switzer Falls Trailhead," notes Anthony K. of this hike-in option for equestrians willing to make the trek.
Archery near horse trails: Tapo Canyon Park offers unique recreational options beyond riding. "The archery range is one of the best in California. There is a members area and the original range is open to the public on Saturdays from 9-1, with a nominal $5 fee," explains robherr, providing an alternative activity for riders.
Mountain biking alongside equestrian trails: When camping at O'Neill Regional Park, horses and bikes can share certain trails. "This site is great if you like hiking, biking, MTB, and running. It is very clean, and the showers are free and clean as well. It's tucked back in the canyon, but you will still hear all the traffic from the road," advises Mike G.
What campers like
Remote feeling despite urban proximity: Caspers Wilderness Park provides an escape despite being near civilization. "Casper is a great park located 15min from the city. It has three main camping areas that cater to campers, RVs and horses. There are a number of hiking trails around that range from a 1 to 12 miles," writes Berton M.
Off-grid seclusion: Horse Flats Campground offers isolation that many equestrian campers seek. "Disregard the 'closed for the season' post in the name - this campground is open. The individual sites are large and spread out from each other, so it is easy to have some privacy," notes Les R., highlighting the sense of solitude for riders and their horses.
Year-round accessibility: Many equestrian camping areas maintain seasonal operations even in winter months. "We camped here this weekend, which is the latest we've gone before the winter months. Even though it was 79 degrees in the day, temperature got down to 54 at night. We were surprised to find the campground sites mostly claimed. Probably 75% full by Saturday afternoon," reports Les R. about Horse Flats Campground's October occupancy.
What you should know
Limited water and facilities: Many horse camping areas require bringing your own water. At Bear Canyon Campground, "Three fire pits, dig your own commode, lots of water year round, but little wood. Expect to forage far if you want a fire," says William K., suggesting riders come prepared with necessary supplies.
Trail maintenance conditions: Musch Trail Camp in Topanga State Park offers a mix of well-maintained and more challenging routes. "Trail tends to get iffy at points, but you kinda get to know the flow of it if it disappears into rocks or the creek. You start to go uphill again and the creek switches its flow so you're suddenly walking up stream," explains Shannon E., describing the access trail.
Horse-specific restrictions: Some sites have specific rules for equestrians. "The campsites are designed for RVs. I have camped here in a tent and there is no way to drive a stake into the ground. The sites are fairly large and well spread out for an RV lot," notes robherr about Tapo Canyon Park, indicating potential challenges for securing horse containment.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly trail options: Malibu Creek State Park offers accessible routes for family trail rides. "The state park is a former movie set and is filled with easily accessible trails for hiking and some for mountain biking. The primary trails were open fire roads with off-shoots to lakes, pools, meadows, and more," explains Ryan W.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy animal sightings during rides. "The wildlife is abundant. There is plenty of birdwatching, and coyotes were wandering through the park and campground without fear. On a hike right out of the park a few hundred yards, I came across a pair of bobcats—mom and cub—making their way to a running creek," shares Ryan W. from Malibu Creek State Park.
Family-oriented facilities: Some horse campgrounds include playgrounds and picnic areas. "The campground has a lush grass area and nice covered playground. The showers and bathrooms are nice," notes Bri B. about Tapo Canyon Park, highlighting amenities that complement the equestrian experience for families.
Tips from RVers
RV and horse trailer parking considerations: Rancho Jurupa RV Park offers spacious sites for larger rigs with trailers. "Very spacious and good for big rigs. LOTS of activities for families (splash pad). Reservations online not too bad, only thing is it will says electricity only but I have had water hookup at all of my spots," advises Kaitlynn B.
Utility hookups for horse campers with RVs: Be prepared for variations in available utilities. "Campground is beautiful!! Spacious campsites with fire pits, and clean bathrooms (bring your own hand soap). Be aware of the limited hours for entering with a vehicle (8am-10pm)," warns Lizzie C. from Malibu Creek State Park.
Road access challenges: Some horse campgrounds have difficult approaches. "The road to get there can be dangerous. Some wannabe race drivers and commuters avoiding crowded freeways will NOT tolerate anyone doing the speed limit and will pass regardless of the danger," cautions Frank M. about O'Neill Regional Park, important for those hauling horse trailers.
