Loafer Creek Horse Campground is situated in the Sierra Nevada foothills at approximately 900 feet elevation near Lake Oroville. The campground experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F while spring and fall provide milder conditions for equestrian camping. Winter brings cooler temperatures with occasional rainfall, creating muddy trail conditions that affect horse riding opportunities.
What to do
Trail riding options: The equestrian trails at Lake Oroville State Recreation Area provide miles of riding opportunities with varying terrain. "Really enjoyed this campground which is part of the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area. The staff where we checked in were helpful with all of our questions about the area. We stayed here for a trip to Feather Falls, then Table Mountain on the way home. There are local hiking trails, and of course all kinds of water recreation at the lake," notes Patricia O.
Fishing access: Anglers can access prime fishing spots around Lake Oroville from several campgrounds. "Nice lake, great fishing," reports Melissa K. about Bidwell Canyon Campground. The lake supports bass, catfish, and trout populations, with fishing best in spring and early summer.
Seasonal water recreation: When water levels permit, swimming and boating activities are available at Sly Creek Campground. "We enjoyed our camping trip immensely and enjoyed getting into our kayaks and on to the water. We took some video footage as well. There was great fishing but we didn't catch anything," shares Renee A.
What campers like
Spacious corrals: Horse-friendly sites at Loafer Creek offer adequate space for equine companions. The designated horse camping area includes corrals sized for standard horses, though larger breeds may find them somewhat restrictive.
Clean facilities: Whitehorse Campground maintains regular cleaning schedules for restrooms. "The campgrounds is small, which was perfect. A total of 19 spaces, but on a Sunday night there were only 5 filled spaces. Trees and birds! Chipmunks! Walking trails connect to the campground! What a delight and right near Bucks Lake!" reports Sarah J.
Off-season solitude: Many horse campgrounds near Berry Creek provide quieter experiences during shoulder seasons. "We visited in the off season with no reservations and there was plenty of availability. Camp hosts were very nice and always on site," notes Bonnie M. about Loafer Creek Horse Campground.
What you should know
Bear activity: The campgrounds around Berry Creek are in active bear country requiring proper food storage. "It is bear country, and the campsite was visited by a bear at night. Just one night, when the night before the dumpsters were emptied. The bear messed with the campground dumpster but left everything else alone," advises Sarah J. about Whitehorse Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling equipment for trailers and RVs. "There were several groups partying loudly well after midnight, and the water was nearly a mile walk to the boat ramp and almost 2 miles to a 'beach' that was closed," mentions Chris M. about site conditions at Loafer Creek.
Water level fluctuations: Lake Oroville's water levels vary significantly throughout the year, affecting shoreline access. "The lake is super low, but a pleasant campground on our way home," reports Miriam B. about Loafer Creek Horse Campground in October.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Snake Lake Campground offers excellent chances to spot local wildlife. "Great place to camp. Easy to get to, maybe 15 minutes from town. Hiking, 4 wheeling, fishing. One of my favorite places to camp," shares Scott R.
Safety around horses: When camping with children at equestrian sites, maintain a 10-foot distance from unfamiliar horses and speak to owners before approaching animals. Always supervise children around corrals and water sources.
Playground alternatives: Since most horse campgrounds lack playground equipment, bring nature-based activities like field guides, magnifying glasses, and wildlife checklists to keep children engaged with the natural surroundings.
Tips from RVers
Trailer access considerations: Haskins Valley Campground provides access for horse trailers with living quarters. "We have been comping here for 3+ years and we love it. The campground is nice and the spots seem to be spacious. It's close to the lake and market," reports Julie B.
Water hookup limitations: Most equestrian campgrounds near Berry Creek offer limited or no hookups for RVs with living quarters. Bring additional water storage if planning an extended stay with horses that require regular watering.
Generator restrictions: Check with camp hosts about generator hours at equestrian sites, as many camping areas restrict operation times to preserve the natural experience for all campers. Most horse campgrounds permit generator use during daytime hours only, typically 8am-8pm.
