Green Spot Equestrian Campground requires specialized equipment for horse campers. Located at 6,800 feet elevation in the San Bernardino National Forest, this primitive campground sits near the Pacific Crest Trail and several backcountry routes suitable for equestrian use. The site experiences high usage during summer weekends when both overnight campers and day-use riders share the trail network.
What to do
Ride mountain trails: Riders at Heart Bar Campground can access extensive alpine routes with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "Access to a lot of hiking and dirt roads, hike to San Gorgonio, drive up to Coon Creek Cabin, or just relax," notes Mike M. The surrounding San Gorgonio Wilderness provides varied terrain for riders of different skill levels.
Fish high elevation waters: Anglers can reach Jenks Lake within a short drive from several horse campgrounds near Big Bear Lake, California. "You can drive 10 minutes to Jenks Lake for some fishing and lake views," shares Amy B. from Heart Bar Campground. This small alpine lake offers trout fishing without requiring a strenuous ride.
Explore meadow ecosystems: The area features seasonal alpine meadows where wildlife congregates. Nick L. describes Heart Bar: "This camp sits right over a small meadow that boarders the San Gorgonio wilderness... excellent for wildlife viewing and entry to the wilderness for hiking and exploring." Early morning and evening hours provide the best opportunities for spotting deer grazing in these open areas.
What campers like
Adequate parking for trailers: The equestrian facilities at Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites accommodate various trailer sizes. "Dirt roads were well kept. I came with a 170 wheel base Sprinter Van w/ 2 wheel drive and had no problems making it to site post #11," reports Derek M. This accessibility allows for easier maneuvering when traveling with horses.
Cell service reliability: Unlike many remote camping areas, the equestrian sites maintain reasonable connectivity. Will mentions at Coon Creek: "AT&T - Good. 2-4 bars. Verizon - Good. 2-4 bars." This connectivity enables riders to check weather conditions and maintain communication during trail rides.
Extended riding season: The region provides usable trails beyond peak summer months. While sites like Green Spot operate seasonally (May-October), adjacent areas remain accessible for day rides longer. Cori H. notes visiting "the week before memorial day" when trails were already in good condition, allowing riders to extend their season.
What you should know
Trail traffic patterns: Expect increased rider volume during weekends throughout summer. "Horseback riding on weekends and some other day users," reports Will at Coon Creek. These patterns affect trail conditions and potential congestion at water crossings.
Seasonal road closures: Winter conditions can make access difficult or impossible. Francisco F. warns about Coon Creek: "My husband and I tried to get to the Coon Creek yellow post sites on May 21st, but the gate was up, as the road right at the gate was washed away." Always check current Forest Service road conditions before traveling with horses.
Weather considerations: High elevation creates significant temperature swings. Junior L. from Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites cautions: "Nice place very clean lots of space and people are respectful it gets really cold so bring the right gear." Prepare for overnight temperatures dropping below freezing even during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Meadow wildlife viewing: Families can observe deer activity in meadows near campgrounds. "The campground is littered with tall standing pines and even some massive junipers, providing ample shade. You can't help but feel like your are elsewhere like the Eastern Sierra with the dry desert winds the blow in and chill on the mountains," writes Nick L. about Heart Bar Campground.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites carefully when camping with children near equestrian areas. Amanda L. notes at Coon Creek: "For the most part, spacious spots, fire ring, picnic table, a lot of trees, and varied slopes." Sites closest to trailheads experience more horse traffic, while more distant sites offer increased privacy.
Water planning: No potable water exists at Green Spot or most yellow post sites. Tom P. advises about Coon Creek: "Water is only available near the main road so bring containers if you go further up the road." Families should pack 1-2 gallons per person per day plus additional water for horses.
Tips from RVers
Road condition assessment: RVers towing horse trailers face challenging forest roads. "The road was pretty well maintained, a car without 4WD can handle it easily," reports Momma B. about Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites, though cautions this doesn't apply during wet conditions.
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven parking at most equestrian sites. Antonio B. observes at Seven Oaks Lodge: "Each site is divided by a picnic table and they are relatively close to each other." RVers should bring leveling blocks and stabilizers for securing rigs on uneven ground.
Spacing considerations: Equestrian sites require more room than standard camping. "The double sites are a must when going with a group of 10 people. This specific site is very spacious with double of the parking spots (4 cars total), 2 fire pits, and 2 benches," notes Chrystal M. about Heart Bar, highlighting the importance of adequate space when camping with horses.
