Equestrian camping near Big Bend, California offers trailer parking outside the main riding areas with separate staging spots at most locations. Night rides require special permission, though many trails remain accessible from sunset to sunrise with proper lighting and reflective gear. Most facilities maintain manure disposal stations at the trailhead rather than throughout the camping zones.
What to do
Trail rides through wine country: At Ritchey Creek Campground — Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, riders can access trails through oak and madrone forests with creek crossings. "Beautiful Campground in the heart of Napa Valley. Sites are generous in size and uncrowded," notes Claudia J., who adds that "the rumbling sound from the creek lulled us to sleep."
Beach riding: The coastal trails at Coast Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore connect to miles of beach riding access. "Inside the Point Reyes National seashore, this is a hike in only campground. But has pit toilets, potable water," reports Jason R., who recommends the "2 min walk to beach, with amazing views of the cliffs and seashore."
Wine tasting day trips: From Skyline Wilderness Park, horseback riders can take morning trail rides and afternoon wine tours. "Super easy access and safe, in the city so close to wineries, restaurants and shops," explains Letícia I., who found it "a perfect stay" with WiFi and hot showers.
Volcanic formations exploration: Take horses through the unique terrain at Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve, where riders follow self-guided volcanic tour markers. Elliott B. notes the park "actually have a volcano in their backyard" and offers "several trails providing tons of access throughout the preserve."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Bothe-Napa Valley, campers appreciate the spacing between sites for horse trailer parking. "Nice sites in Oak, Madrone and Manzanita forest," reports RoamingAspen V., though they caution that "as many have mentioned, it's also a Poison Oak farm, but if you keep to the trails and roads it's fine."
Beach access for horses: Coast Campground's proximity to beach trails makes it popular with equestrians. "The pristine shores of the Western beaches of Tomales Bay await you," writes Tiffany F., adding that while "primitive sites are unmarked, first come first serve, and accessible only by boating in," riders can access from the land side.
Sunset rides: Bodega Dunes Campground — Sonoma Coast State Park provides evening riding opportunities with designated horse trails. Kathy B. calls it a "great place to explore the California coast" with "good level campground with reasonable amount of privacy" and notes the "nice big trees" that provide afternoon shade.
All-season availability: Most equestrian camping areas remain open year-round. "It is open year round and unless it is raining hard the weather is good," says robert S. about Bothe-Napa Valley, though he warns to "look out for poison oak!" during certain seasons.
What you should know
Horse water stations: Water access points are limited to designated areas, not throughout the trails. At Wildcat Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore, "drinking water is 0.2 miles from camp at the trail head so keep that in mind before it gets too dark to hike back and forth for a drink," advises Elliott B.
Trailer parking limitations: Not all campsites accommodate large horse trailers. Rich J. notes that at Skyline Wilderness Park, "RV campsites are close together and semi-level," which can create challenges for larger horse rigs.
Trail closures: Seasonal conditions affect trail access. Robert S. mentions, "hiking is very nice in the area except in 2020 and into 2021 due to the recent fires closing all the trails to protect the soil."
Manure disposal requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds require prompt cleanup. At Skyline Wilderness Park, "manure disposal bins are strategically placed for equestrian visitors," though some campsites require you to haul out waste.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly trails: Anthony Chabot Regional Park offers gentle trails suitable for beginning riders. Amanda P. shares, "We love Anthony Chabot! The eucalyptus groves make the air smell wonderful, and there is so much wildlife to see (deer, turkeys, owls, etc.)."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning rides often provide the best wildlife sightings. Adam B. reports seeing "wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly" at Skyline Wilderness Park.
Swimming options: Some parks offer swimming after rides. Tanya B. recommends Bothe-Napa Valley, noting "they also have a pool open Memorial Day to Labor Day. Pick a spot in the shade if possible."
Day use alternatives: Test trails before committing to camping. "We were here as a stop in our road trip so it was a perfect stay," explains Letícia I., adding that "lots of people were doing the trail" at Skyline Wilderness.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Full hookup sites for horse trailers with living quarters are limited. At Skyline Wilderness Park, "RV campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa," according to Rich J.
Parking orientation: Position trailers to create natural paddock areas. Adam B. notes that sites at Skyline are "level with minimal need for blocks," which helps when setting up temporary corrals.
Advance reservations: Book early for equestrian sites with hookups. Jules S. reports, "Stayed here for a long weekend with friends in Napa Valley. Location itself is GREAT. 5 mins from everything in town," though she warns that "$65/night for water and electricity" may seem steep.
Generator restrictions: Some campgrounds limit generator use. At Anthony Chabot, Lori T. mentions, "No generators are allowed which isn't an issue since there are full hookups at all 12 RV sites."
