Equestrian camping sites near Big Creek, California sit within Sierra National Forest at elevations between 7,000-8,000 feet. The area features mixed conifer forest with Jeffrey and Ponderosa pines dominating the landscape. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 75°F during day, with sudden afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Hiking with horses: Several trails branch out from Sample Meadow Campground, providing both day and overnight options for riders. "The Campsites are far enough apart to feel like you are all alone in the woods! The Kaiser Creek provides hours of fun for the kids and you are close enough to trail heads for the adventure seekers in your group," notes Regina P.
Fish local streams: Anglers should try Kaiser Creek near Sample Meadow or bring horses to more remote fishing spots. "The river runs right close to the campsites and it is amazing fishing, I was told that it gets stocked often," shares Heather P. about Mono Hot Springs.
Visit thermal springs: Riders can transport horses to Mono Hot Springs for unique bathing options. "There are several different pools located across the river from the campgrounds. They are all over the hillside and range in temperature from lukewarm to bath water to Hot," explains Mollie M.
What campers like
Secluded camping: Horse campgrounds near Big Creek offer significant privacy. "The sites are pretty close together and the campground is right on the highway so the noise is pretty bad," cautions Darrin L. about Sweetwater Campground, making more remote equestrian sites preferable for those seeking quiet.
Natural water features: Creeks and lakes provide natural water for horses with proper filtering. "We drove in after a long day of hiking in Yosemite. This campground is right off of Hwy 120 and makes for a super convenient stop the night before or after visiting Yosemite," reports Fidel about Sweetwater, noting its convenient location for riders transitioning to other areas.
Wilderness immersion: Equestrian sites offer immediate access to undeveloped wilderness. At Twin Lakes Campground, "The campground is right on the lake for great views and incredible sunsets and rises. You can boat, fish and just play in the water," notes Mary C., describing amenities available near equestrian camping areas.
What you should know
Weather variations: Mountain elevations mean rapid temperature changes, requiring adequate horse blankets. "Remember that you're at elevation so it can get cold at night even in the summer," warns Jonathan G. about Twin Lakes, advice applicable to all high-country equestrian sites.
Bear precautions: All equestrian sites require proper feed storage. At Goat Meadow, "Coyotes raided a bag I had hanging from a tree and stole my food!" reports Alexander Mark C., highlighting why secure containers for both human and horse feed are essential.
Road conditions: "Taking a fly fishing trip in the morning and figured I would camp the night. All campsites were taken. But there are tons of other sites that you can just set up camp," explains Heather P. about Mono Hot Springs, noting the flexibility needed when traveling with horses.
Tips for camping with families
Meadow activities: Kids enjoy exploring meadows while horses rest. "This campground is clean and each site had a picnic table, fire pit, and bear box. Creeks ran though many of the campsites," shares Darlene M. about Sample Meadow Campground.
Water play options: Schedule creek exploration for afternoons when horses need rest. "My wife and I took a trip up for just the weekend... Dog friendly which is huge for my wife and I sense we take Teddy (our dog) everywhere with us," notes Bryce B. about Mono Hot Springs, indicating pet-friendly policies that also accommodate horses.
Wildlife viewing: Plan dawn rides for best wildlife spotting opportunities. "We always sea bald eagles here! Fishing is really good!" shares Taylor about Twin Lakes Campground, pointing to wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the region.
Tips from RVers
Trailer parking strategy: Position trailers on level ground away from trees with adequate turnaround space. "We pulled in and there were a couple of trailers with horses and a couple of other vehicles and we parked with loads of space between," explains Kevin T. about Goat Meadow, where dispersed camping allows flexible setups for horse trailers.
Generator considerations: "Tent camping for the night and were kept awake by our loud neighbors in their RVs who were playing loud music until 1am," cautions Alyssa K. about Sweetwater Campground, highlighting noise concerns that apply to generators at equestrian sites.
Supplies planning: Stock extra hay and feed as local resupply is limited. "There is also a general store, bath house, and small Cafe that are all seasonal since the road is closed most of the year. So open and close dates vary depending on snow," notes Mollie M., emphasizing the seasonal limitations that affect all services in the Big Creek area.
