Best Equestrian Camping near Big Pine, CA

Are you planning a trip to Big Pine with your horse? We've got you covered. Finding a place to stay in California while traveling with your horse is easy. Search horse campsites and discover top-rated spots, as reviewed by other campers.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Big Pine, CA (12)

    Camper-submitted photo from Whitney Portal
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitney Portal
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitney Portal
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitney Portal
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitney Portal
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitney Portal

    1. Whitney Portal

    28 Reviews
    124 Photos
    397 Saves
    Alabama Hills, California

    Overview

    Whitney Portal Campground is in a prime location within the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains - at the base of Mt. Whitney, the highest peak in the continental United States. With hiking trails to Mt. Whitney and the John Muir Wilderness less than a mile away, the campground is a popular home base for hikers, as well as family, RV and tent campers who wish to explore the area's activities and enjoy unparalleled scenery.

    Recreation

    Hikers are drawn to the majestic scenery and challenging trails of the Whitney Portal recreation area. Nearby trails lead into the John Muir Wilderness and Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park. The campground is only 0.5 miles from trailheads to Mt. Whitney, Meysan Lake and other popular destinations. Visitors should be aware that hiking in this area may require a permit. Visitors can also hike, fish and picnic in the area around the campground. There are numerous lakes, streams and a small pond in the area for trout fishing.

    Natural Features

    The facility is situated in a thick pine forest at an elevation of 8,000 ft. Campers can see striking views of the rugged granite peaks surrounding it. The area is home to abundant wildlife, including black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, pine martin, pika and many species of fish and birds. This campground is especially prone to bear activity.

    Nearby Attractions

    Campers can enter the John Muir Wilderness, a land of lofty snow-capped mountains, deep canyons and vast expanses of glacially carved terrain, via nearby trails. Mt. Whitney is within the wilderness area and entry is available by lottery for experienced hikers. John Muir Wilderness

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (602) 726-1102.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $93 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Pine
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Pine
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Pine
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Pine
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Pine
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Pine

    2. Lone Pine

    14 Reviews
    48 Photos
    216 Saves
    Alabama Hills, California

    Overview

    Lone Pine Campground is located near the base of Mt. Whitney, the highest peak in the continental United States, offering unparalleled views of the mountain and surrounding peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. An abundance of fishing and hiking opportunities can be found both in and around Lone Pine.

    Recreation

    Hikers are drawn to the majestic scenery and challenging trails of the Whitney Portal area. Trails lead to the John Muir Wilderness, including Mt. Whitney, and Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park. The Mt. Whitney trailhead is just 7 miles away. The less challenging National Recreation Trail connects Lone Pine Campground to Whitney Portal and its picnic area and fishing pond. The eastern Sierras are also known for exceptional trout fishing, and anglers can access Lone Pine Creek and a nearby pond.

    Natural Features

    The campground is nestled in sagebrush alongside Lone Pine Creek. At an elevation of 6,000 feet, the location offers clear views of surrounding granite peaks. Desert wildflowers add brilliant colors to the landscape in spring. The area is home to abundant wildlife, including black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, pine martin, pika and many species of fish and birds. This campground is especially prone to bear activity.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (602) 726-1102.

    Nearby Attractions

    Campers can enter the John Muir Wilderness, a land of lofty snow-capped mountains, deep canyons and vast expanses of glacially carved terrain, via nearby trails. Mt. Whitney is within the wilderness area and entry is available by lottery for experienced hikers.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $70 - $78 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Mono Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Mono Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Mono Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Mono Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Mono Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Mono Hot Springs

    3. Mono Hot Springs

    10 Reviews
    76 Photos
    303 Saves
    Mono Hot Springs, California

    Overview

    Mono Hot Springs Campground sits above Kaiser Pass in the High Sierra, on the South Fork of the San Joaquin River in an area known for its hot mineral baths. The camp is divided into two sections that are separated by Mono Hot Springs Resort, and some sites are shaded by aspen and lodgepole pine. The campground sits at an elevation of 6,700 feet with many cliffs in the area. It makes a great base for exploring the nearby Ansel Adams and John Muir Wilderness areas or for simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

    Recreation

    The Mono Hot Springs area provides opportunities for fishing, birding, mountain biking, hiking and relaxing in the hot springs. Interpretive programs are offered at the campground on Friday nights during the summer. Wading is permitted in the San Joaquin River, which is known for its excellent fly fishing. Trailheads in the area include Devil's Table (5 miles) and Doris Lake (2 miles). The Mono Creek Trail connects Mono Hot Springs to Edison Lake, a hike of about 10 miles round-trip.

    Natural Features

    The Sierra National Forest, located on the western slope of the central Sierra Nevada, is known for its spectacular mountain scenery and abundant natural resources. The terrain includes rolling, oak-covered foothills, heavily forested middle elevation slopes and the starkly beautiful alpine landscape of the High Sierra.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (559) 893-2308.

    Nearby Attractions

    Edison Lake is a popular recreation area nearby offering boating, fishing and horseback riding. From this area, hikers and horseback riders can access the John Muir Wilderness, and the Pacific Crest Trail, which extends from Mexico to Canada.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $35 - $37 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Campground

    4. Twin Lakes Campground

    12 Reviews
    54 Photos
    406 Saves
    Mammoth Lakes, California

    Overview

    Twin Lakes Campground is located in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains near the town of Mammoth Lakes, California. It offers lakeside camping with breathtaking scenery and many outdoor activities. The lake is a great base for fishing, boating, viewing waterfalls and hiking, and offers close proximity to the town's amenities.

    Recreation

    The eastern Sierras are known for great trout fishing, and the 108-acre lakes are a prime location for it. Anglers can cast for rainbow, brook and brown trout while watching a waterfall tumble into the lake. The calm waters are also inviting for canoes and kayaks. Power boats must have electric motors. Several trails offer a variety of hikes nearby, including a 4-mile trail on Mammoth Mountain and two shorter nature trails along the lakes. Families enjoy attending educational programs scheduled throughout the summer.

    Natural Features

    The campground is forested with lodgepole pine, providing partial shade and a private setting. It sits at an elevation of 8,600 feet at the base of snow-capped, 11,059' Mammoth Mountain, a popular skiing destination. A cascading waterfall flows into one of the lakes. The mountains are abundant with wildlife, including black bear, mountain lions, mule deer, pine marten, pika and many species of fish and birds.

    Nearby Attractions

    Mammoth Lakes Basin contains several additional popular lakes to explore for fishing and boating, and Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort offers year-round recreation. Visitors can also access the magnificent John Muir Wilderness nearby, which stretches 100 miles along the crest of the Sierra Nevadas, a land of lofty snow-capped mountains, deep canyons and vast expanses of glacially-carved terrain. Abundant hiking and horseback riding trails are available.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $32 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Island Lake Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Island Lake Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Island Lake Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Island Lake Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Island Lake Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Island Lake Backcountry
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Sample Meadow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sample Meadow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sample Meadow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sample Meadow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sample Meadow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sample Meadow Campground

    7. Sample Meadow Campground

    3 Reviews
    6 Photos
    39 Saves
    Lakeshore, California

    Located near the Kaiser and Ansel Adams Wilderness', Sample Meadow Campground offers 16 campsites located along Kaiser Creek. Vault toilets are provided and each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and bear box. There is trailhead parking outside of campground approximately .5 mile for hikes into the wilderness. Large RV's and motorhomes not recommended. Horse camping is permitted. Water and garbage service not provided.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Western Big Meadow Road Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Western Big Meadow Road Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Western Big Meadow Road Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Western Big Meadow Road Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Western Big Meadow Road Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Portal Forebay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Portal Forebay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Portal Forebay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Portal Forebay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Portal Forebay Campground

    9. Portal Forebay Campground

    1 Review
    5 Photos
    59 Saves
    Mono Hot Springs, California

    Located along Kaiser Pass Road at Portal Forebay Lake. Sites are shaded by pine and cedar trees and each campsite has a picnic table, grill and bear-proof food storage locker. Vault toilets are provided. Drinking water is not available. Paved and dirt roads provided access to the campground. Large RV's or motorhomes not recommended for travel on Kaiser Pass Road.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground
Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds

Recent Equestrian Reviews in Big Pine

79 Reviews of 12 Big Pine Campgrounds


  • Deb H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitney Portal
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Whitney Portal

    Pretty

    The campground is beautiful. The sites are a bit close together and many have little privacy, but it was very quiet and enjoyable. The vault toilets needed to be emptied and they were very stinky. It seemed a little early in the season (early June) for them to be so full. Nice hiking trails accessible from the campground. Saw fresh bear scat near our site, but never saw any bears.

  • Kent G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills Dispersed Site
    Apr. 2, 2024

    Alabama Hills Dispersed Site

    Alabama Hiils Dispersed site

    This site is on Horseshoe Meadow Road about 1/2 mile north of the Tuttle Creek site. There are 3 legal spots with camping signs. First two are level. Third will need leveling blocks. First site is large and was to turn around a larger trailer or rv. The SuperDrive get to spots is getting a large rut go slow and even my Subaru Forester had no issue. The second and third have better views. But the first can offer wind protection from the north. BLM. Carry in and out.

  • Candice M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitney Portal
    Oct. 25, 2023

    Whitney Portal

    Near whits

    Nice spot near mount Whitney’s trailhead. Decent bathrooms. Some what of a watching destination from the portal. Small sites

  • Leslie R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground
    Sep. 16, 2023

    Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground

    Trailhead campground for Mt Langley hike

    We didn't camp here, rather we used this as the start/finish point for our 2-day hike to the summit of Mt. Langley. It was a convenient place to park, because you drive right up to the trailhead, and there are trash cans, bear boxes, and vault toilets. We stashed some extra toiletries in the bear boxes, rather than risk leaving them in the car. Toilets were pretty clean. Unfortunately, the potable water spigots were already turned off. The national forest website said they are off in the winter, but I didn't expect that already in early September. This is an equestrian campground, so there was some horse dung on the trails around the campground.

  • makenna W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Campground
    Jul. 31, 2023

    Twin Lakes Campground

    Beautiful Location

    This campground is definitely worth a visit! Beautiful area, well kept sites and lovely hiking trails. Lots of outdoor recreation available for rent as well.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Pine
    Nov. 14, 2022

    Lone Pine

    Lone Pine Camp ground

    We stayed at this location for 2 nights. It wasn’t crowded, restrooms were clean, and overall great camp site. You can park right next to your campsite, each one has its own picnic table, bear box, and fire pit. The campsite is along a creek which sounds lovely at night.

    The campground did not have water during our visit but seems like it does certain times of the year

  • therealquaid D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Western Big Meadow Road Camping Area
    Nov. 3, 2022

    Western Big Meadow Road Camping Area

    Popular Area with some secluded spots

    I’ve camped in a few different areas along Big Meadows road. It’s a great spot, this pin location gets Verizon signal along with some of the higher sites if you pull off the road. Higher sites are pretty private and have enough sun coverage for solar, the ones by the road get traffic passing by daily.

    Montecito Bay Lodge just down the road has an all you can eat buffet Breakfast/Lunch $9 Dinner $20, the closest supplies are Kings Canyon Visitor Center, and Stony Creek Gas Station (closed oct-apr).

    You might want to double check with the Visitor Center if this road is open when it’s snowing.

  • Jason F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Campground
    Sep. 23, 2022

    Twin Lakes Campground

    Twin Lakes Campground, CA

    Decided to take a last minute trip to Mammoth Mountain to test a few new pieces of camping gear out. Campground was probably 75% full with mostly RV's and trailers. Campground was clean and hosts were polite/friendly. Keep you food in the bear lockers, they have daily visitors late in the evening and throughout the night. Had a good view of the falls from the campsite. Good times!

  • Ashley C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Campground
    Aug. 5, 2022

    Twin Lakes Campground

    Twin Lakes Mammoth Mountain.

    I visit this site on a yearly basis. I have never had an experience that was unpleasant and or me dreading the trip back home. It is absolutely beautiful and breathtaking. I can’t wait for this years trip.

  • Katie T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitney Portal
    Jun. 24, 2022

    Whitney Portal

    Magical spot, Gorgeous

    The trees against the rocks and blue sky is gorgeous every time you look up. Very cool campsites nestled into the raw nature. We loved it. Didn’t see any bears, used the bear locker and trash cans on site.

  • Beth G.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Pine
    May. 9, 2022

    Lone Pine

    Loved this campground, work up to views of My Whitney.

    Great campground with views of Mt Whitney from camp. Had everything we needed for a comfortable night and we enjoyed exploring the rocks and little stream nearby. The ground is fairly hard and not much shade - plan your gear accordingly. We needed bug spray in April for mosquitoes. Our little Ford Fiesta did fine on the dirt roads to access the campsite.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Sample Meadow Campground
    Nov. 30, 2021

    Sample Meadow Campground

    A Real Treasure

    This campground has many spread out sites with one pit toilet. There is no water unless you use the creek. Please report any trash or other issues to the Prather Ranger Station. When I visited some people had buried human waste next to the campsite and I cleaned it up.

    Most easily accessed via Kaiser Pass. Be aware that the road is steep, narrow, and has blind corners. This campground can also be accessed via Big Creek. I recommend checking conditions with the Prather Ranger Station before setting out.

    While in the area I recommend visiting the Mt Tom fire lookout if your vehicle is capable. Florence Lake is also recommended. If you have a mountain bike I recommend the road that continues through the campground over a bridge. It is closed to vehicles but climbs to views and remnants of historic tungsten mining.

  • Gabby G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitney Portal
    Jul. 27, 2021

    Whitney Portal

    Amazing

    By far the best campground I've been too.

    I was on campsite 044. Really secluded surrounded by trees, close to bathroom and water faucet. The bathrooms are clean and have toilet paper. Right next to a river, where the sound relaxes you. Flat ground for the tent and in no sight of other campers. Close (walking distance) to Mt Whitney Trailhead

  • Esther Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitney Portal
    Jul. 26, 2021

    Whitney Portal

    Great access

    Camped here in spring when it first opened for the season. COLD and snow flurries, but still such a memorable and great experience. Most sites seem to be well spaced out and good amount of privacy. Lots of sites are along the stream. Great access to Mt Whitney trailhead. Hiked to Lone Pine Lake with my pup (no permits needed and dogs allowed up to here). Lots of snow, spikes were handy.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Pine
    Jul. 21, 2021

    Lone Pine

    A great spot with excellent views and nice spacing.

    Spent one night and a morning and it was everything I expect in a USFS campground - water, pit/vault toilets, fire ring, picnic table. The morning view of the Sierra’s was amazing!

  • Alex S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Pine
    Jun. 24, 2021

    Lone Pine

    Perfect retreat

    I’d like to start by saying I’ve camped here since I could remember. I’ve watched it change throughout the years and it never has disappointed me.

    Nicely spaced sites, wonderful lil stream that can be hit or miss with fish. I’ve had years where I’ve caught 20 and years with not a single bite.

    Sites are spacious and most are set decently apart. Lots of hiking up and downstream as well.

    The best part of this CG is being able to sit in the shadow of the highest peak in the lower 48. Watching the sun rise on its tips and vanish behind in the evenings is worth every bit of it.

  • jesus R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Island Lake Backcountry
    Jun. 16, 2021

    Thousand Island Lake Backcountry

    Perfect spot

    So far this is the nicest place ive ever camp at from all my backpacking trips. Cant beat lake with the mountain in the background, tranquillity and spacious area. Only con can be mosquitoes. Other than that this place is a must to visit

  • Jeremy C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitney Portal
    May. 18, 2021

    Whitney Portal

    Camp Site 39

    Beautiful area but if your using campsite 39 beware you will need to pack everything in as there is no direct access to the site and hills on both side that provide seclusion but also a rough pack in and out.

  • Mark G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Pine
    Apr. 25, 2021

    Lone Pine

    Great time!

    The campground was nice, quiet. There was a nice stream you could fish with some trout. There are a couple big boulders the kids can climb on and around. Clean restrooms and a easy drive up to Whitney Portal. Would recommend staying.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Pine
    Mar. 28, 2021

    Lone Pine

    Closed on 3/27/2021 (temporary closure)

    The campground gates are shut and all the bear boxes are placed outside of the campground. There's a note that says campground closed for water testing, but there's no indication for how long. I'd imagine it'll be open up again soon because the website shows that it's open. Just a heads up. Maybe call ahead before planning on staying there.

  • Alejandro L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lone Pine
    Jan. 26, 2021

    Lone Pine

    Below the Majestic Mt Whitney

    While visiting Alabama Hills Recreation Area (AHRA) we made Lone Pine on our next stop for our second campsite and to relax for my 44th birthday 🎂

    Since the terrain is a little different it was a nice change up from the desert, sandy, rock that was AHRA. There were more trees, a little snow on the ground, and more wooded areas that brought a new look to our campsite. Mostly car camping still, we had beautiful views of Mt Whitney and the surrounding mountains. It did feel a bit colder then say AHRA esp at night but it was a great campsite that brought some cool vistas. Bc of the snow on the ground we could gather a bit of potable water to use and def enjoyed the clear skies at night and crisp clear mountain air coming from nearby Whitney Portal. We were close to the road but felt at ease given how close we were to the small town of Lone Pine where you could find supplies, food, drink 🍷, and firewood 🪵. Look forward to coming back and exploring more of the area including Mt Whitney when they open the roads and other campsites after the Covid lockdown.



Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Big Pine, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Big Pine, CA is Whitney Portal with a 4.8-star rating from 28 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Big Pine, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 12 equestrian camping locations near Big Pine, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.