Top Horse Camping near Blythe, CA
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Best Equestrian Sites Near Blythe, CA (3)
1.
Rancho Ventana RV Resort
Blythe, California1 Review3 Saves- Pets
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
- Equestrian
3.
Kofa National Wildlife Refuge
Quartzsite, Arizona8 Reviews29 Photos158 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
Recent Equestrian Reviews In Blythe
12 Reviews of 3 Blythe Campgrounds
Kofa National Wildlife Refuge
Lived it !! May cool options
We loved this place. We followed directions. TheQueens road portion.
We are in 23 fr rv and took main road in. There is a split off between queens and palm canyon. Palm canyon any vehicle can do. Queens you won’t take an rv in. You’ll want high clearance for sure .. that said , just coming in main road there are lots of great spots. Clean, quiet and great views of mountains Had three bars cell with ATT Busy spot so come early
Patton's Pad
Wide Open Spaces
The cement pad is about 150 yards wide and about 350 yards long. We got here as the sun was coming down. It was windy and warm but not too bad considering that this is the desert. There is absolutely nothing out here. You’ll have to bring your own shade. Nearest fuel station is 19 miles away.
I enjoyed it because it was just clean and the night sky was clear. Great for stargazing.
There is the historical side of it. It’s amazing that Patton trained out here. Over a million troops trained in the area.
Kofa National Wildlife Refuge
Enjoyed the serenity
Easy to access primitive camping on the way to Yuma. We camped about midway down King Rd since road started to appear a bit rough for our car. High clearance vehicles would be able to pass through without trouble.
Kofa National Wildlife Refuge
Great secluded area with with starry nights
Free camping and close enough to drive to amenities or stores for food and supplies. Nearby activities like looking for crystals or hiking to see rare ferns. Very peaceful.
Kofa National Wildlife Refuge
Bring a strong rig and enjoy the solitude
My last stop before I continued my trip into California and what an awesome stop it was. I’ve spent a month in Arizona roaming around and each area has me fantastic!
I’d immediately recommend having a truck or suv so you can really explore the entire area. I was camping in my overland Tahoe on this stretch and it handled the area well. My buddies has a Tacoma and Land Cruiser respectively so we were set.
It’s all about exploration out here. Lots of RVs bringing their play toss out here so you’ll run into a lot of dirt bikes and utvs which is awesome. Numerous mining areas and ranch buildings still dot the area and are fun to respectfully explore. Sunsets are beautiful, shade is non existent, and rocks aplenty. Cell service was non existent for majority of my trip, and no water that we came across. Saguaros and ocotillos are everywhere which add to the AZ landscape
Do your best to understand the local rules and regs here and abide by them. This is an area we need to respectfully use so we have it for decades to come
Kofa National Wildlife Refuge
Quiet and basic.
I stayed off of King Rd. which was accessible using a regular. I would take a truck if I did it again. Not a bad place to camp out at if you're heading to Yuma. It was free. No bathrooms and no water. Had a fire because it gets cold in February. There were many RV's in the area with plenty of room. Looks like people take their dirt bikes around those parts.
Rancho Ventana RV Resort
Clean and refreshing...
Zesty...maybe ... Irish kick id say, cause that spring type weather filtered your lungs like nothing You can imagine. And alil bit chilly in the morning to enjoy your warm coffee then the tables flip to enjoy something chilled on ice as the sun warms the day.
Patton's Pad
Historical
It was really cool to come here and see a part of WWII. There’s not much to see, it is all completely flat dessert. It’s more of an emotional experience than anything. Highly recommend.
Kofa National Wildlife Refuge
Great spot
There are lots of places to camp here. I spent one night along Palm Canyon Road, where there were plenty of pull outs. There's also many spots up by Crystal Hill. Both places were easily accessible with a small car, just drive slow and be extra careful at rougher spots. There are signs that say "no camping beyond this point", but they are only referring to the land before you get the refuge. Once you enter the refuge you can camp just about anywhere. This is a very beautiful place, would highly recommend spending a night if you're in the area.
Patton's Pad
Large Concrete pad left over from WWll.
Gen. George Patton trained troops here for the African Campaign back in the 40's. It's a large flat concrete pad that was once part of an air base. No amenities, just a place to park. Interesting history if you research it.
Kofa National Wildlife Refuge
Endless possibiliities
There are endless camping possibilities in Kofa. Primitive, dispersed real wilderness camping. No water. No toilets, no hookups, generators... and you have to have a 4x4 to get there! Just my kind of spot. I've explored all over this area by jeep, and by foot and never get bored going off on some new abandoned mine trail. There are hidden caves all around and great hikes to get there!
I'll just share my two favorite hidden gems in the area: Signal Peak is a must, and if you do, I recommend camping around Skull Rock. For a scenic offroad trail + neat cabin stay head to Kofa Mine Cabin!
For Signal Peak and the Skull Rock stay, you can park regular cars along Palm Canyon Road where the Kofa Natl Wildlife Refuge Brochures and info are and hop into a 4x4 for the rest of the drive. You'll need it. Don't attempt get to skull rock in any regular, vehicle, or anything without high clearance.
**NOTE: I have left a car in this lot with no issues while camping up in the canyon over night, but of course, do so at your own risk.
From that parking lot you head up to Kofa Queen Canyon and pick your spots for camping. There are plenty of good spots for tent on ledges, or on cots down near skull rock. Here you can grill and have general campfire fun.
The road to Skull Rock is undeveloped, needs high clearance and is a tight squeeze for wider vehicles. It will not accommodate campers or trailers. Tent camping only (aside from maybe your serious bug out vehicle!)
Skull rock camp spot is about a one hour and 45 minute drive from Yuma. From HWY 95 turn (east) onto Palm Canyon Road (not too far past the Border Patrol Checkpoint. Drive east 3.2 miles to Kofa Queen Canyon (KQC) Road on the left (north now). Follow KQC Road northeast about 7.5 miles into the Canyon to where a subsidiary Canyon opens up to your right (south). Passenger cars won't manage this last road. You'll need high clearance and preferably 4wd. The road inside the canyon is alternately rocky and sandy, and braids in and out with the wash. Just follow the 'better-looking' route if unsure at a junction. Enough people come up here you should be able to see lots of tire tracks.
*NOTE: There is no cell service at the campsite.
From here we drive down the trail bit further to get to Signal Peak (roughly 4,800ft), it's Kofa's highest peak. This is a strenuous hike with steep slopes and some scrambling, and should only be done by experienced hikers in good physical conditions with proper hiking boots. The beautiful view from from the top is absolutely worth the hike.
Dogs: Although I know of people who have brought dogs up here, it is a very rocky hike and could be very hot or treacherous for your pup. You may consider bringing a dog only if he is an avid hiker and has very strong paw pads (or hiking boots), and can physically handle the demands of this hike. Also, dogs as per Kofa National Wildlife Refuge Rules - are required to be on a leash at all times.
For the Kofa Mine Section, head on your way out to the Kofa Mine Museum and then just past it take the turn to Big Eye Mine - 15 mile offroad trail where a real, high clearance truck/jeep 4x4 is needed. There are at least 2 hairy sections that I even got a jeep stuck in for a minute. All of this area is full of mines and great open camping spaces.
Kofa was established in 1939 to be managed: “…as a representative area of lower Sonoran Desert habitat with a maximum diversity and abundance of native plants and animals and to protect and preserve the desert bighorn sheep and its habitat…” Since 1955, over 560 desert bighorn sheep have been trapped on Kofa and transplanted to other areas in Arizona, as well as to the states of New Mexico, California, Colorado, Texas and Nevada, to re-establish herds extirpated from habitat loss, development and over-hunting.
Unless you are a skilled Arizona adventurer, I'd advise against hiking or even offloading (in case something goes wrong) during the hot summer months when temperatures can rise to over 115 degrees F.
Kofa National Wildlife Refuge
Primitive, dispersed with few to no facilities
A little introduction may be in order. My name is Randy Mahannah, aka Randoo, I am 67 years old, accompanied by my dog and I’ve been on the road since February 23, 2018, as of this writing just over 3 months. I have been in 5 states, 4 Motel 6’s and 10 different campgrounds over 6300 miles and stops at friends and family. I am on the road and I’m enjoying it. Let’s start with a bucket list item.
There is a place in the far western and southern desert of Arizona called the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge. At first glance, one might question the possibility of wildlife even remotely living in such a harsh desert environment but live there these creatures do, most amazingly, desert bighorn sheep. But it isn’t just the critters, it’s the desert, some of the most rugged, badass, beautiful desert in America, the border of the Sonora and the Mojave deserts and amazing country.
Oh yeah, campground rating, uuhhh, no campground unless you consider the entire refuge as your campground because that’s what it is, primitive camping at its best. At Kofa there are no facilities, no restrooms, no designated campsites, no water, no nuttin’, just a bare spot in the dirt and a place to dig your privy. So in terms of a best-of-five something rating probably zip. In terms of desert lonesome awesomeness, 5 +.
Take lots of water, you’ll need it, at least two five gallon containers and if you are so foolhardy as to visit Kofa between May and September, take a fiver for each day you will be there, just in case. I was there in March and was quite comfortable, day and night. Winters will be mild daytime, chilly to cold at night, summers, oppressively hot daytime and dance-naked-under –the-moon beautiful at night with more stars than you have ever seen unless you’ve been to Machu Pichu under a new moon.
As for things to do, desert hiking both flatland and in the mountains is what is offered. Take a camera and try to get a sheep shot. If that doesn’t work the native palms in Palm Canyon that stand still and won’t run away from you and the landscapes under a changing desert sun are wonderful.
I spent three nights there and was enchanted by a desert landscape I’ve wanted to visit since I was draft eligible. It’s all about timing and tolerance but if you find yourself in the neighborhood of Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, 23 miles south of Quartzite, 60+ miles north of Yuma, Arizona, allow yourself a night or two. Might pleasantly surprise you.
Guide to Blythe
Camping near Blythe, California, offers a unique blend of desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or a place to explore, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.
What to do:
- Explore Joshua Tree National Park: Just a short drive from Blythe, this park is famous for its stunning rock formations and unique Joshua trees. One camper mentioned, “Absolutely incredible views, in my opinion better than the park itself!” when referring to the nearby Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed.
- Enjoy water activities: The Buckskin Mountain State Park Campground is right on the Colorado River, making it perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating. One visitor said, “It is a beautifully kept campground. Our dogs enjoyed the spacious and grassy dog park.”
- Visit local attractions: Check out the George Patton Museum near the Chiriaco Summit Dry Camp Area. A camper noted, “It can be hot and there are not amenities at the campground itself but restaurants, gas, and a convenience store are close by.”
What campers like:
- Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the large, open areas at places like Joshua Tree South Dispersed Camping. One reviewer shared, “Each site is pretty large and can fit at least 3 vans.”
- Quiet atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness of the Hi Jolly BLM Dispersed Camping Area. A camper mentioned, “Overall it felt safe and we would stay again!”
- Community vibe: Campgrounds like Cattail Cove State Park foster a sense of community. One visitor said, “We were simply blown away by the community, camaraderie, and fellowship we found here.”
What you should know:
- Limited amenities: Many campgrounds, such as Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed, do not offer drinking water or electric hookups. A camper noted, “No facilities but good cell service.”
- Traffic noise: Some sites, like those at Joshua Tree BLM by Entrance, are close to the freeway. One reviewer mentioned, “Great area, only downside is it is close to the freeway, so there will be lights visible from traffic as well as traffic sounds.”
- Busy on weekends: Campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at the Chiriaco Summit Dry Camp Area said, “Busy on the weekends but didn’t see it fill up while I was there.”
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with amenities like restrooms and showers, such as Buckskin Mountain State Park Campground. One family shared, “Bathrooms/showers were basic and kept clean and functional.”
- Plan for activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A camper at Cattail Cove State Park mentioned, “There was a beach volleyball court at the water's edge and hiking trails leave directly from the park.”
- Pack plenty of water: Since many campgrounds lack drinking water, it’s essential to bring enough for everyone. A visitor at Mittry Lake Wildlife Area noted, “No water or dump. Had to use the WeBoost for decent cell service.”
Tips from RVers:
- Check for big rig access: Many campgrounds, like Joshua Tree South - BLM Dispersed, are big rig friendly. One RV owner said, “Tons of space for any size camper, there was barely anyone else here when we camped.”
- Be prepared for limited hookups: Campgrounds like La Posa South BLM Long Term Visitor Area have no electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, “There are minimal services such as water, trash disposal and dump stations.”
- Stay connected: Some campgrounds offer decent cell service, but it can vary. A camper at River Island State Park noted, “Verizon service was spotty at best, not reliable.”
Camping in Blythe, CA, provides a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great spot for families and RVers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Blythe, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Blythe, CA is Rancho Ventana RV Resort with a 5-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Blythe, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 3 equestrian camping locations near Blythe, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.