Horse camping near Bonita, California offers higher elevation options within a 30-minute drive of the city. Most equestrian campgrounds in this region sit between 3,000 and 5,500 feet elevation, providing cooler summer temperatures compared to coastal areas. Several campgrounds maintain dedicated equestrian loops with specialized amenities for both riders and their horses.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Boulder Oaks Equestrian Campground features direct access to trail systems right from your site. "Super cute area, and much cooler since it's a little higher altitude. Nice big sites and an entire loop with equestrian sites," reports Beth W., who visited in May 2024.
Visit Julian: Many equestrian campers at Thousand Trails Oakzanita Springs take day trips to Julian, about 40 minutes away. "Park is about 40 minutes from Jillian. Park is okay but nothing to write home about," notes Maurice H. The campground sits at 4,000 feet elevation with plenty of space to relax after a day of riding.
Fish while camping: Several equestrian-friendly campgrounds are near fishing opportunities. At KQ Ranch Resort, campers can enjoy "fishing for RV hook Up" as mentioned by Khadijah A. The resort offers various activities between trail rides for those staying with horses.
What campers like
Altitude and climate: Equestrian campers appreciate the temperature differences at higher elevations. At El Prado Campground, Luis N. notes, "This campground provides everything a happy camper needs. Fire wood is available for purchase. Sites will have a picnic table, potable water, toilets (vault and flushing). There are also showers."
Spacious sites: Horse campers need room, and many local campgrounds deliver. "Campsites are larger than at Paso Picacho and there aren't as many. Campsites are easier to find," says Lea O. about Green Valley Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.
Natural surroundings: The quiet environment helps both horses and riders relax. "Beautiful location. Quiet and picturesque. Easy to find. Great place for base camp with several trail heads. Campsites are spacious with plenty of shade," describes Kevin about Green Valley Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian sites book quickly, especially during spring and fall. "We got three tents and two hammocks in our single space. The campground also has plenty of shade, clean facilities, and is dog friendly," Katie R. mentions about Green Valley.
Water availability: Not all campgrounds offer individual site water hookups. Laura M. explains about Tijuana River Valley Regional Park Campground: "Sites are all dry camping, no power or water at sites, and no dump station at campground. There are water spigots throughout the campground though to fill your jugs."
Campsite layouts: Some campgrounds separate equestrian sites from standard camping areas. "If you're going to stay at Pio Pico you better have a toilet, shower, and be self-sustained aboard your rig," cautions Jason S., highlighting the importance of checking specific amenities for each campground section.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for varying terrain: When bringing children to equestrian campgrounds, consider their hiking abilities. At Kumeyaay Lake Campground, Jose V. notes, "Lots of trails to hike. Family friendly," making it suitable for mixed groups of riders and non-riders.
Safety considerations: Keep children supervised around horses and water. "Bring a picnic to eat by the dam and let the kids explore. But beware of rattlesnakes. They are everywhere during the summer," warns Katie O. about Kumeyaay Lake Campground.
Activity alternatives: Even at horse-focused campgrounds, ensure non-riders have options. "We enjoyed what they had to offer though, the putt putt, pools, hike, store, activity center and youth center!" shares Stephanie J. about nearby recreation options.
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: For those bringing both horses and RVs, check site dimensions carefully. "Sites are large, restrooms and showers are clean. There is no shade and mosquitos were a problem," reports Laurie E. about Tijuana River Valley Regional Park Campground.
Hook-up availability: Most equestrian sites have limited utilities. "Large flat pad that had the sweet water river right behind. Lots of area for the kids to play and ride bikes on the paved loop around the sites," describes Nicole about her experience in the horse camp area.
Navigation challenges: Many horse campgrounds are accessed via winding mountain roads. "Limited 30/50 amp full-hookups. Large rigs, beware. Access roads are narrow, hilly, AND curvy. But, it CAN be done," advises John D. from Thousand Trails Oakzanita Springs.
