Equestrian Camping near Calpine, CA

Meadow View Equestrian Campground sits approximately 45 miles north of Calpine in Doyle, California. The region consists primarily of high desert terrain between 4,500-5,000 feet elevation with typical summer temperatures ranging from 45-85°F. Winter access becomes limited due to snow accumulation at higher elevations, with most equestrian campers visiting between mid-April and mid-September.

What to do

Trail riding options: Riders at Lookout Campground can access the Crystal Peak trail directly from the campsite. "The trail from the campground to Crystal Peak was great. It's more like Crystal knoll. The history of Crystal Peak is amazing, and the crystals are everywhere. Really nice views from atop the knoll too," notes Ray B.

Lake activities: Fishing and swimming opportunities exist at nearby lakes. "Beautiful campgrounds with access to sandy beaches from your tenting spots. Access to the Pacific Crest trail & many other hiking routes," reports Anthony K. about East Meadow Campground.

Wildlife viewing: Early morning and dusk provide optimal wildlife viewing times in the meadows. "We saw a deer, boat ramp a mile away," mentions maricarmen P. at Logger Campground, where campers regularly spot local fauna.

What campers like

Spacious sites: East Meadow Campground provides well-separated camping areas. "Sites have plenty of space," confirms Julie B., adding that "they have flush toilets and bear boxes which makes it nice for those of us that tent camp."

Privacy between spots: Many campers appreciate the seclusion at smaller campgrounds. "So remote and private but everything you need at the campground with water access within walking distance. Sites are great with picnic tables and bathrooms near by," writes Aliona C.

Accessibility to water: Several campgrounds offer direct water access. Ron G. notes that Logger Campground has an "easy walk to the reservoir for beach/water time. Some campers moored their boats/jet skis just off the campground. Gravelly shore and bottom, excellent paddleboarding & kayaking."

What you should know

Road conditions: Some campgrounds require travel on unmaintained roads. At Lookout Campground, S K. advises, "This north route is easier, but either way you go, there will be tougher sections. It is just an unmaintained (or rarely maintained) dirt road that has ruts, especially in uphill/downhill areas where the water runs across the road."

Water availability: Water sources vary between campgrounds. Meadow View Equestrian Campground has limited facilities. "Water is available from a hand pumped spigot at the entrance of the campground, website states non potable but we drank it and it was fine and in fact tasted really fresh," reports Laura M.

Site layout considerations: Some campsites have unusual configurations. Ron A. notes about Logger Campground: "First time there and we reserved a spot, site 21 and the door of our camper wasn't facing our camp. I noticed a few sites like that. It's pretty tight spaces and not a lot of privacy."

Tips for camping with families

Beginner-friendly riding: Horse trails suitable for children and beginners can be found at multiple locations. "This place is a great place to camp with or without horses. Ride out from your site on your ATV or SBS for miles of trails to explore," shares Patricia N. about Meadow View Equestrian Campground.

Lake recreation for kids: Loon Lake provides safe swimming areas. "Warm, clear water with sandy/grassy beaches all around," describes Jordyn A., noting that the "campsite was clean and flat enough for one tent."

Bear safety preparation: Teach children about proper food storage. "They have flush toilets and bear boxes which makes it nice for those of us that tent camp," mentions Julie B., highlighting the importance of using provided bear boxes when available.

Tips from RVers

Site selection for trailers: Backing into some sites requires careful planning. At Washoe Lake State Park Campground, Dan M. notes, "Flat, wide spaces with mostly pull throughs, clean bathrooms and shower. Convenient credit card pay system. Also a dump station."

Seasonal considerations: Winter camping options are limited in the high country. "Winter camping is available on Loop A with full power hookups on a first come, first serve basis. Bathrooms are open all winter," reports Andrew R. about Washoe Lake State Park Campground.

Trailer parking at equestrian sites: Meadow View provides dedicated areas for horse trailers. Samantha T. notes, "This campground is labeled as equestrian however anyone can stay. Great place close to Frenchman lake. Has pasture area for horses. Spots are well spaced out and never filled up while we stayed for 4 days."