Lake San Antonio North Shore equestrian camping offers access to extensive riding trails that connect directly to the campground. The dedicated horse corrals are positioned separately from standard camping areas, providing a quieter experience for those with horses. Each site includes drinking water for both riders and horses, with 30-amp electrical hookups available for RV campers who bring horses.
What to do
Horseback riding on beach dunes: At Pacific Dunes Ranch, trail rides take you across sand dunes to the ocean. "The staff is friendly and horse rides in the beach are available! The dunes are a great backdrop to this place," notes Esther D. The trail leads through approximately half a mile of dunes before reaching the Pacific.
Fishing from shore or boat: Santa Margarita Lake provides multiple fishing opportunities with boat rentals available. Corey L. describes the practical setup: "We launch our kayaks 20' from our camper and when we had a boat we would launch it when we got there and leave it in the water right next to the camper which was very convenient." No body contact with water is allowed, making this a quieter fishing location.
Explore hiking trails: The Montaña de Oro State Park offers trails for all skill levels with ocean views. "There is a little camp store, but it was closed during my visit (closes at 4pm). The state park offers days worth of outdoor activity and views forever and ever, with the ability to feel alone only miles from town. The sunset from the cliff is a must," shares Ryan W.
What campers like
Clean facilities year-round: Campers appreciate the maintained facilities at Lopez Lake Recreation Area. "Plumbed toilets: Yes, Drinking Water: Yes, Showers: Yes (coin-operated), Picnic Table: Yes, Firepit: Yes," lists Amanda M. in her practical campsite specifications.
Varied camping experiences: The variety of accommodation options meets different needs. At Santa Margarita KOA, "This place is amazing. Nice private sites. Our site was on the side of a large hill overlooking everything. We were king of the mountain. Campground is remote but SO worth it. A bit pricy but each site has concrete patio along with patio furniture and a nice charcoal grill," reports Roxanna L.
Family-friendly amenities: Multiple campgrounds offer specific facilities for children. "Easter weekend visit. Staff was awesome. The cabin was exactly what we needed for a low impact weekend of camping. Proximity to the lake was great. We had so much fun out on the water doing some fishing. The highlight for my kids was the Easter egg hunt put on by the staff," shares Angel Q. about Santa Margarita KOA.
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife interactions at various campgrounds. At Montaña de Oro State Park, Amanda K. warns, "We had a good experience but had problems with raccoons trying to get in our tents at night." Another camper mentions, "Raccoons will 100% rush your site as soon as you go to sleep to see if there are any fun goodies laying about. Put stuff away."
Weather variations: The coastal area experiences significant temperature fluctuations. At Santa Margarita Lake Regional Park, Gary G. notes, "Was a bit of escape from heat - nice breezes. Nice breezes so even when really hot doable." However, at Lake San Antonio, temperatures "often exceeds 100 in the summer."
Seasonal water levels: Water levels at lakes fluctuate yearly affecting activities. Chip K. observes at Lake San Antonio, "During the drought the water level has dropped significantly as well as the quality of the water. Some years the lake is almost dry." Check current conditions before planning water-based activities.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Several campgrounds offer specific recreation facilities for children. "They have a huge jumping pad for kids about a mile walk to the lake. They have yurts for tent & cabins," Martha G. mentions about Santa Margarita KOA.
Consider cabins for easier setup: Lake San Antonio North Shore offers cottage accommodations that families find convenient. Armando C. shares, "We stayed at a cottage at Lake San Antonio. We were fortunate to have a local show us around. Grandpa is a local to Bradley and this is a favorite spot when we want to get away but still have all the accommodations of home."
Check swimming options: Not all lakes allow direct swimming. At Santa Margarita Lake, swimming in the lake is prohibited but "There is a playground and a pool available in summer as swimming in the lake is not allowed," explains Margo A. The pool hours may vary based on staffing.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Turkey Flat OHV Staging Area, RVers note the area "is a great place for groups to camp" with spacious sites that accommodate larger vehicles. The campground costs "$20 overnight/$10 day use, first come first served."
Dust considerations: RV campers should prepare for dust at certain campgrounds. At Santa Margarita KOA, stacey S. observes, "Lots of trees and hills. Mostly dirt roads so it is a little dusty. We have a 45' 5th wheel and had no problem getting in. The space has full hookups with 50 amp. The water pressure was a little low compared to other places."
Internet connectivity varies: Connectivity differs significantly between campgrounds. David H. reports about Santa Margarita KOA: "AT&T cell service was zero to very poor at our site. WiFi was poor and slow. They advertised good WiFi in our spot but it just wasn't so." At Lopez Lake, another camper confirms "No cell service, not for us on Verizon anyways, but you can drive about 1/2 mile down the road for it."
