10 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Lake San Antonio North Shore offers horse-friendly camping with dedicated corrals for equestrians. The campground provides various accommodation options including tent sites, RV spaces with hookups, cabins, and glamping facilities. Horse owners appreciate the availability of drinking water, picnic tables, and fire rings at each site. Trails from the campground connect to riding paths throughout the park's extensive acreage. The campground maintains clean restrooms and showers, making it comfortable for multi-day equestrian stays. Campground amenities include trash disposal, water hookups, and sewer connections for RVs. Lake San Antonio's equestrian area remains separate from standard camping, providing a quieter experience for those camping with horses.
Trail access directly from the campground leads riders to scenic routes with lake views and woodland terrain. Horse campers can utilize the thirty-amp electrical hookups while keeping their horses nearby in the corral area. The campground's boat-in, drive-in, hike-in, and walk-in access options provide flexibility for equestrians with different transportation needs. Campfires are permitted in designated rings, and firewood is available for purchase on-site. Most equestrian sites are reservable, allowing horse owners to plan trips in advance. The campground operates year-round, accommodating riders in all seasons. Lake access provides horses with water sources beyond the campground's drinking water facilities. The central location makes this campground a practical base for exploring the region's bridle trails.
"It's worth dragging your stuff up a small path to get away from the crowds. You can surf and mountain bike here. Our tent was even visited by some people on horse back!"
"Quiet, peaceful and surrounded by skies perched out atop a hill."
from $25 - $150 / night
Check Availability"We stayed at a cottage at Lake San Antonio. We were fortunate to have a local show us around."
"The temperature at the lake often exceeds 100 in the summer. There is ample space for camping . You’ll need reservations if you want a hookup . Boat ramps are available."
from $30 - $120 / night
"I grew up camping at Lopez Lake as well as other campsites. Lopez Lake offers a lot. Fishing hiking camping horse back riding etc. I highly recommend camping here."
"It was located right next to the water park but they had already closed for the season."
from $60 - $70 / night
Check Availability"There is frisbee golf and horse shoes. They even have an Emu that is friendly and your kids can pet. The place is very clean and the staff is friendly."
"Staff helpful..friendly..restrms clean..quiet at night..fun things for kids..lake nearby also. Only 1 pitfall...we tent camped in space #63..next to a dirt road which looped around the campground."
from $40 / night
Check Availability"Right next to some beautiful dunes. Rv / pull in sites. Have tables restrooms and fire pit relatively close to Oceano/ piano"
"There are two levels of this campground, I stayed at the upper level just steps from the sand dunes which will lead you to the Pacific Ocean about 1/2 mile away."
"Santa Margarita Lake is a lovely, quiet medium size lake used for drinking water in San Luis Obispo County, Los Padres National Forest."
"We thoroughly enjoyed our drive-in tent site, the scenery, and the abundant bird life."
"This lake has a no body contact rule which makes it a great quiet fishing lake with no jet skiing, swimming etc... there is a seasonal swimming pool that is right across from the rv spots."
"Turkey Flat is a great place for groups to camp and drink beer around a fire. Wake up and fire up those off - road vehicles and maybe take a gun out to where they hunt turkeys or wild boar."
from $30 - $34 / night
Check Availability
GuideIt's worth dragging your stuff up a small path to get away from the crowds. You can surf and mountain bike here. Our tent was even visited by some people on horse back!
LegendThis is a great spot if proximity to water is important to you. Sites are well maintained but hard to come by—make reservations in advance! Hop away from water and another highlight are the nearby monarch groves where the butterflies migrate to the trees and you can walk through on paths.
LegendMy favorite thing about this campground are the 4 primitive sites scattered throughout the park—#4 being particularly incredible. Quiet, peaceful and surrounded by skies perched out atop a hill. It is close to the hiking trail so there’s typically foot traffic throughout the day, but you really couldn’t ask for a more quintessential coastal camping experience. Non-strenuous, short distance, easy access hike/gentle walk to the site from where you park. You can request it with the host in the main camp during check in—you won’t regret it. So many stars, beautiful skies and trails accessible to all hiking levels
GuideSanta Margarita Lake is a lovely, quiet medium size lake used for drinking water in San Luis Obispo County, Los Padres National Forest. There are 60 campsites; 54 tent/RV, 2 Boat-in and 4 horse camps. There is a playground and a pool available in summer as swimming in the lake is not allowed. Canoe/boat rentals are available as well as a launch ramp and marina store. This lake is popular with smaller fishing and recreational boats. Amenities include flush toilets in main camp, picnic table, fire pits but no hook ups. Reservations are online except for horse camps which require a phone call to County Parks 805-788-2387, fees run 38$-36$ per night.
TravelerI grew up camping at Lopez Lake as well as other campsites. Lopez Lake offers a lot. Fishing hiking camping horse back riding etc. I highly recommend camping here.
TravelerI camped in Mustang during the last weekend of September. It was located right next to the water park but they had already closed for the season. The campsites were pretty close to each other and unfortunately we were stuck between two different groups that did not obey the quiet hours. Not a huge deal at night since they were quiet by midnight or so but one of the groups was also loud with kids early in the morning as well. This didn't make the best camping experience but we tried to make the best of it.
The lake was within walking distance but since the water level is so low, you had to walk quite a way out. There are some decent hiking trails you can go on right from the campground. We took the Escondido trail from camp that took us to the top of a ridge and had numerous switchbacks. Great views from the top.
LegendYou can camp just steps from Spooners Cove (great place for swimming!) in Islay Creek Campground. It’s in the Montana De Oro State Park. There are about 50 campsites on either side of a in and out kind of lollipop road up on a flat hill above Spooner’s Cove. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring with grill, and there are a couple of clean vault toilets scattered in the campground. There are some nice trees, but most sites are not suited to hammocking. Many sites will be in full sun most of the day, and there is not much privacy. There is a trail that cuts through the campground, and there are many trailheads nearby. I would not suggest bringing your dog with you because while pets are allowed in the campground, they are not allowed on the trails or on the beach. Also, if you want a fire plan on bringing your own wood or buying it from the camp host as you are not allowed to forage for downed wood. The camp host didn’t seem to have a problem with me collecting some of the wild nasturtiums to add to my dinner (so fun to have edible flowers on my salad, wish I took a picture!).
Supposedly there is a horse camp not too far away, but I can neither confirm or deny as I did not go looking for it.
GuideIt was great camping at Islay Creek Campground. It was peaceful, beautiful surroundings, and a decent amount of space between campsites. The coastal air, hills, and nearby ocean views made it a great escape. Access to hiking trails, tide pools, and scenic drives. Watch for ticks, found one on my dog so keep out of the tall grass.
Sites were clean and well cared for, restrooms were not a far walk from my campsite and the overall vibe was quiet and relaxing. Limited cell service, if you’re trying to unplug. Nights get cool and foggy, so pack layers.
Would definitely camp here again.
LegendLopez Lake Recreation Area is 15 minutes behind the “Village” of Arroyo Grande, CA.
Lopez is a frequently visited spot for us - We generally camp in a primitive site the back of the Squirrel Loop of the park. The Squirrel Loop is not a lakeside loop (you cannot see the lake at all from here), but we have found it to be one of the quieter, less trafficked campground in the park. The Squirrel Loop is nestled inside a canyon, surrounded by big, beautiful live oak trees.
Lopez Lake is a very large campground with many different loops, so many of which are nearby the lake. If you haven’t been to the campground before and are not worried about reserving a site ahead of time, take some time to drive around the park when you arrive to see what area you would most like to camp in - there are a lot of great spots here there and everywhere!
Each site has a picnic table and a fire ring. There are clean plumbed bathrooms, and coin-operated showers. Lopez has full hook-ups for RVs, and a marina to launch boats. There is a small but well-stocked convenience store in the marina with food, ice, firewood, beer, fishing gear, etc. There is also a small cafe located in the marina store, with limited hours.
Lopez Lake is the home of the Mustang Waterpark, a small, but super fun water park. I believe the park is closed during the fall and winter months, but is open during the spring and summer. Swimming is allowed in the lake, and there are some “beach” areas that have been cleared of lake plants and rocks for safe swimming.
Hiking to Big Falls is a fun adventure if you want to leave the campground. There are certain times when the falls are not accessible without 4WD, however, we have been in severe drought conditions in Central California for the last few years, so you don’t have to worry about crossing any deep creeks, if any. A super low clearance vehicle may have a challenging time crossing the creek beds, even when dry. The drive to Big Falls trailhead from Lopez is short, but probably takes 15-20 minutes as you are driving through a curvy, narrow canyon road. The hike is through live oak trees most of the way, so most of the hike is nice and shaded. Keep and eye out for salamanders when crossing the creek beds! While it is unlikely, black bears mountain lions have been spotted on the Big Falls trail, so be aware of your surroundings. Here are directions to the Big Falls trailhead: http://www.hikeslo.com/big-falls/
WARNING : While the possibility of a black bear sighting is fairly uncommon, black bears are seen every year at Lopez Lake. You are in black bear county, and there are no bear boxes/ food lockers at Lopez Lake. I would suggest locking your food and coolers up in the car at night to avoid attracting wild animals to your campsite.
CAMPSITE SPECS
Fees: $35/night (primitive site)
Plumbed Toilets: Yes
Drinking Water: Yes
Showers: Yes (coin-operated)
Picnic Table: Yes
Firepit: Yes
Cooking Grate: Yes
Shade: Yes
Cell Service: No
Animal Bins/Food lockers: No
Trash: Yes
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Cambria, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Cambria, CA is Islay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park with a 4.3-star rating from 30 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Cambria, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 10 equestrian camping locations near Cambria, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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