Equestrian camping sites near Campo Seco, California offer year-round trail access across the Sierra Nevada foothills. Situated between 1,000-3,000 feet elevation, this region experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 100°F and mild winters. Most equestrian sites provide basic facilities with access to water for horses, though availability varies seasonally depending on drought conditions and reservoir levels.
What to do
Trail riding at Lake Amador: Explore over 15 miles of lakeside trails with varied terrain suitable for horses of different skill levels. The Lake Amador Resort provides direct water access for horses after rides. "We had a spot 20ft from the lake. It was a meteor shower night and it was amazing. I would recommend this place during the cooler months," notes Reylan T. from Lake Amador Resort.
Explore dispersed horse trails: Forest Route 4N39 offers less developed trail options for experienced riders looking to avoid crowds. "Drive to the back area for tree shade and level grounds. Side of road camping. Camping on Ridgeline," suggests DJ M., highlighting the elevation advantages for cooler summer camping.
Fishing breaks between rides: Many equestrian campers combine riding with fishing opportunities, particularly at Modesto Reservoir. "Boys like coming here to relax and go in the water right next to the campsite. There is also a 1 Mile Orienteering Course which is used to train my boys to use a compass," reports Eddie N. from Modesto Reservoir.
What campers like
River proximity: Campers appreciate sites near water sources for horse watering and cooling off during hot months. "The campground's proximity to the Merced River offers convenient water access for horses after trail rides," explains a reviewer from North Pines Campground where "the river is close to the campgrounds and are refreshing on a hot day."
Secluded equestrian areas: Many riders prefer campgrounds that separate horse sites from general camping. "We were in the dry camping area which was right on the lake. We noted that the sites were very close together with no privacy, but that was ok since there were few people there," reports Mike A. about his experience at Lake Amador Resort during off-peak season.
Shade availability: In a region with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F, tree cover becomes essential. "Super fun spot went in September. Dirt road to get to spot is pretty rough but my Taurus wagon did just fine," notes Damien M. about Top of Arnold, which offers natural shade in dispersed camping areas.
What you should know
Seasonal facility limitations: Many equestrian campgrounds have inconsistent amenities. At Glory Hole Recreation Area, "the have no bathrooms or working showers lake is very low but nice view from our camp site," reports Drew C., while another camper noted, "Showers and bathrooms aren't working but otherwise a great place to camp."
Water levels affect access: Reservoir-based equestrian sites often suffer from low water levels, particularly in late summer. At Glory Hole Recreation Area, Tyna B. advises, "been going to the nearby Tuttletown camp for showers and working bathrooms while they work on Gloryhole."
Road conditions to dispersed sites: Forest Service roads used to access dispersed equestrian camping require appropriate vehicles. At Forest Route 4N39, Nick F. cautions, "you don't need 4x4 but you definitely will need a vehicle with some decent clearance. There are some weirdly purposefully placed speed bumps on the west end of the road."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Select sites with gentle water entry points for both horses and children. At Woodward Reservoir, Craig & Linda L. share, "On the T-Island sites you right on the water. Which is were we go. Both our kids family have Kayaks so that makes getting on the water great."
Space requirements: When camping with horses and families, prioritize larger sites. At Big Oak Glory Hole Area, Lori T. advises, "We liked site 106 in the Big Oak campground, but found others that were even better view wise. 116 and 117 had great views of a larger part of the lake."
Wildlife exposure for children: Many equestrian camps offer additional educational opportunities. "The wildlife is RIGHT THERE! We saw a tarantula near the tee box on 2. I woke up with 4 deer casually strolling through our campsite, a huge group of turkeys were cruising around the whole weekend," reports Christy L. from Lake Amador Resort.
Tips from RVers
Horse trailer parking constraints: RVers with horse trailers should carefully research site dimensions. At Yosemite Ridge, one camper reported, "We had reserved a spot in Coyote Lot, which we were told over the phone would be no problem. Upon arrival, the manager had his doubts but told us to 'put the truck in 4x4 and give it a go!'"
Generator restrictions: Many equestrian sites limit generator use to preserve trail tranquility. At North Pines, Sarah F. notes, "The only downside to the spot was everyone else had a RV and had there generators on at 6am. We are not RV people so we don't know why they need to run them. Next time we will camp in a tent only area."
