Horse Camp Primitive Campground and Philpot Campground offer dedicated equestrian opportunities in the Trinity County region northwest of Igo, California. The terrain consists primarily of forested mountain landscapes with elevations ranging from 1,500-2,500 feet. Camping areas near Igo typically experience hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional snow at higher elevations.
What to do
Trail riding access: Horse Camp Primitive Campground connects to multiple trail systems through Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity Recreation Area. "Nice clean outhouse and potable hand pump water. Picnic tables and trash bins provided as well as a fire pit. The only negative was the Carr fire that burned many trees in the area," notes Web H.
Fishing opportunities: Trinity County offers excellent fishing near camping areas. At Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, campers can access prime fishing spots. "We fished Lewiston lake less than 10 min. away and Whiskeytown Lake about 20-25 min. away with great luck. The little town of Lewiston is pretty cool and a 5 min walk from the campground as well is the trinity river," shares Corey L.
Wilderness exploration: The nearby Ishi Wilderness provides opportunities for solitude and wildlife viewing. "Go to this camp for the quiet. Hiking is good going up or down Mill Creek. Fly fishing good and rarely more than one other camp used," writes Gordon C. about Black Rock campground in Lassen National Forest.
What campers like
Natural water features: Creeks and rivers near horse campgrounds provide relief during hot summer months. "There's no power no running water they do have bathrooms and a creek runs through the campsite it's a very beautiful place with lush green forest all around!" says DirtyMountainBoy A. about Philpot Campground.
Stargazing conditions: The remote location offers exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "No cell service but starlink worked great," reports Jules S. about Horse Camp Primitive.
Privacy between sites: Many equestrian campers appreciate the space between camping areas. "There are only two camp sites reasonably far apart," notes Web H. about Horse Camp Primitive, while at Black Rock Campground, a camper mentions, "There were 6 campsites with tables and a fire rings...There was no cell service and alot of mosquitoes."
What you should know
Burn impacts: Wildfire damage has affected parts of the region. "The only negative was the Carr fire that burned many trees in the area," reports Web H. about Horse Camp Primitive Campground.
Road conditions: Access to horse camping areas typically requires navigating unpaved forest roads. "The road to get there was the only headache especially since we drove a small car. We made it but I'd definitely recommend something with a higher clearance," advises Kyle M. about Black Rock Campground.
Limited amenities: Most equestrian camping options are primitive. "This rustic campsite is just a few miles off of Highway 36 located off of Rattlesnake Road near Trinity Pines. There's no power no running water they do have bathrooms," notes DirtyMountainBoy A. about Philpot Picnic Area.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can spot diverse wildlife throughout the region. "We saw some salmon, deer, quail, and frogs. There was evidence of bears around our site but we didn't have any issues," shares Alissa C. about Black Rock Campground.
Water safety: Creeks and rivers provide recreation but require supervision. "The campground had a pit toilet and no running water. There was no cell service and alot of mosquitoes," notes Kyle M., highlighting the need for proper planning.
Entertainment alternatives: Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot offers family-friendly options when weather prevents outdoor activities. "We enjoyed a pull thru full hookup spot. We had our dogs and 5 year old with us. There was a fair amount of space between sites. We all enjoyed a meal at the steak house. After we let mama gamble as my daughter and I enjoyed the arcade, then we switched," explains Jason D.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Horse Camp Primitive accommodates larger vehicles but has challenging terrain. "Sites are SUPER uneven and not really defined. The picnic table/fire pit area has large boulders around them and a road runs right between both sites," warns Jules S.
Hookup availability: Full-service options are limited near Igo, with most horse-friendly sites offering minimal amenities. "Nice huge site with basically your own valued bathroom one other campsite shares. Perfect for dry camping with your rv if you want some extra quiet and privacy you could rent both sites at $20ea," suggests Valerie T. about Horse Camp Primitive.
Weather preparedness: Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F, requiring adequate cooling systems. "Great overnight stop. Surprisingly quiet! Level pull-thru sites, full hook-ups. $40, well worth the price when temps are 90+ and need your a/c," advises Mary S. about Rolling Hills.
