Loafer Creek Horse Campground sits within the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area, approximately 25 miles east of Chico. This equestrian-focused facility remains open year-round, with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters rarely dropping below freezing. The campground connects to multiple trail systems accommodating riders of various skill levels, with routes extending through oak woodland and chaparral ecosystems characteristic of the northern Sierra foothills.
What to do
Trail riding access: Ride directly from your campsite to explore several miles of horse-friendly trails around Lake Oroville. At Bidwell Canyon Campground, another Lake Oroville facility, one camper noted, "We stayed here for a trip to Feather Falls, then Table Mountain on the way home. There are local hiking trails, and of course all kinds of water recreation at the lake."
Fishing opportunities: Access fishing spots within riding distance of your corral. The surrounding area offers both lake and stream fishing. As one visitor at Stony Gorge Reservoir mentioned, "The lake is amazing for swimming!" while another Bidwell Canyon camper reported, "Nice lake, great fishing."
Swimming access: Cool off after trail rides at Lake Oroville's swimming areas, though water levels fluctuate seasonally. A camper at Bidwell Canyon noted: "Unfortunately the beach access/swimming area has turned into a meadow which was nice to see deer but there wasn't a place for the little ones to swim (but that's the drought out here for you)."
What campers like
Clean facilities: The horse campground maintains well-kept facilities despite its specialized focus. At Whitehorse Campground, one visitor remarked, "Bathrooms are kept clean and stocked 2-3x a day. We have done both tent only and loop A and don't have many complaints."
Spacious corrals: Each site provides adequate room for horses and equipment. At Loafer Creek Horse Campground, a visitor observed, "The campsites are clean and include picnic table, firepit and plenty of shade. Water pumps near the sites. Vault toilets, hot water and showers."
Attentive camp hosts: Staff members provide assistance with local information and emergencies. A visitor to Loafer Creek Horse Campground commented, "Camp hosts were very nice and always on site."
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Lake Oroville's water level varies significantly throughout the year, affecting shoreline access. A camper at Black Rock Campground noted, "Lakefront is a plus, great if you're in the area...probably not worth a trip unless you're boating."
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites in the area require strategic positioning for trailers and equipment. At Loafer Creek, one camper observed, "Most of the sites were not very level."
Limited amenities: The horse campground lacks electrical hookups and water connections at individual sites. A Loafer Creek visitor commented, "There was nearly a mile walk to the boat ramp and almost 2 miles to a 'beach' that was closed."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The surrounding area offers chances to spot local wildlife from safe distances. At Bidwell Canyon, a camper shared, "Just got back yesterday from a weekend trip with the family. The campground is huge 137 sites in 3 groups... The sites/bathrooms were all very clean, didn't smell at all."
Heat preparation: Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F, requiring shade and hydration planning. A Bidwell visitor advised, "Unfortunately this weekend was 108 or so as highs, so it was a very hot weekend. The campground would likely be better in late September/October."
Beach access planning: Check current water levels before promising lake activities to children. As noted at Sly Creek Campground, "With pristine wilderness surrounding your tent, you can camp alongside the beautiful reservoir. We enjoyed our camping trip immensely and enjoyed getting into our kayaks and on to the water."
Tips from RVers
Approach challenges: The access roads to horse campgrounds near Chico require careful navigation with trailers. One visitor to Loafer Creek noted the "hour long drive with a trailer down the wash board road."
Water and waste management: Plan for limited hookups when visiting with horses and RVs. At Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot, a camper observed, "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."
Reservation timing: Book early for equestrian sites during peak seasons, especially summer weekends. A Rolling Hills visitor advised, "Made a reservation 44 minutes before arriving. Quick check in. Great for overnight."
