Ribbonwood Equestrian Campground is one of several specialized horse campgrounds near Coolidge Springs, California, situated in the San Bernardino National Forest at 5,500 feet elevation. The campground offers equestrian-specific facilities that accommodate riders wanting to explore mountain terrain in the Idyllwild area. Located approximately 30 miles from Coolidge Springs, this destination provides cooler temperatures than the desert floor, with typical summer highs reaching 85°F and winter temperatures dropping below freezing.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Access multiple wilderness trails directly from Ribbonwood Equestrian Campground, where Diana F. notes, "Good campsite, has the coolest hike trails, and the nights are really beautiful. It was so much fun and I would definitely come back."
Fishing at nearby lakes: Lake Cahuilla County Park offers stocked fishing opportunities about 35 minutes from Coolidge Springs. Berton M. mentions that at nearby parks, "wildlife is everywhere; bees, coyotes, hawks, rabbits," making the surrounding areas ideal for wildlife observation while fishing.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: The mountain terrain around Paso Picacho Campground provides extensive biking networks with varied difficulty levels. According to Joseph W., there are "Lots of sounds and sites to explore!! The spaces all had water and fire rings with tables."
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Several equestrian campgrounds in the mountains offer minimal light pollution. Patrick M. describes Lake Cahuilla as having "Dark, beautiful skies at night. Good hiking trail into the mountains, with the trailhead near the entrance to the campground."
Seasonal temperatures: The mountain elevation provides relief from desert heat. According to Beverley G., "Stayed at the start of May as I had appointments in Indio. Wonderfully quiet, hardly anyone else here. Trees provided some shade and the surrounding mountains are beautiful plus there's mountain hiking trails nearby."
Privacy between sites: Unlike many crowded campgrounds, equestrian sites typically offer more space. At Stagecoach Trails Resort, Dustin A. notes, "Beautiful location, secluded, lots of space to get a big trailer in. It's off the beaten path, staying here for a few days, really like it!"
What you should know
Winter conditions require preparation: Mountain horse campgrounds near Coolidge Springs experience significant temperature drops at night. Diana F. warns about Ribbonwood: "The nights are beyond cold. I would definitely come back, I'd just need more blankets."
Water availability varies by season: Natural water sources along trails fluctuate with rainfall. At Vallecito County Park, Eric D. notes, "There are fire rings and tables at every site with water sources every few sites."
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons (spring and fall), advance bookings are essential. According to Laura M., "Online reservation fee is $8 but you don't have to pay that if you show up and pay on site."
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife interaction near equestrian camps. Eric D. observes, "Tons of coyotes! They're tricky and smart, so stay sharp at night on walks with furry ones."
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