Loafer Creek Horse Campground offers equestrian-specific facilities within the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area, about 60 miles northeast of Corning, California. The terrain surrounding this horse camp features oak woodland trails with elevation changes from 900 to 1,400 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F between June and September, while spring and fall provide milder conditions for trail riding.
What to do
Trail riding access: Several established riding trails connect directly from the campground, allowing equestrians to explore Lake Oroville's shoreline and surrounding hills without trailering horses. At Black Rock Campground, "there are some nice places to fish that are just a short walk from the campsites and the campsites are nicely shaded to help cut the heat during the day. We saw some salmon, deer, quail, and frogs," notes alissa C.
Water recreation: While focused on equestrian use, Loafer Creek offers proximity to Lake Oroville for water activities after trail rides. At nearby Bidwell Canyon Campground, campers report: "If you are looking for a small campground with full hookups, on the lake, close to Table Mountain and Feather Falls, this is for you... We enjoyed Kayaking on Thermaliro Forbay," according to Crystyn C.
OHV exploration: For those wanting motorized recreation near horse campgrounds around Corning, several forest service routes offer options. "This is an ideal Campground for those with OHV's. As you pass thru an off road vehicle area on way up to campsite," shares Ann N. about Surveyor Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Horse camping areas typically provide more space between sites than standard campgrounds. At Horse Camp Primitive Campground, "There are only two camp sites reasonably far apart. Nice clean outhouse and potable hand pump water. Picnic tables and trash bins provided as well as a fire pit," mentions Web H.
Clean facilities: The maintenance of horse corrals and common areas receives positive mentions. Campers at Loafer Creek note well-maintained grounds with Patricia O. sharing about the Lake Oroville area: "The staff where we checked in were helpful with all of our questions about the area. We never felt crowded in our campsite here."
Seasonal camping options: Year-round availability allows for different trail riding experiences. "Pleasant setting in the trees. Only 3 other campsites in use that we noticed in October. The lake is super low, but a pleasant campground on our way home," reports Miriam B. about her fall visit to Loafer Creek.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Horse camping areas require advance booking, particularly during peak riding seasons. This helps ensure corral availability for your animals.
Water levels fluctuate: Lake access points change with reservoir levels. Chris M. notes about Loafer Creek: "The water was nearly a mile walk to the boat ramp and almost 2 miles to a 'beach' that was closed. New construction might make some of this better."
Challenging access roads: Some equestrian camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. When accessing Stony Gorge Reservoir, be prepared for unpaved roads leading to campsites, though once there, campers report: "This campground is free!!! It has lots of vault toilets and trash cans, but there is no running water."
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity occurs near horse camps. "There was evidence of bears around our site but we didn't have any issues," reports alissa C. about Black Rock Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Bring adequate water supplies: Horse camping often means limited water facilities. Bonnie M. explains: "The campsites are clean and include picnic table, firepit and plenty of shade. Water pumps near the sites. Vault toilets, hot water and showers."
Choose level sites: Some areas have terrain challenges. "Most of the sites were not very level," notes Chris M. about Loafer Creek, making site selection important for comfortable family camping.
Plan for extreme heat: Summer temperatures require preparation. Ethan T. describes Loafer Creek as a "Sparse campground and hot. But good sites and great location."
Tips from RVers
RV-compatible horse camps: Not all equestrian sites accommodate larger vehicles. Valerie T. shares about Horse Camp Primitive Campground: "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."
Full hookup alternatives: For RVers needing more amenities near riding areas, consider casino campgrounds. Gary R. notes about Rolling Hills Casino: "Clean facilities, well maintained grounds and friendly neighbors. Conveniently located just off I-5, far enough away from the noise. Casino, restaurants, doggy daycare and golf just next door. Sites are level 75 ft pull through sites."
