Stough Reservoir Campground sits in the Warner Mountains at high elevation, creating distinct seasonal challenges for equestrian camping near Davis Creek, California. The campground road remains snow-covered into late spring despite official opening dates. Horse owners should anticipate temperature fluctuations, with overnight lows dropping to freezing even during summer months. The surrounding area offers several alternative equestrian-friendly camping options throughout Modoc County.
What to do
Trail riding from base camp: Riders at Stough Reservoir can access numerous Warner Mountain trails directly from their sites. According to Greg B., "I got the primo site across the water, solo spot with my own pit toilet. No cell service solitude with the high-passing jets as my only company." The isolated location provides peaceful starting points for day rides.
Rockhounding expeditions: Mud Creek Campground offers access to mineral collection areas. Ariel & John W. note, "Close to Hart Mtn Antelope Refuge. Would camp here again." The surrounding Fremont Winema National Forest contains numerous geological points of interest for riders who enjoy collecting specimens during trail breaks.
Wildlife viewing on horseback: The region provides opportunities to observe wildlife while riding. At Mud Creek, Kelly warns riders should "Be on the look out for rattlesnakes, ticks, and cows out here." Early morning and evening rides offer the best chances to spot antelope, deer, and numerous bird species while avoiding midday heat.
What campers like
Seasonal water sources: Fremont National Forest Mud Creek Forest Camp provides important water access during specific times. Kelly N. explains, "The creek is somewhat seasonal, but you can find a small stream on the road across from the campsite. Not enough water to go fishing or swimming." Horse owners appreciate these natural water sources during spring rides.
Private camping arrangements: The surrounding campgrounds offer secluded options for equestrian groups. Tom G. reported about Mud Creek Campground, "We had the place to ourselves till our friends showed up for the weekend." The large, separated sites allow horse owners to create comfortable arrangements with adequate space between rigs.
Affordable alternatives: Several campgrounds in the region provide free or low-cost options for equestrian camping. Ariel & John W. describe Mud Creek as "Beautiful, large, private & free" with "large private sites with fire rings and ginormous picnic tables plus vault toilets." These facilities provide economical alternatives to fee-based equestrian facilities.
What you should know
Road conditions affect access: Stough Reservoir Campground access varies significantly by season. Laura M. warns, "We tried to get to this campground but were blocked by too much snow in the road. Other than the snow the road was in good condition and easy to drive in our class c." Horse trailers require additional clearance considerations.
Facility limitations: Most campgrounds in the region offer minimal amenities. Tom N. describes Stough as "Primitive" noting "The campground is sparse and lacks flushing toilets, pit toilet is available. Check the area sign for fire restrictions or warnings of large animals in the area." Equestrians should prepare accordingly with sufficient supplies.
Insect concerns: Mosquitoes can affect both horses and riders in certain areas. Mike W. warned about Mud Creek: "It's a nice spot for a night but plan to stay inside the entire time. When I pulled up people were leaving and told me it's infested with mosquitoes to the point they'd rather go into town and get a hotel for the night." Horse owners should bring appropriate insect protection for both themselves and their animals.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection priorities: Families with horses should carefully choose specific locations. At Stough, Patricia N. notes, "There were 3 of the 8 sites that we could park our 26' fifth wheel trailer." Securing spots with adequate space for both horses and family equipment requires advance planning.
Weather preparation essentials: Modoc Camp and surrounding equestrian areas experience significant temperature fluctuations. Families should pack appropriate clothing layers as temperatures at Stough can drop to "26 degree morning" conditions even in May according to Greg B. Children need extra warm bedding regardless of season.
Activity alternatives: Families with varied interests benefit from multiple recreation options beyond horseback riding. Edna S. mentions that near Mud Creek "there is fishing nearby," providing non-riding family members with alternatives when not on horseback.
Tips from RVers
Rig size limitations: Fremont National Forest Cottonwood Complex Campground and most area sites have significant size constraints for horse trailers combined with RVs. Mike W. cautions about Mud Creek: "I'd also like to add I'm towing a 30 foot TT and my roof was touching the tree branches on the way in. I would not recommend a 5th wheel or anything longer. It's tight."
Road clearance requirements: RVers with horse trailers must carefully evaluate approach roads. Nicolaus N. states the Mud Creek road is "well maintained. Paved roadway." However, other campgrounds feature gravel access that deteriorates seasonally, requiring higher clearance vehicles for safe passage with horse trailers.
Campsite arrangement planning: RVers with horse trailers need specific site layouts. Campgrounds like Stough offer limited options as Patricia N. observes, "We did not camp because we were doing a campground recon. There were 3 of the 8 sites that we could park our 26' fifth wheel trailer." Advance scouting helps identify viable configurations for combined RV and horse trailer setups.
