L
Lani B.
Guide
GuideGoat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
Loads of space! Not many people here in October. Park lot had two trailers and the trail to the right is wide open with numerous pullouts. Lots of great trails around for the dogs.
Equestrian Camping near Devils Postpile National Monument, CA
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Horse-friendly campgrounds are limited near Devils Postpile National Monument. Agnew Meadows Group Camp accommodates equestrians seeking access to the wilderness areas but lacks dedicated horse corrals. The campground provides standard amenities including picnic tables, fire pits, potable water, and vault toilets. Sites are well maintained with bear lockers at each location. The natural meadow setting offers space for horse trailers, though riders should bring portable containment systems as no permanent equine facilities exist on site. Campers report sites are spacious enough for both camping equipment and equestrian needs when properly arranged.
Trails from Agnew Meadows connect directly to multiple wilderness riding routes including access to Devils Postpile National Monument and surrounding backcountry areas. Riders can access the Pacific Crest Trail and John Muir Trail systems from this location. The campground operates seasonally from June through September, with trail conditions best during mid-summer months when snowmelt has receded. Horse owners must pack in feed and manage waste appropriately as no manure disposal facilities exist. Wilderness permits are required for overnight backcountry trips with horses beyond the developed camping areas. Reds Meadow Resort nearby offers additional services for riders, including the option to arrange pack trips into the surrounding wilderness with their stable operation during peak season.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Devils Postpile National Monument (25)
1. Twin Lakes Campground
"Stayed at shaded site 4 next to main road between main lodge and store. Site was a little sloped for 24' RV. Clean flush toilets with sinks. Easy walk to store and main lodge."
"Twin lakes is Located in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains near the town of Mammoth Lakes, California. Upper and lower twin lakes are a fantasic place to set up base camp and explore the sierras."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $34 / night
2. Silver Lake Campground at June Lake
"Although this campground is located in the midst of so much dramatic beauty, few campgrounds capture that beauty like this one."
"Each site was spacious and far enough away from your neighbors to have privacy. Some sites had natural brush coverage, some sites more open."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $32 - $64 / night
3. Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside
"Multiple locations near by not listed. It gets a bit dusty and windy. Lots of off road vehicles. All the camper vans rolled in after dark and it filled up quick."
"Easy access to all vehicles except some areas that may need a little higher clearance. Nicely secluded but not many great open views in the area since it is in the Forrest among the trees."
4. Reds Meadow Campground
"After driving around every overcrowded campground in mammoth lakes we were lucky enough to find this campsite on Dyrt. It had many open spots even in July with beautiful views of nearby mountains."
"It’s within walking distance to Lake Sotcher as well as Reds Meadow Pack station and trailheads for Rainbow Falls and Devils Postpile."
5. Agnew Meadows Group Camp
"These sites are well maintained and include fire pits, bear lockers and close access to restrooms, water and dumpster. Tree cover helps keep it cool."
"Some of the sites offer nice privacy and are tucked into trees and meadows. Only downside was the mosquitos but I know they are everywhere."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $50 - $99 / night
6. Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
"After accidentally driving to this location following the directions of another reviewer for the “Yosemite Boondocks” campground across 41 (which we never found) we were very happy with this location."
"Great spot about 5 minutes away from Yosemite entrance. Only a few other campers nearby but plenty of space to where they were only seen from a distance."
7. Thousand Island Lake Backcountry
"Thousand Island Lake is a trek to get to but once you get there, well you don’t really want to leave."
"Thousand Island Lake is a backcountry camping area located at 9,839 feet elevation in Ansel Adams Wilderness within the Inyo National Forest, California."
Check Availabilityfrom $5 / night
8. Granite Creek Campground
"If you wanna get away and camp next to a river and down a trail and shoot your gun or go fishing you can freedom you can horseback ride if you have horses he can fish there are fish there trout it's beautiful"
"There are pit toilets, but they are located only on the upper loop, so the sites in the lower loop are quite far away, so be prepared to dig a hole."
9. North Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park
"Great location right in the middle of Yosemite Valley. Great access to beautiful hikes and scenery. The camp sites are spacious."
"There is a shuttle stop right outside the campground. You are also in easy walking distance to the path to Mirror Lake and the ever popular Mist Trail."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $48 / night
10. Mono Hot Springs
"I agree the road out is pretty scary I don't advise trailers but I have seen them while driving in. It is one lane and you must pull out for opposing traffic."
"Our campground was right next to the river, and hiking trails to lakes, meadows and hot springs run directly off of the campground. The host was wonderful, it was all around perfect."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $37 - $78 / night
Drive Time
- 5 hrs 28 min from Visalia, CA
- 5 hrs 36 min from Hanford, CA
- 5 hrs 37 min from Merced, CA
- 5 hrs 58 min from Fresno, CA
Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Devils Postpile National Monument
2 Photos of 25 Devils Postpile National Monument Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Equestrian Camping Reviews near Devils Postpile National Monument
208 Reviews of 25 Devils Postpile National Monument Campgrounds
Rav H.GuideGoat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
This is actually a really nice free dispersed camping site. Once you get to the Goat Meadows sign if you go left you will find a large parking lot with bathrooms. There were probably ten rigs or so jst camping up on the parking lot. If you go right down the hill you will find multiple dispersed camping sites. They are a little obscure, but some have nice fire rings that let you know it’s a site. They are very well spaced so even when you have neighbors you will hardly see or hear them. At the top of the hill where you go left or right was a camp host looking site but not sure if it is actually, but there was a camper there with a bumper pull trailer who uses a very loud shop type cheap generator that you can literally hear all over the area. Luckily, he turned it off about 10pm but started it up around 8am. If it weren’t for him probably would have given this site five stars. Also, T-Mobile and ATT both had zero cell service our phones were both on SOS but that really wasn’t a problem for us.
Nick B.GuideGoat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
Great dispersed spot
We came here in October and had no issues finding a spot. We stayed in the parking lot but there are also more remote spots if you continue to the right that are suitable for vans, truck campers, and tents. This area is only minutes from the west entrance to Yosemite and Mariposa Grove and 40 minutes from the valley. The parking lot is big-rig friendly but could fill up quick during the summer. There are on-site vault toilets and dumpsters.
Samantha M.GuideTwin Lakes Campground
One of my faves
Clean and spacious. Water was just a short walk away. Amazing views all around the campground. Restrooms were always clean.
Zack P.
ScoutTwin Lakes Campground
Beautiful Campsite
I had a huge campsite site-one camping spot over from the lakeside. the whole back of the site open to forest-46a (this is a prime cluster of sites). Close to what are probably the cleanest, best maintained bathrooms in the park system (cleaned twice daily). The Mamouth lakes area is not for campers seeking solitude, it's just too popular an area for that. However, despite a lot of people around, it is beautiful and stunning area nevertheless!
There is one thing to note-don't forget to bring clothes to layer up with as it can turn cold and windy without a moment's notice. In fact, because of a relentless, daily wind, it was the only camping spot I felt compelled to fully stake down my large Wonderland Tent. all summer...
Another highlight of Mamouth is there are plenty of fish at nearby lakes-this area is considered one of the best regions in USA for trophy trout. The Lakes are also stocked with plenty of good-sized trout for eating; however, Twin Lakes is not the best lake for shore fishing-you need a boat or float to get to the best spots-plus, it is a very weedy as well.
Besides GREAT FISHING, you are nearby to a dozen FANTASTIC day hikes and there are many more great hikes for a bit longer drive- this is a day-hikers paradise!
If the lack of solitude doesn't bother you (find it by hiking), it is also nice camping area for extended stays because you are so close to the town of Mammoth Lakes-it has good restaurants, bakeries, ice cream, and a Vons supermarket (best price on ice here),
All in All, it was a great place to pitch my REI Wonderland Tent for a week and I highly recommend it.
- LLeonard H.
RangerTwin Lakes Campground
Near Paved Bike / Hike Trail
Stayed at shaded site 4 next to main road between main lodge and store. Site was a little sloped for 24' RV. Clean flush toilets with sinks. Easy walk to store and main lodge. Paved bike/walking trail a big plus. Showers were closed at store. Water available. A little windy and chilly on lake but site protected under trees. Free shuttle stops nearby if want to visit town or upper lakes.
Hans V.RangerGoat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
Close to Yosemite
Many spots on a very dusty and bumpy patch of forest just taking a right before the snowplay area. Many other boondockers, including one with a generator. Our spot had previously been used by horses evidenced by the pile of dung next to a tree. Smelled a bit funny. But as it is free, shouldn't complain of course - perfectly fine as a stop before or after Yosemite.
Ashlyn H.GuideScenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside
Lots of Spots! 2WD accessible
So many spots! The road just keeps going back! Lots are pretty far off the road, so very quiet and dark.
- Hans V.Ranger
Twin Lakes Campground
Wooded, nice, and free shuttle!
Nice in the woods, closed to small twin lakes that have rowing boat rental. Clean restrooms. Quite well spaced but 2-in-1 pads. No showers (normally there is one at the shop, but closed). Free shuttle up/down the mountain is a big plus.
Guide to Devils Postpile National Monument
Equestrian camping options near Devils Postpile National Monument extend beyond Agnew Meadows Group Camp. The monument sits at 7,560 feet elevation within the Inyo National Forest, with surrounding camping areas ranging from 7,200 to 9,800 feet. Weather patterns can shift rapidly at these elevations, with summer afternoon thunderstorms common and nighttime temperatures dropping significantly even during peak season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Visitors at Twin Lakes Campground can enjoy productive angling. "The fishing at Twin Lakes was really good! We always sea bald eagles here while fishing," notes Taylor, highlighting the dual wildlife viewing and fishing experience available.
Hot springs exploration: At Mono Hot Springs, equestrians can rejuvenate after trail rides. "There are multiple NATURAL HOT SPRINGS!! There are several different pools located across the river from the campgrounds. They are all over the hillside and range in temperature from lukewarm to bath water to Hot," explains Mollie M., describing the varied thermal options.
Backcountry access: Campers looking to venture deeper into wilderness areas with horses can base at Reds Meadow. Anthony K. reports, "There's a restaurant (diner food) that's open 8am - 6pm & also a general store that sells all your camping needs," making it a practical staging area for extended rides.
What campers like
River proximity: At Reds Meadow Campground, riders appreciate the natural water sources. "Sites are well maintained and spaced well apart for privacy," notes Sallie H., mentioning that the campground offers "bathrooms with running water and flush toilets" that complement the equestrian-friendly facilities.
Mountain views: Equestrians at Silver Lake Campground appreciate the scenic backdrop for trail rides. "This campsite is gorgeous - it is located within a valley surrounded by beautiful mountains. The host was wonderful and helpful and the campsites are very well spaced," explains Rachel C.
Wildlife encounters: Horse campers regularly report wildlife sightings from their campsites. Natasha M. warns about proper storage at Reds Meadow: "There are a lot of bears in the area and they are relatively comfortable around humans, one walked through our site and other campers sites while we were there so make sure to keep all food and items that may have scent in the bear boxes provided."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Secure spots early, especially for horse groups. "We decided to take a last minute trip to Mammoth Mountain to test a few new pieces of camping gear out. Campground was probably 75% full with mostly RV's and trailers," notes Jason F. about Twin Lakes, reflecting the popularity of area campgrounds.
Trail access considerations: For horse riders, Thousand Island Lake Backcountry offers exceptional terrain but requires preparation. Dave V. explains: "This incredible dispersed backcountry camping area must: Be hiked into, Possess a permit, Use approved bear canisters, Leave No Trace."
Road conditions: Access can be challenging for horse trailers in some areas. Chris M. describes the route to Mono Hot Springs: "The last 18 miles over Kaiser Pass took 1.5 hours. A sub-par road surface little bigger than one lane in many places made transit interesting," which is important for equestrians with trailers to consider.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping provides access to multiple recreation areas. "Great location, close enough to town or Tioga Pass if you wish to visit Yosemite. A bit buggy so be aware," notes Sharni, offering insights for family planning.
Wildlife education: Teach children proper protocols around horses and wildlife. "Keep your food in the bear lockers, they have daily visitors late in the evening and throughout the night," advises Jason F. from Twin Lakes Campground, highlighting the importance of wildlife safety for all ages.
Temperature preparation: Pack appropriate clothing for dramatic temperature changes. Jonathan G. advises: "Remember that you're at elevation so it can get cold at night even in the summer. Twin Lakes and all of the surrounding Mammoth area is gorgeous."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Granite Creek Campground, Rebecca L. notes, "The sites are fairly far apart and private. It's a great 'get away from it all' campground," which benefits RVers seeking space for horses and equipment.
Generator limitations: Most campgrounds restrict generator hours. Heather P. shares about Silver Lake: "I am a tent camper and at this time of the year it is COLD. Most of the folks were in RVs," indicating RV campers should prepare for alternative heating solutions during restricted generator hours.
Road clearance concerns: Horse trailers require careful navigation. Chris M. advises about Mono Hot Springs access: "RV usage prohibited and likely not possible over Kaiser Pass... We did take our Eurovan there, and saw a Vanagon. Mostly trucks and jeeps," which is critical information for RVers with horse trailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian
campsite near Devils Postpile National Monument?
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Devils Postpile National Monument?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Devils Postpile National Monument is Twin Lakes Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 17 reviews.
What is the best site to find
equestrian camping near
Devils Postpile National Monument?
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Devils Postpile National Monument?
TheDyrt.com has all 25 equestrian camping locations near Devils Postpile National Monument, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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