Equestrian camping near Sonoma, California features both coastal and inland options ranging from full-service parks to primitive sites. The region's Mediterranean climate creates ideal riding conditions through spring and fall, with average daytime temperatures between 65-80°F. Winter camping remains viable with proper preparation as overnight temperatures rarely drop below 40°F in lower elevations, though coastal areas experience frequent fog and wind.
What to Do
Trail riding at Point Reyes: The Coast Campground at Point Reyes National Seashore offers multiple hiking paths that connect to scenic coastal vistas. "The hike to the campsite went by fast. Only 1.8 miles, not too bad on the elevation gain either," shares Char A., who adds that "the beach was sandy and beautiful, not that many people around."
Beach exploration with horses: Bodega Dunes Campground permits equestrian access to miles of coastal shoreline. "Hiking among the sand dunes and along the beach provide some really stunning scenery. Reaching the beach, you'll find as much coastal sand as you can handle with miles and miles of it to yourself," notes Shari G.
Volcanic trail riding: Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve features unique volcanic terrain suitable for experienced riders. "The Volcanic Trail, once a quarry haul road, contains most of the stops on the self-guided volcanic tour," explains Elliott B., adding that "bikes are allowed on the fire trail, but there are lots of hikers and dog walkers in this park so be mindful."
What Campers Like
Lake access at Ritchey Creek Campground: Located in Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, this site offers water access for horses. "We found a great trail close by at Lake Hennessey. If you're a wine drinker, during non-COVID times you can catch a wine bus from here!" mentions Peter M., highlighting the campground's versatility.
Privacy between sites: Anthony Chabot Regional Park features separated camping areas ideal for horse trailers. "The sites are free form and come as you are, basically you're assigned to a section and you camp where there room to do so," explains Leanne R., adding that "sites backs up to Wilderness and saw a doe within 10 mins of setting up camp just a few steps away."
Equestrian-friendly coastal camping: Wildcat Campground in Point Reyes offers terrain suitable for both riders and horses. "The six mile hike to reach the campground is stunning. The hike changes drastically over the course of the six miles ranging from lush forests to grassy fields to breathtaking coastal views," notes Michaela C., describing the trail variety.
What You Should Know
Seasonal considerations: Coast Campground experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "During the day it actually got pretty hot at our campsite (#1), lots of exposure probably around low 70s. At night it did get chilly, 38-39 degrees F, nothing a good sleeping bag couldn't fix," reports Char A.
Water availability: Bothe-Napa Valley State Park provides limited water access for horses. "Be careful of the poison oak, it is prevalent there as it is so anywhere in Northern California," warns Robert S., highlighting an important safety consideration.
Trail conditions: Some trails near Bodega Dunes Campground require preparation for sand. "I have to confess that I feel pretty silly for not being as prepared for the sand as I should have been from the name of the campground. Who would have thought!?" admits Michael I., adding "We walked around sites 22-55 and all seem to be entirely on the sand. Come prepared to deal with sand."
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Anthony Chabot Regional Park offers accessible recreation for families with horses. "There are plenty of easily accessible hiking and biking trails in the area. While you can get down to the lake easily, there's no swimming for either dogs or humans," notes Lori T., cautioning about water restrictions.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Skyline Wilderness Park features abundant wildlife for children to observe. "Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly seen!" reports Adam B., highlighting the natural educational opportunities.
Playground access: Liberty Glen at Lake Sonoma includes facilities for children. "There is also a playground on site, with multiple trails. When hiking in the area be aware of the local wild boar problem," advises April H., providing important safety information.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Bodega Dunes Campground offers varying levels of privacy and shade. "The campground was clean with sites that were easy to back into. The sites were separated by trees and shrubbery, give the feeling of a more privacy. We were in site 60 and thought it was very nice," shares Jon M.
Utility connections: Skyline Wilderness Park provides essential hookups for horse trailers. "RV Campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa," notes Rich J., giving perspective on the tradeoffs.
Supply planning: Liberty Glen Campground requires preparation for supplies. "Bring everything you need, the closest store is in Cloverdale, 20 minutes away," warns April H., highlighting the importance of advance planning when traveling with horses.
