Equestrian camping near Fish Camp, California offers backcountry access at elevations ranging from 5,000-7,000 feet within Sierra National Forest and Yosemite's southern region. The area receives significant snowfall between November and April, with summer daytime temperatures typically ranging 70-85°F. Most horse-friendly camping options require advance planning due to limited availability during peak season.
What to do
Trail riding through Sierra National Forest: The forest surrounding Fish Camp provides extensive bridle paths with connections to Yosemite's southern trail system. "Quite a large level area, though it was November and not peak season so there were loads of space. We pulled in and there were a couple of trailers with horses and a couple of other vehicles and we parked with loads of space between," notes Kevin T. about Goat Meadow Dispersed Camp Site.
Day trips to Yosemite Valley: From most equestrian campsites, Yosemite Valley destinations are typically 1-1.5 hours by vehicle. "Great spot to camp when you're in Yosemite but want a more peaceful place to stay for the night," says Ala B. about staying at Goat Meadow while accessing park attractions.
Fishing opportunities: Several streams and small lakes offer trout fishing within 30 minutes of Fish Camp. "Beautiful scenery, clean, close to Yosemite, and easy to reach. As others have said, follow Mount Raymond Rd up until you see the sign for the snow play area, and look to the right," explains Derrick H.
What campers like
Proximity to Yosemite's south entrance: Most equestrian camping areas are within 20 minutes of Yosemite's gates. "Close to Yosemite entrance, which was great. Stayed about a week which also crossed over Memorial Day weekend," mentions Katelin M. about Goat Meadow, though she cautions, "if it's a holiday weekend and you leave camp headed into town be prepared for at least an hour in traffic due to backup from the park entrance."
Secluded camping options: The Big Sandy area provides more remote equestrian camping. "I love going there when I was younger," shares David M. about Big Sandy Campground, which offers more primitive accommodations away from crowds.
Multi-day trail access: From Wawona area campgrounds, riders can access extensive trail networks. "Bridalveil Creek Campground features drinking water, toilets, and trash service while still accommodating equestrians," notes R D., who stayed at North Pines Campground but adds important context: "North Pines is the busiest traditional campground in Yosemite Valley... This campground has amazing views of Half Dome and the Royal Arches Cascades."
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: The area has active bear and coyote populations requiring proper food storage. "Coyotes and bears are active in the area—coyotes raided a bag I had hanging from a tree and stole my food!" warns Alexander Mark C. about Goat Meadow.
Seasonal challenges: Spring access often involves muddy conditions while summer brings larger crowds. "When I was there recently, some of the 'campsites' had 0-3" [of snow], whereas other spots were about 6-8". Consequently, there were about 6-8 cars/vans that ended up camping in the parking lot of the snowplay area," explains Alexander Mark C.
Limited facilities: Most equestrian sites lack standard amenities. "This campground is primitive. 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," explains Rebecca L. about Granite Creek Campground, adding "There are a few small bear lockers scattered around the campground, but again, they're far apart and aren't very convenient."
Tips for camping with families
Bring adequate water: Most horse-friendly sites lack reliable water sources during summer. "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," says Mark G. about Granite Creek Campground, highlighting its versatility but primitive nature.
Consider alternative sites during peak season: When horse camps fill, check nearby options. "This site had loads of space. When we camped 1 car 2 tents on 4/11/25 there were a number of other people and plenty of spots to check out," notes Jonathan about Goat Meadow, mentioning "It's about 1 hour from the valley visitor center. Had great cell service through Verizon."
Pack for temperature swings: Elevation means significant day-to-night temperature changes of 30-40°F. "The elevation at the site is appx 5200, meaning it will get snow in the winter(ish) months," explains Alexander Mark C. about Sweetwater Campground, which is another option in the region where "Absolutely loved it here! No cellphone service, no showers, and one nature toilet. A true tent camping experience. Fell asleep to the raging river nearby," according to Bernadette A.
Tips from RVers
Size considerations: Most equestrian camps accommodate smaller trailers only. "Plenty of space for all vehicle sizes. Roads are very accessible. Nice and wooded," notes Ty P. about Goat Meadow, though this primarily applies to dispersed camping areas.
Road condition awareness: Forest roads can deteriorate rapidly after weather events. "The road getting there has tons of potholes and the road in the site is super super bumpy," cautions Paige about Goat Meadow.
Generator restrictions: Most sites enforce strict quiet hours and generator usage times. "At this point I had no cell signal and wasn't really sure what to expect ahead of me until I reached the park," writes Crystal C. about Sweetwater, adding "Single sites are $24 with additional vehicles $8 per. This is a bit higher than other forest camps I had stayed at, however in this area in comparison to some of the Yosemite pricing this is a fair pricing."
