Cowboy Camp provides dispersed camping options for equestrians near Forestville, California. The site sits at an elevation of approximately 1,200 feet in the Cache Creek Natural Area, offering a primitive camping experience in rolling grassland terrain. Vault toilets and basic facilities support campers in an open landscape that experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and cool winters.
What to do
Trail riding access points: The camp serves as a gateway to the Cache Creek trail system with multiple route options. One visitor noted, "The disbursed camping area was down a gravel road to the left next to the day use vault toilet through a cattle gate" and provides direct access to riding trails.
Explore nearby lakes: From Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, campers can access Lake Hennessey. As one visitor mentioned, "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!"
Beach activities: When seeking coastal alternatives to horse camping, Bodega Dunes Campground offers "great hikes to the dunes and to the beach. Go to the wharf near by to pick up some live crab to boil over the fire," according to one camper who enjoyed coastal activities.
What campers like
Natural setting: The open grassland environment appeals to many horse enthusiasts. A regular visitor reported, "Great free campground! We've stayed here many times. It's open, grassy level and quiet. Next to a stream and surrounded by hills."
Space and solitude: Many appreciate the uncrowded nature of dispersed equestrian sites. One camper at Wildcat Campground noted a similar appeal in their camping experience: "The sites are somewhat close together, but the whole vibe of the campground and other people there was so chill."
Proximity to wine country: The location offers access to wine regions while maintaining a rustic camping experience. At Ritchey Creek Campground, a visitor called it the "Best secret in Napa" and added, "Camping here leaves lots of money for food and wine splurges!"
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat affects comfort levels and increases insect activity. One camper warned about "FLIES!" saying "No trees just dry open land inhabited by an unusual amount of flies. It was crazy how thick they were."
Creek crossing challenges: Trail access may require navigating variable water levels. A visitor explained, "The only tough part is getting across the stream to some of the hikes. It's a hot spot for horses which of course have no stream problems."
Variable conditions: Camp status changes seasonally without clear notification. Recent visitors reported, "The camp area is closed, as of 2/9/2024. No indication of that on the BLM website" while another noted "Visit was for 11/19/2024 found the gates locked, no entry. Seasonal? No signage to tell."
Tips for camping with families
Alternative sites for amenities: Families seeking more facilities might prefer established campgrounds. At Skyline Wilderness Park, a camper reported, "A safe, beautiful, affordable property to spend outdoors time on. Convenient sites with complete hookup and also restroom/showers handy."
Activity options: Horse camping areas typically lack structured recreation for children. Consider destinations with multiple activities like Skyline Wilderness where "The 800+ acres of hills, woods and fields offers archery, disc golf, hiking, horseback riding and more."
Educational opportunities: Combine horse camping with cultural experiences. Near Cowboy Camp, one visitor recommended, "Go with a group or a romantic getaway. Experience northern California Coast and see where they filmed Hitchcock's 'The Birds.'"
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: The open field layout presents leveling challenges for larger vehicles. A regular visitor to Cowboy Camp shared, "We always manage to level out in our 23" Winnebago View. There is lots of open space so no crowding."
Waste management: With limited facilities, prepare for self-contained operation. One RVer at Coast Campground with similar primitive conditions advised, "There are no amenities (toilets). You must haul everything in and out on your boat (that includes your waste)."
Road access: Approach routes may include gravel sections requiring caution. A visitor mentioned, "There is a rural road near by but traffic noise isn't a problem. Perhaps I should say it's awful so fewer people come and it's not discovered."
