Equestrian camping near Elk Creek, California offers open grassland areas that connect to multiple trail systems through oak woodland and chaparral terrain. The region typically experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters, making spring and fall the optimal seasons for horse camping. Creek water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting crossing conditions for horses along multiple trails.
What to do
Trail riding through Cache Creek Wildlife Area: Access ridge trails from Cowboy Camp with routes suitable for beginner to intermediate riders. "Great free campground! We've stayed here many times. It's open, grassy level and quiet. Next to a stream and surrounded by hills," notes Jorg F., though he mentions "fly's sometimes" can be an issue.
Fishing excursions: Stony Gorge Reservoir offers shoreline fishing access 5 miles from Elk Creek with bass and catfish common catches. "The lake is amazing for swimming!" shares Cat C., who appreciates the free camping with "fire pits with grills and picnic tables at all the sites."
Wildlife viewing: Oak woodland habitat supports deer, turkey, and seasonal bird migrations. At Oak Flat Campground, Angela notes you can "watch elk, birds, lizards, toads/frogs on weekdays" though warns that "all but the hardiest of wildlife and people should avoid the weekends."
What campers like
Accessible vault toilets: Most equestrian camping areas maintain basic sanitation facilities year-round. According to keith B. at Oak Flat Campground, "The campground has vaulted toilets non-flushable of course. There is water at the campground except during the winter as they shut it off to keep the pipes from bursting."
Affordability: Horse camping sites near Elk Creek typically cost under $15 per night with some free options. Justin W. describes Middle Creek Campground as "dry but clean" and notes that while it lacks amenities, "If you come with that in mind I would say this place is really really nice. It's very clean."
Spacious parking areas: Camping areas accommodate horse trailers with pull-through parking designs. Michi P. confirms Middle Creek Campground has good trailer access: "Camped in Site 11, pull through, no hook ups, nice picnic table, grill and fire pit. Vault toilets, no showers."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Access roads may close during winter months or after heavy rainfall. Derek D. reports on Cowboy Camp: "The camp area is closed, as of 2/9/2024. No indication of that on the BLM website."
Limited water sources: Bring sufficient water for horses during summer months as natural sources may dry up. Donna M. notes that at Middle Creek, "They do have vault toilets and running water. It was $8.00 a nite but offered a discount with a America the beautiful pass."
Bug activity: Horse-friendly camping areas can attract significant insect populations, especially flies. Patricia Y. warns about Cowboy Camp: "No trees just dry open land inhabited by an unusual amount of flies. It was crazy how thick they were."
Road conditions: Mountain access roads require cautious driving with trailers. Justin W. cautions about Middle Creek: "Elk mountain road, especially the part leading up to the top of the mountain right as you leave the campground is an absolutely terrible road, it needs a lot of maintenance."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Bu-Shay Campground offers dedicated play structures for children. Joshua H. shares, "Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground which was an unexpected bonus."
Swimming opportunities: Several locations provide water recreation during summer months when not riding. Cat C. recommends Stony Gorge Reservoir where "the lake is amazing for swimming!"
Weekday visits: For quieter experiences with children, avoid weekends when possible. Angela observes at Oak Flat Campground that it's "Beautiful and peaceful on weekdays" but warns of weekend disruptions with "people yelling and/or blasting music, running dogs off leash, and then racing dirt bikes through the campground until 1 am."
Tips from RVers
Full-hookup alternatives: For RVers wanting amenities between trail riding days, Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot offers complete services. Gary R. notes, "Clean facilities, well maintained grounds and friendly neighbors. Conveniently located just off I-5, far enough away from the noise. Sites are level 75 ft pull through sites."
Potable water access: For equestrian sites without hookups, plan water usage carefully. Keith B. explains that at Oak Flat Campground, "There is water at the campground except during the winter as they shut it off to keep the pipes from bursting."
Generator policies: Check each campground's rules regarding generator use for horse camping areas. Steven at Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot mentions "Clean bathrooms in the remodeled facility, easy pull through spots fitting both big rvs and little vans like mine. Hot and windy, but very quiet little park and didn't hear highway at all."
