Cowboy Camp offers equestrian camping within the Cache Creek Wildlife Area, located about 50 miles north of Fulton. The camp serves as a starting point for riders accessing the Cache Creek trail system through oak woodlands and chaparral hills. Open year-round except during seasonal closures, this first-come, first-served campground includes vault toilets and trash service, though water sources for horses are limited. The camp accommodates both tent and RV camping in an open field setting with minimal shade.
What to do
Trail riding access points: The area connects to miles of trails suitable for various riding abilities. As one visitor notes: "Great free campground! We've stayed here many times. It's open, grassy level and quiet. Next to a stream and surrounded by hills. The only tough part is getting across the stream to some of the hikes."
Overnight beach trips: At Coast Campground, located 2 hours southwest of Fulton, campers can enjoy beach access with permit-required fires. "The beach offers tidepools close by as well as a great place for beach fire (permit needed). There are two routes to hike in. I prefer the longer Coast Trail (about half a mile longer) rather than the fireroad for it's scenic beauty," reports one regular visitor.
Wine country exploration: Skyline Wilderness Park provides a convenient base for exploring Napa Valley wineries. "A safe, beautiful, affordable property to spend outdoors time on. Convenient sites with complete hookup and also restroom/showers handy. The 800+ acres of hills, woods and fields offers archery, disc golf, hiking, horseback riding and more."
What campers like
Proximity to Sonoma Coast: Bodega Dunes Campground allows visitors to experience the Pacific coastline within a 90-minute drive of Fulton. "Short drives to the beach and town for candy and ice cream. Will definitely be back," shares one family camper. Another adds: "It is a rather large park area that overlooks Berkeley. It is great for biking (but be weary of the hills). It also has a great lake/pond area for anyone to relax at."
Wildlife viewing: The Cache Creek Wildlife Area surrounding Cowboy Camp provides opportunities to observe native species. According to visitors at similar camping areas: "We did see a few foxes, or the same fox a few times, so make sure to keep camp sites clean." This wildlife presence extends to birds, small mammals, and occasionally larger animals throughout the region.
Seasonal variations: Spring camping offers different experiences than summer or fall visits. One visitor to Ritchey Creek Campground notes: "Beautiful and close to downtown Calistoga however the campgrounds were infested with poison oak. Maybe just the time of year and because of so much rain this year? Not sure but it was thick and lush everywhere."
What you should know
Site selection considerations: At Wildcat Campground, site location affects privacy and wind exposure. "Sites 1-7 are located on the inland side of the Coast Trail just south of the junction with Firelane Trail. They're spread out in a scrub-brush area that provides a nice amount of privacy and protection for the wind."
Trail conditions: The dusty terrain at Cowboy Camp can vary seasonally, affecting both hikers and horses. In similar areas, campers note: "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."
Seasonal closures: Some horse camps close temporarily for maintenance or seasonal conditions. One visitor reported: "Visit was for 11/19/2024 found the gates locked, no entry. Seasonal? No signage to tell." Always check current status before planning an equestrian camping trip near Fulton.
Tips for camping with families
Bring adequate water supplies: When horse camping with families, water requirements increase substantially. For both human and equine needs, pack more than you think necessary. "This site served its purpose; spot to sleep after a long day of driving. The disbursed camping area was down a gravel road to the left next to the day use vault toilet through a cattle gate."
Consider noise levels: Family-friendly campgrounds vary in noise levels. "This is a great place for family, kids rode bikes all weekend. Nobody was too loud or partying late," notes a camper at Bodega Dunes.
Look for educational opportunities: Liberty Glen Campground offers learning experiences alongside camping. "I've been to Liberty Glen 3 times, and even in peak season the campground is never full. If you talk to the the ranger at the gate, most of the time they will let you drive around the grounds and pick any open site."
Tips from RVers
Levelness and access: RV sites at horse camps typically lack formal pads or hookups. "We always manage to level out in our 23" Winnebago View. There is lots of open space so no crowding. There is a rural road near by but traffic noise isn't a problem."
Dust management: The fine dusty soil common at equestrian sites requires extra cleaning precautions for RV systems. "No trees just dry open land inhabited by an unusual amount of flies. It was crazy how thick they were. An almost dry creek runs alongside the open field of camping pads."
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies throughout the region. "Cell phone coverage is good. Have both Verizon and Att with at least 2-3 bars. 10-12 Mbps down 4-5 Mbps up."
