Cuneo Creek Horse Camp sits 30 miles from Garberville within Humboldt Redwoods State Park. The seasonal facility operates in a remote location accessed via Mattole Road, which includes steep grades requiring careful navigation. Trail riders encounter terrain ranging from shaded redwood paths to exposed ridgelines throughout the park, with water available on-site for horses.
What to do
Trail riding through old-growth forests: Access multiple bridle paths from Richardson Grove RV and Campground, which serves as a convenient base for equestrian activities. "Been camping at Richardson Grove RV Park for the past 20+ years. It's a large campground and great for large groups our group is usually about 60+ people," notes one regular visitor who returns annually for July 4th celebrations.
Beach exploration with horses: Take your horses to the coastal areas near Mattole Campground where riders can experience beach terrain. "This area is just unbelievably gorgeous. Some rough roads but well worth it," reports one equestrian. The campground provides access to multiple riding paths with ocean views.
Backcountry camping: Camp at more remote horse campgrounds near Garberville, California when seeking a genuine wilderness experience. "This is a great little spot never too many people here nice and quiet lots of forest around it good for hiking and just good scenery all the way around," describes a visitor to Philpot Campground in the Trinity National Forest area.
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Camp Mattole offers a quiet retreat for equestrians and regular campers alike. "Wonderfully remote. Excellent weather in August. Chilly at night if wind starts to blow. I love the remoteness of this place, it is California's lost coast," shares one camper who appreciated the laid-back community feel.
Redwood access: Horse camping facilities provide direct access to magnificent redwood groves. "The huge oaks are worth it alone. The host was attentive and very helpful. It's a bit down in the heels but things worked well enough and the setting it gorgeous," reports a visitor to Richardson Grove who appreciated the natural surroundings despite rustic amenities.
Ocean proximity: The Lost Coast region provides unique coastal riding opportunities. "I stopped in at this site as I thought it was dispersed. It's ran by the BLM so it was $15. Sites are level, there is trash bins and paths to the ocean," notes a Mattole Campground visitor who found the oceanside location worthwhile despite chilly, windy conditions.
What you should know
Challenging access roads: Most horse campgrounds in this region require navigating difficult roads. "In my opinion some of the best camping I've done on the California coast. So worth paying the $15 a night fee to camp. Getting there was so slow and tedious for me. The road from Ferndale (Mattole road) is paved but very rough in some places. Took me three hours to go 30 miles," cautions a visitor to Mattole Beach Campground.
Limited amenities: Bring sufficient supplies when visiting remote horse camps. "No power no running water they do have bathrooms and a creek runs through the campsite it's a very beautiful place with lush green forest all around," reports a Philpot Campground visitor about the basic facilities available.
Seasonal considerations: Campgrounds in the region experience significant weather variations. "I was here in June and it was still pretty chilly and windy. Overall a good spot off the beaten path. Lots of hiking paths," explains a Mattole Beach camper, highlighting how coastal conditions remain cool even during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Fairground convenience: Humboldt County Fairgrounds offers family-friendly equestrian facilities with more amenities than backcountry options. "We were there at first with just a couple RVs there. By the end of the four days - it was filling up and was still quiet. The showers were nice. Ferndale is a gorgeous old Victorian town and you are still close to eureka," recommends a family who appreciated the safety and convenience.
River access: Look for campgrounds with water features for children's activities. "Very quiet area to get away and relax. The noyo river runs right through the middle of the campground," notes a visitor to Jackson Demonstration Forest, which offers creek play areas along with horse-friendly trails.
Group camping options: Several area campgrounds accommodate large family gatherings with horses. "There was a massive group site that would be gorgeous for a family gathering too," shares a Jackson Demonstration Forest camper who found the spacious layout ideal for multi-family events.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Richardson Grove RV and Campground provides essential services for those traveling with horse trailers and RVs. "Having the gas station right next to the campground is great since you can go buy anything you need/run out of such as sodas and beer oh and ice also," mentions a regular visitor who appreciates the convenience during hot summer days.
Parking considerations: Find level sites that accommodate both RVs and horse trailers. "Plenty of room for all RV's large to small. 30 & 50 amp power and water. Clean restrooms, heated and free," reports a Humboldt County Fairgrounds visitor, though they caution about potentially muddy conditions during wet seasons.
Reservation timing: Most equestrian facilities near Garberville fill quickly during peak seasons. "I drove up on a Friday in July and was able to get a spot. The campground filled up by 5:00 Friday night and stayed full the rest of the weekend," shares a Jackson Demonstration Forest visitor, highlighting the importance of early arrival for first-come, first-served sites.
