Lake San Antonio North Shore equestrian camping area sits at approximately 800 feet elevation in the oak woodlands of central California. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F and mild winters with occasional rainfall. Equestrian campers should note that the area connects to over 15 miles of marked bridle paths that traverse diverse terrain throughout the park property.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Lopez: Lopez Lake Recreation Area maintains a well-stocked fishing lake where swimming is prohibited, creating ideal fishing conditions. "There isn't much fishing now, because the water is so low, but there are still pretty hikes to be had and water slides if it's hot," notes Linda S., who has camped at Lopez Lake Recreation Area multiple times over 15 years.
Horseback riding at Lake San Antonio: Beyond the North Shore equestrian facilities, riders can access additional trails at the main recreation area. "Lake San Antonio Recreation Area is 15 minutes behind the 'Village' of Arroyo Grande, CA," shares Margo A., highlighting the accessibility of these horse campgrounds near Santa Margarita.
Hiking at Montana de Oro: For those seeking coastal views instead of lake vistas, the trails at Montana de Oro offer diverse terrain. "Hikes, ocean, cliffs, caves. Amazing place," says Brooke R. about the Islay Creek Campground at Montana de Oro State Park.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many equestrian camping areas near Santa Margarita provide peaceful surroundings away from busier campgrounds. At Santa Margarita Lake, Corey L. appreciates that "this lake has a no body contact rule which makes it a great quiet fishing lake with no jet skiing, swimming etc."
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas surrounding equestrian campgrounds offer excellent wildlife observation. "There's lots of trails and quite a bit wildlife: squirrels, deer, turkey, and even some mountain lions and bears," reports Crystal J. about her experience at Lopez Lake Recreation Area.
Proximity to water activities: Despite restrictions on swimming in some lakes, many horse campgrounds near Santa Margarita, California provide alternative water recreation. Jack J. found Lake San Antonio North Shore ideal for boating: "Great camp ground. Launched the boat and anchored it to shore. Literally had the place to ourselves. Fishing was great from shore in morning and dusk."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F at many campgrounds in the area. Chip K. notes about Lake San Antonio: "It was a warm weekend at San Antonio. The temperature at the lake often exceeds 100 in the summer."
Water levels fluctuate: Drought conditions affect lake levels significantly. "During the drought the water level has dropped significantly as well as the quality of the water. Some years the lake is almost dry," warns Chip K. about Lake San Antonio.
Reservation requirements: Many equestrian campgrounds require advance planning. At Santa Margarita KOA, David H. advises, "This was one of the few campgrounds we found that were taking reservations. They only took full hookup sites because bathrooms, showers and laundry are closed."
Tick awareness: Some campgrounds have tick issues during certain seasons. Val H. warns about Islay Creek Campground: "Although the location is very scenic and a 10 min walk to the beach, I wouldn't return because there are ALOT of ticks at the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with pools: When visiting horse campgrounds during summer heat, pools provide essential relief. At Santa Margarita KOA, stacey S. notes, "Great areas for the kids to play and nice pool."
Consider educational opportunities: Some equestrian facilities offer opportunities to learn about horses and other animals. One visitor to Santa Margarita KOA mentions, "They even have an Emu that is friendly and your kids can pet."
Reserve family-friendly sites: Families should seek campgrounds with designated family areas. Jeremy F. found Lopez Lake accommodating: "We checked in on Friday (earlier than the posted 3pm time) and setup camp. The site is clean and fairly level. Very little wind and lots of shade made for a perfect weekend."
Find campgrounds with activities: Look for horse campgrounds that offer additional recreation. Linda S. shares about Lopez Lake: "We've been to the ropes course too, which is really fun."
Tips from RVers
Dust management: Many equestrian campgrounds have dirt roads and gravel sites. Lauretta M. warns about Santa Margarita KOA: "We tent camped in space #63..next to a dirt road which looped around the campground. We got nailed with dirt dust every time someone drove by."
Site selection strategy: RVers should consider specific site locations for optimal experience. Ryan W. advises about Montana de Oro: "Sites 17-19 have a decent amount of shade and the most foliage separation. They back up to the park, and there are trails on the hillside above."
Water pressure issues: Some campgrounds have infrastructure limitations. Stacey S. notes about Santa Margarita KOA: "The space has full hookups with 50 amp. The water pressure was a little low compared to other places."
Navigating tight spaces: Some horse campgrounds accommodate large rigs but require careful navigation. Annette A. shares about Pacific Dunes Ranch: "Close spaces, picnic tables, but must bring your own fire pit. No grass, but hard packed sand and gravel. Upper area closer to the dunes is preferred for breezes."
