Equestrian camping near Green Valley Lake, California offers access to extensive alpine trail networks at 6,800-7,200 feet elevation. The San Bernardino National Forest provides over 100 miles of horse-friendly trails connecting multiple campgrounds, with seasonal restrictions due to snow conditions typically limiting access from May through October. Trail conditions vary significantly based on recent precipitation and maintenance schedules.
What to Do
Alpine trail riding: Heart Bar Campground connects to several high-elevation trails about 25 minutes from Big Bear Lake. According to Nick L., "This campground is only about 20 min out from big bear lake as well, and does have cell reception (unfortunately). Highly recommend sites 32, 37, 47, 58, or 24 & 49 which are both double sites."
Wildlife observation: The meadow areas around Heart Bar Campground provide excellent wildlife viewing. Amy B. notes, "There is a beautiful meadow to hike through, and you can drive 10 minutes to Jenks Lake for some fishing and lake views."
Mountain biking: Several trails near the campgrounds accommodate both horses and mountain bikes. Ricky S. mentions that Heart Bar has an "Alpine bike path" and is just "25 minutes from town" with "lots of trees, shade & blue jays."
Hot springs access: For riders wanting a natural hot spring experience, Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground offers unique opportunities. Kelly Anne M. describes it as "Worth your bucklist! Super fun place to visit with the hot springs trail."
What Campers Like
Site spacing: Campers appreciate the well-spaced sites at Heart Bar. Amy B. explains, "When I go camping, I like getting away from people, and Heart Bar is one of the campgrounds with bigger sites so we can do that easier."
Double sites for groups: Chrystal M. recommends specific sites: "This specific site is very spacious with double of the parking spots (4 cars total), 2 fire pits, and 2 benches." This makes Heart Bar Campground ideal for equestrian groups needing more space.
Trail variety: The trail system from Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites offers diverse terrain. Tom P. explains, "A whole range of sites up and down the dirt road with a good selection on styles from trailer sights to rough camping. The PCT is nearby if you want to get a few extra miles logged."
Water access: Amanda L. notes, "You'll pass an equestrian campground on the way in that you might be able to get water from." This is particularly important for horse owners as water access is limited at many sites.
What You Should Know
Primitive conditions: Most equestrian sites lack dedicated horse facilities. Jake P. from Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground explains, "Really good site. Showers, pit toilet, running water, but it's 10$ a night. Hardly any shade unless you get a good site."
Road conditions: Some access roads can be challenging. Derek M. notes about Coon Creek: "Dirt roads were well kept. I came with a 170 wheel base Sprinter Van w/ 2 wheel drive and had no problems making it to site post #11."
Weather variability: Will from Coon Creek warns, "Very cold at night!" This is important for equestrian campers to prepare proper blankets and shelter for horses.
Site availability: Christopher D. observes that Heart Bar has a "decent amount of trees throughout the campground" but warns, "Be aware they charge $5 on any second vehicle at your campsite, even though it says you're allowed 2 vehicles."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water activities: For families with both horses and children, consider sites near water features. Alfonso C. says Heart Bar Campground "has water and bathroom available. Has a hiking trail not far away. Close to big bear city about 15mi South. Not too far from Jenks lake to do some fishing."
Site selection for privacy: Parents of younger children should consider site location. Nick L. recommends specific sites: "Highly recommend sites 32, 37, 47, 58, or 24 & 49 which are both double sites. This was due to their more isolated positioning to other spots, shade, flat ground, and proximity to bathrooms and the beautiful little meadow."
Winter options: Kayla H. from Coon Creek notes, "These campsites are all closed during the winter due to snow and early into spring," which is important for family planning with horses.
Tips from RVers
Mixed accommodations: Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground offers developed camping with horse access nearby. Danielle D. says, "We live close by and take out travel trailer there. We love it the sites are great and the staff is very helpful."
Amenities: For RVers needing hookups while horse camping, Aaron S. notes about Heart Bar, "Been going there for years. Tent camping to RV. Clean. Lots of hiking and mountain biking in area. Great views. Recommend making reservations ahead. They do have first come first serve sites."
Seasonal considerations: The Heart Bar area experiences significant seasonal variations. Mike M. calls it his "Favorite campground in San Berdoo Forest" and explains it has "lots of sites and far enough from the road to be very quite. Access to a lot of hiking and dirt roads, hike to San Gorgonio, drive up to Coon Creek Cabin, or just relax."
