KCL Campground serves as a primary equestrian camping destination near Greenfield, California. Located in the Carrizo Plains National Monument at an elevation of 2,000 feet, this remote camping area sits within California's largest remaining native grassland ecosystem. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F while winter nights drop below freezing. The campground provides access to extensive riding trails that connect to geological features along 10+ miles of the San Andreas Fault trace.
What to do
Trail exploration on horseback: Ride through miles of grassland trails at KCL Campground where equestrians can access routes to significant landmarks. "There are tons of trails and places to explore. We even got to explore the last standing structure of the original ranch. You can visit the San Andreas Fault Line, Soda Lake, and Painted Rock which are all driving distance," reports Chanel C.
Wildflower viewing: Spring brings remarkable displays across the Carrizo Plains. "Definitely visit in early to mid spring. The hills are green and filled with wild flowers and the weather is pleasant. If you wait too long and miss it the placed dries up and turns brown in an instant," notes 1942overlanders V.
Stargazing: The remote location offers exceptional night sky viewing opportunities at Reyes Creek Campground. "We hiked up hills to watch the meteor shower (great), along the creek for small waterfalls, and a little ways into the wilderness," says Larry M., highlighting the excellent dark sky conditions.
Mountain biking: The extensive network of trails makes Keysville South Recreation Site popular with cyclists. "The keyesville classic mountain bike race is held every year in the area! With miles of trails and perfect single track for all age groups and abilities," writes Erin M.
What campers like
Shade availability: The eucalyptus trees at KCL provide crucial relief from summer heat. "There are about 12 dispersed sites and all of them are under or near eucalyptus trees that offer really lovely shade from the harsh sun," notes Chanel C.
Wildlife encounters: Horseback riders frequently spot diverse animal species. "So much nature to see around! We saw kangaroo rats, bats, hawks, rabbits, ground squirrels (that are going extinct), and lots of fun insects," reports a camper.
Peaceful atmosphere: The remote horse campgrounds near Greenfield create a serene experience. "It's a very simple place but I found it so peaceful being surrounded by the golden plains, the breeze through the big shaded eucalyptus trees, and hearing the owls near sundown," describes Stephanie F.
Rustic facilities: Halfmoon Campground offers basic accommodations in a remote setting. "We were looking for a more remote place to camp and this site satisfied all our needs. We were the only ones there and the scenery was pleasing. There is access to some nice hiking trails of Los Padres National Forest," shares Antonio C.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to equestrian sites require careful navigation. "The drive to and from KCL campground is a little rough. At some point you get on a dirt road that is quite bumpy and has potholes," warns one camper. Similarly for Halfmoon, "Coming from Frazier, CA I was able to access the camp site with a 2012 Chevy Equinox LS FWD (By no means an off-roading vehicle) and return back home with no issues," notes Jerome A.
Water limitations: Many horse campgrounds near Greenfield have restricted water availability. "It's super hot in this part of California during the summer so make sure you pack LOTS of water. There is no water available on the campgrounds or for miles," cautions a reviewer.
Weather preparation: Temperature extremes affect camping comfort significantly. "The temperature varies greatly from day to night (90's to 50's when I was there) and there are bugs a plenty, so bring repellant," advises John Y.
Insect awareness: Frog Meadow Campground and others have seasonal insect issues. "TONS. OF. FLIES. EVERYWHERE. It's a little unbearable during the day having to spend the majority of your energy swatting flies," warns one camper about summer conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Creek access: Children enjoy water features at several campgrounds. "The area is clean, vault toilets kinda gross though. Very small campground, a couple drive in sites and a couple walk in sites but each drive in site had a picnic table, fire ring, and a metal pole hook and theres one drinking water spigot for the whole campground," notes Stephanie F.
Educational opportunities: The geological features provide learning experiences. "The kids and adventure camping and he even loved it a great place especially with kids," shares Tammy C. about visiting the ghost town near Reyes Creek.
Equestrian family activities: Horse-friendly camping allows children to experience riding. "The hubs, kids and myself have spent a lot of time in Keysville if you're looking for a weekend getaway for mountain biking or trail riding this is the place! Some of the best free riding in California!" recommends Erin M.
Supply planning: Families need to prepare thoroughly for remote locations. "No gas stations, stores, shops around for miles. Make sure you come prepared with everything you need unless you're prepared for a long drive on the dirt roads," advises a reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: QuailValley offers more developed options for larger rigs. "As usual some sites are better than others there are some creek side sites that are very large and if there's water are very nice. They have tent only sites as well. On our first trip we stayed in a pull through site," shares Michael P.
Road accessibility: RV access varies significantly between campgrounds. "That road off of the 65 is pretty decent as we have a 32 foot fifth wheel," notes Michael P., while others recommend, "The camp is clean, quiet, the ranger is super friendly and knowledgeable of the area. There is no running water, and the pit toilets are definitely of the smellier side, but clean nevertheless."
Weather considerations: RVers should plan for temperature fluctuations. "Days are typically windy so tenters beware," cautions Connor N. about conditions at Keyesville South.
Security awareness: Valuables should never be left unattended. "We were robbed from this location while out hiking and rafting for the day. Lost thousands of dollars in gear, clothes and personal items," warns jade S., emphasizing the importance of securing belongings when camping near Greenfield.
