The Klamath National Forest and Shasta-Trinity National Forest areas surrounding Greenview, California offer equestrian camping opportunities at elevations between 3,000-5,000 feet. Trail systems from these horse-friendly campgrounds connect to the Pacific Crest Trail and other backcountry routes within wilderness areas. Most equestrian sites in this region are open seasonally from late spring through fall due to mountain weather conditions.
What to do
Trail riding from designated equestrian camps: Carter Meadows Horse Campground serves as a gateway to multiple trail systems leading into Trinity Alps Wilderness. The campground's strategic location provides direct trail access without requiring horse trailer transportation between camp and trailheads.
Wildlife viewing in alpine meadows: The areas surrounding Lovers Camp Trailhead offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "We just finished a backpacking trip in marble valley and sky high lakes area, both accessible about 5+ miles from the Lovers Camp Trailhead. It was absolutely beautiful! So much to do in that area and such great views," notes Erin in her review.
Fishing in mountain streams: Several creeks and alpine lakes near equestrian campgrounds provide fishing opportunities. These waterways typically contain native trout species and fishing regulations apply according to California Department of Fish and Wildlife guidelines.
What campers like
Spacious sites for horse trailers: Martins Dairy Campground receives praise for its layout designed with equestrians in mind. One camper noted, "They offer day use, horse use, and overnight use. The overnight use has 6 available spots at $10/day which is a deal given that the sites are ample with awesome picnic benches and fire pits."
Clean facilities: Despite remote locations, campers appreciate maintenance levels at some equestrian sites. James E. shared about Martins Dairy: "I'm never excited to use a campsite bathroom but this was immaculate and never smelled. Cleanest public bathroom I have ever encountered."
Wildlife encounters: The meadows near horse camps attract diverse wildlife. As one camper at Martins Dairy observed: "There is a small stream that flows through the area coming from a beautiful meadow. All sorts of wildlife loves to visit, even deer."
What you should know
Livestock management systems: Security features at horse campgrounds protect both equine campers and local grazing livestock. At Martins Dairy Campground, "The camp is surrounded by a barbed wire fence to keep cows out, I'm assuming. There are cattle guards at both entrances of the site as well."
Access road conditions: Roads leading to equestrian campgrounds may present challenges. Some require navigating unpaved forest roads with limited signage. At Horse Flat Campground, one camper warned: "The road up the the campground is a rough dirt road."
Variable site conditions: Environmental factors affect campsite quality. Matt S. reported about one location: "Many of the sites have been degraded by debris carried by flooding. The turn around at the end of the campground road has serious washout problems."
Tips for camping with families
Choose camps with creek access: Streams provide natural entertainment for children when not riding. ONeil Creek Campground offers convenient water access. One camper reported: "Flat concrete for tent setup and bbq pit in each site with fresh water close to all sites."
Select campgrounds with activity options: Mona M. noted about ONeil Creek: "Decent town park that has a sign limit one overnight stay. Can fit maybe 5 vehicles. Very good Verizon signal." The reliable cell service allows for emergency communication when camping with children.
Pack for variable weather: Mountain elevations experience significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, even during summer months. Nighttime temperatures can drop into the 40s Fahrenheit even when daytime highs reach the 80s.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions matter: Horse Flat Campground has limitations for larger vehicles. Aaron S. mentioned: "A lot of space between each camp site," but the campground's narrow roads may present challenges for large rigs.
Verify payment requirements: Campground payment systems vary across the region. One camper at Horse Flat noted: "One issue I had was the payment which had to be exact change." Come prepared with small bills and coins for self-pay stations.
Consider water access points: Not all horse campgrounds offer water hookups. Sites with drinking water sources can save RVers from carrying excessive water supplies, especially important when also providing for horses.
Guide
