Equestrian camping near Greenville, California spans across Plumas National Forest at elevations between 3,500-5,000 feet where summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day. The region includes multiple horse-friendly campsites with connecting trail systems through mixed conifer forests. Horse owners often find uncrowded conditions even during July and August when other Sierra Nevada destinations reach capacity.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Antelope Lake Recreation Area, campers have access to excellent fishing opportunities. "The lake is nestled in the mountains. The scenery, fishing and water sports are superb," notes one visitor. The lake remains warm enough for swimming from June through August.
Hiking to Cinder Cone: From Butte Lake Campground, hikers can access the remarkable Cinder Cone trail. "The Cinder Cone hike along the old lava flow behind the campsite is spectacular! Don't let the climb up the cinder cone dissuade you; the panoramic view from the top is well worth it," shares a camper who completed the hike with two 6-year-olds.
Lake activities: Many campgrounds offer direct lake access for water recreation. At Bucks Lake, visitors can enjoy multiple water activities. "The lake is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and splashing around," reports one camper about Antelope Lake, while Butte Lake offers clear water swimming with restrictions: "You must wear a life preserver if you put your boat in the water."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Soldier Meadows Campground receives high marks for its generous campsites. "The campsites are huge, with lots of room to spread out," notes one camper. This creates more privacy than typically found at more developed sites.
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the quiet found at less-developed campgrounds. "Just a short drive down a forest service dirt road and you'll find yourself at Soldier Meadows—a gem of a campground! Located just 15 minutes from the oh so popular Lake Almanor, Soldier Meadows is a peaceful campground nestled among towering pines and a babbling brook," reports one visitor.
Natural features: Taylorsville County Park offers a blend of nature and amenities. "Beautiful Taylorsville is always a good place to set up my tent. Many spots, some with hook ups! Lots of trees," mentions one regular visitor. Another camper notes the park has "very nice and large spots for both Camper and Tent camping... lots of tall trees for shade during the day."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to remote campgrounds can present challenges. For Butte Lake Campground, a visitor warns: "The road getting in you need a suv not a car. It's very bumpy lots of pot holes." Another notes it's "a six-mile gravel road. Not too dusty or bumpy."
Bear awareness: Bears are active throughout the region. At Haskins Valley Campground, a camper warns: "Not all of the spaces have bear boxes and we had a nice visitor one morning. Be sure to put your food in your car if you don't have a bear box."
Water availability: Water sources vary greatly between campgrounds. At Soldier Meadows, "There is no water at this campsite, but if you bring your filtration system you can get water just steps away from your campsite." At Butte Lake Campground, "you have to fill jugs and carry from the sink" as there's no way to hook up a hose.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Snake Lake Campground provides good family recreation options. "Great place to camp. Easy to get to, maybe 15 minutes from town. Hiking, 4 wheeling, fishing. One of my favorite places to camp," notes a regular visitor. The nearby lake offers cooling relief during hot summer days.
Recreational mix: Taylorsville County Park offers diverse activities for families. "There is also a water access to go easing and a few deep spots for swimming. There are also 3 Poké stops and a gym for Pokémon Go players," mentions one parent.
Shade importance: With summer temperatures regularly reaching 85°F, shade becomes critical for family comfort. At Butte Lake Campground, "The sites are large and spaced far apart and shady," which helps manage heat during peak summer months. Consider campground location and tree cover when booking with children.
Tips from RVers
Maneuvering challenges: Black Rock Campground presents difficulties for larger rigs. "Roads are terribly narrow and sites are small and very uneven. Not a great place for a trailer nor class A," warns one RVer. Always check road width and turning radius information before booking.
Trailer access considerations: When selecting campgrounds, carefully assess road conditions. At Antelope Lake, one camper noted "the hour long drive with a trailer down the wash board road" was the "biggest downfall of this area" despite the campground itself being excellent.
Hookup availability: Full hookups are rare in this region. While Taylorsville County Park offers "very nice and large spots for both Camper and Tent camping" with "some with hook ups," most campgrounds in the area provide limited or no hookups. Plan for self-contained camping when bringing an RV to the Greenville area.
