Equestrian camping near Groveland, California offers access to Sierra Nevada terrain ranging from 2,800 to 6,000 feet elevation. The region sees summer temperatures averaging 85-95°F during day and 50-60°F at night, with spring and fall providing milder conditions. Winter closures affect many campgrounds from November through April, with snow common at higher elevations.
What to do
Trail riding to Sentinel Dome: From Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site, riders can access the high country with connections to scenic viewpoints. "Beautiful scenery, clean, close to Yosemite, and easy to reach. As others have said, follow Mount Raymond Rd up until you see the sign for the snow play area, and look to the right," notes Derrick H.
Waterfront riding: The USBR Gloryhole Rec Area Big Oak Campground offers lake access for horses. "The campground is quiet and the scenery is amazing this time of year. There are easily accessible hiking trails that were a great help in wearing out the pups," mentions Lori T., highlighting trails suitable for both equestrians and hikers.
High country trail access: Pack trips can be organized from staging areas near Groveland. "The coyotes have a tradition of doing something called a Huff Call, which is basically howling like a coyote in the middle of the night," shares R D., describing the natural sounds riders might hear while camping at Yosemite Valley Backpacker's Campground after a day on the trails.
What campers like
Horse-friendly amenities: Equestrian sites at North Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park provide designated spaces for horses. "Great location right in the middle of Yosemite Valley. Great access to beautiful hikes and scenery. The camp sites are spacious. Because it's an equestrian campground, you will smell the horses and stables," reports Norina N.
Proximity to Yosemite: Horse campers value locations that allow quick access to park trails. "You are about 12 Mi. to Yosemite Park entrance. It is family business, very clean and you feel country! They provide everything for you," writes Ioan P. about Yosemite Ridge, noting the close distance for day trips.
Quiet locations for horses: Many riders prefer less populated sites where horses can remain calm. "It is beautiful, clean and not crowded. We planned it last night and it had plenty of spots to pick from," shares Mahdi about Big Oak Glory Hole Area, highlighting the peaceful environment.
What you should know
Limited water access: During dry seasons, water for horses can be scarce at dispersed sites. "Place is run down. No hot water. If you have a big rig then it's bearable," mentions Kimberly R. about Yosemite Ridge, suggesting bringing supplemental water.
Weather considerations: High country campsites experience significant temperature fluctuations. "We were there in mid-June for 1 night. Toilets work, didn't try out showers. Site we had was nice and large... Everything had already dried out by the time we were there, be aware of ticks and rattlesnakes," warns Ryan D. about Glory Hole Recreation Area.
Reservation requirements: Popular equestrian sites fill quickly during peak season. "It is hard to get a Camping spot in Yosemite but well worth it if you do. I got up early many a morning to try and get a day here or there for our summer trips out west," shares Christy C. about North Pines Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose shaded sites: For horse camping with children, look for adequate tree cover. "Drive to the back area for tree shade and level grounds. Side of road camping. Camping on Ridgeline," suggests DJ M. about Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed.
Plan for water activities: Combining horseback riding with swimming offers relief during hot months. "Woodward is our family go to place to camp in the summer heat. Lots of campsites with room for tents or RVs. Fire pits and picnic tables at each site. Plenty of bathrooms, some with showers," notes Bonnie S. about Woodward Reservoir.
Early morning departures: With children, schedule rides in cooler morning hours. "Early morning departures are recommended to secure parking at popular trailheads for longer rides," says a local guide, with the Valley Loop Trail being particularly suitable for families with varied riding abilities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: Locate level areas that accommodate both living quarters and horse trailers. "This road follows power lines pretty much for the entire length of the road. It would be a really nice area to disperse if they weren't there as the area is beautiful. That said, you don't need 4x4 but you definitely will need a vehicle with some decent clearance," advises Nick F. about Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed.
Hookup considerations: Some campgrounds offer partial or full hookups beneficial for extended horse camping trips. "Located just outside of oakdale, very similar to that of Modesto reservoir as it is managed by the same people. Shallow and warm water great for swimming and water sports. Has paved looped campgrounds and has all necessary hook ups for rv/motorhome camping," explains Russell L. about Woodward Reservoir.
Generator restrictions: Many equestrian camping areas limit generator use. "First of all, I have to say that the manager was very kind and tried his best to accommodate everyone there. The location is great for trips to Yosemite, and if you're lucky enough to reserve a spot in the 'main loop', you'll probably love it," shares Heather D. about Yosemite Ridge.
