Lake San Antonio - North Shore offers multiple camping options for horse owners near King City, California. The region features 300-acre campgrounds with temperatures that routinely exceed 100 degrees during summer months. The land consists of dry, rolling hills with seasonal water levels at lakes affecting trail access. Most equestrian campsites in the area provide suitable terrain for horses with access to trails connecting riders to the surrounding countryside.
What to do
Trail riding: Access numerous trails from Lake San Antonio where riders can explore diverse terrain. "I love this place! So many beautiful views and amazing spots to camp. The lake is everything. A few years ago it was dried up. Thank you rain! Now it's back and better than ever," notes Emily S. about Lake San Antonio - North Shore.
Wildlife viewing: Observe native animals from horseback on local trails. "We had wildlife EVERYWHERE. We had Condors above our cabin, deer around us, wild pigs crossing the roads. Its amazing!" reports Samantha N. about her experience at Thousand Trails San Benito.
Water activities: Combine horse camping with lake recreation when water levels permit. "Launched the boat and anchored it to shore. Literally had the place to ourselves. Fishing was great from shore in morning and dusk," explains Jack J. about his Lake San Antonio visit.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Equestrian campers appreciate areas where horses can be properly accommodated. "There is a lot of wildlife here to see. Deer wandered through camp at all times of the day. You can see wild boar passing along the hillsides," mentions Butch C. about the ample space at San Benito.
Cabin options: For those seeking more comfort while horse camping, cabins provide alternatives to tent sites. "We stayed at a cottage at Lake San Antonio. We were fortunate to have a local show us around. Grandpa is a local to Bradley and this is a favorite spot when we want to get away but still have all the accommodations of home," shares Armando C. about Lake San Antonio.
Clean facilities: Maintained bathroom facilities make extended stays with horses more comfortable. "They had clean bathrooms and showers," notes Jack J. about the North Shore facilities that supplement the equestrian amenities.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The area experiences extreme temperature fluctuations affecting riding conditions. "It was a warm weekend at San Antonio. The temperature at the lake often exceeds 100 in the summer. During the drought the water level has dropped significantly as well as the quality of the water. Some years the lake is almost dry," cautions Chip K.
Reservation requirements: Secure spots early, especially for equestrian sites with hookups. "New camper great experience beautiful place friendly staff great prices," reports Jose A. about Lake San Antonio - North Shore.
Distance to amenities: Most horse camping areas are relatively remote. "The location is very secluded and far from stores but fairly close to the sea," explains JAVIER J. about Salinas-Monterey KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Schedule horseback riding during cooler morning hours when camping with children during summer. "This campground is 300 acres, so they say. We went here for the first time end of July when it can be hot toddy. It was only low 90s. They have 2 pools, one adult with hot tub and one family, quite far apart," advises Lynda D.
Wildlife education: Prepare children for potential wildlife encounters common in equestrian areas. "We stayed here over the weekend on a last minute reservation. And it's absolutely beautiful here, campground was very clean and quite. Had multiple deers wondering the grounds so be sure to put your food away," suggests Alberto C. from San Benito RV and Camping Resort.
Alternative activities: Plan non-riding activities for days when conditions aren't suitable for horses. "Our family enjoyed this campsite. They had a tv, games and arts for the kids in the clubhouse. The pool was closed for the winter but I can't wait to visit again," shares Bonnie O.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RVers with horse trailers should confirm electrical capacity at equestrian sites. "All in all it was very relaxing. The only issue was the squirrels had chewed through the electrical at some of the better sites," notes Bonnie O. about her San Benito stay.
Site selection: Choose sites that accommodate both RVs and horse trailers. "There is ample space for camping. You'll need reservations if you want a hookup. Camping spaces are spread out finding shade can be a challenge," advises Chip K. about navigating Lake San Antonio's layout.
Terrain considerations: Be prepared for hilly terrain at some campgrounds. "The camp store is fairly complete as well. Not a lot of outdoor activities other than the pool and bags and the K9 trail, but pleasant to walk though. It is very hilly and steps are around to get between levels," explains Ben V. about Cabana Holiday RV Park-cabins.
Guide
