Cuneo Creek Horse Camp serves equestrians with specialized facilities uncommon in the King Range area. The camp features dedicated corrals, water hookups for horses, and trailer parking spaces. Located within Humboldt Redwoods State Park, this primitive campground offers direct access to riding trails through old-growth forests. The campground operates seasonally from early May through mid-October, with facilities including picnic tables, fire rings, toilets, and showers. Most visitors note the winding road access requires extra travel time.
What to do
Explore beach rides: Horse enthusiasts can trailer their animals to Mattole Campground for day rides along the coastline. "This area is just unbelievably gorgeous. Some rough roads but well worth it," notes Jessica N., who visited the area for riding opportunities.
Venture through redwood trails: Trail networks through old-growth forests allow riders to connect with multiple camping areas. The Jackson Demonstration Forest offers alternative riding terrain. "Very quiet area to get away and relax. The Noyo River runs right through the middle of the campground," reports Rich D., highlighting the peaceful setting for trail rides.
Attend seasonal equestrian events: From spring through fall, local equestrian clubs often host organized trail rides departing from various King Range area camps. Redwood Acres RV Park provides access to these events. "Located in the city limits mere minutes from just about anything you may need and very centrally located for many sea shore and forest park locations," according to Michael W., making it a good staging area for organized rides.
What campers like
Diverse terrain access: Horse campers appreciate the variety of riding environments available within a day's ride from central camping locations. At Usal Beach Campsites, "Some people in our group camped on the sand (got a bit windy at night), some in the meadow a bit more inland and even one guy set up his hammock tent in the trees- lots of great options!" says Rachel O., highlighting the terrain variety.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Riders report regular elk sightings on trails throughout the King Range area. "Having grown up spending a lot of time on the N Cali coast, Usal beach was always my absolute FAVORITE spot to camp! The secluded beach, elk roaming free and the enchanted forest always were a major incentive to go," shares Robyn D.
Off-season tranquility: Many equestrians prefer camping in spring or fall to avoid summer crowds. "We've always gone during the week, because of the rowdiness, hell raising, dune driving doing donuts, drunken idiots that are there on the weekends," advises Mike C., suggesting quieter weekday visits.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access to many equestrian camps requires careful planning during wet periods. "At least in Dec, very muddy. Would not advise without 4x4 and some experience," warns Seth M. about winter access to some areas.
Limited water availability: Not all camping areas provide reliable water sources for horses. Camp Mattole requires self-sufficiency: "Wonderfully remote. Excellent weather in August. Chilly at night if wind starts to blow. Not for the faint of heart as you have to haul your own water in," advises Ann N.
Campground crowding patterns: Horse campers should consider timing to avoid peak periods at shared facilities. "On a weekend in august it was packed. Most camped on the beach... During a week day I think this place would be fantastic, but during a busy weekend it wasn't a quiet get away by any means," reports Ryder A.
Tips for camping with families
Plan extra travel time: The winding roads to many horse camps require additional driving time with trailers. Richardson Grove RV and Campground offers a more accessible option: "Been camping at Richardson Grove RV Park for the past 20+ years. It's a large campground and great for large groups our group is usually about 60+ people," notes Arturo C.
Bring supplemental activities: For mixed groups with riders and non-riders, prepare alternative options for those not on horseback. "During the July hot days we like to cross HWY 101 and go take a dip in the eel river," suggests Arturo C., providing an activity for family members while others ride.
Consider age-appropriate options: Some riding trails near Cuneo Creek connect to gentler terrain suitable for younger or less experienced riders. "Short walk to the beach. Beautiful camp sites. Trees are beautiful all around the sites," describes Jeanette C. about nearby camping options with easier trails.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Most equestrian camping areas have limited space for larger rigs with horse trailers. "A long drive between Garberville and Honey Dew. Great drive but not worth the trip," cautions Ann N. about access to Cuneo Creek with larger trailers.
Alternative hookup options: Humboldt County Fairgrounds offers full RV facilities closer to services. "Plenty of room for all RV's large to small. 30 & 50 amp power and water. Clean restrooms, heated and free... Close to Ferndale, which is Must See," recommends D37.
Strategic staging locations: Some RVers with horse trailers establish a basecamp at locations with full hookups, then trailer to riding areas for day trips. "Good place for a few days... The spots are level, it felt safe enough. Quiet. Close to Ferndale, which is Must See," advises D37 about using the fairgrounds as a staging area for horse trailer day trips.
