Dispersed camping options near Kirkwood, California provide varied terrain from 7,000-9,000 feet elevation throughout Eldorado National Forest. Summer temperatures typically range from 40-80°F with occasional thunderstorms in July and August. Access roads for equestrian camping vary from maintained dirt roads to rough 4x4 trails requiring high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Lake activities at Fallen Leaf Lake: Located near South Lake Tahoe, Fallen Leaf Campground offers swimming in crystal clear water that stays calm during morning hours. "The lake, oh my, maybe the most beautiful lake in the entire Tahoe region. It isn't as big, but it is flat like glass, deep, and crystal clear," reports Ryan W.
Horseback riding on forest trails: Equestrian campers can access numerous mountain trails from Wrights Lake Campground. The campground connects to trail networks leading into Desolation Wilderness. "Trail heads are close by. Mosquitos seem to always be around so be prepared for that. Campsites are not too close together," notes Nicole B.
Backpacking into Desolation Wilderness: For more adventurous campers, Desolation Wilderness offers backcountry camping opportunities. "We took the water Taxi that shaved about 5 miles off our hike. Our first night we set up camp at tamarack lake then moved up to beautiful aloha lake," says Arturo C.
What campers like
Spacious sites for portable corrals: Horse campgrounds near Kirkwood, California often feature large camping areas. Bear Valley Dispersed Camping provides ample space for equestrian needs. "This is a nice little private camp spot for the most part, There's a campground with its own fence around it for private camping," reports Serena W.
Natural grazing opportunities: The mountain meadows provide good grazing for horses with appropriate permits. At Hope Valley Dispersed campsites, riders appreciate the natural landscape. "Free camping," notes Anthony F. succinctly, highlighting the cost-effective nature of these sites for equestrians traveling with horses.
Good cell reception in select areas: Unlike many remote camping locations, some sites maintain decent connectivity. "There are no Volt toilets here nor running water but pretty good Verizon signal. Lots of trails to ride your bike and walk," mentions Serena W. about Bear Valley Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Weather variability at elevation: Mountain weather can change rapidly, particularly at higher elevations. "Even in the summer it can snow... BE WEATHER AWARE," warns Ryan W. about conditions at Fallen Leaf Campground.
Insect preparation: Mountain lakes and streams create breeding grounds for mosquitoes. "Mosquitos seem to always be around so be prepared for that," notes Nicole B. about Wrights Lake Campground.
Limited amenities at dispersed sites: Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping offers primitive camping with minimal facilities. "Dispersed camping not far from Lake Tahoe. Easy to drive into just be careful of potholes and large puddles from rain, even in summer. No amenities, but it's a very beautiful area," advises Alex P.
Tips for camping with families
Consider lake proximity: When camping with children, lakefront sites provide ready entertainment. "Easy to see right off the road with plenty of campsites down either side of a nice dirt road. Rocky and steep road access to Scott's lake, but easy camping on the edge of the valley," says Austin M. about Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping.
Bring portable water containers: Most equestrian camping areas near Kirkwood lack reliable water sources. "We went just up the road into the wildlife reserve and drove all the way up to burnside lake. Beautiful. Definitely need 4x4 and the road is super bumpy," reports Blair K.
Check for family-friendly facilities: Some campgrounds offer better amenities for families. "It is a great site just near the road. We arrived on Monday afternoon and there were lots of places. There were other people but everyone has enough space. There's a pit restroom which seems comparatively new," notes Rajesh N.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many horse camping areas can accommodate large rigs but may have challenging access roads. "Arrived pretty late so didn't want to disturb others to check out all the sites, luckily there is a huge parking lot type area right in the front," reports Chance S. about Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping.
Road conditions for trailers: When bringing horses to campgrounds near Kirkwood, California, road conditions matter. "You follow a dirt road and have camping spots along the road. When I was here it was jammed packed RV, vans and tents all set up along the road. To me it was good for a an overnight stay," says Jr A.
Plan for lack of hookups: Equestrian camping areas typically lack RV amenities. "Passing through the area, I was pleased to find this site. Large spaces and plenty of room for more than one vehicle per site," notes Michelle R., highlighting the spaciousness that accommodates both RVs and horse trailers.
