Horse Camp Primitive Campground in Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area features two campsites designed specifically for equestrian use. Located at an elevation of approximately 1,500 feet, the campground provides access to several trail networks that extend throughout the Trinity Alps wilderness. The sites accommodate horse trailers with ample space for portable containment systems rather than permanent corrals. The campground remains open seasonally, typically closing during winter months when access becomes difficult due to weather conditions.
What to do
Trail riding access points: Multiple equestrian trails connect directly from Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort to riverside paths. "The little town of Lewiston is pretty cool and a 5 min walk from the campground as well is the trinity river," notes Corey L., highlighting the proximity to water features.
Bow hunting practice: Some equestrian campgrounds offer target practice opportunities. At Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, "There are targets set up for bow hunters in the pines below the park," according to Tara D., making it suitable for hunters preparing for the season.
River swimming: Several horse camps provide direct water access. "Just around the corner from the campground (walking distance) is access to the river. The whole family enjoyed dipping in when it's warm outside," reports Jason D. about Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Horse Camp Primitive Campground offers well-separated camping areas. "There are only two camp sites reasonably far apart. Nice clean outhouse and potable hand pump water," explains Web H., highlighting the isolation between spots.
Private bathroom facilities: Some equestrian sites feature dedicated restrooms. "Nice huge site with basically your own valued bathroom one other campsite shares," notes Valerie T. about Horse Camp Primitive Campground, appreciating the limited sharing of facilities.
Shade coverage: Many campgrounds feature extensive tree canopies. Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort provides "Lots of shade and green grass, good management, Clean restrooms and well kept grounds," according to Tara D., which helps during summer heat.
What you should know
Site unevenness: Horse Flat Campground and similar facilities often have terrain challenges. "Sites are SUPER uneven and not really defined. The picnic table/fire pit area has large boulders around them and a road runs right between both sites," cautions Jules S. about Horse Camp Primitive Campground.
Fire impacts: Many areas show evidence of past wildfires. "The only negative was the Carr fire that burned many trees in the area," notes Web H. about Horse Camp Primitive Campground, affecting shade coverage and aesthetics.
Road conditions: Access to some horse camps requires navigating unpaved roads. "The road up the the campground is a rough dirt road," reports Matt S. about Horse Flat Campground, potentially challenging for larger rigs or horse trailers.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Look for camps with river access for children. "The park is about 1/4 full time residents, 1/4 permanent vacation spots that people keep trailers at and visit from time to time and the other half is campers," explains Corey L. about Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, indicating a mix of users but reliable amenities.
Pet-friendly options: Most equestrian sites allow dogs, but policies vary. "Our dogs loved the area down below, we would take them off leash and let them do dog-things," shares Jason D. about Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort.
Payment requirements: Bring exact change for some locations. "One issue I had was the payment which had to be exact change," advises Aaron S. about Horse Flat Campground, a common situation at self-service payment stations.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: Hidden Horse Equestrian Campground and similar facilities have varying accommodation capacities. "Biggest I would put in here would be about a 30 foot trailer. You have to disconnect your tow vehicle," advises Jason D. about Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort.
Navigation challenges: Large rigs require careful planning. "Long windy road to get up to sites," warns Jules S. about Horse Camp Primitive Campground, requiring low-speed driving and caution with horse trailers.
Connectivity options: Cell service varies significantly. "No cell service but starlink worked great," notes Jules S. about Horse Camp Primitive Campground, while Matt S. reports "Verizion (best carrier for Trinity Co) coverage was nonexistant" at Horse Flat Campground.
