Equestrian camping near Lassen Volcanic National Park offers rustic accommodations in the northern Sierra Nevada mountains at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 8,000 feet. The region experiences warm summer days with cool nights and occasional thunderstorms from July through September. Forest Service roads throughout Lassen National Forest provide access to numerous equestrian-friendly campsites where riders can explore volcanic landscapes.
What to do
Trail riding at Black Rock: Access miles of riding trails through Lassen National Forest directly from camp. "This campground made for a great overnight getaway trip... There are some nice places to fish that are just a short walk from the campsites and the campsites are nicely shaded to help cut the heat during the day. We saw some salmon, deer, quail, and frogs," reports Alissa C. about Black Rock Campground.
Explore volcanic features: Ride from camp to view lava fields, cinder cones, and volcanic formations. "The Cinder Cone hike along the old lava flow behind the campsite is spectacular! Don't let the climb up the cinder cone dissuade you; the panoramic view from the top is well worth it! Don't forget to visit the nearby Lava Tubes and geothermal sights," notes Laura F. about Butte Lake Campground.
Connect to PCT sections: Several equestrian camps near Lassen provide access to Pacific Crest Trail sections. "My wife and I and two dogs stayed at campsite 51. Wonderful site with hook ups. easy to find and loved the proximity to the PCT," writes Robert W. about camping at Hat Creek Resort.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Horse-friendly campsites typically offer more room for trailers and equipment. "The campsites are huge, with lots of room to spread out. There is no water at this campsite, but if you bring your filtration system you can get water just steps away from your campsite," describes Amy C. about Soldier Meadows Campground.
Quiet atmosphere: Many equestrian campers appreciate the peaceful settings away from crowded areas. "Just a short drive down a forest service dirt road and you'll find yourself at Soldier Meadows—a gem of a campground! Located just 15 minutes from the oh so popular Lake Almanor, Soldier Meadows is a peaceful campground nestled among towering pines and a babbling brook," notes Amy C.
Water access: Campsites near creeks or lakes allow horses to drink and cool off after rides. "The lake is close to the campground, quiet and peaceful. No motor boats. You must wear a life preserver if you put your boat in the water," explains Jeff B. about Butte Lake.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many equestrian campgrounds require travel on unpaved forest roads. "The road in took about an hour and a half and I would not recommend attempting it without 4WD and high clearance. There is one stream crossing but it is minor," warns Kaye S. about Black Rock Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Most horse camps in the Lassen area close during winter months due to snow. "Despite the remote location and the bumpy gravel road to get to this park, it is a very popular campground. Advanced reservation is a must," advises Moni R. about Butte Lake Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity requires proper food storage at all campsites. "It is bear country, and the campsite was visited by a bear at night. Just one night, when the night before the dumpsters were emptied. The bear messed with the campground dumpster but left everything else alone," reports Sarah J. about Whitehorse Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly trails: Several areas offer shorter loops suitable for young riders. "Clean campground, great fishing, and nice trail around lake. Kids love camping here. Bathrooms are kept clean and stocked 2-3x a day," notes Erin C. about Whitehorse Campground.
Swimming opportunities: After riding, kids can cool off in nearby lakes or creeks. "I was there in late July and the lake was great (cold, not numbing) for swimming. Several people launched kayaks and lots of people did the many hikes around the area," reports Bill T. about Butte Lake.
Insect preparation: Bug spray is essential during summer months at horse camps. "We went in late may and the weather was perfect for traditional camping activities. The mosquitoes were out in full force so bug spray is a must," cautions Alissa C. about Black Rock Campground.
Tips from RVers
Trailer access considerations: Not all equestrian campsites accommodate larger horse trailers with living quarters. "We had no problem towing our trailer to this location and neither did our friends whose trailer is 30+ ft. The campsites are spacious and well maintained," states Laura F. about Butte Lake Campground.
Limited hookups: Most equestrian campgrounds near Lassen offer primitive camping with few amenities. "The sites are large and spaced far apart and shady. The lake is only a short walk away and great for swimming, kayaking or paddle boarding. The lake is surrounded by lava and the beach has been formed by volcanic material," explains Moni R.
Water supply planning: Water sources may be limited or require filtration at horse camps. "There is no cell service, no dump site, nor any grey water dump pits. The latrines are very nice with running water and toilets. The toilet houses are the only place you can get drinking water and there are only about four locations," advises Bill T. about Hat Creek Resort & RV Park.
