Litchfield sits within the Plumas National Forest region at elevations around 4,000 feet, surrounded by pine forests and high desert terrain. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F during the day, dropping to 45-55°F at night. The area experiences occasional afternoon thunderstorms in summer months, with winter snowfall limiting access to many campgrounds from November through April.
What to do
Trail riding: Equestrian campers at Meadow View Equestrian Campground can access extensive trail networks directly from their sites. "Ride out from your site on your ATV or SBS for miles of trails to explore," notes Patricia N., who visited the campground in July.
Lake activities: Antelope Lake Recreation Area offers warm-water swimming from June through August. "Water is warm enough to swim June-August. Great fishing! Many sites are located very near or on the water due to the unique shape of this lake," reports Laura F. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and shoreline activities.
Local exploration: Small towns surrounding the Litchfield area provide dining and supply options. Barbara S. mentions in her review of Taylorsville County Park: "Lots of trees and good burgers at the local market!" The park serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby historic mining towns and backcountry roads.
What campers like
Peaceful settings: Smaller horse campgrounds near Litchfield provide quiet, uncrowded experiences even during peak season. G M. describes Meadow View: "The drive was nice once you get past the burn scar. There was no one around so it was peaceful and the weather was decent. There are just a few spots but plenty of room for trailer parking."
Wildlife viewing: The meadows and forest edges around campgrounds provide habitat for deer, birds, and small mammals. According to Joey L. at Lazzarini Farms, "I had peace and quite with no large buildings and being on a private road. It all gave me the feeling I was one with the nature all around me."
Stargazing: Without light pollution from major cities, the night skies above Litchfield area campgrounds provide excellent stargazing opportunities. Campers frequently mention the clarity of the night sky, with the Milky Way visible on moonless nights, particularly at higher elevation sites like Soldier Meadows where forest cover opens to meadow views.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to equestrian campgrounds often requires driving on unpaved roads. Patricia N. shares about Meadow View: "Came in from Frenchman Lake and out on Doyle Grade Rd. Of the two we will go back on Doyle Grade Road, not as much dirt road and in better condition."
Water sources: Many campgrounds have limited water facilities. At Meadow View, Laura M. notes: "Water is available from an hand pumped spigot at the entrance of the campground, website states non potable but we drank it and it was fine and in fact tasted really fresh."
Cell service: Communications are extremely limited in the forest areas surrounding Litchfield. Multiple campgrounds report zero cellular coverage from major carriers. Plan accordingly by downloading offline maps and bringing emergency communications equipment if needed for extended backcountry stays.
Seasonal considerations: While some campgrounds remain open year-round, facilities may not be maintained during winter months. Higher elevation campgrounds like Snake Lake Campground close entirely during winter snowfall periods, typically from November through April.
Tips for camping with families
Lake recreation: Eagle Lake Resort provides family-friendly water access, though conditions vary seasonally. CRJohnson advises: "The camp was good too. All was fairly quiet and the spots are far enough apart. However, the lake was dismal... We might stay there again, if we bring kayaks or boats or something."
Pack for variable temperatures: Even summer nights can drop below 50°F in the Litchfield area. Bring extra layers for children who may be more sensitive to temperature changes, especially at higher elevation sites.
Bear awareness: All campgrounds in the region require proper food storage. Meadow View provides bear boxes at each site. Teach children about food storage protocols and maintaining a clean campsite to prevent wildlife encounters.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites at equestrian campgrounds near Litchfield require careful navigation. Laura M. describes Meadow View: "The sites are a good size but the loop is tight and it took some creative maneuvering to back into our site. The road in was fairly smooth with some areas of washboard, managed fine in our 26' Class C."
Levelness: Many forest service campgrounds have minimal site preparation. Samantha T. notes about Meadow View: "Spots are well spaced out and never filled up while we stayed for 4 days. Easy to stay with trailers and rvs. Road is dirt/gravel on way in but easy to navigate."
Seasonal opening dates: For horse camping near Litchfield, California, most equestrian campgrounds open mid-April through mid-September, with specific dates varying by snowpack and road conditions. Call ahead to verify accessibility for larger rigs during shoulder seasons.
