Best Equestrian Camping near Lompoc, CA
Looking for the best horse camping near Lompoc? Equestrian camping is an adventurous and unique way to experience the city. Search horse campsites and discover top-rated spots, as reviewed by other campers.
Best Equestrian Sites Near Lompoc, CA (16)
1. Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
Santa Ynez, California56 Reviews•239 Photos•861 SavesSet amidst acres of wilderness flanked by the picturesque Santa Ynez and San Rafael Mountains, lies glimmering Cachuma Lake. Here you will find practically everything you need for a relaxing getaway in the great outdoors. Mild temperatures, typically sunny skies, and celebrated fishing conditions make camping here during winter months exceptionally rewarding. The County entered into a long-term lease with the Federal Bureau of Reclamation in 1953 to manage the 9,000 acre Cachuma Lake Recreation Area. Cachuma Lake was formed by the construction of Bradbury Dam in that same year. Located off scenic Highway 154 in the Santa Ynez Valley, Cachuma Lake is midway between the beaches and bustle of Santa Barbara and the Danish Community of Solvang. At any age... in any season... you'll find that the Cachuma Lake Recreation Area offers a fun and relaxing getaway.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
2. Lopez Lake Recreation Area
Arroyo Grande, California34 Reviews•87 Photos•381 SavesLocated just ten miles east of Arroyo Grande, California, Lopez Lake Recreation Area is one of the top choices for camping and leisure trips. With 22 miles of shoreline and summer lake temperatures around 70°F, there is something for everyone; camping, fishing, boating, picnicking, hiking and equestrian trails, mountain biking, zip-lining, birdwatching and so much more. The warm climate of the Central Coast makes Lopez Lake the ideal, year-round recreational destination. Once covered by the sea, the surrounding hills of Lopez Lake are rich with relics of ancient days and studded with oak trees. Over 175 species of flowering plants, and more than 150 species of birds have been identified within the park. The naturally beautiful canyons were once hunting and fishing grounds for the Chumash Indians. Later, homesteaders and ranchers inhabited the area and harvested grain crops for Mission San Luis Obispo. Lopez Lake was then created in 1969 to provide domestic water for the Five Cities area of the Central Coast.
Lopez Lake with its 22 miles of shoreline is the ideal year-round recreational destination for everyone. There are 377 campsites to choose from. Many overlook the lake, and others are nestled among picturesque oaks. There are primitive, electrical, full hook-up, and group campsites available. Hot shower facilities are at several campgrounds. Camping reservations can be made up to one year in advance.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$60 - $70 / night
3. Pacific Dunes Ranch
Oceano, California11 Reviews•26 Photos•227 SavesPacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort is the most unique RV resort in California's Pismo Beach region, with rolling sand dunes and rollicking waves in the beautiful Oceano Preserve. At Pacific Dunes Ranch, you'll enjoy an RV resort that highlights breathtaking vistas and trails to the beach. In California, we call this a winning combination - secluded and quiet but not remote. With its coastal location, Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort lends itself to numerous water sports and activities. Swimming, boating, fishing and surfing are popular forms of recreation at our RV resort in California , and biking and hiking are at the top of list for those without their sea legs. Secluded RV Resort in California Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
4. Colson Canyon Campground
Santa Maria, California6 Reviews•22 Photos•42 SavesColson Campground is a primitive campground located approximately 40 miles from the city of Santa Maria, CA. There are five campsites with tables and fire rings. There is no running water and no bathroom. Popular campground for hunters, as this campground is easy access to the Alejandro Trail. Please pack out all of your trash.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
- Picnic Table
5. Islay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park
Los Osos, California21 Reviews•94 Photos•528 SavesMontana de Oro camping features rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, including 1,347-foot Valencia Peak. Naturalists and backpackers enjoy the solitude and freedom found along the park's trails. There are also mountain biking and equestrian trails. The best-known beach is Spooner's Cove, across from the campground. The park's name, "Mountain of Gold," comes from the golden wildflowers that bloom in spring. Wildlife in the park includes black tailed deer and the black oystercatcher. The park includes primitive and equestrian campsites.
A primitive campground in the canyon behind the Spooner Ranch House offers 47 campsites for tents, trailers, or motorhomes. The vehicle length limit for all trailers and motorhomes is 27 feet. Tables, firepits, drinking water, and primitive toilets are nearby. There are no showers or dump stations. Some campers may prefer the walk-in environmental campsites, which are secluded but campers should not be surprised to wake up to the yapping of coyotes or the rustling of other nighttime creatures.
For those who wish to bring horses to the park and camp overnight, there are six horse camps for family and group outings, complete with pipe corrals and limited parking for horse trailers. No horse rentals are available.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$50 / night
6. Barrel Springs Campground
Los Alamos, California2 Reviews•37 SavesAdjacent to La Brea Creek. Located in canyon bottom, surrounded by oak trees.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Tent Cabin
- Glamping
7. Sycamore Campground
New Cuyama, California7 Reviews•10 Photos•66 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
8. Thousand Trails Rancho Oso
Goleta, California7 Reviews•28 Photos•137 SavesBordered by the Los Padres National Forest and the Santa Ynez River, Rancho Oso RV Camping offers acres of beautiful scenery and endless opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, and photography. Explore 310 beautiful acres of our RV camp in California, filled with history dating back to 1845. Put on your boots and hats (spurs optional), come to our RV camp in coastal California, and experience the Western atmosphere of Rancho Oso from our RV camping sites.Have a horse? Board it with us & take advantage of our Western Village and horse camping options with spacious pasture, covered corrals and more.
Visit the Western Village, adobe, stables, conestoga wagons, cabins, stone lodge and all the unique amenities we have to offer at our RV camp in California. At Rancho Oso RV Resort, we encourage you to participate in the recreation events, entertainment, or sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery and wildlife native to our area. We are also just a scenic 30-minute drive from Santa Barbara or Solvang.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
9. Miranda Pine Campground
Carrizo Plain National Monument, California4 Reviews•7 Photos•142 SavesNestled in the pines. Nice vistas of the Cuyama Valley.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
10. Wagon Flat Campground
Los Padres National Forest, California1 Review•3 SavesAdjacent to La Brea Creek. Located in canyon bottom, surrounded by oak trees.
- Pets
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
- Glamping
Recent Equestrian Reviews in Lompoc
166 Reviews of 16 Lompoc Campgrounds
- SSusie B.
Traveler
Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
Please Don’t Tell Anyone About This — OOPS
This is tragi-comedy: I was invited to a wedding in Santa Barbara. It was summer and the most fleabitten motel prices were astronomical. I began to look at campsites within driving distance, I was desperate. Booked Catchuma and thought, hoorah, I’ve defeated the tourism trap.
Well… from the moment I arrived . . . I really could not care less about the wedding. My god. I think I’ll leave it at that.
Bring binos. Boat, bring your canoe/kayak.
- K
Kim G.
Ranger
Lopez Lake Recreation Area
Not our scene: hot, crowded, buggy
We had reservations for 2 nights on an Augugst Friday / Saturday at Lopez Lake in a full-hook-up site in Bandtail (Site 38). The reviews of this place were great, and the photos were beautiful. We arrived to find a HUGE park (yes, I should have noted how many campsites there are). Check-in involved parking our van and standing in line like Disneyland. The park employees were nice though. There were big signs all around "NO FIRES" (more on this later) and I was also told at check in that there were no fires. We found our site easily enough, only to realize how closely packed the sites were in Bandtail. Some nice folks to our right had three sites - 11 kids and 21 people between them. The kids rode their bikes all over, and even onto our site (while also running around our van chasing a chipmunk). We had our daughter's dog, so tried sitting outside in the shade, only to find that in addition to the heat (it was mid 80s), there were biting flies. :( Poor puppy got bit or stung more than once. So we went in our van and turned on the AC (it could run on low with the 20A service there). Then, after dark, a dad and his young son arrive on our other side and had to back in their boat in the dark. We got out of our rig and helped them (twice) with our portable lights and guidance. In the morning, they spoke in very loud voices and we were right next door. We did take one of the trails in the heat, but they are not at all well maintained - basically trampled grass that could easily hold a snake. While the area is pretty, it is just way too crowded for our taste. Oh, and the bathrooms were dimily lit, had a couple of non-functioning toilets, and were dirty. We were ready to get out of there and will not be back. Lastly, though the fire danger was marked as extremely high and "NO FIRES" signs at check-in, along with verbal warnings of no fires, I saw two campsites had open fires in the fire pits. This blatant lack of regard for rules and safety didn't sit well with me. And no one was enforcing the fire ban. Sad.
Jeremy F.
GuideLopez Lake Recreation Area
Great time with the whole family
Large sites with plenty of room for tents and all the other camping necessities. This site backs up into the hills and there are black bears that roam the area so be sure to prepare for that. The lake is full and lots of areas to fish.
Michelle W.Ranger
Islay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park
Nice location, my site had no privacy
I loved walking to the ocean in the morning. Many birds and bunnies hopping around.
I would not choose my spot again.- DDannyTraveler
Islay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park
Beautiful, clean & quiet
One of my favorite established campgrounds this far. Small and secluded and plenty of space between most sites. Wood and water both widely available, not sure about electric though. Short walk to Bluff Trail trailhead and Spooner’s cove.
- CClaudia H.Traveler
Pacific Dunes Ranch
Best camping spot in the area.
Stayed here in a cabin for 2 yrs because of work in area. Quiet, clean and away from the city. Love this place.
Julian M.Guide
Sycamore Campground
Birthday party
Great weekend experience
Shari G.
LegendCachuma Lake Recreation Area
Huge County Campground with Numerous Site Types
The lovely county run park in the hills above the Santa Barbara coastline, is a great campground offering a wide variety of camping experiences from full hook ups to grass covered spaces under the trees along the shores of this lovely reservoir. The sites offer the usual camp picnic table and fire ring, and the many group sites offer large grills and even a few picnic shelters.
The sunshine is typically abundant in this California park, and even without full hook ups you can easily get all the power you need with an appropriately sized solar panel system. We’ve run on solar for over 10 years, and it saves us thousands of dollars each year for our full-time camping life.
The flush bathrooms are clean and spacious. Water spigots were plentiful throughout the campground. The coin operated showers got the job done, but since we were there during a chilly March, things could have been warmer. But hey, everything important got clean…
The lake is perfect for boating, but since it’s a drinking water reservoir, there is no body contact with this body of water. So plan on using the campground pool to cool off during the summer months. Hiking and mountain biking trails are abundant throughout the area, and kayaking, canoeing, fishing or sailing on the lake is the perfect way to spend the afternoon.
The campground offers some excellent yurts and cabins for nightly rent right on the shores of the lake. These are often booked out so plan ahead.
The camp store offers enough grocery supplies in case you forgot something, including ice, snacks, fire wood, and gas. There is also a cool pub down by the boat ramp which offers live music in the weekends. The nearby tourist town of Solvang offers a great day trip to sample the amazing Dutch pastry treats, pick up some groceries, wine tasting, or a night out on the town.
Lee D.LegendCachuma Lake Recreation Area
Quiet in the off-season
General: Many different options from tent sites to premium tent sites, water/electric, and FHU sites in addition to yurts and cabins.
Site Quality: Varies greatly depending on what type of site you choose. The only sites with gravel paved pads were the ones with water/electric hookups or FHU; all others were grass. Most seemed level. It was raining heavily when we were there and some of the sites were flooded. Very little to no separation/privacy between sites. We were in a w/e site, and it was long enough to easily accommodate two camper vans.
Activities/Amenities: Off-season, everything was closed but in-season, there is a marina, boat rentals, restaurant, store, gas station, pool, and laundry.
Bath/Shower house: Clean but very basic. No hooks or shelves for toiletries. Cold water only. The shower looked nice but did not use so cannot comment on it.
IMO, the best options are the premier tent sites, yurts, and cabins as they offer the best lake views. We had not planned on camping here but after evacuating from Jalama Beach, we were told this park would honor our reservation. It rained most of the time we were there, and it was off-season, so I imagine it would be an entirely different experience in the summer when all amenities were offered and the campground was full.
- GGary G.
Scout
Santa Margarita Lake Regional Park
Fantastic place to chill -- look at the stars and relax
loved this place!!! Was a bit of escape from heat - nice breezes. And no internet!! YAY I spent almost two weeks there -- camping at different spots. If you are in a tent Roadrunner is the place to be. Good shade. No RVs - you can pull a trailer up there which some people did. Beautiful views of the lake from #3,4 and 6. #3 has less shade but a great rock to sit on for morning coffee and looking at the lake. #4 is huge --2 picnic tables -- and good views. #6 set off a little more and great views. Osprey on lake -- no tents. Coyote -- most well shaded but no view of lake
Also stayed at Grey Pine on weekend (I had no reservations - for weekends must for Roadrunner and Coyote) Limited shade up here -- also can be a lot of RVS but lots of tents too. Good stars here too -- I would stay on outer rim - Stayed at #12 and #14 -- great views of the valley. Nice breezes so even when really hot doable.
Bathrooms and showers are fine. And pool when open (limited amount of staff) so nice and cool.
- aavereeTraveler
Islay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park
Amazing spot
Coolest little tucked away camp group with the most amazing beach and view of the coast line
Jenn-X •.TravelerCachuma Lake Recreation Area
Cachuma Lake
Sprawling campgrounds.
- jjerryTraveler
Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
Camp ground site 143 partial hook ups
Stayed at camp site #143 no shade trees very dusty site. Rental boats pontoon type are brand new. Boat rental opens at 7am close at 7pm boat harbor is very nice with new boat docks. If going fishing the K boats are nice but anchor line to short to use I bring my own 50’ of anchor rope and use their anchor. Came hear to get away from all the illegal fire works where I live. Not one fireworks at the park yea the dog had a great nights sleep. Plus the swimming pool was great open from 12 noon to 5:30pm they have plenty of chairs and have life guards
Jessie F.ScoutIslay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park
Try the environmental campsites!
We spent our first night in environmental site 3, which was absolutely stunning. The walk to the campsite is short, but be advised, uphill. We had all our car camping equipment and big tent so it was a lot of work. Totally worth it though to get up there and be perched alone at the top of a little bluff with the hills behind us and the ocean/cliffs sprawled below. Absolutely snag this site if you can.
The second two nights we stayed down in the regular campground at site 27. Very spacious sites. Our site was along the road and didn't have shade. All sites on the south side of the road back to a large hill and I'd try to get something in sites 8-17 or back in the 40s if we go back. They had more shade and seemed more private than sites along the main stretch of road.
Ticks are SO bad this year, so come prepared and diligently check yourselves and things. The campground host was very friendly and helpful.
The views, the hike along the bluff trail, the beach cove, all spectacular!
AM S.GuideCachuma Lake Recreation Area
Wholesome experience
Something for everyone, no matter your level of camping. Staff was great when my car battery died too.
- ZZakGuide
Lopez Lake Recreation Area
The lake is FULl
Called to see if they had spots and they did. Super helpful staff to help get us a spot. The lake level is at 100% and is amazing to see. With all the rain some of the sights still have water running through them.
- GGeorge K.Scout
Lopez Lake Recreation Area
The joys of bad weather
Very popular but everyone stayed home! Hilly area, lots of trails, lots of rain…
- DDebbie M.Guide
Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
Excellent location
We stayed during the recent storm of the century in Central California so weren’t able to take advantage of what the park has to offer. The sites are very long and not too jammed together. Immaculate bathrooms and showers. Close to Los Olivos (great wine tasting) and Solvang. Disc gold course.
- Mario I.Scout
Lopez Lake Recreation Area
Camping
You
- LLinda S.Guide
Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
Lots of different kinds of sites.
Good experience overall. There are many kinds of sites including full hook up, partial, primitive, cabins & yurts. Many sites have views of the lake.
- LLinda S.Guide
Lopez Lake Recreation Area
Something to please everyone
We’ve camped here many times over the last 15 years. We’ve tent camped on primitive sites and camped with a pop-up with electricity & water. None of the full hookup sites have a view but some of the tent sites do. There isn’t much fishing now, because the water is so low, but there are still pretty hikes to be had and water slides if it’s hot. We’ve been to the ropes course too, which is really fun.
- mmary F.Legend
Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
Mostly a good camp
Huge campground! Variety of sites from dry to full hookups. Anything with hookups is cramped though. We originally booked FHU and opted out for much more spacious dry site. Dry sites really vary but all are largish. Fire pit at 409 put in a strange location so that we is located on the back side of our trailer. Really no other way we could have configured it. For such a large park with so many amenities I cannot believe the dog park is downright tiny. But park during week is largely vacant so a lot of space to let your dog run (which is against policy). Sure the place is a muddy mess is the rain. Ground squirrels got the place all torn up but hey they were there first. Generally this is a great destination resort! Go see the monarch butterflies in Goleta in winter months. They overwinter there!
Ariya B.GuideLopez Lake Recreation Area
Beautiful spot
Had a great time here. Cool hiking trails where you’ll see lots of deer.
Care B.LegendIslay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park
Quiet clean and private
Small campground in a beautiful area surrounded by hills right next to the beach. Hidden gem & a MUST see. Local firewood in Los osos on the corner of 9th street & pismo street for cheap. Try local restaurant beerwood or the Alehouse on Los osos valley road on the way to the campground. Beautiful year round. All sites equally spaced and good-you’ll love anyone you get!
- PPaulScout
Pacific Dunes Ranch
Tightly packed but great spot
Great spot super close to dunes about a mile to the ocean
Emily B.TravelerCachuma Lake Recreation Area
Clean campsite and facilities
Okay so spot 289 has an amazing view - but somehow that gives your fellow camper the green light to just confidently stroll through your campsite without saying a word? I’m a small woman - was sitting alone in my site. A man just strolled up to take in the view right next to my tent. My dudes - please be aware of how eerie it can feel for a woman to have a man just assert his dominance and presence without permission!! I would never in a millions years just go hang out at another person’s campsite.
- lluisScout
Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
Our first raid trip
It was pretty clean. Everything was nice. Even the market was good. The only disappointing things was not be able rent a boat . There not strict with policy of 2 hours and return the boat back. That just the disappointing part of our trip. Rather then that it was pretty good.
Guide to Lompoc
Horse camping in California offers a unique way to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the companionship of your equine friends. With a variety of campgrounds catering to horse enthusiasts, you can find the perfect spot to saddle up and enjoy nature.
Tips for equestrian camping near Lompoc, California
- The Cachuma Lake Recreation Area provides ample space for horse camping, along with scenic trails for riding and exploring the beautiful surroundings.
- At Thousand Trails Rancho Oso, you can enjoy a remote mountain location with horseback riding opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle.
- Los Padres National Forest Sage Hill Campground offers a great spot for horse camping, featuring clean facilities and access to hiking trails with stunning views.
Equestrian campgrounds include unique amenities
- Cachuma Lake Recreation Area features reservable sites and allows pets, making it a convenient choice for horse campers looking for a well-equipped facility.
- Thousand Trails Rancho Oso has a variety of horse-related amenities, including horse rentals and trails specifically designed for equestrian use.
- Colson Canyon Campground is known for its basic yet fun camping experience, perfect for those who appreciate a more rustic setting while still accommodating horses.
Most campgrounds have horse-focused activities
- At Thousand Trails Rancho Oso, you can engage in horseback riding along scenic trails, providing a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty of the area.
- Cachuma Lake Recreation Area offers numerous hiking and mountain biking trails, perfect for those who want to mix riding with other outdoor activities.
- Miranda Pine Campground is ideal for those seeking solitude and stunning views, with opportunities for horseback riding in a serene environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Lompoc, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Lompoc, CA is Cachuma Lake Recreation Area with a 4.3-star rating from 56 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Lompoc, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 16 equestrian camping locations near Lompoc, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.