Equestrian camping opportunities near Lone Pine, California center around several established facilities at elevations of 5,000-10,000 feet. The region's varied terrain transitions from desert valleys to alpine meadows, with temperature differences of 30+ degrees between lowland and mountain sites. Trail conditions remain optimal from mid-June through September when snowpack has melted but before early autumn storms arrive.
What to do
Mountain lake fishing access: Horseshoe Meadow Campground provides direct access to alpine lakes with trout fishing opportunities. "Beautiful meadow right before the trailhead! We had lunch here in the meadow, very beautiful," notes a visitor at Horseshoe Meadow Campground.
Astronomical viewing: The Alabama Hills dispersed camping area offers unobstructed night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "Easy to find at night, even had a fire ring. Road is sandy but with clearance is fine," according to a recent camper at Alabama Hills Dispersed Site.
Summit preparation: Whitney Portal serves as a strategic staging ground for mountain ascents, situated at 8,300 feet. "This campground is right at the trailhead for Mt. Whitney! Because of this the campgrounds do fill up insanely quick! Be sure to book at least 2-3 months out especially during the 'climbing' season for Whitney June-Sept," advises an experienced hiker.
What campers like
High-elevation acclimation: The 10,000-foot elevation at Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead campground helps prepare horse riders for higher altitude journeys. "We didn't camp here, rather we used this as the start/finish point for our 2-day hike to the summit of Mt. Langley. It was a convenient place to park, because you drive right up to the trailhead, and there are trash cans, bear boxes, and vault toilets," mentions a visitor at Inyo National Forest Cottonwood Lakes Trailhead Campground.
Creek sounds: Many equestrian campsites feature natural water sources that provide ambient sound and cooling effects. "I loved hearing the creek just 30 feet away from my campsite. The views were fantastic and the CG was near the rock formations and trails. Vault toilets clean, no water," notes a camper at Tuttle Creek Campground.
Strategic spacing: Horse campgrounds typically provide ample room between sites for trailer maneuvering. "Campgrounds close to each other but not on top. Cast meadow to the west is wonderful for morning walk with coffee. Hikes nearby from beginner to expert take you to alpine lakes," reports a visitor about Horseshoe Meadow.
What you should know
Wildlife concerns: Multiple campgrounds report mice and larger wildlife presence that requires careful food storage. "Beautiful campground. We were in site 28. Clean pit toilets. Stunning views. But we were invaded by deer mice. They got in our campervan. We killed more than 10 of them," warns a camper from Tuttle Creek.
Reservation timelines: Horse campgrounds with trailer access fill rapidly during peak season (June-September). "This is a great Corp of Engineer Campground just minutes from Sequoia National Park. Sites are big and well spaced from each other. No hook up but fresh water and a dump station are available at the campground," notes a visitor at Horse Creek Campground.
Seasonal water availability: Water sources at higher elevations may be shut off earlier than expected. "We didn't camp here, rather we used this as the start/finish point for our 2-day hike to the summit of Mt. Langley. Unfortunately, the potable water spigots were already turned off. The national forest website said they are off in the winter, but I didn't expect that already in early September," reports a Cottonwood Lakes visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration: Shoreline areas along creek-side horse camps provide natural water play areas. "The campground was nice, quiet. There was a nice stream you could fish with some trout. There are a couple big boulders the kids can climb on and around. Clean restrooms and a easy drive up to Whitney Portal. Would recommend staying," shares a Lone Pine visitor.
Night sky programs: Several campgrounds offer exceptional stargazing due to minimal light pollution. "Whitney Portal is a magical place. The second you pull into the campground, it feels like unlike anywhere else I've ever been. We could not hear a neighbor once because of the sound of the creek," reports a camper at Whitney Portal.
Weather preparation: Significant temperature fluctuations between day and night require appropriate clothing layers. "It did get chilly at night, but as long as you bundle up in your tent, you'll be completely fine. There are tons of mountain squirrels running around the campground frequently, and they are so cute and entertaining to watch," notes a Whitney Portal visitor.
Tips for RVers
Level site selection: Horse-friendly campgrounds often have terrain challenges requiring leveling equipment. "Great views all directions... Most sites are very close to level. Packed dirt roads around campsites in good condition. Picnic tables have pole to hang lantern. Good spacing between most sites," advises a Tuttle Creek visitor.
Water conservation: Limited water access at higher elevation horse camps necessitates bringing additional water. "Labor day weekend and half the campground is closed, water faucets are locked, and dump station is closed. We specifically chose this campground for the convenience of water and dump station. Otherwise, the sites are spread apart and the scenery is beautiful," cautions an RVer at Tuttle Creek.
Road conditions: Access roads to equestrian campgrounds may present challenges for larger rigs during spring runoff or after storms. "The road is maintained but a smidge bumpy and uneven but should be easy for most cars. Area was quiet and very little trash. Great to watch the light change the hillsides," reports a visitor about dispersed camping near fossil falls.
