Eagle Meadow Horse Camp offers primitive equestrian camping near Long Barn, California at 6,200 feet elevation in the Stanislaus National Forest. The area features seasonal access, typically open from late spring through early fall depending on snowpack conditions. Horse campers can explore more than 15 miles of trails directly from the campground, with connections to the wider forest trail system.
What to do
Trail riding on forest routes: At Eagle Meadow Horse Camp, riders can access extensive trail networks. One camper noted, "I stayed at a super campground on a forest road turn off. There were a couple of other spots taken, but it was off the beaten path and very quiet. I was able to watch the sunset from some rocks across the road."
Swimming in natural spots: The Glory Hole Recreation Area provides lake access during summer months. A visitor mentioned, "Site we had was nice and large, we were able to fit 2-2 person tents and a 3 person tent quite easily. Enough room for 2 cars on the pad as well, nice and level as well."
Hiking nearby peaks: Clark Fork Campground offers trails along the Stanislaus River. As one camper reported, "Just past the 1st bridge into the camp ground there is a great hiking trail along side of the river you just have to climb over a few boulders then it's an easy hike from there well until you hike back up the trail."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Horse enthusiasts appreciate the privacy at Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed where one camper explained, "A very secluded primitive site that is only a couple miles or less to town over paved and dirt roads. The roads are not four-wheel drive and are perfect for van lifers. Deep in the woods surrounded by forests and undergrowth nice flat spots to park and set up camp."
Natural features: Many equestrian campers value proximity to water. At Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed, a camper noted, "Drive to the back area for tree shade and level grounds. Side of road camping. Camping on Ridgeline."
Cell service availability: Unlike many remote camping areas, some sites offer connectivity. One camper at Top of Arnold reported, "2 to three bars Verizon no facilities of any kind. There are a few random fire pits. This area is closed in the winter due to snow but is the perfect weather during shoulder seasons, not too cold not too cold."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Temperature fluctuations can be significant at higher elevations. At Spicer Reservoir Campground, campers noted, "At the time (early September), there were a lot of bees and we saw some fresh bear poop right behind one of the sites."
Road conditions: Many horse camping areas have limited access. For Top of Arnold, a visitor warned, "Dirt road to get to spot is pretty rough but my Taurus wagon did just fine. There are a few people on dirt bikes ripping around trails so not fully secluded."
Water availability: Most equestrian sites require bringing water for both humans and horses. A Forest Route 4N39 visitor explained, "This road follows power lines pretty much for the entire length of the road. It would be a really nice area to disperse if they weren't there as the area is beautiful. That said, you don't need 4x4 but you definitely will need a vehicle with some decent clearance."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For family equestrian camping, consider places with basic facilities. At Clark Fork Campground, a camper shared, "Clark's Fork is a large campground with 88 sites – all of which are situated with lots of space so that you aren't too close to your neighbors. The availability of adjacent 'double sites' makes this campground a great place for larger groups of families and friends."
Plan for temperature changes: Mountain temperatures fluctuate dramatically. A Glory Hole visitor warned, "Be prepared for the heat in summer. It can reach up to 110F in summer. It is toasting even with shade."
Consider proximity to water: Families with horses often need substantial water access. One visitor to Bear Valley Dispersed Camping observed, "Bear valley is my favorite place to go camping, the most you get close to the top of the mountain, the most curvy the road is, so be prepare. There is a point where the paved road disappears and is only dirt road."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: When bringing horses and RVs, look for level sites. At Glory Hole Recreation Area, a camper advised, "The view at campsite 57 is gorgeous! However, be prepared for the heat. It can reach up to 110F in summer."
Clearance requirements: Many horse camping areas have rough access roads. One Forest Route 4N39 camper noted, "There are some weirdly purposefully placed speed bumps on the west end of the road approaching 4N01 and Spring Gap Rd that will let you know if you have enough clearance pretty quickly."
Limited hookups: Most equestrian camping sites near Long Barn lack RV amenities. A camper at Spicer Reservoir explained, "We camped at Spicer on Labor Day weekend with our 28' toy hauler. The campsites have a variety of trees/rocks and many are fairly private. We got one close to the walking trail down to the lake, which took just a couple minutes."
