Equestrian camping near Los Angeles, California offers access to trails through the San Gabriel Mountains and Angeles National Forest between 3,000-7,000 feet elevation. Summers reach temperatures in the 80s-90s F, while winter nights often drop below freezing. Horse corrals and water access vary significantly between campgrounds, with some requiring advance arrangements for equestrian groups.
What to Do
Overnight trail riding: The Angeles National Forest provides multiple interconnected equestrian trails accessible from Bear Canyon Campground. "There are fire pits & along Bear Creek (seasonal). Can be reached from Tom Sloan Saddle or Switzer Falls Trailhead," notes Anthony K., who recommends this secluded spot for riders seeking natural water sources.
Mountain biking: At Malibu Creek State Park Campground, cyclists can access designated trails throughout the former movie set location. "The state park is filled with easily accessible trails for hiking and some for mountain biking. The primary trails were open fire roads with off-shoots to lakes, pools, meadows, and more," writes Ryan W., highlighting the range of terrain options.
Wildlife viewing: The extensive natural areas surrounding Los Angeles camping areas support diverse wildlife populations. "The wildlife is abundant. There is plenty of birdwatching, and coyotes were wandering through the park and campground without fear," explains Ryan W. about Malibu Creek State Park. For early morning riders, dawn provides optimal viewing hours.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Tapo Canyon Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Cleanliness: 10/10," reports Care B., while April Y. adds, "Bathrooms are very clean. Showers are coin operated." This level of upkeep makes it suitable for riders concerned about sanitation during overnight stays.
Privacy between sites: Horse Flats Campground features well-spaced sites for equestrian groups. "The individual sites are large and spread out from each other, so it is easy to have some privacy," explains Les R., noting this arrangement helps maintain separation between horses and other campers.
Ease of access: Musch Trail Camp provides straightforward entry points for equestrian camping. "Musch Camp is an easy one mile hike from the Trippet Ranch Parking Lot in Topanga State Park," writes Erik M., detailing the access route. Andrea A. confirms the accessibility, noting "Park for $7/night at Trippet Ranch and hike one mile to the campgrounds. It's an easy hike."
What You Should Know
Seasonal closures affect some campgrounds: Many Angeles National Forest campsites operate seasonally. "Know before you go - it's closed from November-ish to April-ish - so check the forest website before you head out there," advises Kate O. regarding Horse Flats.
Insect preparation needed: Several campgrounds report significant insect activity. "Bring some bug spray if you're bugged by bugs," recommends Josh F. about Horse Flats Campground. Justin B. warns, "Lots of flies. Toilets were unbearable with the amount of flies."
Water availability varies: Most equestrian campgrounds require bringing your own water. "Bring all your water with you. There is no running water at this campground," states Les R. about Horse Flats Campground. This particularly impacts horse owners needing large water quantities.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Valencia Travel Village offers amenities specifically for families with children. "They have two nice pools one for adults and one for families," writes Ashley S., adding that the campground maintains "a nice size laundry room that stays clean."
Noise considerations: As Horse Flats has grown more popular, noise levels have increased. "We've been kept awake by other campsites on three different occasions now. Part of the issue is that rangers aren't regularly monitoring in order to enforce the quiet hours," explains Les R., suggesting weekday visits for quieter experiences.
Campsite selection: For families bringing both horses and children, certain sites offer better arrangements. "The inner circle of sites abuts the bathrooms and is better for groups," Ryan W. notes about Malibu Creek State Park, while Les R. recommends specific locations at Horse Flats: "We stayed in site 59 which had a really nice shade tree and great views."
Tips from RVers
RV site dimensions: Not all equestrian campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "Best for tents, tight for RVs," Rick L. cautions about Malibu Creek State Park, while April Y. notes about Tapo Canyon Park, "No issues parking our 42' 5th wheel here."
Utility considerations: Valencia Travel Village provides full hookups for equestrian RVers. "Plenty of spots around the grounds with 30 and 50 amp hook ups. WiFi is included with 3 pools and a hot tube, small store, and a really nice laundry facility," Bradley F. explains, though cellular service varies by location.
Reservation requirements: Some locations require advance booking, especially for equestrian camping. "Very easy to pull thru site with plenty of space for our RV and truck to fit and had some shade from a nearby tree," Julia M. shares about Valencia Travel Village, though noting its somewhat remote location.
