Best Equestrian Camping near Los Padres National Forest

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Los Padres National Forest, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Los Padres National Forest (19)

    1. KCL Campground

    22 Reviews
    New Cuyama, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (661) 391-6000

    "trail to hill top. Equestrian site for sure."

    "There is an area for your horse. Walk in sites, rv/car camp/van/tent sites. It’s first come first serve, no reservations and it’s free."

    2. Sycamore Campground

    7 Reviews
    New Cuyama, CA
    13 miles
    +1 (818) 424-8256

    "Great hikes nearby and the beach is just a short walk away! We saw lots of cute animals during our stay. The campsite pass also gets you free parking at pretty much any beach along the PCH."

    "Less than 1/2 mile walk to the beach. Bike or hiking trails."

    3. Cachuma Lake Recreation Area

    57 Reviews
    Santa Ynez, CA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 686-5055

    "I am a native of Santa Barbara, CA, so I grew up going to Cachuma Lake. Cachuma Lake’s main recreational area is on a bluff overlooking the lake."

    "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."

    4. Miranda Pine Campground

    4 Reviews
    Carrizo Plain National Monument, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 968-6640

    "We arrived on Saturday 4th of July and all the sites were taken so we decided to drive another 15 miles up the road to a nice shaded location just right off the road."

    "I drive up on Old Sierra Madre Road from hwy 166, and it took about an hour."

    5. Colson Canyon Campground

    6 Reviews
    Santa Maria, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 968-6640

    "Few fire pits and tables a couple flat spots for camping, 30-45 minute drive from Santa Maria. Drive slow down the dirt road as to not upset the residents of Colson Canyon."

    "Clean site Areas are well spaced out First compound of campsites are the best end of the road are the trails to hike and only able to fit 3 trucks up there comfortably Bring your own toilet amenities"

    6. Wagon Flat Campground

    1 Review
    Los Padres National Forest, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 925-9538

    "You can hunt fish hike horse back riding and wake up to the sound of birds. I have seen bears and mountain lions so be prepared for that. Never been attacked by them. Bring your own water."

    7. Barrel Springs Campground

    2 Reviews
    Los Alamos, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 925-9538

    "There's plenty of tree and shade coverage, nice spread out spots to set up camp, and good nearby hikes.

    We stayed here during our PCT thru hike after crossing mile 100."

    8. Lopez Lake Recreation Area

    35 Reviews
    Arroyo Grande, CA
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 788-2381

    $60 - $70 / night

    "I grew up camping at Lopez Lake as well as other campsites. Lopez Lake offers a lot. Fishing hiking camping horse back riding etc. I highly recommend camping here."

    "It was located right next to the water park but they had already closed for the season."

    9. Brookshire Campground

    2 Reviews
    Carrizo Plain National Monument, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 925-9538

    "private road that would be a great way to get to this campground if the gate was not locked talking to the US Forrest firemen across the street they said if that road was open it's about a 15 minute drive"

    10. Reyes Creek Campground

    15 Reviews
    Pine Mountain Club, CA
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (805) 434-1996

    $30 - $154 / night

    "It's about a 40 minute drive from the nearest town (and therefore the nearest gas station or market - plan ahead). There is no power, or water."

    "There is a bar at the campground entrance if that is your speed, but we took advantage of the winding creek side path behind site 18."

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Showing results 1-10 of 19 campgrounds

Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Los Padres National Forest

11 Photos of 19 Los Padres National Forest Campgrounds


Equestrian Camping Reviews near Los Padres National Forest

187 Reviews of 19 Los Padres National Forest Campgrounds



Guide to Los Padres National Forest

Horse camping near Los Padres National Forest in California offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes while enjoying the companionship of your equine friends. With a variety of well-reviewed campgrounds catering to horse campers, you can find the perfect spot to set up your base.

Tips for equestrian camping near Los Padres National Forest in California

  • Ensure you bring your own water, as many sites, like Colson Canyon Campground, do not provide drinking water.
  • Be prepared for rough access roads; for example, Miranda Pine Campground requires a high-clearance vehicle to navigate the unpaved paths.
  • Always pack out what you pack in, as facilities like trash service may not be available at sites such as Brookshire Campground.

Equestrian campgrounds include these options

  • KCL Campground offers a rustic experience with basic amenities, perfect for those looking to connect with nature and their horses.
  • Thousand Trails Rancho Oso features horse riding opportunities and a remote mountain location, ideal for equestrian enthusiasts.
  • Reyes Creek Campground provides a scenic backdrop with clean facilities, making it a great choice for horse campers.

Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy hiking trails that are accessible from Los Padres National Forest Sage Hill Campground, offering stunning views and a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area.
  • Experience the tranquility of the high desert landscape while camping at Barrel Springs Campground, where you can also engage in birdwatching and wildlife observation.
  • Take advantage of the nearby trails for horseback riding, especially around Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, which offers a variety of outdoor activities in a picturesque setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Los Padres National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Los Padres National Forest is KCL Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 22 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Los Padres National Forest?

TheDyrt.com has all 19 equestrian camping locations near Los Padres National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.