Equestrian camping near Madera, California offers multiple options within the Sierra National Forest where elevations range from 2,000 to 7,000 feet. The region experiences Mediterranean climate patterns with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Most horse camping areas remain accessible from late spring through early fall, with some higher elevation sites receiving snowfall as early as October.
What to do
Trail riding to swimming holes: At Big Sandy Campground, riders can access creek-side trails with natural swimming spots. "There are some beautiful waterfall spots about 2 miles of hill climb from campground, well worth the hike. Water can be very cold though," notes Rosina A.
Creek exploration: Campers at Big Sandy enjoy riding alongside the water. "Has a creek through the middle next to pretty much all sites. The stars at night are incredible," reports Rosina A. The creek provides natural water access for horses.
Day trips to Yosemite: From Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site, equestrians can ride into parts of Yosemite. "It's a great spot to camp when you're in Yosemite but want a more peaceful place to stay for the night," explains Ala B. The location sits about one hour from Yosemite Valley visitor center.
What campers like
Large, level sites: Goat Meadow offers spacious areas for horse trailers. "Quite a large level area, though it was November and not peak season so there were loads of space. We pulled in and there were a couple of trailers with horses and a couple of other vehicles," shares Kevin T.
Natural shade: Sweetwater Campground provides tree cover for horses during hot days. "The view was BEAUTIFUL and we had a great time," reports Alyssa K. Though near the highway, the natural setting makes it popular with equestrians.
Water access: Many sites feature creek access for horses. At Fish Creek Campground, "I went here with my two kids and they loved playing in the creek. It doesn't have many amenities, but the space is nice with a fire pit and pick of table," says Aya-Mei D.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some equestrian sites requires careful driving. "The 6 mile road to get into it is rough. With high rain season, you have to cross the creek and it may require a lifted type vehicle like a truck," warns Rosina A. about Big Sandy Campground.
Seasonal closures: Higher elevation sites close during winter. "They're only open for the summer-fall forest service road definitely not maintained when it snows," explains Kelly M. about Big Sandy Campground.
Limited facilities: Most equestrian sites have basic amenities. "It doesn't have many amenities, but the space is nice with a fire pit and pick of table," notes Aya-Mei D. about Fish Creek Campground. Bring supplies as stores can be 20+ miles away.
Tips for camping with families
Creek play areas: Children can enjoy shallow water areas while adults tend horses. "I went here with my two kids and they loved playing in the creek," shares Aya-Mei D. about Fish Creek Campground.
Multi-generational tradition: Many families return yearly with horses. "This has always been one of my families favorite campground from my grandpa taking my dad and my dad taking me. Very peaceful and clean, the bathrooms where kept well and camp host was very friendly," recalls Leon G. about Big Sandy Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for wildlife encounters common in equestrian areas. "Coyotes and bears are active in the area—coyotes raided a bag I had hanging from a tree and stole my food!" warns Alexander Mark C. about Goat Meadow.
Tips from RVers
Large rig limitations: Most equestrian sites accommodate modest-sized trailers rather than large RVs. "We marked this as 'big rig' friendly," mentions Tom D. about COE Eastman Lake Codorniz Campground, noting "there were 5-6 [sites] that fit our 43' Blue Bird."
Seasonal water levels: RVers with horse trailers should check water conditions. "This COE is on a small lake that is used for irrigation during the summer resulting in a much lower water level than in the spring," explains Tom D. about Codorniz Recreation Area.
Cell service variability: Connectivity varies significantly at equestrian sites. "AT&T cell signal from 45 was non existent but T-mobile worked well enough to stream Netflix," reports Candy H. about Codorniz. At Goat Meadow, Jonathan reports "great cell service through Verizon."
