Loafer Creek Horse Campground offers equestrian camping options 23 miles from Magalia, California. This designated section of Lake Oroville State Recreation Area has facilities designed specifically for horses and their owners. The campground sits at approximately 900 feet elevation, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F. Water levels in Lake Oroville can fluctuate dramatically between seasons, affecting trail access and lake activities.
What to do
Trail riding on connected paths: Loafer Creek's trails connect to the broader Lake Oroville network, giving riders multiple route options. "Clean campground, great fishing, and nice trail around lake. Kids love camping here," notes Erin C. about nearby Whitehorse Campground, which connects to the same trail system.
Fishing access: The lake offers various fishing spots within riding distance of the horse campground. A visitor to Sly Creek Campground reports: "We enjoyed our camping trip immensely and enjoyed getting into our kayaks and on to the water... There was great fishing but we didn't catch anything."
Wildlife viewing: The recreation area hosts diverse wildlife. "Wildlife is all around you and you can see some of the most beautiful scenery you'll ever see in your life," writes Renee A. about her experience at Sly Creek Campground.
What campers like
Spacious corrals: The dedicated horse facilities provide appropriate containment for equines. At Soldier Meadows Campground, another camping option with large sites near Magalia, a visitor notes: "The campsites are huge, with lots of room to spread out."
Low occupancy periods: Many campers appreciate the quiet nature of off-season visits. "Only 3 other campsites in use that we noticed in October. The lake is super low, but a pleasant campground on our way home," writes Miriam B. about her fall visit to Loafer Creek Horse Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: "The campsites are clean and include picnic table, firepit and plenty of shade. Water pumps near the sites. Vault toilets, hot water and showers," reports Bonnie M. about her experience at the campground.
What you should know
Water level variations: Lake Oroville experiences significant water level fluctuations. "The lake is super low, but a pleasant campground on our way home," reports Miriam B. about Loafer Creek in October.
Distance to water access: The lake shore can be a substantial walk from the campground. "The water was nearly a mile walk to the boat ramp and almost 2 miles to a 'beach' that was closed," notes Chris M. about Loafer Creek Horse Campground.
Site terrain challenges: Finding level ground can be difficult at some sites. At Snake Lake Campground, another camping option near Magalia, a visitor shared, "Great place to camp. Easy to get to, maybe 15 minutes from town. Hiking, 4 wheeling, fishing. One of my favorite places to camp."
Tips for camping with families
Nearby recreation options: Beyond horseback riding, families can enjoy various activities. A visitor to Black Rock Campground (Lassen NF) reports: "We saw some salmon, deer, quail, and frogs. There was evidence of bears around our site but we didn't have any issues."
Limited shade coverage: Some areas of the campground have minimal shade. Bring canopies or shade structures for hot days. One camper at Black Rock Ten Family Campground noted: "Very pretty views of the valley from the campground, and having hiking trails start from the campground was really nice. Only complaints are very close neighbors and little shade."
Wildlife safety precautions: The area is bear country, so proper food storage is essential. Alissa C. shares about her experience at Black Rock Campground: "The mosquitoes were out in full force so bug spray is a must. There are some nice places to fish that are just a short walk from the campsites and the campsites are nicely shaded to help cut the heat during the day."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers should bring leveling blocks. "Most of the sites were not very level," shares Chris M. about his experience at Loafer Creek Horse Campground.
Limited hookup options: Unlike some nearby RV parks, equestrian campgrounds typically offer fewer amenities for RVs. At Bidwell Canyon Campground, another campground near Magalia, an RVer notes: "Campground would likely be better in late September/October" when temperatures are milder and fewer hookups are needed.
Road conditions: Some access roads to horse camps can be rough. "The road to get there was the only headache especially since we drove a small car. We made it but I'd definitely recommend something with a higher clearance," advises Kyle M. about accessing similar campgrounds in the region.
