Dru Barner Campground serves as a key access point for equestrian activities in the El Dorado National Forest at approximately 3,200 feet elevation. The surrounding Gold Run area features mixed conifer forest with seasonal temperatures ranging from summer highs in the 80s to winter lows below freezing. Access roads remain open year-round though occasional winter storms may temporarily limit accessibility.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: The area surrounding Dru Barner connects to extensive trail networks. "Lots of wild turkeys, deer, and birds" reports Lily S. about the wildlife visible when exploring from the campground. These natural encounters add value to riding excursions from this established equestrian base.
Waterfall hiking: Near Sly Park Recreation Area, visitors access waterfall trails requiring minimal hiking experience. "There is a lovely, short hike to a waterfall! It's just a 1 mile walk along the lakeshore from the Hazel Creek day use parking area," notes Michell C., highlighting the accessibility of natural features.
Gold panning: The Ruck-A-Chucky Campground area offers recreational gold panning opportunities. "If you're lucky and know how to read the river, gold panning is a must!" explains Jason A., pointing to the continuing allure of the region's gold rush history.
What campers like
Lake access: Loon Lake provides exceptional water clarity for swimming and paddling. "Warm, clear water with sandy/grassy beaches all around," reports Jordyn A., noting that the lake remains less crowded than other Tahoe-area waters despite its appeal.
Winter camping options: Several horse campgrounds near Gold Run, California maintain winter accessibility. "Never been during peak (summer) but both times we have stayed here in winter and it was FANTASTIC!" shares Deanne S. about Dru Barner, highlighting year-round options for equestrians and other campers.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly by location. At Beals Point Campground, Brian A. notes "GREAT cell service for working remotely. 5G with 5 bars," while most forest service campgrounds offer limited or no connectivity.
What you should know
Water availability: Many equestrian facilities in the region require campers to bring their own water supply. "Bring water as there is none available due to poor quality," advises Cheri S. about Dru Barner, reinforcing the importance of carrying water for both humans and horses.
Seasonal considerations: Late summer presents specific challenges at horse campgrounds in the Gold Run area. "The good part is this is a beautiful place in the trees to camp with nearby hiking. And it's equestrian friendly if you want to bring your horse," notes Cheri S., before warning about summer insect activity.
Primitive vs. developed options: Facilities vary widely between established campgrounds and dispersed sites. Eric D. explains that Mumford Bar Trail Campground offers "no water spigot" and reminds visitors to "pack it in, PACK IT OUT," highlighting the self-sufficiency needed at less developed sites.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategies: For family camping with horses, certain areas offer better spacing. "Sites have lots of space, table, fire ring and generally level drive pads," notes marcus K. about Fallen Leaf Campground, describing features that accommodate family groups with horses.
Beach access: When camping with children near equestrian areas, nearby swimming options provide alternative recreation. "We loved the bike paths all though out the area. Rode In to south Tahoe and had a great experience," shares Shane T., highlighting family-friendly activities beyond horse riding.
Weather preparation: The mountain elevation necessitates planning for temperature fluctuations. At sites like East Meadow Campground, Ron G. observes "bugs were minimal, a far cry from about 3 weeks ago at a nearby site," demonstrating how conditions change throughout the season even at established equestrian facilities.
Tips from RVers
Backup power considerations: Many equestrian campgrounds lack hookups requiring self-sufficiency. Craig & Linda L. describe Ghost Mountain RV Campground as having "Water and Electricity only. There is Honeybucket truck that comes around Monday Wednesday and Friday. A dump station on site."
Road conditions: Access roads to horse camps frequently present challenges for large rigs. At Ruck-A-Chucky, Kevin W. cautions "the 3 mile road down is a bit treacherous (maybe don't take your RV)," indicating why many equestrians prefer smaller trailers in this region.
Reservation timing: RV spaces at equestrian facilities fill quickly during peak periods. "Book far in advance to get a spot in summer," advises marcus K. about Fallen Leaf Campground, a pattern consistent across horse campgrounds near Gold Run.
