24 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Horse-friendly campgrounds in the Mammoth Lakes area offer primarily primitive camping experiences, with notable limitations for equestrian needs. Based on the campground data, none of the listed locations feature dedicated horse corrals or specialized equestrian facilities. Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping and Goat Meadow provide free dispersed camping options that allow pets and are accessible for vehicles including horse trailers. These sites accommodate tent and RV camping but lack amenities such as water sources, toilets, or designated horse areas. The campground terrain consists mostly of pine forest with reasonably flat areas for setting up camp.
Trail access presents the primary attraction for horse owners considering camping in this region. Multiple hiking trails connect to the surrounding Inyo National Forest and Sierra Nevada wilderness areas. Horse riders should note that water access for animals is limited at the dispersed sites, requiring bringing sufficient water supplies. Bear activity is common throughout the region, so proper food and tack storage is essential, with bear-resistant containers provided at some established campgrounds. During summer months, the free shuttle service in Mammoth Lakes provides transportation options for riders, though trailer parking can be limited during peak periods. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with high-elevation trails often inaccessible until late June.
"Twin lakes is Located in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains near the town of Mammoth Lakes, California. Upper and lower twin lakes are a fantasic place to set up base camp and explore the sierras."
"Twin Lakes and all of the surrounding Mammoth area is gorgeous. You'll have plenty of hikes to choose from, go fishing, or hit the slopes (biking during the summer and snowsports in the winter)."
from $34 / night
Check Availability"Multiple locations near by not listed. It gets a bit dusty and windy. Lots of off road vehicles. All the camper vans rolled in after dark and it filled up quick."
"Easy access to all vehicles except some areas that may need a little higher clearance. Nicely secluded but not many great open views in the area since it is in the Forrest among the trees."
"This was a good staging site to go up and down the June Lake Loop for the colors. I am a tent camper and at this time of the year it is COLD. Most of the folks were in RVs. "
"The nearby lake was beautiful, especially in early morning, and it provided an entry and exit point to the quieter side of the CA wilderness, such as Ansel Adams Wilderness (for when you don't want to"
from $32 - $64 / night
Check Availability"After driving around every overcrowded campground in mammoth lakes we were lucky enough to find this campsite on Dyrt. It had many open spots even in July with beautiful views of nearby mountains."
"I stayed here for 3 nights while section hiking the Pacific crest trail & everyone I came into contact that worked at reds meadoow was extremely helpful and polite. there's a restaurant (diner food"
"These sites are well maintained and include fire pits, bear lockers and close access to restrooms, water and dumpster. Tree cover helps keep it cool."
"Some of the sites offer nice privacy and are tucked into trees and meadows. Only downside was the mosquitos but I know they are everywhere."
from $50 - $99 / night
Check Availability"Thousand Island Lake is a trek to get to but once you get there, well you don’t really want to leave."
"Thousand Island Lake is a backcountry camping area located at 9,839 feet elevation in Ansel Adams Wilderness within the Inyo National Forest, California."
from $5 / night
Check Availability"I agree the road out is pretty scary I don't advise trailers but I have seen them while driving in. It is one lane and you must pull out for opposing traffic."
"Our campground was right next to the river, and hiking trails to lakes, meadows and hot springs run directly off of the campground. The host was wonderful, it was all around perfect."
from $37 - $78 / night
Check Availability"After accidentally driving to this location following the directions of another reviewer for the “Yosemite Boondocks” campground across 41 (which we never found) we were very happy with this location."
"Great spot about 5 minutes away from Yosemite entrance. Only a few other campers nearby but plenty of space to where they were only seen from a distance."
"If you wanna get away and camp next to a river and down a trail and shoot your gun or go fishing you can freedom you can horseback ride if you have horses he can fish there are fish there trout it's beautiful"
"There are pit toilets, but they are located only on the upper loop, so the sites in the lower loop are quite far away, so be prepared to dig a hole."
"There were signs on the way in for both free range cattle and horses, but we didn't see any. Cell service with Verizon, weak but usable."
LegendThese sites are well maintained and include fire pits, bear lockers and close access to restrooms, water and dumpster. Tree cover helps keep it cool. You are very close to mammoth lakes and devils postponed and rainbow falls. The drive in features great views of the mountains n the distance.
GuideIf you're camping here, you're going to see beautiful lakes and a giant waterfall that's just a short walk from any campsite. However, be prepared to be right on top of each other, without a lot of space.
The bathrooms have flushing toilets and running sinks, so they don't stink and aren't terrible to camp next to if you have to. (Site 11 was the only one left the second time I stayed here, but there was no bathroom smell).
This is a great campsite for backpackers getting to Mammoth lakes and acclimating to the altitude before setting off.
GuideAfter driving around every overcrowded campground in mammoth lakes we were lucky enough to find this campsite on Dyrt. It had many open spots even in July with beautiful views of nearby mountains. Close walking distance (about .5 miles to a mile depending one where your site is) to a lake and a hiking trail up to devils postpile. We also went to try the hot spring there at night but it was so hot you had to bring up buckets of water from a nearby creek to use it, we heard it is better in the early mornings. Also there are a lot of bears in the area and they are relatively comfortable around humans, one walked through our site and other campers sites while we were there so make sure to keep all food and items that may have scent in the bear boxes provided and not in your vehicle or tent!
GuideI stayed here for 3 nights while section hiking the Pacific crest trail & everyone I came into contact that worked at reds meadoow was extremely helpful and polite. there's a restaurant (diner food) that's open 8am - 6pm (check hours) & also a general store that sells all your camping needs. there was also a free shuttle from Reds Meadows to mammoth mountain ski lodge where you can catch a bus into Mammoth lakes.
campground has multiple concrete buildings with toilets & running water as well as bear boxes & fire pits. also a steam depending on time of season.
LegendTwin lakes is Located in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains near the town of Mammoth Lakes, California. Upper and lower twin lakes are a fantasic place to set up base camp and explore the sierras. This Review is specific to the lower loop which is on the east side of the lake just past the tamarack lodge and store. The store (open 7-7) offered a variety of amenities from clothes to souvenirs. Also available at the store were showers ($6 per person and from 7am to 6pm) and boat rentals($20 per hour) . The restrooms had sinks and flushing toilets that were immaculate!We had an awful bear Problem during our visit with other campers not securing their food in the provided bear boxes but other than that we had a truly enjoyable time! The Campsites are very spacious and shaded. The amount of shade in the campground did keep things on the cooler side all day. There is Plenty to do in the area from a lengthy bike path that covers the entire lake basin to the numerous hiking trails that cover the mountain sides. You’ll want to make sure you check out the visitor center as you come into town for a fascinating history lesson and tips to make the most of your trip! Mammoth mountain itself offers a variety of entertainment during the summer from concert series in the village to zip lining across the mountain. You’ll want to head to Main Lodge for any ticket purchases for mammoth mountain activities. In my pictures you’ll find the transit schedule for the free trolly that runs up around the lake basin and throughout the town of Mammoth along with a map of the campground!
GuideGreat location right in the middle of Yosemite Valley. Great access to beautiful hikes and scenery. The camp sites are spacious. Because it's an equestrian campground, you will smell the horses and stables....be prepared. The river is close to the campgrounds and are refreshing on a hot day.
GuideI agree the road out is pretty scary I don't advise trailers but I have seen them while driving in. It is one lane and you must pull out for opposing traffic. But definitely one of my most favorite places in the Sierras. The views are amazing, I recommend giving yourself extra time to stop and get out for the views a few times on the way in.
Once in the campground/resort area there are two separate loops to camp in as well as cabins to rent and a small dispersed camping area there is also a general store, bath house, and small Cafe that are all seasonal since the road is closed most of the year. So open and close dates vary depending on snow. You can get firewood, drinking water at the store but it can be a little pricey, so I recommend bringing your own. The baths/showers are usually included for anyone paying for a campsite, but this may have changed. It is very cheap for day use persons to use the showers though. The sites are all very nice and surprisingly private though some are pretty close together. All provide a firepit, table, bear box, and parking space. I love that there are bear boxes at such a remote place! There are vault tiolets and dumpsters for trash. The river runs along one side of the campsites so about half of the sites are on the river. Bring extra bugspray for these sites as you are close to the water.
Most important if you made it this far reading 😅😂 there are multiple NATURAL HOT SPRINGS!! There are several different pools located across the river from the campgrounds. They are all over the hillside and range in temperature from lukewarm to bath water to Hot. They also pump the natural mineral water to the bathhouse for the showers! The springs are the main reason to come out and camp. There are also tons of hiking trails and other lakes in the area including 2 thermal lakes and tons of breathtaking views. I highly recommend this place. 🏞🏕
Also: I have not personally stayed in the cabins or dispersed camping area only the paid sites along the river, but I have been here several times and have seen them. There is also a corral area for horses so I'm not sure if that qualifies it as an equestrian camp but there is a spot for the horses.
TravelerIf you wanna get away and camp next to a river and down a trail and shoot your gun or go fishing you can freedom you can horseback ride if you have horses he can fish there are fish there trout it's beautiful peaceful.
TravelerThis campground is in the heart of Yosemite Valley. It is great to camp on the valley floor, especially during peak season as traffic from all main gates to the valley floor is very congested. There is a shuttle stop right outside the campground. You are also in easy walking distance to the path to Mirror Lake and the ever popular Mist Trail. Shuttle stops at all valley attractions and you can easily get to the Pizza Deck in Half Dome Village, the deli in Yosemite Village, and many different hiking trails. Some spots are right along the Merced River. No showers here, but hot showers are close by at Half Dome Village. We will be back!
Horse campgrounds near Mammoth Lakes, California provide access to multiple trail systems across Sierra Nevada wilderness areas. Sites are located at elevations between 7,000 and 9,800 feet, creating variable weather conditions even during summer months. Nearby equestrian staging areas range from primitive clearings to designated areas with limited stock facilities.
Fishing access: At Twin Lakes Campground, horses can be kept near excellent fishing spots. "We love to fish here, both on shore and in a boat (def bring your boat if you have one). The views are insanely gorgeous!" reports Rosie R.
Backcountry exploration: Experienced riders can access remote alpine locations from several trailheads. As Dave V. describes at Thousand Island Lake Backcountry: "If you are looking for the best bang for your buck in backcountry short trips, file this one away as a 'must do!' There are others in the eastern Sierra Nevadas...but that's for another post."
Alpine lake circuits: Multiple interconnected trails allow for day loops between high mountain lakes. "Hiking, fishing, swimming, hot springs. All you could ask for. A week made for memories," shares Regina P. about riding from equestrian access points.
Natural mineral springs: Equestrians appreciate natural hot springs near some campgrounds to soothe muscles after long rides. Mollie M. explains at Mono Hot Springs: "There are multiple NATURAL HOT SPRINGS!! There are several different pools located across the river from the campgrounds. They are all over the hillside and range in temperature from lukewarm to bath water to Hot."
Forest seclusion: Riders enjoy the privacy afforded by pine forest campsites. "Easy access to all vehicles except some areas that may need a little higher clearance. Nicely secluded but not many great open views in the area since it is in the Forrest among the trees," notes Tim W. about Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife viewing: The chance to spot local wildlife enhances the equestrian camping experience. "Lots of wildlife in the area; squirrels, ducks, deer, and even bears," shares Mary C., highlighting natural encounters to be expected while camping with horses.
Trailer access limitations: Many equestrian-friendly sites have challenging access roads. Chris M. warns about one route: "Kaiser Pass was a bit of an adrenaline rush. It took 2 hours to drive 18 miles on a one lane road that is not in good repair. But WORTH it!"
Water availability: While streams and lakes are plentiful, drinking water for horses is limited at dispersed sites. "Campground was probably 75% full with mostly RV's and trailers. Campground was clean and hosts were polite/friendly. Keep your food in the bear lockers, they have daily visitors late in the evening and throughout the night," advises Jason F.
Weather fluctuations: Riders should prepare for significant temperature swings. "Remember that you're at elevation so it can get cold at night even in the summer," warns Jonathan G. about Silver Lake Campground. Pack appropriate blankets for horses during overnight stays.
Bear safety education: Teach children proper food storage procedures. "Be sure to put food and garbage away before bed- we had a bear come visit!!" warns Rosie R., highlighting the importance of bear safety when camping with families and horses.
Accessibility considerations: Choose sites with easier trail access for younger riders. Brandon L. notes about one backcountry location: "We still talk about this backpacking camp often. The views are amazing!! So worth the hike in! Pack a trowel…"
Day trip options: Plan shorter riding routes for children from base camps. "If you wanna get away and camp next to a river and down a trail and shoot your gun or go fishing you can freedom you can horseback ride if you have horses he can fish there are fish there trout it's beautiful peaceful," suggests Mark G. about Granite Creek Campground.
Site selection strategy: RVers with horse trailers should research specific sites. "We camped here with a group that had two trailers and a large RV. We decided to camp further away from the lake (towards the back of the campground), as there were less people and it was more quiet and secluded," advises Rosie R.
Seasonal timing: Travel during shoulder seasons to avoid crowds at equestrian-accessible campgrounds. "When I was there recently, some of the 'campsites' had 0-3", whereas other spots were about 6-8". Consequently, there were about 6-8 cars/vans that ended up camping in the parking lot of the snowplay area," reports Alexander Mark C.
Self-sufficiency requirements: Come prepared with all necessary supplies for horses. "This spot is a large flat area with zero amenities so bring water and pack in and pack out," advises Laura M., emphasizing the primitive nature of many equestrian-friendly sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Mammoth Lakes, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Mammoth Lakes, CA is Twin Lakes Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 13 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Mammoth Lakes, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 24 equestrian camping locations near Mammoth Lakes, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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