KCL Campground offers specialized equestrian facilities in Carrizo Plain National Monument, located 13 miles from the main road on a dirt track. The campground provides seven drive-in and five walk-in sites with facilities designed for horseback riders and hikers. Positioned in California's largest native grassland preserve, KCL serves as a base camp for accessing trails that connect to significant geographical features including fault lines and alkaline lakes.
What to do
Wildlife watching opportunities: At Rancho Oso, visitors frequently spot wild turkeys and deer throughout the campgrounds. "There's also there's also a couple of families of Turkeys wandering around," notes Tom W., who appreciates the campground's natural surroundings.
Horseback riding trails: Reyes Creek Campground offers excellent access to surrounding trails for both hiking and horseback riding. "There are 3 neighborhood dogs that come and go through your campsite but they are sweet pups and don't cause any trouble. The abandoned town is a 3 minute walk from camp and really interesting," writes Chelsea B., highlighting the unique features beyond the campground itself.
Stargazing sessions: The remote location of equestrian campgrounds near Maricopa provides exceptional night sky viewing conditions. At Miranda Pine Campground, visitors enjoy panoramic views. "Set atop a mountain, Miranda Pine campground gives sweeping views all the way to the ocean," reports Dani P., who also notes that "Sunset and Sunrise views are incredible."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many horse-friendly camping areas offer well-spaced campsites. At Halfmoon Campground, Antonio C. found "Beautiful drive down grade valley to get to this awesome site. We were looking for a more remote place to camp and this site satisfied all our needs."
Equestrian amenities: Specialized horse campgrounds near Maricopa provide important facilities for riders. At Thousand Trails Rancho Oso, M.M. confirms it's a "Beautiful remote equestrian campground. If you are looking for a campground with horseback riding opportunities, this is the campground for you."
Water features: Camping areas with running water enhance the experience. "Reyes creek is beautiful! Great camping spots, beautiful creeks & hikes, cute abandoned town for a photo opp and awesome camp host," states Chelsea B., highlighting the value of water access for both humans and horses.
What you should know
Road conditions matter: Access to remote equestrian camping requires appropriate vehicles. At Colson Canyon Campground, Josh M. advises, "Drive slow down the dirt road as to not upset the residents of Colson Canyon," while Jeannette P. notes that "Colson is basic, fun, old school camping."
Limited or no cell service: Most horse camps around Maricopa lack connectivity. Michele at Rancho Oso warns, "No wifi and cell service - on them. They need to fix this." Tom W. confirms, "Cell service was, surprisingly, one bar, if you're lucky, but most days it's none, even with my WeBoost."
Fire restrictions vary seasonally: Check current fire regulations before planning your trip. While many campgrounds have fire rings, restrictions often apply during dry seasons. Francisco M. at Colson Canyon reports "Clean site, Areas are well spaced out," but reminds campers to "Bring your own toilet amenities and water."
Tips for camping with families
Creek access for cooling off: Sycamore Campground offers water features that children enjoy. "Neat and clean campsite. They have pay showers which are decent. Less than 1/2 mile walk to the beach. Bike or hiking trails," notes Richard W., making this an excellent option for families with children.
Educational wildlife viewing: Many equestrian campgrounds offer natural learning opportunities for children. Antonio C. at Upper Oso Campground observed that the "Creek was flowing and had an abundance of toads," providing natural discovery opportunities for young campers.
Weather preparation: Temperature variations can be extreme at higher elevation camps. Larry M. at Reyes Creek suggests, "Weather was hot, but there was lot's of shade in the campsites and a beautiful, cool creek running through. Makes for great sleeping."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Not all horse campgrounds can accommodate large rigs. Betty K. warns about Rancho Oso, "Scary climb, lost transmission and brakes...if you do not have big diesel pusher in tip top shape, AVOID."
Hookup availability: Cachuma Lake Recreation Area offers substantial facilities for RVers near Maricopa. "Clean sites,good restrooms, kayaks, nature center, and well stocked store," reports Vickie C., making this a convenient option for those seeking more amenities.
Preparing for isolation: Most equestrian camps require self-sufficiency. Gabriel R. from Colson Canyon advises, "This review will not be relevant for lifted or vehicles with high ground clearance and off roading capabilities," highlighting the importance of vehicle suitability when accessing remote horse campgrounds.
