Stough Reservoir Campground provides equestrian-focused facilities in the Warner Mountains region of northeastern California. The campground sits at approximately 5,800 feet elevation, creating a high-desert camping environment with significant temperature variations between day and night. Access requires navigating a 2-mile gravel road that connects to established forest service routes throughout the area. Trailer parking accommodates moderate-sized horse rigs at specific sites.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Multiple forest service roads connect directly from Stough Reservoir Campground, allowing riders to explore the Warner Mountain range. "We plan to come back in the future. We visited on a Sunday afternoon," notes Patricia N., indicating the campground's appeal for trail riding reconnaissance.
Rockhounding excursions: The surrounding Warner Mountains offer productive mineral collection sites. "There's both a BLM and USFS office in nearby Cedarville for info plus hot springs in Surprise Valley and lots of good rockhounding in nearby Warner mountains on the west side towards Lakeview," according to Ariel & John W.
Winter snow activities: Early season visitors may encounter snow conditions suitable for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing from the campground. "Snowed when we were there in June. No hookups but there's water around the campsites and picnic tables and fire pits," reports Ariel & John W., highlighting seasonal variability at this elevation.
What campers like
Secluded premium sites: The campground layout provides some sites with additional privacy. Greg B. shares, "I got the primo site across the water, solo spot with my own pit toilet. No cell service solitude with the high-passing jets as my only company."
Well-maintained facilities: Despite its remote location, Stough Reservoir Campground receives regular maintenance. "It is a small campground, vault toilets and was clean when we were there," notes Patricia N., describing the overall condition during their visit.
Dispersed camping alternatives: For those seeking more remote options beyond the established campground, additional opportunities exist nearby. Ariel & John W. recommend, "If you keep going up the forest road there are dispersed camping spots at higher elevation with great views but roads only suitable for small rigs."
What you should know
Recent fee implementation: The previously free campground now requires payment. "Also as of Spring 2023 there will be a $15/night fee, so no longer free. Zero cell service here," states Laura M., providing updated cost information for budget planning.
Wildlife precautions: The remote nature of horse campgrounds near McArthur, California requires proper food storage. "Check the area sign for fire restrictions or warnings of large animals in the area. Keep your food locked up or hanging in a tree," advises Tom N.
Road conditions: Early season access may be restricted by snow. Laura M. reports, "We tried to get to this campground but were blocked by too much snow in the road. Other than the snow the road was in good condition and easy to drive in our class c."
Tips for camping with families
Weather preparedness: Eagle Lake Resort demonstrates the need for layered clothing in this region, where temperatures fluctuate significantly. At nearby Stough Reservoir, Greg B. experienced "26 degree morning" temperatures in early May with "still a few patches of snow on the ground."
Water activities planning: Research current water conditions before planning swimming activities. CRJohnson notes about nearby water bodies: "The lake was dismal. It smelled like sewage and there was an algal scum floating all over the surface."
Site selection for trailers: When bringing horse trailers with families, choose appropriately sized sites. Patricia N. advises, "There were 3 of the 8 sites that we could park our 26' fifth wheel trailer," indicating limited options for larger rigs at Stough Reservoir.
Tips from RVers
Road clearance information: For equestrian campers traveling to horse campgrounds near McArthur, California, verify road conditions before departing. "The website lists the status for this campground as 'area not cleared,' so presumably if you have a vehicle that can get through the snow, then you're ok to go camp here," notes Laura M.
RV size limitations: Assess your rig size against available spaces. "We did not camp because we were doing a campground recon. There were 3 of the 8 sites that we could park our 26' fifth wheel trailer," shares Patricia N., highlighting the importance of site reconnaissance for larger rigs.
Primitive camping preparation: Bring all necessary supplies for self-contained camping. "The campground is sparse and lacks flushing toilets, pit toilet is available," explains Tom N., emphasizing the basic nature of facilities at Stough Reservoir.
