Joseph D Grant County Park's Horse Camp provides equestrian camping facilities in the eastern hills of San Jose, located approximately 35 miles southeast of Montara, California. The camp sits at an elevation of 2,450 feet, offering camping opportunities in a diverse oak woodland environment. Seasonal temperatures range from 40-90°F depending on the month, with spring wildflowers creating vibrant displays from March through May in the surrounding hills.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Equestrians staying at Anthony Chabot Regional Park can explore an extensive network of trails. As one camper notes, "There is an extensive network of trails accessible from the campground. It's popular, especially on the weekends, and I'd recommend reservations."
Beach riding excursions: For coastal horse trails within 30 minutes of Montara, Point Reyes National Seashore offers multiple horse-friendly paths. "There are miles of beach to explore, and you can continue along the coast trail to hike even farther," explains one visitor who enjoyed the park's equestrian options.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning trail rides often yield wildlife sightings in the hills. "We saw deer, cattle, raccoons and many other four legged vermin running around the area," reports a camper at Las Trampas Regional Wilderness, which offers similar terrain to Montara's surrounding hills.
What campers like
Proximity to urban areas: Many equestrian campers appreciate how Del Valle Campground provides horse-friendly facilities within reasonable driving distance. "Close to home! Love the hiking trails. Mountain biking for those who can climb," notes one regular visitor, highlighting its accessibility.
Scenic views from campsites: Horse campers at higher elevation sites near Montara enjoy panoramic vistas. "The campsites all have decent views—though best ones abut the lake on the map. They look close to the lake on the map but they are actually way up high above it," explains a visitor to Anthony Chabot Regional Park.
Night sky viewing: Areas with minimal light pollution provide excellent stargazing. A camper at Wildcat Campground notes the area is "a great spot to watch the fog roll in," similar to conditions along the Montara coastline where clear nights allow for exceptional stargazing.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect trail conditions significantly. "Not sure what this campground is like during peak season, but it was a great little getaway for us during the first week of March. We'll be back," shares a camper at Anthony Chabot, highlighting how timing impacts experience.
Reservation requirements: Most horse camps require advance booking. "These sites are in high demand, but totally worth the wait to experience," explains a camper at Wildcat Campground, reflecting the popularity of horse camping facilities throughout the region.
Water availability: Bring sufficient water for horses during dry months. At Sunol Regional Wilderness, a backpacker notes, "The sites are primitive and the water source questionable and unreliable. I hiked in all the water I needed," which applies to many horse camping areas near Montara.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education opportunities: Children can observe various species in their natural habitat. "Very nice campground, great for a quick getaway," mentions a visitor to Anthony Chabot, where families regularly spot deer and turkeys.
Beginners' horse trails: Look for gentle terrain suitable for young riders. Del Valle Campground offers appropriate options as one visitor notes, "The water is super clear and they have two beaches with a lifeguard which can get crowded. You can swim at your own risk past the marina though if you want to bike, hike or boat to those beautiful areas."
Camp layout considerations: Choose sites with adequate space between neighbors. "The sites are somewhat close together, but the whole vibe of the campground and other people there was so chill," shares a Wildcat Campground visitor, describing a consideration important for family horse camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: Alameda County Fairgrounds RV Park provides insights on handling large rigs in confined spaces. "Our slot 170 was very narrow, other spots had more space. You could not see that on the online map," warns one RVer, highlighting the importance of researching site dimensions when bringing horse trailers.
Hookup considerations: When traveling with horses, many campers prefer sites with utilities. "We camp here with our travel trailer at the start of each season, to check out all our systems. Sites are grassy, some with trees, and pretty close together," notes an RVer at Alameda County Fairgrounds, describing conditions similar to horse campgrounds near Montara.
Accessibility challenges: Mountain roads can present difficulties for larger rigs. One camper at Joseph D Grant County Park mentions, "Ride up the mountain is nauseating," cautioning those with horse trailers about access roads to higher elevation camp areas.
