Joseph D Grant County Park's Horse Camp sits in eastern Santa Clara County at an elevation of approximately 1,500 feet. This equestrian campground is situated 50 miles from Moss Beach within oak woodland terrain that experiences hot, dry summers and mild winters. The surrounding hills provide natural barriers that shield camping areas from coastal fog that frequently blankets Moss Beach.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: At Anthony Chabot Regional Park, equestrians enjoy access to extensive trail networks. "There are plenty of easily accessible hiking and biking trails in the area," notes Lori T., highlighting the diverse terrain options for riders of all skill levels.
Beach riding excursions: Horse owners camping near Wildcat Camp can explore coastal paths with their mounts. "The hike is uphill... it starts along a creek/river which is referred to as Little Yosemite. Fun creek area with lots of water/rock formations," explains MarinMaverick, describing terrain features horse riders navigate.
Wildlife viewing: The parks surrounding horse campgrounds near Moss Beach contain diverse animal populations. At Del Valle Campground, "There was quite a bit of wildlife roaming through the park mainly in the early morning. I saw deer and turkeys roaming the campground," reports Uriel S.
What campers like
Proximity to stables: Las Trampas Regional Wilderness offers camping "just north of Las Trampas Stables," according to Stuart K., making it convenient for equestrians who need access to additional horse services.
Natural water features: Campers appreciate creeks and lakes near horse camping areas. At Sunol, MarinMaverick describes the terrain: "The hike is uphill.... it starts along a creek/river which is referred to as Little Yosemite. Fun creek area with lots of water/rock formations."
Secluded camping spots: Horse campers seeking privacy find options at several parks. At Coast Campground, "The campsites go from surrounded by coyote brush to out in the open to secluded. I like the sites back in the valley as there is less wind or fog. That would be 13 and 14," advises MarinMaverick.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping areas require advance planning. At Coast Camp, "A permit is required as well as a reserved camping spot," explains MarinMaverick, reflecting similar policies at other horse campgrounds.
Weather considerations: Coastal campgrounds experience significant temperature fluctuations. At Coast Camp, campers should "Always expect fog. Expect cold and damp at night," warns MarinMaverick.
Water availability: Water sources for horses vary by location. At Hawk's Nest in Sunol, "The sites are primitive and the water source questionable and unreliable. I hiked in all the water I needed," reports MarinMaverick, indicating horse owners should verify water access before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Tilden Regional Park offers family-friendly attractions near its horse facilities. "Tilden offers a lake in the middle to swim in and fish. The campsites have lots of fire pits," notes Nicholas M., highlighting activities beyond horseback riding.
Safety precautions: Families camping with both children and horses should be aware of wildlife. At Del Valle Campground, Rosina A. advises, "It's trully beautiful and the wildlife views are incredible," but warns visitors to stay alert around water areas.
Space considerations: For families bringing multiple horses, site selection matters. At Joseph D Grant County Park, "The sites were large and clean," reports Ashley E., though she notes there's "not much to do in the park" beyond riding.
Tips from RVers
RV access limitations: Most horse campgrounds have restricted vehicle access. Stuart K. describes Las Trampas: "You'll have to hike all your gear in from here, and it's about 150 yards," indicating horse trailers may require special arrangements.
Hookup availability: At Alameda County Fairgrounds RV Park, equestrians find full services for their rigs. "Positiv: 50 $, full hooked, warm showers," notes Stefan K., though he cautions about narrow spaces that may not accommodate large horse trailers.
Overnight parking permits: For those trailering horses to parks, permit requirements exist. At Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve, "Vehicles must be parked in the staging area and display a valid overnight parking permit: 3 parking permits are included in the reservation and will be mailed 5 days in advance," explains Elliott B.
