Equestrian camping facilities near Mountain Center provide access to San Bernardino National Forest trails at elevations between 4,000-6,000 feet. These specialized campgrounds accommodate visitors with horses and offer basic amenities with water access points. Temperatures can range from below freezing at night to over 90°F during summer days, requiring appropriate seasonal preparation.
What to do
Trail riding through wilderness areas: South Ridge Yellow Post Sites provide access to nearby trails with varying difficulty levels. "Very nice to find a campsite this private on a weekend in southern California elevation is high enough that temperatures were very enjoyable (mid 80's)," notes Tony B. from South Ridge Yellow Post Sites.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Lake Cahuilla offers fishing opportunities within 45 minutes of Mountain Center. "Here in the off season. Camped in tent section right on the lake. Lots of space. Not on top of neighbors," reports Craig C. at Lake Cahuilla. The lake stocks fish throughout the year, though permits are required.
Hiking mountain trails: Heart Bar Campground connects to the San Gorgonio wilderness with a small meadow perfect for wildlife viewing. "This campground sits right over a small meadow that borders the San Gorgonio wilderness. This spot is excellent for wildlife viewing and entry to the wilderness for hiking and exploring," shares Nick L. from Heart Bar Campground.
What campers like
Clean restroom facilities: McCall Equestrian Park offers uncommon amenities for an equestrian site. "The bathrooms and showers are CLEAN as heck!! Mostly families here so it was nice and quiet at night except for the wildlife. Few trails for wandering around as well," states Anastasia H. from McCall Equestrian Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dripping Springs Campground provides chances to observe local wildlife. "There is a great little stream running through the edge of the campground that is perfect for little kids to be able to play in," mentions Ben S. at Dripping Springs Campground, who also notes its proximity to hiking trails.
Quiet atmosphere: Horse camping areas typically offer more seclusion than standard campgrounds. "We wanted to explore the wineries in Temecula, then be close to some hikes on our way back to LA. We set up shop at the campground Saturday and then drive to the wineries in Temecula," explains Rachel L., highlighting the convenience of Dripping Springs' location.
What you should know
Winter temperature fluctuations: Nights can drop below freezing even when days are mild. "We visited in January, and should have been better prepared! I know better, but we didn't check the conditions well enough, and froze our butts the first night!" warns Justin L. from Black Rock Campground.
Limited availability during peak seasons: Make reservations in advance, especially for equestrian sites which are fewer in number. Many sites are first-come, first-served outside reservation periods.
Water access varies: While Ribbonwood Equestrian Campground provides water hookups at sites, most backcountry and dispersed sites require bringing your own water. Always check current water availability before departure.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire restrictions are common. "Fire bans usually in effect during summer," notes a camper from South Ridge Yellow Post Sites, requiring alternate cooking methods during high fire danger periods.
Tips for camping with families
Seek campgrounds with designated play areas: Lake Perris State Recreational Area includes family-friendly features. "Lake Perris was a fun and clean place to camp at! We did some fishing, bike riding, the water was clear, and my kids loved it. There is a cool museum where the amazing staff provided us with interesting history about the lake and Indian tribes," shares Lauren R.
Choose sites with natural play features: Streams and small meadows can entertain children. "We love this campground. It's local to us but a great place to getaway with family. It's family friendly, great flat biking for kids," explains Erin & Travis M. about Lake Skinner Recreation Area.
Plan for temperature changes: Pack extra layers and blankets for all seasons. "Good campsite, has the coolest hike trails, and the nights are really beautiful. It was so much fun and I would definitely come back Id just need more blankets because the nights are beyond cold," advises Diana F. at Ribbonwood Equestrian Campground.
Tips from RVers
Confirm hookup types before booking: Make sure the campground offers appropriate connections for your rig. "We made it clear, at the time we reserved, that we needed a 50 Amp hookup. It turns out that our reservation was for a 30 Amp site," cautions Carl D. about his experience at Reflection Lake RV Park.
Verify site dimensions: Many horse camping areas have specific requirements for rigs with horse trailers. Sites designed for equestrian use typically accommodate larger combined vehicle lengths but confirm measurements before booking.
Level sites can be limited: Be prepared with leveling equipment. "A lot of spaces are unleveled but it's not a deal breaker for me," notes Troy A. about camping at Lake Perris State Recreation Area.
