New Melones Lake offers equestrian camping opportunities for visitors with horses, despite limited dedicated horse facilities. Located in Calaveras County between Angels Camp and Sonora, this 12,500-acre reservoir sits at around 1,000 feet elevation. Summer temperatures regularly reach 100°F from June through September, making spring and fall more comfortable seasons for camping with horses.
What to do
Trail riding access: Several trails near Glory Hole Recreation Area offer riding opportunities. "It's a great spot, we were there in mid-June for 1 night. Toilets work, didn't try out showers. Site we had was nice and large," notes Ryan D., who found the spacious sites suitable for equestrian needs.
Fishing from horseback: Fish-rich shores can be accessed via horseback at multiple points. "We were able to rent a boat for tuning on the lake, which made the trip," mentions erin O., who stayed at USBR Tuttletown Recreation Area Oak Knoll Group Site where equestrians can set up camp before exploring the shoreline.
Dispersed camping exploration: For more secluded horse camping, the forest service roads offer alternatives. "A very secluded primitive site that is only a couple miles or less to town over paved and dirt roads. The roads are not four-wheel drive and are perfect for van lifers," explains Kevin C. about Top of Arnold, which provides space for horses away from developed campgrounds.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campsites offer room for horse trailers and temporary corrals. "My family of four enjoyed camping here. Site 116 is great. It is a little steep to get to the fire pit but the view were worth it," shares Mallory K. about USBR Gloryhole Rec Area Big Oak Campground, noting the varied terrain that works well for equestrian setups.
Wildlife viewing: The area provides opportunities to observe deer and other wildlife while camping with horses. "We saw a tarantula near the tee box on 2. I woke up with 4 deer casually strolling through our campsite, a huge group of turkeys were cruising around the whole weekend," reports Christy L. about Lake Amador Resort, highlighting the natural surroundings horses and riders will encounter.
Seasonal beauty: Spring camping offers green hills and wildflowers. "We enjoyed our first visit and will definitely come back! The park is a mix of old RV's that folks have long term stays and open spots for visitors," writes Dennis W., who found Lake Amador Resort pleasant during spring months when conditions are ideal for horses.
What you should know
Limited dedicated facilities: Most campgrounds lack purpose-built horse corrals. "It's suitable enough of a campground, Verizon works. There is sun for solar panels and enough shade to be fine mostly," reports goose10091203 about Top of Arnold, where equestrians must bring their own containment systems.
Seasonal concerns: Summer heat poses challenges for horses. "We were there for 1 night. The view at campsite 57 is gorgeous! However, be prepared for the heat. It can reach up to 110F in summer. It is toasting even with shade," warns Susan Y. about Glory Hole Recreation Area, emphasizing the need for adequate water supplies.
Terrain considerations: Some access roads require appropriate vehicles for horse trailers. "The dirt road up is full of ruts and potholes, but my Toyota Yaris made it up," explains Michael S., indicating that equestrians should evaluate vehicle requirements carefully when heading to dispersed camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with recreational options beyond riding. "Amador is a laid back camping spot that never disappoints. Great for families. Not a party destination but you can still have a great time! They have a water hole with a fun slide, which is all kept nice and clean with tables you can sit at," recommends Moonlit_starrynights about Lake Amador Resort.
Site selection for privacy: Choose sites that offer buffer from neighbors when camping with horses and children. "Sites were a good size and were tucked down a slight hill from the road which was great for privacy. Bathrooms were kept very clean and well stocked," notes Joshua H. about Big Oak campground.
Evening planning: Be prepared for varied night conditions with horses. "Overall amazing site, pack for cold nights, and bring earplugs lol. We were at site 70," advises Kayla M., who camped at Glory Hole Recreation Area Ironhorse Campground with toddlers and found noise management important.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites with appropriate space for horse trailers are limited but available. "It is beautiful, clean and not crowded. We planned it last night and it had plenty of spots to pick from. The only downside is that the park closes at 8:00 pm so we had to sleep behind the entrance until 4:00 am when they opened the door again," mentions Mahdi about Big Oak campground.
Site leveling: Check site grading before backing in horse trailers. "Nice place quiet lots of places for big RVs pull through spots and back in spots they have spots for family reunions have showers store boat ramp nice place to camp," notes Mike P. about Miner's Camp RV Park, indicating sufficient space for equestrian vehicles.
Seasonal availability: Off-season camping provides more options for horse campers with RVs. "Nice campground on the lake. We stayed in the dry camping area which was right on the lake. We noted that the sites were very close together with no privacy, but that was ok since there were few people there," explains Mike A., suggesting shoulder season visits work well for equestrian camping needs.
