Best Equestrian Camping near Ocotillo, CA
Looking for the best horse camping near Ocotillo? Equestrian camping is the best way to experience nature. Search nearby equestrian campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Equestrian Sites Near Ocotillo, CA (11)
1. El Prado Campground
22 Reviews•92 Photos•245 SavesMount Laguna, CaliforniaOverview
Laguna Campground is a great mountain getaway just one hour east of San Diego, California in the Laguna Mountain Recreation Area. Campers can enjoy cooler temperatures, unique natural areas and an extensive trail system at this mountain facility from summer through early fall.
Recreation
The Laguna Mountain Recreation Area is known for great horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking trails. Visitors can get their boots dusty on the Laguna Meadow Trail system or access a segment of the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail, which runs from California to the State of Washington. Wildflowers are usually abundant in April and May on the Big Laguna Trail, which takes visitors past Big Laguna Lake. In wet years there is water in Big Laguna Lake by December or January and ducks and other birds can be found. The trail presents a number of options to the user. A return to the trailhead parking can be made by cutting through the Laguna Campground or by taking the Pacific Crest Trail north. Families can learn about the area's flora and fauna by attending educational programs at the facility's amphitheater. Or for history buffs, the El Prado Cabin located at nearby El Prado Campground, is the first ranger cabin built in the Cleveland National Forest in 1911. The San Diego State University Observatory also sponsors "Star Parties" for campers most Saturday evenings during the summer (schedule can be obtained at the nearby visitor center or by calling 619-473-8547).
Natural Features
The campground sits at an elevation of 6,000 ft. in the Laguna Mountains. It is forested with pines and oaks that provide plenty of shade, in addition to a meadow. The area is home to many species of birds, as well as the endangered Laguna Skipper butterfly. Little Laguna lake is located just a short distance from the campground and is an excellent hiking destination for photographers and visitors looking to explore the area.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
$35 / night
2. Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
23 Reviews•43 Photos•407 SavesDescanso, CaliforniaThe beautiful park offers camping and hiking in an oak woodland forest, with a sprinkling of pines and lovely meadows with creeks. There are over 100 miles of trails which accommodate hikers, bikers, and equestrians. The two family camps, Paso Picacho and Green Valley, are open and on the reservation system spring through fall. Green Valley sits at an elevation of 4,000 feet and has a creek which runs through the middle of the campground. The day use area offers sets of cascades and shallow pools, great for water play on hot days. Green Valley has 81 campsites.
Paso Picacho, 5 miles north, sits at an elevation of 5,000 feet. The most popular hikes start from this camp, including the 2 mile hike up Stonewall Peak (elevation 5,700 feet), and the 3.5 mile hike up Cuyamaca Peak (elevation 6,512 feet), both which offer breathtaking views of the deserts to the east, the coast to the west, and Lake Cuyamaca at the bottom. Lake Cuyamaca, operated by the Helix Water District, is two miles north of Paso Picacho and offers boating and fishing. Paso Picacho campground has 85 campsites.
Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring. Restrooms with flush toilets and pay showers are in the campground. Water faucets a located every few campsites. There are no hookups. Each campground has a dump station. Firewood and ice may be purchased at the camps. Interpretive programs are offered during the summer season. Campsites are $30 per night. Reservations are necessary for weekends April through October. The camping fee includes one motorized vehicle. Extra vehicles are $10 per night. There is a limit of 8 persons per campsite. Dogs are allowed but are restricted to the campgrounds, picnic areas, and paved roads and Cuyamaca Peak Fire Road. They may not be left unattended.
Environmental backpack in or horseback ride in camps are also available. Granite Springs and Arroyo Seco Environmental camps are open on first come, first serve. Both have chemical toilets, non-potable water, corrals and tent sites.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$40 - $250 / night
3. Green Valley Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
16 Reviews•35 Photos•414 SavesDescanso, CaliforniaGreen Valley sits at an elevation of 4,000 feet and has a creek which runs through the middle of the campground. The day use area offers sets of cascades and shallow pools, great for water play on hot days. Cuyamaca camping has 81 campsites. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring. Restrooms with flush toilets and pay showers are in the campground. Water faucets a located every few campsites. There are no hookups. Each campground has a dump station. Firewood and ice may be purchased at the camps. Interpretive programs are offered during the summer season.
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
$40 / night
4. Vallecito County Park
3 Reviews•8 Photos•62 SavesMount Laguna, Californiareservations required
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
5. Boulder Oaks Eqst
4 Reviews•19 Photos•40 SavesCampo, CaliforniaOverview
Boulder Oaks offers equestrian and family sites in the scenic Cleveland National Forest, about an hour away from San Diego, California. Visitors are drawn here for the convenience of horseback riding and day hiking on the Pacific Crest Trail, as well as picnicking in the beautiful mountain setting.
Recreation
The national forest lends itself well to horseback riding and hiking. Boulder Oaks has direct access to a segment of the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail, a national scenic trail that runs from Mexico to Canada. Horseback riding is also permitted on all Cleveland National Forest roads and trails, except for nature trails.
Natural Features
The campground sits at an elevation of 3,300 ft. with oak and manzanita trees providing shade. The surrounding mountains are dotted with sagebrush, and wildflowers add color to the landscape in spring and early summer. The area is home to many species of local and migratory birds. The campground is habitat for the endangered Arroyo Toad.
Nearby Attractions
Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
- Standard (Tent/RV)
$14 - $32 / night
6. KQ Ranch Resort
9 Reviews•17 Photos•27 SavesJulian, California- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
7. Thousand Trails Oakzanita Springs
6 Reviews•13 Photos•71 SavesGuatay, CaliforniaIf you want to experience all of the four seasons, then Oakzanita Springs RV Camping is the perfect getaway. Our RV camp is set at a 4000' elevation in the California mountains, and can bring a wide range of weather conditions from the fall through the winter months; therefore, during that time we operate a limited season RV camp in California. The pools, activities and weekend breakfasts are hibernating, and store hours are limited. All other Oakzanita Springs facilities, campsites, spa, and RV camping amenities remain open during this time. In the summer, Oakzanita Springs RV Camping has a perfect climate of warm days and comfortable nights. Relax and enjoy our weekend activities at our RV camp in California's beautiful mountain region. If you enjoy fishing, Cuyamaca Lake is just 15 minutes away or you can hike the Cuyamaca State Park trails starting right off our property. To make your visit a safe and enjoyable one, remember that only pressed logs and charcoal fires are allowed during the summer and fall months due to high fire danger. No wood fires are allowed except under wet conditions. Please make sure anyone under the age of 18 remembers their bicycle helmets for bikes and scooters. Due to the terrain, no skateboards are allowed. Clean restrooms, a comfortable lodge area, and free WiFi access round out the first-class service you'll find at Oakzanita Springs. Our RV camping areas are a bit remote, but you can get Verizon and Sprint cell service at the RV camp park. And even though we may be in the California mountains, we have a small camp store with basic camping supplies, novelties and ice. Best of all, Oakzanita Springs is just a short, 45-minute drive from all of San Diego's wonderful attractions. Year-Round RV Camp in California Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Oakzanita Springs RV Campground. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
8. Stagecoach Trails Resort
2 Reviews•27 Photos•79 SavesJulian, CaliforniaYou will love this serene campground only 25 minutes from the quaint mining town of Julian CA. Set in a high desert (2400 ft) valley surrounded by Mountains adjacent to Anza Borrego State park with its hundreds of miles of vehicle, mountain bike and foot trails. There is fishing 30 minutes away at Lake Cuyamaca, Golf in Borrego Springs and lots of nearby exploring and hiking.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$39 - $640 / night
9. Thousand Trails Pio Pico
13 Reviews•63 Photos•49 SavesDulzura, CaliforniaThousand Trails Pio Pico RV Camping is a full service RV Resort in California located south of San Diego, close to many attractions such as the zoo, Sea World and museums. We are twenty minutes from Mexico, so day trips south of the border are not only a possibility but also a great opportunity. Members come to Pio Pico for the peace and quiet of nature as well as to escape the day to day rush of the big cities. It is considered a "destination" RV Resort in southern California, and all members enjoy the hospitality of the staff. Pio Pico RV Resort offers a year round classic American food cafe at an affordable price.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
10. Fountain of Youth Spa RV Resort
4 Reviews•5 Photos•32 SavesNiland, California- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Group
$30 - $213 / night
Recent Equestrian Reviews in Ocotillo
102 Reviews of 11 Ocotillo Campgrounds
Beth W.
Traveler
Boulder Oaks Eqst
Beautiful and quiet
Super cute area, and much cooler since it’s a little higher altitude. Nice big sites and an entire loop with equestrian sites.
Pit toilets. One dumpster. Water.
I was there May 5, 2024 and the fee was $14.
- KKaren G.
Scout
Thousand Trails Pio Pico
Terrible Experience
I can’t believe how badly this park has deteriorated. On our last stay we saw so many weeds and potholes. The hot tubs seem to be broken all the time. Showers and bathrooms were filthy and rundown. Resort? How shameful. But worse than that are the rangers. They used to welcome us like we were members, paying customers. Not sure why they have such a hard time understanding that we pay their salaries. WE ARE THE CUSTOMERS. We were treated like we were unwanted guests. A new ranger named Christian is a cocky, arrogant kid. He clearly doesn’t want to work there and has no concept of customer service. We immediately asked for his manager and he didn’t care about how rude we were treated. The manager (Israel) only cared about flirting and gawking at another ranger who worked up in the activity center. There’s a married couple who work there selling memberships and he told me the management is terrible and the park is going down the tubes. He told me much of their staff is unhappy about how they are treated and many have quit. I asked why they don’t get new management and he said even his boss said the women managers are untouchable. He told me secretly that he was quitting too. I guess that’s why he unloaded on them. He told me about the sexual assaults in the park from illegal Mexicans coming across the border. He told me about the 4 convicted pedophiles living in the park and showed me Megan’s Law. It’s all true. You can see them walking around and their addresses listed on their profile on Megan’s Law is the RV Park. He told me about all the drugs on the north side of the park and that one ranger was dating a member there and violently assaulted her and she turned out to be a prostitute. He said the company and manger knew he was a meth addict and yet kept him there and swept it under the carpet. He also told me that the 3rd in charge(Jesus) had to go to counseling because he keeps sexually harassing the other staff and members and he is still doing it. He apparently is harassing the girl who works in the store now. And yet they still protect him and hide it. Seriously? You want us to pay to stay here? Until they start firing these incompetent and rude employees we won’t be coming back.
- CChristy G.
Guide
El Prado Campground
Peaceful and well maintained grounds
Me and my husband camped here for about five days we are in spot 42 lots of room back in plus pull in spots full hook ups has paddle boats fishing and spots to walk your dog
Raquel L.Scout
Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Stolen Campsite
My family and I take a yearly camping trip and this is one of the sites that we regularly come to. We are a big group of 19 and find this place very comfortable and enjoy the trails. However, we will not be returning! A squatter had hijacked one of our reserved spots and the rangers have done nothing but give is the run around. They just allowed her to stay in our reserved spot the entire stay. The rangers just kept making excuses for the squatter. What was supposed to be a carefree week turned to a stressful and cramped week. They do not care about the campers and it clearly shows.
- PPeter K.Scout
Green Valley Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Chill camping spot
G-29 was a nice spot, and there is a lot to do and see in the surrounding area. Restrooms and facilities are clean, but there is no soap.
We visited post July 4th, so it was pretty quiet for the most part. Largest downside is the campsite is already warm by 8:30am, and hot by about 10.
Firewood is $8 from the camp host but we had trouble finding them our first night and had to drive an hour back and forth to Julian for wood.
- CChristopher M.Scout
Boulder Oaks Eqst
Hiking and equestrian hub
Campsites are clean, and most that I see have shade. Fire rings and tables on each site, T-Mobile signal, and supplies are a 30 min round trip if you forgot something. The Ranger was extremely friendly, and I appreciated our chat.
- NNameScout
Fountain of Youth Spa RV Resort
In the desert - a fountain
Nice people, mainly for during the winter here.
SPA and pool is nice - but no fire allowed. We took the cheapest side for 39. But they also have some with a table and more atmosphere.
dirt camp is 30.
- Shainna M.Guide
KQ Ranch Resort
Could use updates
Older park, sites gravel and not level. Bathrooms/laundry need updates/repair. Pool and hot tub. Accommodation based on sales pitch to join as a member.
Khadijah A.TravelerKQ Ranch Resort
Good camping, offers 3 days free
Nice campground great activities for kids laundry on site Jacuzzi pool fishing for RV hook Up. Over 40 cabins available. Membership costs us around $2000 And have access to / 3000 different camp sites nationwide At any time of the year a drop of a dime essentially
Stephanie M.GuideEl Prado Campground
San Diego Hidden Gem
We absolutely loved staying at this campsite that was tucked away in the San Diego mountains. There is so many trials to hike. A little local downtown that had a great BBQ spot! Our site was shaded which was great while staying over the summer. The lake isnt really a lake given the high temps was more of a pond. But it was nice to walk out across the meadow.
- Grace M.Guide
Green Valley Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Great family campground
Close to Julian, CA about 10-15 minutes. We camped during Veteran’s day weekend. The terrain of the campground is ideal for kids. Trees, hills, and large rocks for the kids to climb on. The sites we had #59 and #61 were located on a slight hill. The tent pad sites were slightly slanted. The bathrooms were super clean especially during a holiday weekend. The Green Valley falls trail is located in the campground and it’s super kid friendly.
- VVanessa P.Traveler
Thousand Trails Pio Pico
Pio pico
You won’t have the best cell coverage but if your looking for a quite getaway from society this is the place to be
- VVanessa P.Traveler
KQ Ranch Resort
Ehhh
Made us pack up and leave after one day because our member was offsite for a doctors appointment
Danielle F.GuideKQ Ranch Resort
Nice weekend getaway
Great campground for the family and kids. Every first Saturday of the month they have the Wolf Education Project come visit with their wolves. It was really neat for the kids and adults to learn and pet the wolf. They have so many different activities for the family. I gave it 4 stars because there wasn’t any Wi-Fi, but still had cellphone service.
- RRoni G.Guide
Boulder Oaks Eqst
Quaint and quiet
Was very peaceful. Nice big oak trees…. Toilets were clean. No showers.
- RRoni G.Guide
Thousand Trails Oakzanita Springs
Great place!
Such a nice quiet place! Nice pool… excellent showers and bathrooms! Very nice people as well!
- MMattTraveler
Fountain of Youth Spa RV Resort
Great, Clean Campground for Winter Fun
I've spent many weekends at this resort over the last 15 years or so, visiting my grandparents that lived here in the winter. Tons of activities, clean and quiet, such a wonderful spot!
Jessie W.TravelerThousand Trails Oakzanita Springs
A nice dispersed RV resort
A beautiful RV resort, stayed pretty dispersed by staying in couple tent sites.
Wouldn’t come again this time of year without a heater, as it got uncomfortably cold at night. But the bathrooms are kept warm and very clean. The lodge is also warm and clean, worked out of there a couple of mornings, and the Wi-Fi was actually decent.
- TTyler G.Traveler
Thousand Trails Pio Pico
Large Campground
The campground is nice. Some of the sites are not well delineated, and there are more than a few 'permanent residents', but overall a decent place to stay for a few nights. We were sent to the north side of the campground since the south side was full. The south side has all of the amenities like the pool, restaurant, and activity room. The north side has decent bathrooms & showers though. An Easter egg hunt was help for the kids on Easter Sunday. Lots of activities planned throughout the month for families.
Derek & Alex W.GuideThousand Trails Pio Pico
Far away from anything interesting
I have to say this is one of my least favorite Thousand Trails campgrounds so far. Pio Pico has a lot of potential to be a fun destination but I feel it is extremely neglected. Pools and hot tubs are closed. Bathrooms and amenities appear pretty run down. You see the typical "Pardon our dust" signs so hopefully things are fixed quickly. Being so near to one of the most expensive cities in the US you'd think it would be upgraded to 50 Amp power as well. Cell service is non-existent, though they of course can't control that. I will say the staff is all very friendly.
If you're coming here to visit San Diego it is quite the trek into the city, to the beach, or to anything of note. We spent 3 weeks here, which was way too long with nothing to do in the area. Unless you're ok driving a total of 2 hours to something interesting and back it's a fairly boring campground to stay in.
Space E-11 Vehicle Type: 38' 5th Wheel Stay: 3 Weeks
- MMaurice H.Scout
Thousand Trails Oakzanita Springs
Oakzanita RV Park Review
Oakzanita is 4000 ft elevation up in the San Diego Mountains. Sites are mainly off roads that are narrow and may be hard to maneuver. Many sites are without sewer however on certain days a honey wagon may be available for $25.00. Park is about 40 minutes from Jillian. Park is okay but nothing to write home about.
John D.TravelerThousand Trails Oakzanita Springs
Limited
Limited 30/50 amp full-hookups. Large rigs, beware. access roads are narrow, hilly, AND curvy. But, it CAN be done. Coming in from the south on Hwy 79 (the only road in) warns that 40' vehicles and longer, are prohibited. But, you can make it to the camp. The entrance is a hair-pin turn (from the south) and you'll need to go a little further north to turn around.
- mmichael T.Scout
KQ Ranch Resort
KQRANCH
This is membership campground, timeshare. My wife and I are here as temporary trial members to see if we would like to buy in to the timeshare. I don’t believe that we will be buying a timeshare here as the cost is very high.
- LLeticia N.Scout
KQ Ranch Resort
Beautiful site
Great location and beautiful scenery in the mountains. The resort has lost of activities to participate in. Also, great hiking trails.
- CCrystal H.Traveler
Green Valley Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Quiet and beautiful
This was a great campsite for the night. Small sites, but plenty for us, and spread out from other campers. Not many bathrooms so we walked a bit to those, but it was OK. They were very clean, but had no soap. Beautiful stargazing. The drive was very windy and unique. Would come back for sure.
- Jaraine C.Scout
KQ Ranch Resort
Kq ranch
This is a great place to stay. Up in the mountains, quiet, and beautiful with a friendly staff. We were offered a free start for four days and the nights. We did the your and became members.
- James O.Guide
Thousand Trails Pio Pico
Solid spot
Even if you have a reservation, it's first come first serve for which spot you will get. There are plenty of bathrooms and showers. Minimal shade. Seemed like a good percentage of the people staying there loved there full time. Lots of squirrels and rabbits, and we even found a rattle snake.
Guide to Ocotillo
Horse camping in California offers a unique opportunity to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the companionship of your equine friends. With a variety of campgrounds catering to horse enthusiasts, you can find the perfect spot to saddle up and hit the trails.
Equestrian campgrounds include essential amenities for horse lovers
- Boulder Oaks Eqst features clean campsites with ample shade and a dedicated loop for equestrian sites, making it a great choice for horse camping.
- Horse Heaven Group Campground allows pets and offers reservable sites, ensuring a comfortable stay for both you and your horse.
- Green Valley Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park provides access to horse trails and a serene environment, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
Campers appreciate these amenities for horses
- Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park offers spacious sites and nearby trails, making it easy to enjoy long rides through beautiful landscapes.
- KQ Ranch Resort features a variety of activities for families and horses, including access to trails and a welcoming atmosphere for equestrian campers.
- Thousand Trails Oakzanita Springs is known for its beautiful surroundings and amenities that cater to both horse and rider, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Most campgrounds have horse-focused activities and trails
- Vallecito County Park is a hidden gem that offers a rich history and trails suitable for horseback riding, perfect for those looking to explore the area.
- Stagecoach Trails Resort provides a peaceful setting with plenty of space for riding and enjoying nature, making it an ideal spot for horse camping.
- El Prado Campground allows for various access types, including horse camping, and is well-reviewed for its scenic trails and spacious sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Ocotillo, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Ocotillo, CA is El Prado Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 22 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Ocotillo, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 11 equestrian camping locations near Ocotillo, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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