Loafer Creek Horse Campground at Lake Oroville State Recreation Area offers dedicated equestrian sites set among trees approximately 3 miles from the lake's shoreline. Located in the Sierra foothills at an elevation around 900 feet, the area experiences hot summer temperatures often exceeding 95°F. Seasonal water level fluctuations affect trail conditions, with optimal riding conditions typically occurring in spring and fall when temperatures are more moderate.
What to do
Trail riding options: Several miles of multi-use trails connect directly from the campground, ranging from easy lakeside paths to more challenging terrain. At Bidwell Canyon Campground, campers appreciate the trail access, with one visitor noting, "There are local hiking trails, and of course all kinds of water recreation at the lake. The Lake Oroville Visitor Center has a small museum and exhibits."
Fishing from horseback: Access fishing spots around Lake Oroville that cannot be reached by vehicle. During summer months, the fishing can be productive despite low water levels. One reviewer at Whitehorse Campground shared that "Clean campground, great fishing, and nice trail around lake. Kids love camping here."
Swimming with horses: Several access points allow horses to cool off during hot weather rides, though water levels vary seasonally. At Sly Creek Campground, visitors enjoy water activities: "With pristine wilderness surrounding your tent, you can camp alongside the beautiful reservoir. We enjoyed our camping trip immensely and enjoyed getting into our kayaks and on to the water."
What campers like
Spacious corrals: Each designated horse site includes sturdy corrals with adequate room for multiple horses. According to a camper at Loafer Creek: "Roomy campsites at Lake Oroville. Pleasant setting in the trees. Only 3 other campsites in use that we noticed in October."
Quiet atmosphere: The campground's layout provides good separation between sites, especially during off-peak seasons. One visitor commented: "We visited in the off season with no reservations and there was plenty of availability."
Attentive camp hosts: Staff regularly maintain the grounds and provide assistance to equestrians. A camper at Haskins Valley Campground reported: "Super nice hosts and nice campers. Always camp here when we go to the lake."
What you should know
Limited lake views: Most campsites do not have direct lake views, with water access requiring a short ride or drive. One camper noted: "The campsites do not overlook the water. We visited in the off season with no reservations and there was plenty of availability."
Variable site conditions: Some sites have uneven terrain that may require careful setup of horse trailers. A visitor mentioned: "Sparse campground and hot. But good sites and great location."
Summer heat considerations: Temperatures regularly exceed 90°F during summer months, requiring early morning or evening riding schedules. At Ruck-A-Chucky Campground, a visitor advised: "The spots were a little spread out, so night time was a little too quiet. Our site was next to the raft launch/pickup, so there were a couple of groups picked up during the day."
Tips for camping with families
Bear awareness: Proper food storage is essential in this area, with bear boxes available at most sites. At Haskins Valley Campground, a visitor warned: "Not all of the spaces have bear boxes and we had a nice visitor one morning. Be sure to put your food in your car if you don't have a bear box."
Water-based activities: Plan for lake activities during hot afternoons when trail riding may be uncomfortable. "It's along a cove in the lake. Super nice hosts and nice campers. Always camp here when we go to the lake."
Evening entertainment options: Pack games and activities for evenings, as the campground does not offer organized programs. A camper at Bidwell Canyon Campground shared: "Really enjoyed this campground which is part of the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area. The staff where we checked in were helpful with all of our questions about the area."
Tips for RVers
Trailer positioning: Horse trailer parking requires careful placement due to some uneven terrain. According to a visitor: "Most of the sites were not very level. There were several groups partying loudly well after midnight, and the water was nearly a mile walk to the boat ramp."
Water access: Bring extra hoses, as some water spigots may be distant from parking areas. The campground has "Water pumps near the sites. Vault toilets, hot water and showers."
Limited hookups: No electrical connections are available; generators must follow strict usage hours. For those seeking full hookups, a visitor at Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot shared: "Clean facilities, well maintained grounds and friendly neighbors. Conveniently located just off I-5, far enough away from the noise. Casino, restaurants, doggy daycare and golf just next door. Sites are level 75 ft pull through sites."
