Del Valle Campground offers equestrian camping opportunities 38 miles east of Pacifica, California. Located in Livermore at 700 feet elevation, the park contains a mix of grassy hills and oak woodlands around a 5-mile-long reservoir. The horse campground areas provide direct trail access with water sources along several routes. Winter temperatures average 40-60°F, while summer temperatures typically range from 65-95°F with low humidity.
What to do
Hiking with dogs near lakes: At Anthony Chabot Regional Park, trails wind through eucalyptus groves with abundant wildlife viewing. "We love Anthony Chabot! The eucalyptus groves make the air smell wonderful, and there is so much wildlife to see (deer, turkeys, owls, etc.). It's a great natural area that is so conveniently located in the Bay Area," notes Amanda P.
Beach exploration and tidepooling: Coast Campground at Point Reyes provides access to miles of undeveloped shoreline. "The beach offers tidepools close by as well as a great place for beach fire (permit needed). There are two routes to hike in. I prefer the longer Coast Trail (about half a mile longer) rather than the fireroad for its scenic beauty," explains MarinMaverick.
Mountain biking on varied terrain: Trails at Del Valle Campground range from gentle lakeside paths to challenging ridge climbs. "Wonderful place to go hiking & trail running. The hills are pretty intense, but they're beautiful! The lake is also very picturesque," states Emmy.
What campers like
Equestrian facilities with trailer access: Las Trampas Regional Wilderness offers dedicated horse camping with direct trail access. "Once you're all set up, take the hiking trail straight up to Las Trampas hiking ridge. Pass the cows grazing in the meadows to climb clear to the top for a most spectacular view of Eastbay and nearby Mt. Diablo," shares Stuart K.
Proximity to urban areas with nature immersion: Wildcat Campground at Point Reyes provides a wilderness experience without a long drive. "The campground is about 10 kilometer (6.3 miles) hike from the Bear Valley Visitor Center or an 8.8 kilometer (5.5 miles) hike on the Coast Trail from Palomarin," notes Elliott B.
Year-round accessible horse trails: Sunol Regional Wilderness maintains equestrian trails that connect to larger networks. "Great backpacking getaway. Many day hikers here but you can backpack as well. I camped on a beautiful ridge," explains MarinMaverick.
What you should know
Limited water availability for horses: Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve has water only at the trailhead. "Drinking water is 0.2 miles from camp at the trail head so keep that in mind before it gets too dark to hike back and forth for a drink," advises Elliott B.
Reservation requirements: Horse campgrounds near Pacifica require advance planning. "Reservation must be completed at least 5 days in advance by calling 1-888-EBPARKS or 1-888-327-2757, press option 2," for Sibley.
Wildlife awareness for equestrians: Trails may have wildlife that can startle horses. "During our hike in and out we hung out at site #2 as this site didn't have people currently camping there. I'd be cautious about actually staying at this site as unfortunately it had the horse riders come right by as this is really the only way they can get to the hitches," notes Elliott B. about Anthony Chabot.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly equestrian camping: Tilden Regional Park offers gentle trails for young riders. "Tilden is great for anyone looking for a close park right outside of the Berkeley/San Fran area. It is a rather large park area that overlooks Berkeley. It is great for biking (but be weary of the hills)," shares Ethan K.
Educational opportunities: Several horse campgrounds near Pacifica have nature programs for kids. "It also has a great lake/pond area for anyone to relax at," adds Ethan K. about Tilden Park.
Campsite selection for families with horses: Choose sites with adequate space for both camping gear and horse care. "The sites are pretty plain and close together for my liking, but nothing is stopping you from setting up camp on the beach just down the trail from the official camp site," notes Michaela C. about Wildcat Camp.
Tips from RVers
RV access limitations: Most equestrian campgrounds have size restrictions. "Clean showers and bathrooms, some trees, close to Raley's Grocery store. Easy drive to the wineries of Napa Valley, a little further to Sonoma but a nice drive," shares Lori H. about Skyline Wilderness Park.
Hookup considerations: Some horse campgrounds offer full hookups for RVs. "The campground features multiple sites suitable for equestrians with nearby parking for horse trailers. Riders can access the 38-mile East Bay Skyline National Trail directly from the park, connecting to a network of equestrian-friendly paths."
Level sites availability: Look for designated equestrian sites with level parking. "Sites are level with minimal need for blocks. Staff are friendly. Native garden is very nice. Hiking is nice too especially in winter when everything is green," notes Adam B. about Skyline Wilderness Park.
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