Horse Flats Campground sits at a higher elevation in Angeles National Forest, making it a popular destination for equestrian camping near Pearblossom, California. Several other campgrounds in the region offer access points to extensive trail systems that connect with the Pacific Crest Trail. During summer months, mosquitoes are common at many of these locations, requiring proper preparation for both humans and horses.
What to do
Bouldering opportunities: Horse Flats provides access to climbing areas suitable for different skill levels. "Nice place to stay for climbing - there is mostly bouldering in the area, with some trad stuff. Plenty of sites!" according to Kathleen L. at Horse Flats Campground.
Hike to historic structures: From Bandido campground near Horse Flats, hikers can access the Pacific Crest Trail leading to Glenwood Cabin. Les R. notes, "Hike the Pacific Crest Trail to historic Glenwood Cabin" as one of the recommended activities in the area.
Experience 360-degree views: The Mount Pacifico Campground area rewards visitors with panoramic vistas after a moderate hike. Anthony K. describes it as offering "great views 360 degrees once you're on top. A 7 mile hike north on the Pacific Crest Trail from mill creek fire station. Fire rings with multiple spots."
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Many campgrounds near Pearblossom feature well-spaced sites providing privacy. At Horse Flats Campground, "the individual sites are large and spread out from each other, so it is easy to have some privacy," according to Les R.
Creek access: Some areas feature seasonal water sources that enhance the camping experience. At Bear Canyon Campground, Shannon E. reports, "Follow the creek (which is GORGEOUS with waterfalls and shade in the spring) and go all the way to the end." William K. adds that the area has "lots of water year round, but little wood."
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation campgrounds provide relief from summer heat. Les R. observed this benefit at Horse Flats: "It's an hours drive from LA and because the campground is at elevation it stays cooler during the hot months."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds in Angeles National Forest close during winter months. Kate O. notes about Horse Flats: "Know before you go - it's closed from November-ish to April-ish - so check the forest website before you head out there."
Water requirements: Most equestrian camping areas near Pearblossom lack running water. Visitors must "bring all your water with you. There is no running water at this campground," advises Les R. about Horse Flats Campground.
Insect preparation: Bring appropriate insect repellent for both people and animals. Justin B. from Horse Flats Campground warns: "Lots of flies. Toilets were unbearable with the amount of flies." Luissimo M. similarly advises: "Bring lots of mosquito repellent. You will need it."
Trail conditions: Routes can be difficult to follow in some areas. At Bear Canyon, Shannon E. cautions: "Trail tends to get iffy at points, but you kinda get to know the flow of it if it disappears into rocks or the creek."
Tips for camping with families
Pack entertainment: With limited amenities at most forest campgrounds, bring activities for children. Mojave Narrows Regional Park offers more structured options, as Rick S. mentions: "There is a playground and small water park."
Consider heat factors: The temperature differential between day and night can be significant. Les R. notes from October camping at Horse Flats: "Even though it was 79 degrees in the day, temperature got down to 54 at night."
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about local wildlife safety. William K. from Bear Canyon recommends to "expect to forage far if you want a fire" due to limited wood supply, and others mention seeing various wildlife including potentially dangerous animals.
Site selection: Choose locations with natural features that appeal to children. At Mojave Narrows, Megan S. describes how "a rockbed forces the normally underground Mojave River to the surface here, meaning that this is one of the only parts of the river to flow above ground year round."
Tips from RVers
Arrival planning: For horse camping with larger vehicles, timing is important. Tapo Canyon Park camper April Y. advises: "Make sure your reservations are complete online before arriving. The Rangers check the spots multiple times a week."
Site dimensions: Consider site sizes when bringing horse trailers. At Tapo Canyon, "The sites are fairly large and well spread out for an RV lot," according to robherr, though this park isn't specifically equestrian-focused.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service is limited at many campgrounds. April Y. warns about Tapo Canyon: "DO NOT expect cell service. I could only work from this spot by placing my mobile HomeFi router on top of the camper. Our Verizon phones were paper weights."
Weather preparation: Equestrian campers should prepare for significant temperature changes. Les R. recounts from Horse Flats: "We camped here this weekend, which is the latest we've gone before the winter months... Even though it was 79 degrees in the day, temperature got down to 54 at night."
