Sly Park Recreation Area offers equestrian camping options in the Sierra Nevada foothills near Pine Grove, California, with access to trails between 3,500-4,000 feet elevation. The recreation area experiences warm summers and occasional snow in winter months, with temperatures varying from 80-90°F in summer to 30-40°F in winter. Water levels at Lake Jenkinson fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access for horses.
What to do
Trail riding around the lake: Explore the entire 9.5-mile perimeter trail at Sly Park Recreation Area. According to camper Michell C., "The hiking trails around the lake are beautiful and easy to traverse. I'm in my mid 40's and walked the south side waterfall trail from Hazel Creek to the first dam and back in about 3 hours."
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain nights provide excellent stargazing conditions for equestrians camping overnight. Carly D. notes about Sly Park, "The stars are breathtaking at night. Gotta be my favorite part. It's also fun to look across the lake and see all of the campfires sparkling in the distance."
Waterfall visits: Ride to scenic waterfalls accessible via horseback from equestrian campsites. "There is a lovely, short hike to a waterfall! It's just a 1 mile walk along the lakeshore from the Hazel Creek day use parking area," recommends Michell C.
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: Horse campers appreciate the dedicated space for trailers and corrals at equestrian-friendly campgrounds. At Lake Amador Resort near Pine Grove, Kelly G. mentions, "Spots are a little tight for my 37' 5th wheel but it worked out pretty good. Back end of my trailer hung over a big hill."
Wildlife encounters: The area offers frequent wildlife sightings from horseback or at campsites. Christy L. observed at Lake Amador, "The wildlife is RIGHT THERE! 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."
Water access for horses: Equestrians value the lake access for cooling horses after rides. Dennis W. notes about Lake Amador, "We enjoyed fishing from the bank and had some good luck with power bait. The resort is very clean and quiet!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian sites require advance booking, particularly during peak seasons. At Beals Point Campground, camper Abigail S. advises, "The prices are a bit high for camping, but handicapped discounts can be obtained. My mother has used the disabled pass for years giving quite the discount."
Seasonal water availability: Water sources for horses are limited in winter months. Lloyd C. experienced this at Sly Park: "Water level was low and this time of year the water spickets are off. This site is right next to one of the vault toilets and a trash dumpster."
Traffic and safety considerations: Be aware of traffic patterns when riding between sites. Michell C. cautions, "The roads are very narrow with plenty of blind corners. Unsupervised children on bicycles, hikers, and other campers walking dogs on the roads is very common, unfortunately so are speeding cars."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly water activities: Families with horses and children can enjoy both riding and swimming. About Lake Amador Resort, one camper shares, "They have a water hole with a fun slide, which is all kept nice and clean with tables you can sit at. I would recommend a pop up tent for shade if you go to the water hole."
Easy trail options: Choose appropriate trails for different riding abilities. Monique R. recommends, "Beautiful hikes that are easy for young children. Plenty of trails to choose from."
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer additional recreation options for children between trail rides. As noted about Lake Amador, "There is also a old school playground for the kids. The staff is super friendly and always there to help."
Tips from RVers
Trailer positioning: For those bringing horse trailers and RVs, site selection is crucial. At Monument RV Park, Courtney C. advises, "The hookups worked good but the sewer hookup is elevated so you will probably want sewer hose supports to lift your hose."
Shade considerations: When positioning horse trailers and campers, consider shade patterns. Bea I. shares about Sly Park, "Hilltop sites are better for smaller campers. I have an 18' trailer and sites 126-128 are really nice. They are set into the mountains with trees behind you."
Gate timing awareness: Be conscious of entry gate hours when planning arrival with horse trailers. Mike A. cautions, "Note that there's a gate that closes so that you can't enter - we just barely made it by the 9pm Friday closing time (I think this time varies by day of the week)."
Guide
