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Ghost Mountain RV Campground in Pollock Pines accommodates horses for camping excursions near the Sierra Nevada mountains, situated approximately 1.5 hours from Sacramento. While no dedicated horse corrals are noted in the facility listings, the campground allows pets and is situated in a forest environment with access to trails suitable for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. The park features water and electric hookups, sanitary dump stations, and restroom facilities. Sites can accommodate both tents and RVs, with enough space for horse trailers in appropriate areas. Horse campers traveling from the Sacramento metro area will find the location a practical base for multi-day riding trips into the Sierra foothills. Mountain biking trails follow Badger Hill Road through the forest with a 500-foot gradual descent over 2.5 miles.
Trail access from Ghost Mountain connects to various riding routes through the densely forested Sierra mountains. The surrounding area offers multiple trail options for equestrians, with paths that follow creeks and loop back to the campground. Water access is available throughout the property for horses, and the natural forest setting provides shade during summer months. The campground operates seasonally with peak availability from May through October when the swimming pool is open. Some trails connect to routes that eventually lead toward Apple Hill farms and Placerville via paved paths. Nearby Sly Park Recreation Area at Jenkinson Lake offers additional recreation opportunities with hiking trails around the perimeter of the lake, though specific horse accommodations there are limited. Water crossing opportunities exist along some trail routes where creeks intersect the paths.
"There are tons of activities to partake in: relax and do nothing, hike (entire lake is 9.5 miles with a waterfall!)"
"They are set into the mountains with trees behind you. The park rangers are very present to keep people in check and the camp host drives by multiple times to keep the bathrooms clean."
"We didn't become members, but really like this resort in Pollock Pines."
"It reminded me of Lake Pillsbury north of Clear Lake Ca where we as a family had been camping since 1981. But with just over 2hr drive not 6hr with trailer. There is a pool, and kids pool."
"Beautiful lake and campground. We will be back in August."
"Other good sites up here are 111 (full shade all day) and 113 with the awesome lake view."
"The good part is this is a beautiful place in the trees to camp with nearby hiking,. And it's equestrian friendly if you want to bring your horse. The Verizon connection was strong."
"Close to Georgetown and to the El Dorado National Forest. Super clean and easy to get to. Signs off 193 are well marked! The have horse corrals too if you’re into that. Highly recommend!"
from $3 - $8 / night
Check Availability"Beautiful view of the lake, level plot, toilets, picnic table, potable water, fire ring, grill, recycling stations and large dumpsters. Dog friendly too."
from $37 - $47 / night
Check Availability"These two sites are right on the road next to the toilets and trash bins. Some smells and lots of noises and foot traffic, some 4x4 traffic as well."
"Just returned from a weekend getaway to Loon Lake. We (2 people, 1 pup) stayed two nights at site #25 at Loon Lake Campground. Perfect location for daytime fishing and nighttime stargazing."
from $36 - $160 / night
Check Availability"The campground itself is beautiful, walking distance to Fallen Leaf Lake and short drive to South Lake Tahoe. My husband, my pup and I liked the campsite a lot."
"Water spigots and bathrooms around. Not on the lake but walking distance away. Taylor's Creek and Valhalla nearby too."
from $47 - $128 / night
Check Availability"As with most of California everything is dry. The lake is very low and a half mile walk from park to get to. The sites are surrounded by dry tall grass and spaced out nicely."
"The facilities are clean, easy access to lake beach swim area, and easy access to near by stores. This camp area is near city area but feels like you are far away from it."
from $33 - $58 / night
Check Availability"At the top of the Sierras, El Dorado national forest, tucked in away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Stunning views, and blue skies, campground is well maintained and accessible."
"The 1-16 loop has the best sites for access to your car and proximity to the lake. Odd numbered sites 9-17 also have no backyard neighbors and more privacy."
from $36 - $72 / night
Check Availability
ScoutThis resort is part of Colorado River Adventures and is private. Very nice park with everything you could need. People in sales are nice too and not pushy. We didn't become members, but really like this resort in Pollock Pines.
GuideBeautiful view of the lake, level plot, toilets, picnic table, potable water, fire ring, grill, recycling stations and large dumpsters. Dog friendly too. This campsite has everything you need to enjoy a nice evening by the lake. However, booking online or by phone is a pain in the ass. If you toussle around with the website, you'll see what I mean. We were also unable to reach anyone by phone.
They do not do walk-ins for campsites on Fridays or Saturdays. We came on a Sunday and were able to set up camp and leave our stuff to hit the grocery store in Pollock Pines. I think it was $45 for the night but very well worth camping in an established zone for the first time in a week! We drove into our site in a Ford E-350 and next to us was a converted schoolbus. Many SUVs as well. The camp host was on premises as well.
At the time of this review, the store across the check-in gate, Sly Park Resort, was closed until further notice.
GuideWELCOME TO ASCENSION RANCH Ascension Ranch is an off-grid paradise tucked away in an oak savanna along Folsom Lake with a unique and ever growing list of features and activities. Family owned, we're a small operation with big dreams. Offering a serene environment, an abundance of farm animals, and good old fashion ranch activities, we invite you to spend some time with us out on the ranch! Come play for the day or reserve a private campsite, and see what all the fuss is about. Some of things you'll come across at Ascension Ranch include baby farm animals, sheep, goats, cattle, horses, more horses, ranch dogs, puppies, chickens, equestrian activities, secluded campsites, amazing views, access to endless trails around and of course, good company.
ScoutClark's Fork is a large campground with 88 sites – all of which are situated with lots of space so that you aren’t too close to your neighbors. The availability of adjacent “double sites” makes this campground a great place for larger groups of families and friends. The 25 sites on Loop A offer vault toilets and cost $19 an night. Loop B sites offer flush toilets and cost $20 a night. There are also 14 nice family-sized equestrian sites and one group equestrian site. Sites are within easy walking distance of the water. No matter what kind of camping you want to plan, Clark's Fork offers options. A RV dump station is located near the entrance to the campgrounds. The Clark's Fork Campground is on a first-come, first-served basis. This beautiful wooded campground is on the Stanislaus River, recommended for your fishing and scenic pleasure.
ScoutThe good part is this is a beautiful place in the trees to camp with nearby hiking,. And it's equestrian friendly if you want to bring your horse. The Verizon connection was strong. Even when the campgrounds full on weekend. It's very quiet, more soldier in the week. Bring water as there is none available due to poor quality.
GuideThis is quintessential California no frills forest camping under trees that are so tall they muffle all sound, where the dirt is so infused with pine needles that it smells like incense. Although this is a horse camp, anyone can camp here. It is primitive, but if you have your own toilet you'll be ok. Otherwise, you can use the old pit toilets provided. Because this is a horse camp, the sites are spacious. Kick back and enjoy.
ScoutNice campground. As with most of California everything is dry. The lake is very low and a half mile walk from park to get to. The sites are surrounded by dry tall grass and spaced out nicely. It can be a little noisy with the close proximity to the road. But park is clean with lots of trees.
TravelerThis is a well-kept and forest-dense camping spot. There are tons of activities to partake in: relax and do nothing, hike (entire lake is 9.5 miles with a waterfall!), kayak, fish, sun bathe, swim, play games at your camp, if you have a horse- camp with your horse in one of those sites). It just really is amazing that this gem is only (approx) 1 hour from Sacramento! I cannot wait to go again!
TravelerNever been during peak (summer) but both times we have stayed here in winter and it was FANTASTIC! Close to Georgetown and to the El Dorado National Forest. Super clean and easy to get to. Signs off 193 are well marked! The have horse corrals too if you’re into that. Highly recommend!
Equestrian camping near Pollock Pines, California offers access to the Sierra Nevada mountain range at elevations ranging from 3,800 to 5,400 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with snow possible from November through April, while summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day. The pine and cedar forests surrounding Pollock Pines contain over 40 miles of trails suitable for both beginner and advanced riders.
Trail riding at Dru Barner Campground: Located 30 minutes from Pollock Pines, this equestrian-friendly site offers direct access to forest trails. "Must visit for horse lovers!" notes Maxim B., while Cheri S. adds that it's "a beautiful place in the trees to camp with nearby hiking, and it's equestrian friendly if you want to bring your horse."
Mountain biking near Sly Park: The recreation area features interconnected trails with varying difficulty levels. "Nice beaches to hang out at! Kayak and paddle board rentals make exploring the lake relaxing and fun! And the hike to the waterfall is fun and easy for all ages!" shares Alyssa S. about Sly Park Recreation Area.
Fishing at Loon Lake: Located 45 minutes northeast of Pollock Pines at 5,900 feet elevation, this high mountain lake offers trout fishing in crystal-clear waters. "We stayed the weekend at a great site. It was cold with a little rain but was very fun. I really enjoy this campground. Water level was low and this time of year the water spigots are off," explains Lloyd C. about winter fishing at Loon Lake.
Privacy at select sites: Some campgrounds offer secluded spots away from crowds. "Lot 38 on Pinecone Strip, really private. No other campsite really visible. Close to bathrooms and water. Awesome hiking around Lake Jenkinson," shares Melissa M. about Pine Cone - Sly Park Recreation Area.
Equestrian accommodations: Horse-friendly campgrounds provide necessary facilities for riders. "You get the feeling you are in the middle of nowhere, but yet, still only 15 minute drive to Georgetown," notes Digs R. about Dru Barner Campground, which features corrals specifically designed for horses.
Stargazing opportunities: The higher elevation and minimal light pollution create exceptional night sky viewing. "Our group has been camping at Sly Park together and respectively since 1996, and we can't ever get enough," says Carly D., adding "The stars are breathtaking at night. Gotta be my favorite part."
Seasonal water restrictions: Water availability varies throughout the year at many campgrounds. "Bring water as there is none available due to poor quality," warns Cheri S. about Dru Barner Campground, while Lloyd C. notes at Loon Lake that "this time of year the water spigots are off."
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking, especially during peak months. "It's a very popular camping spot, so I recommend planning and reserving sometimes several months in advance. Weekends book up quickly, but weekday camping is easy to find," advises Carly D. about Sly Park.
Insect activity: Depending on season and location, biting insects can be problematic. "It was great besides the bugs and all the wasps," reports Theron W. about Dru Barner Campground, while another camper notes, "Be prepared for lots of mosquitos early in the season."
Choose family-friendly loops: Certain campground sections better accommodate children. "Rainbow, Kam Loop, Dogwood and Hazel Creek camping loops are nicely shaded and stay much cooler than the camping loops toward the front of the park," recommends Michell C., who adds that "the rangers and camp hosts alike make regular rounds" at Sly Park.
Consider alternative recreation: Beyond horseback riding, families can enjoy water activities. "Jenkinson late is beautiful to kayak or paddleboard on and you can also rent for $20/hr + $10/hr after that," shares Bea I. about Hilltop - Sly Park Recreation Area.
Visit during weekdays: Lower attendance creates a more relaxing experience. "If you would rather not deal with the 'Weekend Warrior' type of campers, book your stay for mid-week (Mon-Thurs) and probably avoid camping in July altogether," advises Michell C.
Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds offer basic services only. At Ghost Mountain RV Campground, Craig & Linda L. note, "Nice size campsites. Water and Electricity only. There is Honeybucket truck that comes around Monday, Wednesday and Friday. A dump station on site."
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all spots accommodate big vehicles. "Hilltop sites are better for smaller campers. I have an 18' trailer and sites 126-128 are really nice," explains Bea I., while Michell C. cautions that at Sly Park "it can be tough to get a larger motorhome or travel trailer into the back of the park. The roads are very narrow with plenty of blind corners."
Membership considerations: Some private campgrounds require membership or offer special rates. "This is a private campground time share system. We actually decided to buy in because of some of the services they offer," explains Emmanuel L. about Ghost Mountain RV Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Pollock Pines, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Pollock Pines, CA is Sly Park Recreation Area with a 4.8-star rating from 13 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Pollock Pines, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 38 equestrian camping locations near Pollock Pines, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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