Equestrian camping options abound within a 30-mile radius of Raymond, California, positioned at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The region sits between 1,000-5,000 feet elevation, creating diverse camping environments from oak woodlands to pine forests. Summer temperatures range from 85-95°F during daytime hours, dropping to 50-65°F at night, with seasonal fire restrictions typically in place from May through October.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: At COE Eastman Lake Codorniz Campground, riders can explore extensive trails surrounding the reservoir. "Springtime has the grasses green with abundant wild flowers in late Feb through early March. Summer can be hot as the elevation is low in the California Central Valley and the grasses are brown," notes Tom D. The campground includes both equestrian-friendly sites and standard camping areas.
Water activities: Fish Creek Campground offers creek access ideal for cooling horses after rides. "I went here with my two kids and they loved playing in the creek. It doesn't have many amenities, but the space is nice with a fire pit and pick of table," shares Aya-Mei D. The creek remains accessible even during drier months, providing reliable water for equestrian campers.
Hiking with non-riding companions: Explore trails near Sweetwater Campground that accommodate both riders and hikers. "There is a small pit toilet right next to site #12, but there are larger bathrooms up the road with flushing toilets and showers. There is also a nice playground for the kids too," notes Haley M. This arrangement allows family members who don't ride to enjoy outdoor activities while riders are on horseback.
What campers like
Quick access to Yosemite: Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site serves as a strategic base for equestrians. "Beautiful scenery, clean, close to Yosemite, and easy to reach. As others have said, follow Mount Raymond Rd up until you see the sign for the snow play area, and look to the right. There's an open area with fire pits," explains Derrick H. This location allows riders to trailer horses to Yosemite trails.
Space for trailers: Many equestrians appreciate the layout at Goat Meadow. "Quite a large level area, though it was November and not peak season so there were loads of space. We pulled in and there were a couple of trailers with horses and a couple of other vehicles and we parked with loads of space between," says Kevin T. The area accommodates multiple horse trailers without crowding.
Established facilities: North Pines Campground offers dedicated equestrian sites. "Because it's an equestrian campground, you will smell the horses and stables....be prepared. The river is close to the campgrounds and are refreshing on a hot day," advises Norina N. The campground provides structure for equestrians requiring more formal facilities.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Sierra National Forest campgrounds experience significant seasonal changes. "We marked this as 'big rig' friendly. Springtime has the grasses green with abundant wild flowers... Fall has a Tarantula migration and you will definitely see them. Coyote, Bobcat, and deer are frequently seen," reports Tom D. at Codorniz Recreation Area.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare for encounters with wildlife throughout the region. "Coyotes and bears are active in the area—coyotes raided a bag I had hanging from a tree and stole my food!" warns Alexander Mark C. about Goat Meadow. Proper food storage is critical for horse campers, as feed can attract wildlife.
Road conditions: Access to Big Sandy Campground requires preparation. "The 6 mile road to get into it is rough. With high rain season, you have to cross the creek and it may require a lifted type vehicle like a truck," cautions Rosina A. Horse trailers require careful navigation on forest roads throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Campsites near water features provide entertainment for children while adults tend horses. "Although we were disappointed with not having better water access, it really is a nice campsite overall if you're okay with driving up the road to swim," shares Haley M. about Codorniz Recreation Area.
Noise considerations: Family-friendly horse campgrounds vary in noise levels. "Quiet hours are from 1000-0600, and we had to remind our neighbor campers who came back drunk at midnight to shut it, but that seems to be more the normal than abnormal these days," reports Erin S. about North Pines Campground in Yosemite.
Shade availability: Bridalveil Creek Campground offers good coverage for summer camping. "Decent space. Decent privacy a bit more wooded than other campground in the park. Some shaded sites," notes Benjamin C. This feature helps families manage heat while caring for horses.
Tips from RVers
Setup challenges: RVs with horse trailers require strategic planning. "Sites are asphalt. Many sites may take some time to level. Back in and pull through are available. A nice dump station is available within the COE park," explains Tom D. about Codorniz Recreation Area Campground.
Services availability: Understanding limited hookups helps prepare for equestrian camping trips. "We have tent camped at all the large valley camps. The camps are on top of each other, noisy, and overcrowded with families and students. Your best bet is to visit the valley and camp outside the Park or in locations outside the valley," advises Steve & Ashley G. regarding Bridalveil Creek Campground.
Generator regulations: Campgrounds have varying policies for RV generators. "Generators are allowed during limited hours, but the noise wasn't overwhelming, since they were few and far between," notes Erin S. about camping in Yosemite Valley, information relevant to equestrian campers requiring power for equipment.
