Limited equestrian camping options exist near Ross, California, with most sites requiring horses to be tethered rather than housed in designated corrals. Point Reyes National Seashore permits horse access at Wildcat Campground, where riders can reach the hitching posts via a clearly marked path adjacent to campsite #2. The 6-mile trail to Wildcat Camp from the Bear Valley Visitor Center or 5.5-mile route from Palomarin provides coastal riding opportunities. Horse-friendly sites require advance permits and parking passes obtained at the visitor center, even after making reservations online. Campsite locations vary in proximity to the horse areas, with some sites offering more privacy than others through natural vegetation barriers.
The Stewart Trail allows horseback riders to access Wildcat Camp via a strenuous 6.7-mile route from the Five Brooks Trailhead, a popular access point for equestrians. Point Reyes offers multiple equestrian-friendly trails throughout the national seashore, though overnight horse camping facilities remain minimal. Las Trampas Regional Wilderness and Anthony Chabot Regional Park permit horses on select trails but have limited overnight accommodations specifically designed for equestrians. Riders should secure campsite reservations months in advance due to high demand at these coastal locations. The campgrounds provide vault toilets and potable water, though dedicated horse facilities are limited. The terrain varies from coastal bluffs to inland forests, providing diverse riding experiences for those willing to navigate the trail systems with proper preparation.
"in an open meadow on a bluff overlooking the ocean with a short walk to the beach and a 3.2 kilometer (2.0 miles) round-trip walk to [Alamere Falls](https://www.nps.gov/pore/planyourvisit/alamere_falls.htm"
"Really great site right next to the water and beach. The hike in is pretty easy and beautiful. We had fun making a fire on the beach at night. It's pretty windy, so be prepared."
$30 - $90 / night
"West Marin offers an incredibly picturesque location to explore, and Coast Camp is about as good as it gets."
"The beach offers tidepools close by as well as a great place for beach fire (permit needed). There are two routes to hike in."
"This location is easily accessible for all. Biking, trails for hiking and the gardens are gorgeous. Rvs and horses welcome."
"We only stayed overnight the staff was very friendly,lots of stuff to do around the campsite from hiking,mtb,watch horses, frisbee golf and then you have napa where you can get wine,brewery,and restaurants"
$25 - $200 / night
"Anthony Chabot Campgrounds sits high up on the Castro Valley Hills overlooking Lake Chabot. There are several awesome hiking trails going down to the lake as well as some equestrian trails."
"as usual some spots are better than others but most close to restrooms and/or water. lots of poison oak and star thistle right off trail. great deterrent for kids to stay out of tick areas but id worry"
$75 - $120 / night
"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."
"Tilden offers a lake in the middle to swim in and fish. The campsites have lots of fire pits. The weather is always great too!"
$45 / night
"This campsite is centrally located on the peninsula. Access to several roadside dog friendly beaches within minutes. The bay and the beach are within walking distance to campground."
"There are also equestrian trails, so you can book a horseback ride from a local ranch as well!!"
$15 / night
"The 31-mile East Bay Skyline National Recreation Trail, part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail system, traverses"
$43 / night
"We just stayed here for 2 nights, great location very close to Calistoga and not to far from Saint Helena! Next time i would love to try out a cabin or yurt."
"Good access to wineries close by. Only real downside was that because of the dry conditions we could not have a campfire."
$35 / night
"It’s close to the entrance but the driveway only had a slight grade. Mostly folks with trailers. The sites are not too close together but it is easy to see into the surrounding neighbors."
"Spring Lake has been that for us. We have been here for 2 weekends in the last few months."
RangerThis campsite is centrally located on the peninsula. Access to several roadside dog friendly beaches within minutes. The bay and the beach are within walking distance to campground. The bathrooms are clean and the showers are coin operated. Sites are flat and semi private. The staff is friendly and campground is large.
LegendAnthony Chabot Campgrounds sits high up on the Castro Valley Hills overlooking Lake Chabot. There are several awesome hiking trails going down to the lake as well as some equestrian trails. The hiking trails go around the lake. Dogs are allowed but they should be on a leash. Lake Chabot has a marina that rents boats for recreational use and fishing. It's a few miles driver to get there from the campgrounds. I only gave it 4 stars because of that. They have tent and RV campsites, but no RV hookups.
GuideIt is always windy and therefore cold on the beach. That is why there are such big sand dunes.
Regardless, a beautiful place to visit and camp. There are also equestrian trails, so you can book a horseback ride from a local ranch as well!!
LegendSibley Regional Preserve
San Francisco East Bay residents actually have a volcano in their backyard at Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve. Originally called Round Top Park, Sibley shares with Temescal and Tilden Parks the distinction of being one of the East Bay Regional Park District's original parks.
The Sibley backpack camp is a small, primitive hike-in site for a maximum of 15 campers (although this would be super cramped in my opinion, unless it a bunch of small kids), a moderate 0.2 mile walk from the parking lot (NO VEHICLE ACCESS). The site has basically 360 degree views of Mount Diablo, Vollmer Peak and Tilden Park. There are only two tent pads - approximately 10'x25' and 10'x20'. Site has 2 picnic tables, 1 serving table, and a pit toilet close by which was very clean and well maintained.
During the day you’ll have lots of people walk semi/sorta by the campground, but there is no reason that anyone would walk through your area as if they did they’d tumble off and down the side of a nice steep hill…
No wood fires or BBQs are allowed; only camp stoves are allowed for cooking, your night time enjoyment.
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.
There are several trails providing tons of access throughout the preserve. The 31-mile East Bay Skyline National Recreation Trail, part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail system, traverses the preserve along the ridgeline between Wildcat Canyon and Anthony Chabot Parks. Round Top Road goes from the Sibley visitor center to the top of Round Top. Round Top Loop Trail circles Round Top peak. Volcanic Trail, once a quarry haul road, contains most of the stops on the self-guided volcanic tour.
Dogs are allowed throughout this section of the park and in camp on leash but are not allowed on the adjacent Huckleberry trails. Also, the EBRPD lists, dogs “must be under owner's control at all times” and must not disturb other animals or park visitors, but I definitely saw a lot of loose well behaved dogs running free.
Bikes are allowed on the fire trail, but there are lots of hikers and dog walkers in this park so be mindful. Also, Horses are allowed but there is no hitching rail and no water troughs in the park (or at least that I saw anywhere).
If you decide to try and bike be mindful that most trails are hiking and equestrian only. A few trails are multi-use. Bicycles are not allowed on narrow-gauge trails, except on the Skyline Trail between the Sibley visitor center and Old Tunnel Road. Bicycles are allowed on the wider-gauge fire trails and paved roads but are not allowed on Sibley Round Top from EBMUD water tank road junction to top of Round Top Peak.
Vehicles must be parked in the staging area and display a valid overnight parking permit: 3 parking permits are included in the reservation and will be mailed 5 days in advance. No additional parking permits are available. Otherwise, you can actually get here via public transport by Taking the AC Transit CB bus to the Mountain Blvd stop, them walk about 3 miles to the park.
While you can check if it’s already reserved online. Reservation must be completed at least 5 days in advance by calling 1-888-EBPARKS or 1-888-327-2757, press option 2.
RangerThis campground is nice with newer bathrooms and shower facilities, but it's also very open and exposed. Great access to Spring Lake's water-based activities and hiking trails, plus easy access to Trione-Annadel State Park for hiking and mountain biking. Howarth Park, a city park, also borders Spring Lake Regional Park and provides access to boating and fishing on Lake Ralphine, plus they have a small train, carousel, tennis courts, and a softball field. Overall a good campsite for families in need of lots of recreation options, but not the best for those wishing to "get away from it all."
RangerSkyline Wilderness County Park is a great little campground just outside of downtown Napa. There are always a lot of RVs there, but thankfully the tent section is separate from most of the RVs. The tent area leaves a little to be desired and is basically just a stretch of grass with picnic tables, BBQs and very little separation or cover from trees. Of course you don’t really think wilderness camping when you think of Napa Valley.
Despite being close to town there is actually quite a bit to do in the park and once you get back from the campground a bit you can really feel kind of far away from the congested Napa Valley. There are quite a few hiking trails and some offer beautiful views of the valley. By far the most popular is the Lake Marie Trail and Fire Road and Manzanita is popular with mountain bikers.
The River to Ridge Trail is nice and provides access to the Kennedy Park, the Napa River, and miles of bike paths, but check at the kiosk if the gate next to highway 221 (Soscol Ferry Road) is open and I have found it to not have a very consistent schedule.
According to a couple of friends that are pretty die-hard disk golfers, the course at Skyline is one of the best and most challenging in the area. I found it to be pretty fun, especially is your expectations are extremely low.
Being Napa Valley there is of course wine tasting and having a parking spot at the campground you have the perfect opportunity to take an Uber or car service to ensure your safety while enjoying Napa’s most famous export.
This is not a park that will provide you with memorable hikes or photos for your Instagram, but it is a decent place to stay in Napa if you’re the type that prefers to sleep in a tent or RV over a very pricey hotel.
ScoutThis location is easily accessible for all. Biking, trails for hiking and the gardens are gorgeous. Rvs and horses welcome.
Scoutas usual some spots are better than others but most close to restrooms and/or water. lots of poison oak and star thistle right off trail. great deterrent for kids to stay out of tick areas but id worry if we brought dogs! we were at #45, family sites and there were families with kids all over. there even was a patch of grass for kids to play on. trails nearby good for easy mountain biking and hiking
GuideWe only stayed overnight the staff was very friendly,lots of stuff to do around the campsite from hiking,mtb,watch horses, frisbee golf and then you have napa where you can get wine,brewery,and restaurants that's only 5 minutes away....would definetly be back here again
Equestrian camping options extend beyond the immediate vicinity of Ross, California, with several notable destinations within a 25-mile radius. The region's Mediterranean climate creates ideal riding conditions from spring through fall, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 65-85°F. Trail conditions vary significantly with seasonal changes, particularly after winter rains when some routes become temporarily impassable due to mud and erosion.
Beach rides at Wildcat Camp: Located in Point Reyes National Seashore, the beach near Wildcat Campground offers coastal riding experiences. "The Falls will get extremely busy during the day as people start hiking in and this way you can head over for a little bit without too any people first thing in the morning. Tip: If you head in the opposite direction of the Falls, you'll have miles and miles of no one around," notes Elliott B.
Trail riding at Sky Camp: While staying at Wildcat Camp, riders can access extended trail networks. "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," explains Elliott B.
Explore Las Trampas Wilderness: The trails near Las Trampas Regional Wilderness accommodate equestrians with varying skill levels. "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., adding that the trails range from "easy-to-medium in difficulty."
Secluded campsites: At Coast Campground, riders appreciate the sheltered areas. "Sites 1-7 are located on the inland side of the Coast Trail just south of the junction with Firelane Trail. They're spread out in a scrub-brush area that provides a nice amount of privacy and protection for the wind," explains Michael I.
Versatile trail systems: The network of trails at Anthony Chabot allows riders to customize routes. "There is an extensive network of trails accessible from the campground," states Amanda P., adding that the park has "eucalyptus groves make the air smell wonderful, and there is so much wildlife to see (deer, turkeys, owls, etc.)."
Ease of access: Anthony Chabot Regional Park offers facilities closer to urban areas than most horse camping destinations. "Always went here when we don't wanna drive too far. Staff is great and place is clean," notes Daniel M., highlighting its convenience for riders seeking shorter travel times to camping areas.
Limited equestrian facilities: Most campgrounds have minimal dedicated horse infrastructure. "The campground itself is set on an open plateau just a dozen or so feet above the beach and there isn't a lot of cover between campsites. Site 7 is a bit protected by trees and is the closest to the beach," observes Michael I. about Wildcat Camp.
Seasonal considerations: Spring offers optimal conditions at Skyline Wilderness Park, while summer brings drier trails. "Hiking is nice too especially in winter when everything is green. It's like a fairy wonderland on the Manzanita trail," reports Adam B., highlighting how trail conditions change seasonally.
Reservation requirements: Early booking is essential for equestrian sites. "These are sites are in high demand, but totally worth the wait to experience," advises Sara S. about Wildcat Camp, noting the competitive reservation system that applies to all Point Reyes camping areas, including those accommodating horses.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve offers educational experiences beyond riding. "San Francisco East Bay residents actually have a volcano in their backyard at Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve," notes Elliott B., adding that "the site has basically 360 degree views of Mount Diablo, Vollmer Peak and Tilden Park."
Beginner-friendly trails: Choose gentler terrain for younger riders at Coast Camp. "There are miles of beach to explore, and you can continue along the coast trail to hike even farther," explains MarinMaverick, making it suitable for families with varying riding abilities.
Food storage precautions: Wildlife can access food at campgrounds. "One thing to be aware of with Wildcat Camp is the small field mice that can get into the food storage boxes. Bring some steel wool or a critter-proof container to keep food safe, even inside the locker," advises Michael I.
Limited hookup options: Bothe-Napa Valley State Park provides alternative options when equestrian sites are unavailable. "Traditional campground, yurts and a seasonal pool make this a fun place to go with the kids. Camp sites are on the smaller side," mentions Kate L., noting the space constraints relevant to RV travelers.
Parking constraints: Horse trailers require advance planning at most campgrounds. "Coast Camp is kind of the tale of two campgrounds. Sites 1-7 are located on the inland side of the Coast Trail just south of the junction with Firelane Trail," observes Michael I., highlighting the variation in site accessibility.
Equestrian staging areas: Anthony Chabot offers better parking for horse trailers than most. "Very nice campground, great for a quick getaway," notes Emily C., though specific equestrian facilities remain limited compared to dedicated horse camps further from Ross.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Ross, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Ross, CA is Wildcat Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore with a 4.8-star rating from 15 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Ross, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 13 equestrian camping locations near Ross, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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