Cowboy Camp provides primitive dispersed camping in the Cache Creek Natural Area west of Rumsey, California. Located at an elevation of approximately 400 feet, this Bureau of Land Management property experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional rainfall. The area features oak woodlands and chaparral vegetation with seasonal creeks that can run dry during summer months.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The Cache Creek Natural Area offers multiple riding trails branching from Cowboy Camp, though accessibility varies seasonally. "Great free campground! We've stayed here many times. It's open, grassy level and quiet. Next to a stream and surrounded by hills," shares Jorg F., highlighting the terrain suitable for horse camping.
Swimming access: Lake Sonoma offers swimming options during warm months, approximately 45 miles from Rumsey. "The walk down to swim in the lake was a significant downhill but the dip was worth it! Funny dead trees sticking out of the lake were fun to climb on," notes Kelly M. about Liberty Glen Campground.
Hiking trails: The surrounding area has numerous trails with varying difficulty levels. "There is also a seasonal pool for warm summer days and some awesome trails," mentions Peter M. about Ritchey Creek Campground, which is located about 38 miles from Rumsey and offers additional recreational opportunities.
What campers like
Rural seclusion: Horse campgrounds near Rumsey provide quiet settings away from urban areas. "This site served its purpose; spot to sleep after a long day of driving. The disbursed camping area was down a gravel road to the left next to the day use vault toilet through a cattle gate," reports Crispin S. about Cowboy Camp's layout.
Wildlife viewing: Many equestrian campgrounds around Rumsey offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly seen!" notes Adam B. about his stay at Skyline Wilderness Park, which is approximately 40 miles south of Rumsey.
Creek access: Seasonal water features enhance the camping experience at several sites. "Quiet stop, but I wouldn't call it the most beautiful stop I've ever stayed. Camping spots are to the left and the right of the day use. Pit toilets. No garbage," shares Catherine L. about her experience at Cowboy Camp.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Rumsey area camping sites often close without notice due to weather conditions or maintenance. "The camp area is closed, as of 2/9/2024. No indication of that on the BLM website," reports Derek D. about Cowboy Camp, highlighting the importance of checking current status before traveling.
Limited amenities: Equestrian camping facilities near Rumsey typically provide minimal services. "Middle creek campground was as close as we could find to free camping in Upper Lake CA. Each campsite has a picnic table, fire pit as well as a bbq grill. They do have vault toilets and running water," explains Donna M. about Middle Creek Campground, located about 30 miles northwest of Rumsey.
Insect activity: Seasonal bug populations can affect camping comfort in the region. "No trees just dry open land inhabited by an unusual amount of flies. It was crazy how thick they were. An almost dry creek runs alongside the open field of camping pads," warns Patricia Y. about conditions at Cowboy Camp during warmer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When camping with children near Rumsey, some sites offer dedicated play areas. "There is also a playground on site, with multiple trails," notes April H. about Liberty Glen Campground, making it suitable for families seeking structured recreation options.
Fire restrictions: Check current fire regulations before planning cooking activities with children. "Beautiful and close to downtown Calistoga however the campgrounds were infested with poison oak. Maybe just the time of year and because of so much rain this year?" warns Samantha T. about Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, highlighting seasonal considerations.
Cell service availability: Coverage varies significantly throughout horse camping areas near Rumsey. "Cell phone coverage is good. Have both Verizon and Att with at least 2-3 bars. 10-12 Mbps down 4-5 Mbps up," reports Adam B. about Skyline Wilderness Park, which can be important for families needing connectivity.
Tips from RVers
Ground conditions: RV campers should note terrain challenges at equestrian campgrounds near Rumsey. "We always manage to level out in our 23" Winnebago View. There is lots of open space so no crowding," shares Jorg F. about Cowboy Camp's parking areas.
Water access issues: Many horse camping facilities have limited water hookups. "Problem is that the spigots don't have any hose fittings, so you can't hook up, which I think is a good thing to keep people from taking over water for an extended period of time," explains Justin W. about Middle Creek Campground, a consideration for RVers planning water usage.
Road conditions: Access roads to Rumsey area campgrounds can present challenges for larger rigs. "This has nothing to do with the campground. Just keep in mind that Elk mountain road, especially the part leading up to the top of the mountain right as you leave the campground is an absolutely terrible road, it needs a lot of maintenance," warns Justin W. about routes near Middle Creek Campground.
Traveler
