Ribbonwood Equestrian Campground serves travelers with horses approximately 60 miles from Salton City at an elevation of around 5,500 feet in the San Jacinto Mountains. The campground's higher elevation offers relief from Salton City's summer temperatures, which can exceed 110°F, while providing specialized equestrian facilities rarely found in desert-adjacent camping options. Trails extending from the campground connect to extensive routes through the San Bernardino National Forest.
What to do
Trail riding access points: Equestrian campers at Ribbonwood have direct access to forest service trails connecting to longer routes. As one camper from Diana F. notes, "Good campsite, has the coolest hike trails, and the nights are really beautiful." These trails vary in difficulty and terrain, making them suitable for riders of different experience levels.
Mountain hikes from camp: From El Prado Campground, visitors can access several mountain peaks with views extending to the Salton Sea. One reviewer explained, "In the morning if you walk out of camp to Sunrise HWY, turn left a 1/4 mile you find an overlook with a great view of the sunset and views out to the Salton Sea."
Desert wildlife viewing: The area between Idyllwild and Salton City contains diverse ecosystems where wildlife observation opportunities abound. At Lake Cahuilla, "There is a bike trail around the lake and fishing. Playgrounds and other child friendly activities available upon request," according to reviewer Sam T., making it accessible for families wanting to combine horse camping with other outdoor activities.
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: Horse-focused campgrounds provide more room than standard sites. At Vallecito County Park, another equestrian-friendly option near Salton City, "There are two halves, one for RV's, horses, and a few tent sites and the other half is all tents," says Eric D., noting the campground's accommodation for different camping styles.
Cool mountain temperatures: The elevation difference between Salton City and mountain horse campgrounds creates significantly cooler conditions. According to Diana F. at Ribbonwood, "I would definitely come back I'd just need more blankets because the nights are beyond cold." This temperature contrast makes equestrian camping particularly appealing during hot desert months.
Natural surroundings: Campers appreciate the natural setting of horse campgrounds in the region. At Paso Picacho Campground, "the scenery was beautiful" and it feels "like you are in the middle of nowhere even though there is a small mountain town 20 minutes away and east county San Diego is only 40 away," notes Loren D.
What you should know
Water availability: Most horse campgrounds near Salton City have water hookups but limited other services. At Green Valley Campground, "Campsites are larger than at Paso Picacho and there aren't as many," according to Lea O., who adds that the sites are "easier to find" than other options in the area.
Temperature swings: The mountain horse campgrounds experience significant day-to-night temperature changes. Diana F. from Ribbonwood emphasizes preparing for cold: "It was so much fun and I would definitely come back I'd just need more blankets because the nights are beyond cold."
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian sites require advance bookings, especially during peak seasons. At Vallecito, "Camp host was very active driving around welcoming everybody and was helpful with any questions you might have," according to Eric D., making it easier to navigate the campground's systems.
Tips for camping with families
Bring extra activities: While horse-focused, many campgrounds offer additional recreation. At Lake Cahuilla, Morgen M. explains, "Lake Cahuilla has a lot to offer, including a playground, lake for fishing only (no swimming), and a pool that was closed while we were there, and somewhat spacious sites."
Plan for wildlife encounters: Wildlife is abundant near equestrian campgrounds. At Vallecito County Park, Eric D. warns, "Tons of coyotes! They're tricky and smart, so stay sharp at night on walks with furry ones." This applies equally to dogs and horses.
Consider multi-site bookings for larger groups: For family reunions or larger equestrian groups, booking adjacent sites works well. At KQ Ranch Resort, "We had spot 192, a beautiful view of Anza Borrego Desert, nice and shady, far from amenities so not a lot of people passing by," notes Melissa, highlighting how site selection affects group camping experience.
Tips from RVers
Check site lengths for horse trailers: When bringing horses, verify that sites accommodate both RV and horse trailer. At Stagecoach Trails Resort, Dustin A. notes it has a "Beautiful location, secluded, lots of space to get a big trailer in. It's off the beaten path," making it suitable for equestrian RVers with larger rigs.
Research elevation driving conditions: The mountain roads to horse campgrounds can be challenging for larger rigs. Melissa at KQ Ranch Resort mentions, "We had our bikes so we got the amenities fine," suggesting alternate transportation options once at camp.
Verify hookup limitations: Many horse campgrounds have water but limited electrical service. According to Eric D. at Vallecito, "There's water but no power hookups. The bathrooms are clean," which is typical of equestrian facilities in the region.
