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David S.
Scout
ScoutKQ Ranch Resort
Great staff lots of things to do
Equestrian Camping near Coolidge Springs, CA
3 campgrounds with availability next weekend
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Ribbonwood Equestrian Campground provides horse camping facilities near Coolidge Springs, with sites designed specifically for equestrian use. Located in Idyllwild, California, this campground features drinking water, picnic tables, and toilet facilities in a setting designed specifically for equestrian use. The campground maintains access to multiple riding trails in the San Bernardino National Forest, allowing riders to explore the surrounding mountain terrain. Sites accommodate RVs with water hookups available, though the campground is not suitable for big rigs. Equestrians appreciate the well-maintained grounds and access to wilderness trails right from their campsites. The drive-in and walk-in access options provide flexibility for different transportation needs. The campground earns consistently high ratings from visitors who value its quiet atmosphere and trail connectivity.
The surrounding trail system connects riders to several notable destinations within the San Jacinto Mountains. Horse owners find accessible water sources along most trails, with natural streams available seasonally. The campground requires reservations for equestrian sites, with alcohol permitted but fires restricted to designated rings. Clean bathroom facilities and trash removal services enhance the camping experience. Trail riders frequently encounter wildlife along the paths, adding to the natural experience. Located approximately 30 miles from Coolidge Springs, the campground provides a cooler mountain retreat from the desert heat. The proximity to other recreational areas makes it possible to plan multi-day riding excursions, with prepared riders bringing appropriate feed storage containers as no on-site feed supplies are available.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Coolidge Springs (18)
1. Box Canyon Dispersed
"It was quiet during the week, weekends might be busier with locals because of all the shell casings left behind."
"this is a dispersed location on box canyon in Mecca. the road is loose sand and is possible by most vehicles as long as you stay on the road."
2. Lake Cahuilla
"Equestrian sites are partial hookup and are $35. There is a dump station on site for all campers to use."
"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."
3. Fountain of Youth Spa RV Resort
Check Availabilityfrom $30 - $213 / night
4. Ryan Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
"This camp site was tucked in the back, 12 miles from Joshua Tree park entrance. This site was on the side of the rocks that provided shade for more than 12 hours in the day."
"Short drive to most of the popular sights / trails in Joshua Tree Cons: Some sites are pretty close to each other, can feel crowded.
"
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $30 / night
5. Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
"The only downside to this site is that it was very close to the bathrooms. That actually bummed me out a bit when we first arrived, but it ended up not being much of an issue at all."
"The trash cans were just a few feet from the site and the bathrooms were a short walk just a couple spots away."
4 Sites AvailableAvailable next weekend
from $40 - $250 / night
6. El Prado Campground
"This is the closest campground to the lakes. Just a couple steps away from the beautiful meadow it overlooks. Lots of trees for hammocking!!"
"It is a big, big campground that is wooded and adjacent a large meadow, recreational area and lake (when not dried out, drought sucks)."
Check AvailabilityCampground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $35 / night
7. Ribbonwood Equestrian Campground
"Good campsite, has the coolest hike trails, and the nights are really beautiful. It was so much fun and I would definitely come back Id just need more blankets because the nights are beyond cold."
8 Sites AvailableAvailable next weekend
from $30 / night
8. Stagecoach Trails Resort
"Nice views and plenty of walking paths..."
"Beautiful location, secluded, lots of space to get a big trailer in. It's off the beaten path, staying here for a few days, really like it!"
Check Availabilityfrom $47 - $9999 / night
9. KQ Ranch Resort
"Membership costs us around $2000 And have access to / 3000 different camp sites nationwide At any time of the year a drop of a dime essentially"
"Great location and beautiful scenery in the mountains. The resort has lost of activities to participate in. Also, great hiking trails."
10. Green Valley Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
"Headed back to the ranger and they gave us an open disabled spot (we have a placard) in the horse camp. It was AMAZING. Large flat pad that had the sweet water river right behind."
"While both have their positives, I personally love this one for its close proximity to the waterfalls that are a short trail from the campsites."
7 Sites AvailableAvailable next weekend
from $40 / night
Drive Time
- 56 min from El Centro, CA
- 1 hr 54 min from Yuma, AZ
- 2 hrs from San Diego, CA
- 3 hrs 10 min from Lake Havasu City, AZ
Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Coolidge Springs, CA
1 Photos of 18 Coolidge Springs Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Equestrian Camping Reviews near Coolidge Springs, CA
165 Reviews of 18 Coolidge Springs Campgrounds
tooth W.
GuideStagecoach Trails Resort
Beautifully set in the Anzo-Berrago state park. Excellent clean facilities
Matthew E.ScoutBelle Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
A Good Campground During the Week
I discovered this campground in Joshua Tree when the campground I had grown used to staying at (Ryan) went reserved only. Belle is on a first come, first serve basis, so there's no reservations involved. Roughly east of the campground is a trail that leads to the next one down, White Tank, which is popular because of the natural arch that can be found a short distance from the campsites. Belle itself has 18 campsites which are mostly empty during the week. Weekends are busy though as campers are usually jockeying for a site starting on Thursday nights. All in all, a beautiful place that offers splendid views and clear, crisp nights. Campers beware as it can get very windy at times. Vault toilets and campfire rings, but no accessible water.
- EEric P.
LegendBelle Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
This was our first trip to Joshua Tree. We thoroughly enjoyed this first come first serve campground. The awesome walks into the park and desert landscape make this a place we will definitely return to. Beautiful night sky and stars . The Granite boulders are beautiful!
Hans V.
RangerSouth Ridge Yellow Post Sites
The first two spots are close together. First one a bit small but better cover from Santa Anna winds. Nicely in the forest and close to the village.
Josh S.ScoutPaso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Large Shaded Campsite
Site 52 is great! Two parking spots with a large flat space. You could easily place three tents on the flats and another two tents on the slight incline. There are three trees perfectly set up for hammocks. There is decent shade but still gets sun. Bushes and shrubs create a little gulf to give you great privacy. Site 51 is downhill of the site and the fire pit is a bit close to your neighbors. Bathrooms and camp host are just around the corner. Bathrooms were very clean and water taps and sewer grates were convent for dishwater. Squirrels are confident here so they will only runaway if you are nearby them. We loved this site and would suggest it for big groups or someone looking for a flat campsite!
- ssyl D.Guide
Stagecoach Trails Resort
Spacious & Accommodating Campsite
Great campsite with plenty of amenities and a little store to boot. My #92 camper trailer spot was roomy and had a new picnic table. Old fashion rock pile fire pit that needed some maintenance, which I didn't mind, water/sewer/electrical hook ups were operational. It was really windy during the day and night but it added to the desert experience... off season so I almost had the place to myself. Nice views and plenty of walking paths...
- Andrew E.Scout
Thousand Trails Oakzanita Springs
Transmission buster
The park is located in the mountains East of SD in the most beautiful setting. The issue is not getting to the rv park, it’s parking in your assigned spot. Unless you get lucky, you will be backing up a hill, turning a corner, between old oak trees and boulders. We are TT members and even though the park is beautiful, we won’t be back unless we can choose the camp site ahead of arrival. If your brakes or transmission are in need of maintenance or are just a bit older, do not book your stay here.
Julie F.RangerPaso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Lots of trees and birds
Great park. Lots of spots to choose from. Many spots for trash, recycling and water. Many trails to walk/hike or run but are not with dogs but you can hike the paved fire roads with pups.
Our spot (35) has great views and was pretty private.
Dump station is 10$
Guide to Coolidge Springs
Ribbonwood Equestrian Campground is one of several specialized horse campgrounds near Coolidge Springs, California, situated in the San Bernardino National Forest at 5,500 feet elevation. The campground offers equestrian-specific facilities that accommodate riders wanting to explore mountain terrain in the Idyllwild area. Located approximately 30 miles from Coolidge Springs, this destination provides cooler temperatures than the desert floor, with typical summer highs reaching 85°F and winter temperatures dropping below freezing.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Access multiple wilderness trails directly from Ribbonwood Equestrian Campground, where Diana F. notes, "Good campsite, has the coolest hike trails, and the nights are really beautiful. It was so much fun and I would definitely come back."
Fishing at nearby lakes: Lake Cahuilla County Park offers stocked fishing opportunities about 35 minutes from Coolidge Springs. Berton M. mentions that at nearby parks, "wildlife is everywhere; bees, coyotes, hawks, rabbits," making the surrounding areas ideal for wildlife observation while fishing.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: The mountain terrain around Paso Picacho Campground provides extensive biking networks with varied difficulty levels. According to Joseph W., there are "Lots of sounds and sites to explore!! The spaces all had water and fire rings with tables."
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Several equestrian campgrounds in the mountains offer minimal light pollution. Patrick M. describes Lake Cahuilla as having "Dark, beautiful skies at night. Good hiking trail into the mountains, with the trailhead near the entrance to the campground."
Seasonal temperatures: The mountain elevation provides relief from desert heat. According to Beverley G., "Stayed at the start of May as I had appointments in Indio. Wonderfully quiet, hardly anyone else here. Trees provided some shade and the surrounding mountains are beautiful plus there's mountain hiking trails nearby."
Privacy between sites: Unlike many crowded campgrounds, equestrian sites typically offer more space. At Stagecoach Trails Resort, Dustin A. notes, "Beautiful location, secluded, lots of space to get a big trailer in. It's off the beaten path, staying here for a few days, really like it!"
What you should know
Winter conditions require preparation: Mountain horse campgrounds near Coolidge Springs experience significant temperature drops at night. Diana F. warns about Ribbonwood: "The nights are beyond cold. I would definitely come back, I'd just need more blankets."
Water availability varies by season: Natural water sources along trails fluctuate with rainfall. At Vallecito County Park, Eric D. notes, "There are fire rings and tables at every site with water sources every few sites."
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons (spring and fall), advance bookings are essential. According to Laura M., "Online reservation fee is $8 but you don't have to pay that if you show up and pay on site."
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife interaction near equestrian camps. Eric D. observes, "Tons of coyotes! They're tricky and smart, so stay sharp at night on walks with furry ones."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian
campsite near Coolidge Springs, CA?
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Coolidge Springs, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Coolidge Springs, CA is Box Canyon Dispersed with a 4.5-star rating from 6 reviews.
What is the best site to find
equestrian camping near
Coolidge Springs, CA?
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Coolidge Springs, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 18 equestrian camping locations near Coolidge Springs, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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