Santa Margarita Lake offers equestrian camping opportunities approximately 20 miles southwest of San Miguel, California. The regional park sits at an elevation of 2,000 feet in the foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains. Temperatures range from 50°F in winter to over 90°F in summer, with spring and fall providing moderate conditions ideal for outdoor recreation.
What to do
Trail riding access: At Lopez Lake Recreation Area, riders can explore multiple trails throughout the park. "There isn't much fishing now, because the water is so low, but there are still pretty hikes to be had and water slides if it's hot. We've been to the ropes course too, which is really fun," notes Linda S.
Fishing opportunities: Lake San Antonio offers fishing from shore or boat. "Fishing was great from shore in morning and dusk. They had clean bathrooms and showers," shares Jack J., who appreciated the shoreline access.
Dune exploration: Campers staying at Pacific Dunes Ranch can walk directly onto sand dunes. "We came in late and it was hard to find our map and site reservations. Our site was night to the dunes so easy walk to the sand, but about 30 minute hard walk to the ocean, it was worth it," reports Ryan S.
What campers like
Quiet surroundings: Santa Margarita KOA offers tranquil sites away from busy areas. "This place is amazing. Nice private sites. Our site was on the side of a large hill overlooking everything. We were king of the mountain. Campground is remote but SO worth it," writes Roxanna L.
Wildlife viewing: Islay Creek Campground at Montaña de Oro State Park provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. "A beautiful spot. I was hear with a very large group where we split up into smaller group tent sites. We had a good experience but had problems with raccoons trying to get in our tents at night," Amanda K. mentions.
Water activities: Several lakes near San Miguel offer boating and water sports. "Lopez Lake Recreation Area is 15 minutes behind the 'Village' of Arroyo Grande, CA. Swimming is allowed in the lake, and there are some 'beach' areas that have been cleared of lake plants and rocks for safe swimming," describes Amanda M.
What you should know
Reservation systems: Most horse campgrounds near San Miguel require advance booking. "Reservations are online except for horse camps which require a phone call to County Parks 805-788-2387, fees run 38$-36$ per night," explains Margo A. about Santa Margarita Lake Regional Park.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat affects camping comfort at many sites. "It was a warm weekend at San Antonio. The temperature at the lake often exceeds 100 in the summer. Camping spaces are spread out finding shade can be a challenge," advises Chip K.
Limited cell service: Remote locations mean spotty connectivity. "We've camped here many times over the last 15 years. We've tent camped on primitive sites and camped with a pop-up with electricity & water. None of the full hookup sites have a view but some of the tent sites do," shares Linda S.
Tips for camping with families
Horse camp facilities: Equestrian camping facilities near San Miguel accommodate families with various riding levels. "Santa Margarita Lake is a lovely, quiet medium size lake used for drinking water in San Luis Obispo County, Los Padres National Forest. There are 60 campsites; 54 tent/RV, 2 Boat-in and 4 horse camps," reports Margo A.
Swimming options: When visiting during hot months, seek campgrounds with swimming facilities. "This lake has a no body contact rule which makes it a great quiet fishing lake with no jet skiing, swimming etc... there is a seasonal swimming pool that is right across from the rv spots," notes Corey L. about Santa Margarita Lake Recreation Area.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "We checked in on Friday (earlier than the posted 3pm time) and setup camp. The site is clean and fairly level. Very little wind and lots of shade made for a perfect weekend," shares Jeremy F. about Lopez Lake campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Turkey Flat OHV Staging Area provides more rugged camping without hookups. "Turkey Flat is a great place for groups to camp and drink beer around a fire. Wake up and fire up those off-road vehicles and maybe take a gun out to where they hunt turkeys or wild boar," explains Margo A.
Site selection: When booking equestrian campsites near San Miguel, consider proximity to corrals and trails. "This campground is only 25 minutes from the beach. The staff is extremely helpful and friendly and we're very accommodating to me and my dog during a heat wave that was moving through," writes Haley S.
Water availability: Check water access points before arrival. "This of course always depends on the water level which has been very low some years, but has been good this year. The pool, showers and restrooms are newer, clean and very close to the rv spots but a bit of a walk to most of the tent sites," advises Corey L.
