Lake San Antonio - North Shore offers equestrian camping options with on-site corrals approximately 90 miles north of San Luis Obispo. The campground sits at an elevation of 800 feet and experiences summer temperatures that regularly exceed 100°F. This region contains multiple horse-friendly facilities that cater to riders of different experience levels, with varying terrain from lakeside trails to mountain paths.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Visit Lopez Lake Recreation Area for hiking to nearby falls. "Hiking to Big Falls is a fun adventure if you want to leave the campground... The hike is through live oak trees most of the way, so most of the hike is nice and shaded. Keep and eye out for salamanders when crossing the creek beds!" (Amanda M.)
Explore sand dunes: Trek through coastal dune formations at Pacific Dunes Ranch near Oceano. "You can walk off the property and directly into the sand dunes. Multiple bathroom and dumpster locations. Clean and warm showers available during the day." (James O.)
Wildlife spotting: Search for native species at Lopez Lake where wildlife is abundant. "There's lots of trails and quite a bit wildlife: squirrels, deer, turkey, and even some mountain lions and bears." (Crystal J.)
What campers like
Lakeside camping: Santa Margarita Lake Regional Park offers sites with water views. "Fantastic place to chill -- look at the stars and relax... I spent almost two weeks there -- camping at different spots. If you are in a tent Roadrunner is the place to be. Good shade. Beautiful views of the lake from #3,4 and 6." (Gary G.)
Secluded mountain camping: Miranda Pine Campground provides elevated campsites with panoramic views. "Set atop a mountain, Miranda Pine campground gives sweeping views all the way to the ocean. Beware the road is long and unpaved, not suitable for a compact car. I did it with a high clearance 4WD and made it to the top." (Dani P.)
Beach access: Montaña de Oro State Park combines camping with coastal scenery. "This place is 10/10. Clean bathrooms, quiet and quaint. Close to one of the most beautiful beaches. The campsites in the way back are the best..much quieter." (Soggy Bottoms Camper G.)
What you should know
Seasonal fire restrictions: Many campgrounds implement strict fire rules during dry months. Always check current conditions before arrival.
Trail conditions: Lake San Antonio - North Shore offers varying trail options. "It was a warm weekend at San Antonio. The temperature at the lake often exceeds 100 in the summer. There is ample space for camping. You'll need reservations if you want a hookup." (Chip K.)
Weather preparation: Temperature swings can be significant between day and night. "It did get very windy that night. The campground consist of three sites and does have a pit toilet. All sites are great and offer great views." (Antonio C.)
Pest management: Some locations report tick issues during warmer months. "Although the location is very scenic and a 10 min walk to the beach, I wouldn't return because there are ALOT of ticks at the campground. We went with a party of 11 and found multiple ticks on 5 people." (Val H.)
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Lopez Lake Recreation Area offers options beyond swimming. "Lopez Lake is the home of the Mustang Waterpark, a small, but super fun water park. I believe the park is closed during the fall and winter months, but is open during the spring and summer." (Amanda M.)
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "This KOA has had some upgrades. It's great for trailers. They also have tent camping and some cabins. Great areas for the kids to play and nice pool. Staff is awesome very helpful." (stacey S.)
Wildlife education: Several horse campgrounds near San Luis Obispo combine animal encounters with educational opportunities. "We even brought our two dogs. A quick get away during the lock down. The playground was open. Fun bounce pad. There is frisbee golf and horse shoes. They even have an Emu that is friendly and your kids can pet." (David H.)
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Consider dust conditions when choosing spots at equestrian facilities. "Nice location, clean, with good internet access." (Veronica C.)
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds have limited full-hookup sites. "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." (Jeremy F.)
Access considerations: Some horse camping facilities near San Luis Obispo have challenging roads. "RV hookups, pool, huge jumping pad for kids about a mile walk to the lake. They have yurts for tent & cabins." (Martha G.)
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