Cowboy Camp, located north of Santa Rosa near Lake Berryessa, accommodates equestrian campers with tent and RV sites in a dispersed camping environment. The campground provides basic facilities with toilets and trash disposal but lacks drinking water, making it essential for visitors to bring sufficient water for themselves and their horses. The camping area includes drive-in access suitable for horse trailers, with space for parking vehicles and trailers near campsites. While no dedicated horse corrals are present at the campground, riders can utilize highlines or portable corral systems. The grounds remain open year-round, offering flexibility for equestrian camping trips regardless of season.
Trails in the surrounding Cache Creek Natural Area connect riders to miles of backcountry riding opportunities. Horse owners should note that camping at Cowboy Camp tends to be primitive, with minimal amenities compared to established equestrian campgrounds. The surrounding landscape features oak woodland and chaparral habitat typical of Northern California's inner Coast Range. Trail conditions vary seasonally, with summer months bringing dry, dusty conditions that require extra water considerations for horses. Winter and spring offer greener landscapes but potentially muddy trail conditions. The campground's 2.6-star rating reflects its basic, no-frills nature, though its location provides convenient access to the Cache Creek Ridge Trail system. Riders should pack all necessary horse supplies, including feed, water buckets, and manure management tools.
$43 / night
"We just stayed here for 2 nights, great location very close to Calistoga and not to far from Saint Helena! Next time i would love to try out a cabin or yurt."
"Good access to wineries close by. Only real downside was that because of the dry conditions we could not have a campfire."
$45 / night
"This campsite is centrally located on the peninsula. Access to several roadside dog friendly beaches within minutes. The bay and the beach are within walking distance to campground."
"There are also equestrian trails, so you can book a horseback ride from a local ranch as well!!"
$35 / night
"Great spot to camp and explore the Santa Rosa area. No hook ups but there is a spot to fill fresh water tank and a dump station. Sites are well spaced and very clean."
"It’s close to the entrance but the driveway only had a slight grade. Mostly folks with trailers. The sites are not too close together but it is easy to see into the surrounding neighbors."
"This location is easily accessible for all. Biking, trails for hiking and the gardens are gorgeous. Rvs and horses welcome."
"We only stayed overnight the staff was very friendly,lots of stuff to do around the campsite from hiking,mtb,watch horses, frisbee golf and then you have napa where you can get wine,brewery,and restaurants"
"in an open meadow on a bluff overlooking the ocean with a short walk to the beach and a 3.2 kilometer (2.0 miles) round-trip walk to [Alamere Falls](https://www.nps.gov/pore/planyourvisit/alamere_falls.htm"
"Really great site right next to the water and beach. The hike in is pretty easy and beautiful. We had fun making a fire on the beach at night. It's pretty windy, so be prepared."
$30 - $90 / night
"West Marin offers an incredibly picturesque location to explore, and Coast Camp is about as good as it gets."
"The beach offers tidepools close by as well as a great place for beach fire (permit needed). There are two routes to hike in."
$25 - $100 / night
"If you talk to the the ranger at the gate, most of the time they will let you drive around the grounds and pick any open site."
"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."
"Next to a stream and surrounded by hills. The only tough part is getting across the stream to some of the hikes."
$75 - $120 / night
"Tilden is great for anyone looking for a close park right outside of the Berkeley/San Fran area. It is a rather large park area that overlooks Berkeley."
"Tilden offers a lake in the middle to swim in and fish. The campsites have lots of fire pits. The weather is always great too!"
$15 / night
"The 31-mile East Bay Skyline National Recreation Trail, part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail system, traverses"
GuideGreat spot to camp and explore the Santa Rosa area. No hook ups but there is a spot to fill fresh water tank and a dump station. Sites are well spaced and very clean. Will get weekend locals so you will likely hear people having fun :) My go to in the area.
RangerSpring Lake is a local destination for summertime fun and cooling off. This regional park is located on the southeast edge of the city of Santa Rosa and is surrounded on three sides by neighborhoods. That being said, this park is nice and while you won't feel far from civilization, it's a nice spot to spend a weekend.
Connected to Spring Lake Regional Park to the west is Howarth Park, a small city park offering a train ride, carousel, jump house, petting zoo and pony rides. The park also has multiple tennis courts, some trails as well as Lake Ralphine where you can fish, SUP, or bring your own boat. If you are interested in paddling however I would recommend Spring Lake, which is much larger giving you more areas to explore.
Connected to the west of Spring Lake is Trione-Annadel State Park, a wildly popular spot for local mountain bikers. In fact, as a hiker I tend to avoid Annadel because there are so many mountain bikers, many of whom unfortunately ride as if there is no chance of them coming upon a hiker. That said, there are miles upon miles of trails in to explore Annadel State Park.
Camping at Spring Lake is fine, but reminds me of bit of a KOA with the way it’s set up. All campsites are in a couple of small loops centered around bathrooms and showers with most all of the sites being set up for RVs. There are a few tent sites, but it just doesn’t feel like camping to me personally.
Recently they have added cabins which look really cool, but I have not stayed in one yet.
RangerThis campsite is centrally located on the peninsula. Access to several roadside dog friendly beaches within minutes. The bay and the beach are within walking distance to campground. The bathrooms are clean and the showers are coin operated. Sites are flat and semi private. The staff is friendly and campground is large.
GuideIt is always windy and therefore cold on the beach. That is why there are such big sand dunes.
Regardless, a beautiful place to visit and camp. There are also equestrian trails, so you can book a horseback ride from a local ranch as well!!
TravelerGreat free campground! We've stayed here many times. It's open, grassy level and quiet. Next to a stream and surrounded by hills. The only tough part is getting across the stream to some of the hikes. It's a hot spot for horses which of course have no stream problems, so the only negative is fly's sometimes. But just keep your screen door closed (& fly swatter handy). We always manage to level out in our 23" Winnebago View. There is lots of open space so no crowding. There is a rural road near by but traffic noise isn't a problem. Perhaps I should say it's awful so fewer people come and it's not discovered.
LegendSibley Regional Preserve
San Francisco East Bay residents actually have a volcano in their backyard at Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve. Originally called Round Top Park, Sibley shares with Temescal and Tilden Parks the distinction of being one of the East Bay Regional Park District's original parks.
The Sibley backpack camp is a small, primitive hike-in site for a maximum of 15 campers (although this would be super cramped in my opinion, unless it a bunch of small kids), a moderate 0.2 mile walk from the parking lot (NO VEHICLE ACCESS). The site has basically 360 degree views of Mount Diablo, Vollmer Peak and Tilden Park. There are only two tent pads - approximately 10'x25' and 10'x20'. Site has 2 picnic tables, 1 serving table, and a pit toilet close by which was very clean and well maintained.
During the day you’ll have lots of people walk semi/sorta by the campground, but there is no reason that anyone would walk through your area as if they did they’d tumble off and down the side of a nice steep hill…
No wood fires or BBQs are allowed; only camp stoves are allowed for cooking, your night time enjoyment.
Drinking water is 0.2 miles from camp at the trail head so keep that in mind before it gets too dark to hike back and forth for a drink.
There are several trails providing tons of access throughout the preserve. The 31-mile East Bay Skyline National Recreation Trail, part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail system, traverses the preserve along the ridgeline between Wildcat Canyon and Anthony Chabot Parks. Round Top Road goes from the Sibley visitor center to the top of Round Top. Round Top Loop Trail circles Round Top peak. Volcanic Trail, once a quarry haul road, contains most of the stops on the self-guided volcanic tour.
Dogs are allowed throughout this section of the park and in camp on leash but are not allowed on the adjacent Huckleberry trails. Also, the EBRPD lists, dogs “must be under owner's control at all times” and must not disturb other animals or park visitors, but I definitely saw a lot of loose well behaved dogs running free.
Bikes are allowed on the fire trail, but there are lots of hikers and dog walkers in this park so be mindful. Also, Horses are allowed but there is no hitching rail and no water troughs in the park (or at least that I saw anywhere).
If you decide to try and bike be mindful that most trails are hiking and equestrian only. A few trails are multi-use. Bicycles are not allowed on narrow-gauge trails, except on the Skyline Trail between the Sibley visitor center and Old Tunnel Road. Bicycles are allowed on the wider-gauge fire trails and paved roads but are not allowed on Sibley Round Top from EBMUD water tank road junction to top of Round Top Peak.
Vehicles must be parked in the staging area and display a valid overnight parking permit: 3 parking permits are included in the reservation and will be mailed 5 days in advance. No additional parking permits are available. Otherwise, you can actually get here via public transport by Taking the AC Transit CB bus to the Mountain Blvd stop, them walk about 3 miles to the park.
While you can check if it’s already reserved online. Reservation must be completed at least 5 days in advance by calling 1-888-EBPARKS or 1-888-327-2757, press option 2.
RangerThis campground is nice with newer bathrooms and shower facilities, but it's also very open and exposed. Great access to Spring Lake's water-based activities and hiking trails, plus easy access to Trione-Annadel State Park for hiking and mountain biking. Howarth Park, a city park, also borders Spring Lake Regional Park and provides access to boating and fishing on Lake Ralphine, plus they have a small train, carousel, tennis courts, and a softball field. Overall a good campsite for families in need of lots of recreation options, but not the best for those wishing to "get away from it all."
RangerSkyline Wilderness County Park is a great little campground just outside of downtown Napa. There are always a lot of RVs there, but thankfully the tent section is separate from most of the RVs. The tent area leaves a little to be desired and is basically just a stretch of grass with picnic tables, BBQs and very little separation or cover from trees. Of course you don’t really think wilderness camping when you think of Napa Valley.
Despite being close to town there is actually quite a bit to do in the park and once you get back from the campground a bit you can really feel kind of far away from the congested Napa Valley. There are quite a few hiking trails and some offer beautiful views of the valley. By far the most popular is the Lake Marie Trail and Fire Road and Manzanita is popular with mountain bikers.
The River to Ridge Trail is nice and provides access to the Kennedy Park, the Napa River, and miles of bike paths, but check at the kiosk if the gate next to highway 221 (Soscol Ferry Road) is open and I have found it to not have a very consistent schedule.
According to a couple of friends that are pretty die-hard disk golfers, the course at Skyline is one of the best and most challenging in the area. I found it to be pretty fun, especially is your expectations are extremely low.
Being Napa Valley there is of course wine tasting and having a parking spot at the campground you have the perfect opportunity to take an Uber or car service to ensure your safety while enjoying Napa’s most famous export.
This is not a park that will provide you with memorable hikes or photos for your Instagram, but it is a decent place to stay in Napa if you’re the type that prefers to sleep in a tent or RV over a very pricey hotel.
ScoutThis location is easily accessible for all. Biking, trails for hiking and the gardens are gorgeous. Rvs and horses welcome.
Equestrian camping near Santa Rosa, California offers outdoor options for horse riders in diverse terrain. Surrounding trail systems traverse oak woodlands and grass-covered hills at elevations ranging from 200 to 2,000 feet. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional rain, creating seasonal trail conditions that affect both horse and rider.
Explore coastal trails: At Bodega Dunes Campground, campers can access miles of beach hiking. "Go to the wharf near by to pick up some live crab to boil over the fire. Overall a great campground for adults and kids," recommends Justin B., who finds the coastal setting ideal for group outings.
Visit nearby vineyards: When staying at Ritchey Creek Campground, wine country exploration becomes accessible. As Bonnie C. notes, "Bike trail right out of the campsite, through the vineyards into Calistoga," making it convenient to explore regional wineries without driving.
Hike volcanic formations: The geological formations in the region provide unique hiking experiences. "The park is nice with lots of hiking, views and close to Napa," explains Rich J. about Skyline Wilderness Park, where trail systems offer varied terrain for day hikes through volcanic landscapes.
Varied terrain: The diverse landscapes near Wildcat Campground appeal to trail enthusiasts. "The six mile hike to reach the campground is stunning. The hike changes drastically over the course of the six miles ranging from lush forests to grassy fields to breathtaking coastal views," reports Michaela C.
Wildlife viewing: Natural habitats support diverse wildlife. "We saw a few foxes, or the same fox a few times, so make sure to keep camp sites clean," warns Michael I. at Bodega Dunes, where wildlife encounters add to the camping experience.
Seasonal water features: Water access changes throughout the year at Coast Campground. "The beach offers tidepools close by as well as a great place for beach fire (permit needed)," explains MarinMaverick, highlighting how coastal areas provide seasonal activities.
Limited drinking water: Many equestrian camping areas lack reliable water sources. "No trees just dry open land inhabited by an unusual amount of flies. An almost dry creek runs alongside the open field of camping pads," describes Patricia Y. about Cowboy Camp, emphasizing the need to pack sufficient water.
Seasonal closures: Some facilities operate on limited schedules. "Visit was for 11/19/2024 found the gates locked, no entry. Seasonal? No signage to tell," reports Natalie T., indicating the importance of verifying operating dates before arrival.
Weather considerations: Coastal weather patterns affect camping comfort. "Always expect fog. Expect cold and damp at night," advises MarinMaverick about Coast Camp, reflecting typical conditions that equestrian campers should prepare for.
Select shaded sites: For comfort with children, seek sites with natural protection. "If you want a sunny site, go for the center of the loop in the 60s/70s. We prefer shade and some space," suggests Emily W. from Bodega Dunes Campground.
Check for amenities: Facilities vary significantly between locations. "The campsites include long paved driveways, tables, and fire pits in the sand. Each site is a short walk from bathrooms, trash bins, and the beaches," explains Haley C., noting amenities important for family comfort.
Plan for temperature fluctuations: Evening temperatures drop significantly. "Given that the campground is on the water, it can get very chilly at night and the wind tends to pick up," warns Haley C., suggesting families pack appropriate clothing layers.
Level site selection: RV campers should assess ground conditions. "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, emphasizing the importance of finding stable parking.
Hookup availability: Services vary between locations. "Clean showers and bathrooms, some trees, close to Raley's Grocery store. Easy drive to the wineries of Napa Valley," notes Lori H. about Skyline Wilderness County Park, highlighting both on-site and nearby amenities useful for extended stays.
Site spacing considerations: Privacy between RV sites differs significantly. "RV campsites are close together and semi-level. Bathrooms could use some TLC," reports Rich J., indicating the trade-off between convenience and personal space at established campgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Santa Rosa, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Santa Rosa, CA is Ritchey Creek Campground — Bothe-Napa Valley State Park with a 4.1-star rating from 31 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Santa Rosa, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 11 equestrian camping locations near Santa Rosa, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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