Horse riders traveling near Shasta Lake can access a network of trails through mountainous terrain with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 6,000 feet. Most equestrian campsites in this region operate seasonally from May through October due to winter snow conditions at higher elevations. Sites typically feature uneven terrain with limited definition, requiring experienced horse handlers familiar with primitive conditions.
What to do
Trail riding access: Hidden Horse Equestrian Campground near Fort Jones serves as a starting point for rides through the Klamath National Forest. This seasonal campground operates from June to October and offers water hookups specifically designed for horse camping needs.
Creek exploration: Philpot Campground offers access to creek-side riding paths. "This rustic campsite is just a few miles off of Highway 36 located off of Rattlesnake Road near Trinity Pines. There's no power no running water they do have bathrooms and a creek runs through the campsite it's a very beautiful place with lush green forest all around!" notes camper DirtyMountainBoy A.
Wilderness rides: The Ishi Wilderness area can be accessed from Black Rock Campground. "Go to this camp for the quiet. Hiking is good going up or down Mill Creek. Fly fishing good and rarely more than one other camp used," reports Gordon C. This area offers riding opportunities with natural water sources for horses along Mill Creek.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The spacing between equestrian sites provides seclusion. At Horse Flat Campground, Aaron S. notes, "A lot of space between each camp site." This feature allows horse campers to maintain appropriate distance between animals.
Natural water access: Many sites feature creek access for horses. At Black Rock, camper Alissa C. reports: "There are some nice places to fish that are just a short walk from the campsites and the campsites are nicely shaded to help cut the heat during the day."
Vehicle accommodation: Most equestrian sites can handle truck and trailer combinations. At Hat Creek Resort & RV Park, Tara D. notes, "Our 35 foot fifth wheel easily navigated the space," demonstrating accessibility for larger rigs commonly used for horse transport.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to horse camps often require high-clearance vehicles. Regarding Black Rock, Kaye S. warns: "The road in took about an hour and a half and I would not recommend attempting it without 4WD and high clearance. There is one stream crossing but it is minor."
Fire conditions: The 2018 Carr fire affected many areas. Web H. noted at Horse Camp Primitive Campground: "The only negative was the Carr fire that burned many trees in the area."
Wildlife awareness: Horses and humans must be prepared for wildlife encounters. At Black Rock, camper Alissa C. reported: "We saw some salmon, deer, quail, and frogs. There was evidence of bears around our site but we didn't have any issues."
Seasonal closures: Most equestrian campgrounds close during winter months. Regarding Philpot Picnic Area, DirtyMountainBoy A. mentions, "This is a great little spot never too many people here nice and quiet lots of forest around it good for hiking and just good scenery all the way around there was a burn scar from a fire a couple years back but still beautiful nonetheless!"
Tips for camping with families
Opt for developed sites: When bringing children, choose campgrounds with basic facilities. At Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, Corey L. notes, "The rv spots are full hook up with nice green grass, no cable but ok Verizon signal and we got a few local channels on the tv antenna."
Bring entertainment: Look for campgrounds with recreational options. Scott D. says of Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort: "This is a very nice Mom and Pop Rv Park. The host is very friendly and helpful. Very quiet and relaxing stay. They have a store at the park. If you want they provide a fire pit."
Water activities: Many equestrian camping areas offer water recreation. Jason D. explains, "Just around the corner from the campground (walking distance) is access to the river. The whole family enjoyed dipping in when it's warm outside."
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookups: Equestrian campers with living quarters trailers should note power availability. Valerie T. states about Horse Camp Primitive Campground: "Nice huge site with basically your own valued bathroom one other campsite shares. Perfect for dry camping with your rv if you want some extra quiet."
Site size considerations: Verify trailer length restrictions before arrival. Jason D. cautions about Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort: "Biggest I would put in here would be about a 30 foot trailer. You have to disconnect your tow vehicle."
Water access: Not all horse camps offer hookups. At Hat Creek Resort, Jason D. comments: "Stayed at a full hookup site in my 22 foot travel trailer. We got a spot right on the water. The spots had a bunch of space between them and you had a feeling of privacy."
