Horse Camp Primitive Campground sits within the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area at approximately 3,000 feet elevation. The campground operates between April and October when mountain weather permits access. During summer months, temperatures typically range between 50-90°F with cooler evenings compared to lower-elevation options in the region.
What to do
Creek exploration: The nearby creek at Horse Camp Primitive Campground offers recreational activities with direct trail access. "There's a trail that leads down to the creek," notes Brittany S., highlighting natural water features available to campers.
Volcanic hiking adventures: At Butte Lake Campground, visitors can access unique volcanic landscapes. "The Cinder Cone hike along the old lava flow behind the campsite is spectacular! Don't let the climb up the cinder cone dissuade you; the panoramic view from the top is well worth it! We did it with two 6 year olds," shares Laura F.
Fishing opportunities: Several area campgrounds support fishing activities. Black Rock Campground offers "some nice places to fish that are just a short walk from the campsites," according to Alissa C., who adds, "We saw some salmon, deer, quail, and frogs."
What campers like
Natural water features: At Hat Creek Resort & RV Park, the stream access ranks highly among visitor preferences. "1st RV park that I ever took my trailer to. Easy to get in and out of the camp site large camp sites, the hat Creek runs right through the camp ground and we caught trout all morning," says Frank P.
Privacy between sites: Many campers value the spacing between camping spots. At Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, "the spaces are wide. Wider than any other places we have stayed. The spots are grassed, all clean and well maintained," according to Jason D.
Wilderness solitude: Visitors to more remote sites appreciate the quiet. At Black Rock Campground, Kyle M. notes it's "a great place to escape city life" while Gordon C. recommends visitors "Go to this camp for the quiet. Hiking is good going up or down Mill Creek."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to several horse campgrounds near Shasta-Trinity National Forest requires careful navigation. For Butte Lake Campground, Moni R. notes, "Despite the remote location and the bumpy gravel road to get to this park, it is a very popular campground. Advanced reservation is a must."
Bear safety: Wildlife concerns affect multiple sites in the region. Moni R. adds, "Make sure to read the signs about the wildlife and take the advice of how to store food seriously. We saw a bear just a mile outside the campground."
Water access challenges: Limited water availability affects planning at some locations. At Butte Lake, Bill T. reports, "The toilet houses are the only place you can get drinking water and there are only about four locations. There is no way to hook up a hose, even with a water robber, so you have to fill jugs and carry from the sink."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming opportunities: Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot offers family-friendly water recreation. "The pool was amazing and the shuttle was great considering the heat," notes Deborah R., highlighting amenities beyond standard camping.
Entertainment options: Some locations provide additional activities for children. At Rolling Hills, Jason D. shares, "We had our dogs and 5 year old with us... we all enjoyed a meal at the steak house. After we let mama gamble as my daughter and I enjoyed the arcade, then we switched."
Bug preparation: Insect protection ranks as essential for family comfort. At Black Rock Campground, Alissa C. warns, "The mosquitoes were out in full force so bug spray is a must," while describing an overnight family getaway.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: At Horse Camp Primitive Campground, RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain. "Sites are SUPER uneven and not really defined. The picnic table/fire pit area has large boulders around them and a road runs right between both sites," warns Jules S. about the challenges.
Full hookup options: For those seeking amenities, some locations provide complete services. At Hat Creek Resort, Amanda V. notes the campground offers "Full hookups, Laundry, Wifi available for purchase, Close to Lassen Volcanic NP," making it suitable for extended stays.
Connectivity planning: Cell coverage varies significantly between locations. At Hat Creek Resort, Kristi D. shares, "Internet on my phone was hit or miss outside. They offered internet for a cheap price. $1.95 a day," providing essential information for remote workers.
