Equestrian camping near Shingletown, California offers access to wilderness trails through Lassen National Forest at elevations ranging from 3,500 to 6,000 feet. The area experiences warm, dry summers with temperatures averaging 85°F during peak season and cold winters with significant snowfall. Camping options include both established horse-friendly sites and primitive backcountry locations where riders can access trail networks directly from camp.
What to do
Volcanic hiking trails: Access hiking paths that showcase unique lava formations at Butte Lake Campground. "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," notes Laura F.
Stream fishing: Catch trout in local waterways near horse-friendly camps. The Black Rock Campground provides access to Mill Creek. "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. We saw some salmon, deer, quail, and frogs," reports alissa C.
Wildlife viewing: Observe local fauna while riding forest trails. Many campers report seeing deer, bears, and various bird species. At Black Rock Campground, visitors have spotted "salmon, deer, quail, and frogs" according to alissa C., though the area requires vigilance as "there was evidence of bears around our site but we didn't have any issues."
What campers like
Direct water access: Many equestrian-friendly sites offer nearby water features for cooling off after rides. At Hat Creek Resort & RV Park, Jason D. appreciated that "we got a spot right on the water. The spots had a bunch of space between them and you had a feeling of privacy."
Trail access: Horse-friendly camping locations provide convenient access to riding trails. Outdoordude D. noted that Hat Creek's "campground is close to other fishing, the Subway Cave (ya gotta go there) Lassen National Park entrance and much more."
Spacious sites: Horse camping requires extra room, and many visitors appreciate the generous spacing. At Butte Lake Campground, Bill T. found that "the sites are far apart" and "the setting is very open, with tall pines and no undergrowth," making it suitable for larger equipment and horses.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many horse camping locations require navigating challenging roads. For Black Rock Campground, Kaye S. cautions: "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."
Limited amenities: Most equestrian sites offer basic facilities. At Horse Camp Primitive Campground, Web H. reports, "There are only two camp sites reasonably far apart. Nice clean outhouse and potable hand pump water. Picnic tables and trash bins provided as well as a fire pit."
Weather variability: The area experiences dramatic seasonal changes. For fall camping at Butte Lake, Moni R. advises, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Several campgrounds provide recreational options beyond horseback riding. At Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot, Jason D. shares, "We enjoyed a pull thru full hookup spot. We had our dogs and 5 year old with us. There was a fair amount of space between sites. 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."
Wildlife education opportunities: Children can observe local animals safely. At Black Rock Campground, alissa C. explains that "We saw some salmon, deer, quail, and frogs," providing natural learning experiences for young campers.
Uneven terrain challenges: Prepare for rough camping surfaces at some sites. Jules S. warns about Horse Camp Primitive Campground: "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."
Tips from RVers
Horse trailer accommodation: Some campgrounds specifically accommodate horse trailers and larger rigs. At Hat Creek Resort, Frank P. reports, "Easy to get in and out of the camp site large camp sites, the hat Creek runs right through the camp ground."
Level parking needs: Finding level sites can be challenging for those hauling horses. Gary R. appreciated that Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot offers "level 75 ft pull through sites. We will stay again. Lower numbered sites are closest to amenities."
High-clearance requirements: RVs with horse trailers need appropriate vehicles for access. kyle M. cautions about Black Rock Campground: "The road to get there was the only headache especially since we drove a small car. We made it but I'd definitely recommend something with a higher clearance."
Water access logistics: When camping with horses, water availability is crucial. At Butte Lake Campground, Bill T. notes "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."
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