The Klamath National Forest region near Somes Bar, California offers rugged backcountry terrain at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 8,000 feet, creating diverse camping environments across mountainous landscapes. Equestrian campsites in this region typically operate seasonally from June through October due to mountain snow conditions. Road access to many sites requires vehicles with higher clearance, especially after spring thaw.
What to do
Trail riding to wilderness lakes: Access extensive trail networks from Lovers Camp Trailhead leading into the Marble Mountain Wilderness. "We just finished a backpacking trip in marble valley and sky high lakes area, both accessible about 5+ miles from the Lovers Camp Trailhead. It was absolutely beautiful! So much to do in that area and such great views," notes Erin, who appreciated the well-maintained trails.
Wildlife viewing: Camp at Elk Country RV Resort & Campground where resident Roosevelt elk frequently visit. "There's a heard of elk that roam the campground which is pretty cool," shares Stefanie W. The property also features a small lake with other wildlife: "Saw otters in the small lake," reports Jess J., highlighting the diverse ecosystem.
Backcountry camping access: Utilize Elam Backcountry Camp as a strategic waypoint for longer wilderness excursions. "This campground is the first one you come upon while hiking in from the Orick Horse Trail Trailhead. There are picnic tables and two bear lockers, (there's another by the horse coral)," writes Sharon B., who notes its popularity as a main thoroughfare for backcountry travelers.
What campers like
Spacious sites for horse trailers: Carter Meadows Horse Campground provides ample room for vehicles with trailers. The campground serves as a group camping location, accommodating multiple riders and their horses with designated parking areas for larger rigs.
Established facilities: Hidden Horse Equestrian Campground offers water hookups – a significant advantage for equestrian campers needing to water their animals. The water access point saves riders from carrying additional water supplies for their horses during their stay.
Scenic diversity: Lacks Creek BLM camping areas offer outstanding views throughout the property. "Wildly peaceful. Read the description in the bio, follow the directions, and you'll find yourself able to choose from a handful of campsites...the second campsite you can drive to is on the left and you have an insane view of the trees," reports Leah H. Another camper, Richard B., confirms, "Clean great view."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to Horse Flat Campground and similar remote sites requires preparation. "The road up to the campground is a rough dirt road," warns Matt S. For Lacks Creek BLM, Richard B. advises, "The gps was wrong it took me past the turn off and sent me to private property with a locked gate so at the top of the hill look for a clearly marked sign on the left."
Seasonal limitations: Most equestrian sites close completely between November and May. Carter Meadows Horse Campground specifically operates from June 13 through October 20, while Hidden Horse Equestrian Campground runs from June through October.
Bear precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage. At Elam Backcountry Camp, "Bear canister is required if you do not have access to a site with a bear locker," advises Sharon B., who noted the availability of bear lockers at some designated sites.
Tips for camping with families
Easy access options: ONeil Creek Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "Flat concrete for tent setup and bbq pit in each site with fresh water close to all sites," notes Sonia O., highlighting features that make camping with children more manageable.
Multi-day restrictions: Some sites limit duration of stays. For Eagle's Nest camping area, Mona M. points out, "Decent town park that has a sign limit one overnight stay. Can fit maybe 5 vehicles."
Creature comforts: When camping with families, consider sites with full facilities. Elk Country RV Resort provides showers, though Renee R. cautions, "The only negative I could find was that you do have to pay to shower, and we rarely had warm water."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many forest service roads in the Klamath National Forest have tight turns and low-hanging branches. Jules S. warns about Lacks Creek BLM: "Tried to camp here with a 20ft travel trailer and I turned around before I even made it to the gravel road. Road is narrow and steep with low hanging trees."
Road preparation: RV drivers should plan for challenging terrain. Marasha L. notes about Lacks Creek: "As of Sept '25, chunks of the gravel road were under construction; some blind, narrow turns, but nothing too intense; and dips, washouts, and big exposed rocks, so drive with care."
Seasonal timing: For easiest access with larger rigs, campers recommend late summer visits when forest roads have dried completely. The meadow sites at Elk Country RV Resort accommodate larger vehicles better than forested sites, as Nicole B. explains: "We stayed on the 'meadow' side where the elk roam through your campsite. The 'forest' side is quite dark as you are camping in the redwoods."
