Horse camping near South Lake Tahoe requires careful planning and research. The area sits at elevations between 6,200-8,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions with temperatures that can drop significantly at night even during summer months. Limited options exist for equestrian facilities, though nearby Forest Service lands allow access for riders with proper permits.
What to do
Trail riding from Plasses Resort: Located near Silver Lake at 8,000 feet elevation, this campground provides access to numerous equestrian trails. "Lots of private sites; takes tents to big RVs. No cement or asphalt-all dirt... Silver Lake, hiking, trails (tons!), kayaking, boating, fishing, swimming with ducks and geese, upper lakes to find," notes Rocky L. who highlights it as "[one] of the few horse campsites with tons of great trails!"
Hiking near Fallen Leaf Campground: Fallen Leaf Campground offers direct access to hiking trails. "Hiking trails right out of camp. Rushing river to the west. You can walk or ride a bike across the street to Lake Tahoe, but you are separated from the chaos of the lake," reports Ryan W. For more challenging terrain, a camper mentions "The Baldwin ruins aren't worth it, but the walk around the lake or along the Morraine Trail is."
Backpacking in Desolation Wilderness: Explore alpine lakes on foot from Desolation Wilderness camping zones. "We just did 20+ miles, from echo lake in, around, and out to Aloha before heading back over 2.5 days. Aloha is kinda surreal. and in places there are rock path in the middle where a person can walk in a few inches of water," explains Chris M. about the Desolation Wilderness - Aloha Zone.
What campers like
Pristine alpine lakes: Loon Lake offers crystal-clear waters in a less crowded setting than Lake Tahoe. "It was an amazing camping trip! I shared the lake with only a couple of other people," reports Erin O. Another camper adds that the "lake and surroundings are absolutely gorgeous," though they warn about seasonal meat bees during Labor Day weekend.
Spacious dispersed camping: Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping provides ample space for horses and camping equipment. "Easy to see right off the road with plenty of campsites down either side of a nice dirt road. Rocky and steep road access to Scott's lake, but easy camping on the edge of the valley," notes Austin M. Another camper mentions, "Large spaces and plenty of room for more than one vehicle per site."
Seclusion with wilderness access: Camp in Hope Valley for access to equestrian-friendly public lands. "Free camping," notes Anthony F. simply about the area. Dispersed sites here connect to surrounding Forest Service territory where horseback riding may be permitted according to local regulations.
What you should know
Bear safety is crucial: Food storage practices are strictly enforced at established campgrounds. "You really need to pay attention to your food. Bears are not just possible here, they are likely," warns Ryan W. about camping in the area. Sites typically have "nice bear boxes" and are "very well maintained by the hosts."
Limited services: Most horse-friendly dispersed camping areas lack amenities. "Dispersed camping not far from Lake Tahoe. Easy to drive into just be careful of potholes and large puddles from rain, even in summer. No amenities, but it's a very beautiful area," explains Alex P. about Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping.
Permit requirements: For wilderness camping, obtain required permits. "You must obtain an overnight wilderness permit, year round. The permits have quotas enforced April through September. Permits cost $5 per person per night for first night, or $10.00 per person for 2+ nights (14 day max)," explains Les R. about Desolation Wilderness.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds: Families find more amenities at developed sites. "Camp store has some basics like ice, firewood, and s'mores stuff. The sites have bear boxes and even though they are very close to each other with little separation, they are big sites with lots of tall trees. Flush bathrooms and showers dispersed throughout camp," notes Ryan W. about Fallen Leaf Campground.
Consider accessibility needs: Some sites offer accessible options with nearby facilities. "We stayed in the accessible site which is allowed to be chosen by people without the accessibility placard if it is the last site available and you only stay for one night," explains Mea H. about Washoe Lake State Park Campground, noting "The whole campground is just so clean."
Look for water activities: Lakes provide kid-friendly recreation options. "Great family lake," says Jay B. about Wrights Lake, describing it as a "shallow lake that warms up a little for kayaking and swimming."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups vary by location. "Large sites with water and electricity (loop A). Beautiful views of the mountains. Lots to do in the area," notes Rich J. about Washoe Lake State Park Campground.
Road access considerations: Some areas present challenges for larger vehicles. "Its quite a white knuckle drive but worth it. Campsites are close together but most appear to use campers," warns Heather W. about accessing Wrights Lake Campground.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal needs. "Dump station? - yes. Water fill? - yes," reports Mea H., adding that the campground is "impeccable" and sites are level.
