KCL Campground occupies a remote section of Carrizo Plain National Monument at an elevation of 2,300 feet. The area features sparse juniper and oak woodland interspersed with arid grassland terrain. During spring months, temperatures range from 50-70°F with occasional strong winds, while summer can reach 90-100°F. Winter brings occasional frost with temperatures dropping to near freezing at night.
What to do
Wildlife viewing on horseback: Experienced riders at KCL Campground can access trails where owls and other birds are frequently spotted. "It was so insane and magical. We heard the owls all night (they are very loud) but I love falling asleep to the sound of nature. The owl sighting was the highlight of my trip!" reports Chanel C.
Explore ghost town ruins: Reyes Creek Campground visitors can walk to nearby abandoned structures. "The abandoned town is a 3 minute walk from camp and really interesting. Some camp spots are right on the creek and the running water is a peaceful background noise for your trip," notes Chelsea B..
Stargazing without light pollution: The remote location of KCL Campground provides exceptional night sky viewing conditions. "The evenings here are spectacular -- very little light pollution so you get a clear view of the night sky and all of the stars. The Milky Way was so vivid and we saw shooting stars the entire evening," describes Chanel C.
What campers like
Natural isolation: Many equestrians appreciate the seclusion at KCL Campground. "It's a very simple place but I found it so peaceful being surrounded by the golden plains, the breeze through the big shaded eucalyptus trees, and hearing the owls near sundown. Theres also hummingbirds that'll get up right in your face," shares Stephanie F..
Basic amenities: Despite its remote location, facilities meet necessary needs. "Each sites comes with a picnic table, fire ring + grill, 1 parking spot, and gear pole with hook (for hanging lanterns/trash bags/food/etc.) There are 2 gender neutral vault toilets that are clean," notes Chanel C.
Local hospitality: Nearby camping locations offer community connections. "Tiny adorable bar and grill run by the locals, right at the foot of the camp makes for a not-so-off-the-grid trip if you choose to partake. Camp hosts - best I've ever encountered," mentions Morgan E. about Reyes Creek Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to equestrian camping near Taft can be challenging. "The 19mile access road from highway 33 can be grueling in places with heavy washboard," warns Michelle M. about Rancho Oso.
Water availability: Pack additional water for yourself and horses. "It's super hot in this part of California during the summer so make sure you pack LOTS of water. There is no water available on the campgrounds or for miles," cautions Chanel C.
Cell service: Connectivity varies throughout equestrian camping areas near Taft. "Surprisingly, my TMobile was fairly consistent 90% of the time and I was able to tether my laptop/kindle to my phone on occasion. This allowed me to extend my stay and upload my artwork," shares Michelle M.
Seasonal considerations: Weather changes drastically from spring to summer. "Definitely visit in ealy to mid spring. The hills are green and filled with wild flowers and the weather is pleasant. If you wait too long and miss it the placed dries up and turns brown in an instant," advises 1942overlanders V.
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration for children: Some locations offer water features even during dry seasons. "The creek made it really fun for the kids and adults too and the little ghost town at the entrance makes an ideal photo op for the kids and adults too... It truly feels a world away!" shares Tammy C..
Wildlife education opportunities: Many campers report diverse wildlife encounters perfect for nature lessons. "So much nature to see around! We saw kangaroo rats, bats, hawks, rabbits, ground squirrels (that are going extinct), and lots of fun insects," notes Chanel C.
Bring insect protection: Bugs can be problematic during warmer months. "TONS. OF. FLIES. EVERYWHERE. It's a little unbearable during the day having to spend the majority of your energy swatting flies... Luckily they go away when the sun sets," warns Chanel C.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most equestrian camping sites near Taft offer basic services. "Parked trailer in section without sewage, which I prefer because it has more trees and campers are not on top of each other," notes Sean H..
Road clearance considerations: Access roads require appropriate vehicles. "The drive to get here was long though about 13 miles from the blm sign. Road was surprisingly smooth majority of way and has some paved parts but there was some washboard parts too," explains Stephanie F.
Temperature management: Equestrian camping areas experience extreme temperature fluctuations. "The temperature varies greatly from day to night (90's to 50's when I was there) and there are bugs a plenty, so bring repellant," advises John Y.
