10 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Lake San Antonio North Shore offers horse corrals for equestrian camping near Templeton, California, approximately 60 miles northwest of town. This campground provides full hookups for RVs alongside equestrian-specific amenities. The facility accommodates both overnight horse campers and day riders with direct lake access. Tent camping, RV sites, cabins, and glamping options are available throughout the property, with designated areas for horses away from non-equestrian campers. Santa Margarita Lake Regional Park, about 15 miles from Templeton, also offers horse camping with four dedicated equestrian sites. The horse camps require telephone reservations through County Parks rather than online booking like standard sites. Beautiful park with abundant bird life and convenient access to riding opportunities.
Daily trail rides connect campers to the extensive riding network surrounding Lake San Antonio, where riders can explore oak woodland terrain and lake vistas. Horse owners should bring their own feed, as on-site supplies are limited. Trailer parking is available adjacent to the horse corrals at Lake San Antonio, while Santa Margarita Lake provides more primitive accommodations for equestrians. The camping areas remain quiet and super spacious compared to other sites in the region. Water access is available for horses at designated points, though during drought periods, riders should confirm current conditions before arrival. Seasonal considerations affect trail quality, with spring offering the best wildflower viewing and cooler temperatures for riding. Both locations require standard camping fees plus additional charges for horse accommodations, averaging $36-$38 per night for standard sites. Together, these two horse campgrounds near Templeton cover a range of needs, from full-hookup equestrian sites with corrals to more primitive campsites with direct trail access.
"It's worth dragging your stuff up a small path to get away from the crowds. You can surf and mountain bike here. Our tent was even visited by some people on horse back!"
"Quiet, peaceful and surrounded by skies perched out atop a hill."
from $25 - $150 / night
Check Availability"I grew up camping at Lopez Lake as well as other campsites. Lopez Lake offers a lot. Fishing hiking camping horse back riding etc. I highly recommend camping here."
"It was located right next to the water park but they had already closed for the season."
from $60 - $70 / night
Check Availability"There is frisbee golf and horse shoes. They even have an Emu that is friendly and your kids can pet. The place is very clean and the staff is friendly."
"Staff helpful..friendly..restrms clean..quiet at night..fun things for kids..lake nearby also. Only 1 pitfall...we tent camped in space #63..next to a dirt road which looped around the campground."
from $40 / night
Check Availability"Santa Margarita Lake is a lovely, quiet medium size lake used for drinking water in San Luis Obispo County, Los Padres National Forest."
"We thoroughly enjoyed our drive-in tent site, the scenery, and the abundant bird life."
"This lake has a no body contact rule which makes it a great quiet fishing lake with no jet skiing, swimming etc... there is a seasonal swimming pool that is right across from the rv spots."
"We stayed at a cottage at Lake San Antonio. We were fortunate to have a local show us around."
"The temperature at the lake often exceeds 100 in the summer. There is ample space for camping . You’ll need reservations if you want a hookup . Boat ramps are available."
"Right next to some beautiful dunes. Rv / pull in sites. Have tables restrooms and fire pit relatively close to Oceano/ piano"
"There are two levels of this campground, I stayed at the upper level just steps from the sand dunes which will lead you to the Pacific Ocean about 1/2 mile away."
from $30 - $120 / night
"Perfect location walking distance to the Ocean. Numerous restaurants and a Vons grocery store less than a mile away on Grand Avenue. Very clean and quiet. We're looking forward to staying here again."
"Close to the beach."
"Turkey Flat is a great place for groups to camp and drink beer around a fire. Wake up and fire up those off - road vehicles and maybe take a gun out to where they hunt turkeys or wild boar."
from $30 - $34 / night
Check Availability
TravelerNice place, great access to dunes, but about a mile to beach across said dunes. Beautiful though. Only down sides were the bathrooms. Broken stall door, dirty showers. Good for last minute reservation or if you have your own bathroom/shower.
TravelerLove this Park. This was our first time camping here. The Park has only 60 spaces and was less than 1/3 full. Perfect location walking distance to the Ocean. Numerous restaurants and a Vons grocery store less than a mile away on Grand Avenue. Very clean and quiet. We're looking forward to staying here again. We had our 5th wheel towed here by Pismo Coast Village Resort's RV Storage. Fin's Bar & Grill is fantastic. Francisco's Country Kitchen is awesome for breakfast and lunch.
LegendGeneral: 47-site campground at the end of the road. No utilities and no (or very limited) cell service.
Site Quality: All camper pads are paved and wide enough to fit two vehicles. No designated tent pad (but there is room to pitch a tent). RV size is limited to 27 feet. A fire pit, wooden picnic table, and food box complete each site. Most sites are level, but a few are slightly sloped. Good amount of space between sites.
Bath: Vault toilets only; the one nearest our site was clean and well-maintained. I have never seen a vault toilet with a linoleum floor!
Activities/Amenities: Many trails – some just for hiking, but many are multi-use (for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders), and they range from easy to challenging. The Bluff trail has stunning views when the campground is not shrouded in fog. The sunsets can be beautiful as well. The Spooner Ranch House visitor center is worth a quick visit if it is open (hours vary). No dump station, and there are shared water spigots. Firewood is available from the camp host. The host was very present and friendly when we were there.
This is camping the way I like it – no frills, just time to relax and take in the rugged coastline. At night when it is quiet, you can hear the waves. The beach is pebbly sand and not the best for walking on, but nice to take chairs there and enjoy the waves. Poison oak grows throughout the campground, so be cautious.
GuideWe had the best experience here. It was warm, peaceful, and truly the best reset for our family. We took our tent trailer, teenager and 3 dogs. We stayed Thursday through Sunday. The perfect days in my opinion. Water was great for floating and fishing, as well as swimming and watching the boats on the water. We stayed in a campsite, not down by the water. Which was perfect for us. Our dogs loved playing in the water as much as we did. This is truly a great place.
GuideIt was great camping at Islay Creek Campground. It was peaceful, beautiful surroundings, and a decent amount of space between campsites. The coastal air, hills, and nearby ocean views made it a great escape. Access to hiking trails, tide pools, and scenic drives. Watch for ticks, found one on my dog so keep out of the tall grass.
Sites were clean and well cared for, restrooms were not a far walk from my campsite and the overall vibe was quiet and relaxing. Limited cell service, if you’re trying to unplug. Nights get cool and foggy, so pack layers.
Would definitely camp here again.
TravelerThis is a huge park with many places to camp. We were the only ones in the camping loop on the water the night we were there. Tons of birds, wildlife. Only downside was some minor litter.
GuideThis campground is only 25 minutes from the beach. The staff is extremely helpful and friendly and we're very accommodating to me and my dog during a heat wave that was moving through.
Showers are available, they take quarters.
Would absolutely stay here again.
RangerIgnore CAMPGROUND FULL sign at north end near Los Osos as you drive into park about 5 miles north of campground. People cancel and sign is not updated on regular basis. Spooner Ranch House open daily 10am-4pm provides good historical background before taking scenic coastal walk along the Bluff Trail. Other more adventurous inland hike/bike trails also available. Front loop offers camping spaces slightly further apart. Pit toilets in center of loops generally clean. Asphalt paved parking slots a little sloped but can level with blocks. Very dry and brown in campground in August. Foggy and cool most of day... only saw sun a few minutes. Nice paved almost level parking lot with views of Morro Bay about half-way between entrance and campground. Beautiful beach with non-RV parking right below Ranch House.
ScoutThis KOA has had some upgrades. It’s great for trailers. They also have tent camping and some cabins. It’s not a flat cement camping experience. Lots of trees and hills. Mostly dirt roads so it is a little dusty. We have a 45’ 5th wheel and had no problem getting in. The space has full hookups with 50 amp. The water pressure was a little low compared to other places. Great areas for the kids to play and nice pool. Staff is awesome very helpful. There is a large veg fire nearby and we are in a evac warning they made sure everyone was notified and they answered any questions. Definitely will return.
Templeton, California sits at the eastern edge of the Santa Lucia Mountains with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,100 feet. This region experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Camping options span from lakeside facilities to mountain retreats with temperatures often dropping 20-30 degrees at night even during summer months.
Hiking the Bluff Trail: Montana de Oro State Park offers scenic coastal walking paths within an hour's drive of Templeton. "The sunset from the cliff is a must," notes Ryan W., who adds that "the state park offers days worth of outdoor activity and views forever and ever, with the ability to feel alone only miles from town."
Lake activities: At Lopez Lake Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy water recreation beyond basic swimming. "There is an abundance of wildlife. I came here back in May and the bountiful rain this year led to an abundance of green vegetation," explains Andre V. The lake includes a water park that's popular during hot summer months.
Wildlife viewing: Birdwatching opportunities abound in campgrounds throughout the region. At Santa Margarita Lake Regional Park, campers report excellent wildlife encounters. "Osprey on lake... also saw wild turkey and deer right next to our site," shares Lauretta M., highlighting the diverse fauna in this protected watershed.
Private, secluded sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced camping areas that provide privacy. "We were king of the mountain. Campground is remote but SO worth it. A bit pricy but each site has concrete patio along with patio furniture and a nice charcoal grill," shares Roxanna L. about Santa Margarita KOA.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities are consistently mentioned in positive reviews. "Bathrooms and shower are available," notes Chip K. about Lake San Antonio North Shore, adding that "camping spaces are spread out finding shade can be a challenge."
Lake access: Direct water access is highly valued by campers. "Launched the boat and anchored it to shore. Literally had the place to ourselves. Fishing was great from shore in morning and dusk," reports Jack J. about his experience at Lake San Antonio - North Shore, where horse camping facilities complement other recreational options.
Extreme temperature fluctuations: Summer temperatures can exceed 100°F during daytime hours but drop significantly at night. "It was a warm weekend at San Antonio. The temperature at the lake often exceeds 100 in the summer," warns Chip K., suggesting campers prepare for both heat and cooler evenings.
Limited cell reception: Many camping areas have poor or no cellular coverage. "No cell reception, not for us on Verizon anyways, but you can drive about 1/2 mile down the road for it," advises Crystal J. about Lopez Lake Recreation Area.
Pest awareness: Depending on season and location, ticks can be an issue at some campgrounds. "Although the location is very scenic and a 10 min walk to the beach, I wouldn't return because there are ALOT of ticks at the campground," cautions Val H. about Montana de Oro State Park, suggesting campers take appropriate precautions.
Water park options: Lopez Lake includes a water recreation facility perfect for children during hot months. "The lake is wonderful and usually very mellow. Kayaking and fishing are both nice at Lopez as well," reports Crystal J., making this an excellent family-friendly option near Templeton.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds feature specialized recreation areas for younger campers. At Santa Margarita KOA, David H. found that "the playground was open. Fun bounce pad. There is frisbee golf and horse shoes. They even have an Emu that is friendly and your kids can pet."
Educational opportunities: Pacific Dunes Ranch offers unique learning experiences for children. "They had horseback riding and a small playground," mentions Ryan S. For families interested in equestrian camping near Templeton, California, this provides an introduction to horseback activities without needing to bring your own horses.
Site selection: For RV campers, choosing the right location can make a significant difference. "If you own a rear living trailer this is the place to be, we wake up to the beautiful dunes of the central coast," recommends Teresa S. about Pacific Dunes Ranch, highlighting the scenic advantages of certain sites.
Hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer full RV connections. "This KOA has had some upgrades. It's great for trailers... The space has full hookups with 50 amp. The water pressure was a little low compared to other places," notes Stacey S. about Santa Margarita KOA.
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads or limited maneuvering space. "We have a 45' 5th wheel and had no problem getting in," reassures Stacey S., providing valuable information for those with larger rigs considering equestrian-friendly camping options near Templeton.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Templeton, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Templeton, CA is Islay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park with a 4.3-star rating from 31 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Templeton, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 10 equestrian camping locations near Templeton, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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