Equestrian campsites around Thermal, California offer distinct access to desert and mountain terrain with specialized facilities. The region sits at the junction of the Colorado Desert and San Jacinto Mountains, creating diverse riding environments across elevations ranging from 100 feet below sea level to over 5,000 feet. Winter temperatures average 65-75°F during the day, making it a popular season for equestrian camping.
What to do
Hiking trails from camp: At Black Rock Campground, riders can access multiple trail systems directly from their sites. "There are great hiking trails right next to the campground. The campground is also super close to the towns of Yucca Valley and Joshua Tree for picking up supplies," notes Sierra T.
Mountain trail riding: The higher elevation trails provide cooler riding conditions during warmer months. At McCall Equestrian Park, you can access a network of mountain paths. "This is listed as horse campsite, but there's few tent sites available. Not crowded and winds from mountains keep area cooled," reports Pete.
Fishing breaks: When taking a break from riding, campers can fish at nearby lakes. Lake Cahuilla offers this option with "a small fishing lake" where many sites are "right on the lake." Patrick M. adds that Lake Cahuilla has "wide gravel sites, most with 50/30 amp service and water, many right on the small fishing lake."
What campers like
Dark night skies: The desert location provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. At Lake Cahuilla, Patrick M. reports, "Dark, beautiful skies at night. Good hiking trail into the mountains, with the trailhead near the entrance to the campground."
Winter camping conditions: Lake Cahuilla County Park remains comfortable during winter months when other areas are too cold. Bryan S. shares, "Might be my favorite campground ever. Very quiet, we were here midweek before Christmas. Very dark at night which was so great."
Site privacy: Some equestrian sites offer greater separation than standard campgrounds. At Black Rock Equestrian Campground, Judith W. describes, "Huge open horse camp with 10 corrals, picnic tables, bbqs and fire rings, pick your spot anywhere you like. Almost all sloped but not awful."
What you should know
Water access varies: Not all equestrian campgrounds provide hookups at each site. At Black Rock Equestrian, there's a "central water location so you do have to schlepp your water to the corrals."
Seasonal planning required: Peak and off-season offer different experiences. Beverley G. reports about Lake Cahuilla: "Stayed at the start of May as I had appointments in Indio. Wonderfully quiet, hardly anyone else here. If I'd visited in the busy season I think the closeness of the sites would have bothered me."
Campground features: Facilities differ significantly between sites. At Dripping Springs Campground, Tyler B. notes, "The campground itself is good..sites all have a table, fire ring and grill but there's nothing really to do in the surrounding area except for one hiking trail."
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Many sites offer child-friendly features beyond horse trails. Sam T. shares about Lake Cahuilla: "There is a pool in the summer and enough shade to stay as cool as the desert allows without A/C. There is a bike trail around the lake and fishing. Playgrounds and other child friendly activities available upon request."
Quiet zones: Some areas maintain better sound control for families needing rest. At Dripping Springs, one camper suggests, "Don't bother setting an alarm here. There are roosters nearby that will crow which will wake the dogs and then about a dozen other types of birds will join in at dawn."
Site selection: Choose camping areas away from busier sections. Morgen M. recommends Lake Cahuilla: "Lake Cahuilla has a lot to offer, including a playground, lake for fishing only (no swimming), and a pool that was closed while we were there, and somewhat spacious sites."
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Sites with electric access vary in availability. Laura M. explains Lake Cahuilla's options: "Primitive sites are $25 and are first come first serve only. Partial hookups were $30 I think, and FHU were $40 if I remember right. Equestrian sites are partial hookup and are $35."
Site leveling: Many desert camping areas have uneven terrain. Kellie mentions about their Lake Cahuilla stay: "Sites are W/E only. Dump station on site. The park has a campground feel, with a bit more space between spots than most rv parks. Sites are gravel and easy to get into."
Location access: Some equestrian sites are more remote than others. Bryan S. advises about Lake Cahuilla, "Camp is a good distance from any stores. Target was about 15 minutes."
