The San Bernardino National Forest offers several horse campgrounds near Thousand Palms, California, located within a 45-mile radius of the city. These equestrian-friendly sites sit at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 7,000 feet, providing cooler temperatures than the desert floor during summer months. Trail access varies seasonally with higher elevation routes often closed due to snow from December through March.
What to do
Trail riding access: McCall Equestrian Park connects to several hiking trails with moderate terrain suitable for novice riders. "This is listed as horse campsite, but there's few tent sites available. Not crowded and winds from mountains keep area cooled," notes Pete, who appreciated the natural air conditioning effect.
Wildlife viewing: Heart Bar Campground borders a meadow where deer frequently graze during evening hours. "This campground is excellent for wildlife viewing and entry to the wilderness for hiking and exploring," explains Nick L., adding that "deer graze in the evenings" in the meadow adjacent to the camping area.
Mountain biking: Trails near several equestrian campgrounds accommodate mountain bikes, with routes varying in difficulty. "Lots of hiking and mountain biking in area. Great views," reports Aaron S. about the trail system accessed directly from Heart Bar Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Black Rock Equestrian Campground receives positive reviews for its well-maintained grounds. "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. Lot gets regularly graded," reports Judith W., noting the regular maintenance.
Private camping spots: South Ridge Yellow Post Sites offer secluded options for those seeking more isolation than established campgrounds. "Very nice to find a campsite this private on a weekend in southern California elevation is high enough that temperatures were very enjoyable (mid 80's)," writes Tony B.
Spacious sites: Many equestrian campgrounds feature larger than average sites designed to accommodate trailers and multiple vehicles. "The double sites are a must when going with a group of 10 people. This specific site is very spacious with double of the parking spots (4 cars total), 2 fire pits, and 2 benches," reports Chrystal M. about Heart Bar Campground.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Mountain sites experience significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, even in summer. "We didn't expect such a beautiful view!! We were there in August and the weather was perfect. Warm during the day and just chilly at night," notes Gina C. about her stay at Heart Bar.
Reservation requirements: Lake Cahuilla operates on a reservation system that fills quickly during peak seasons. "The nights were dark and quiet, which was so great. Very quiet, we were here midweek before Christmas," reports Bryan S., highlighting the advantage of off-peak visits.
Water availability: Horse campgrounds provide varying levels of water access, with some requiring hauling to individual sites. "Central water location so you do have to schlepp your water to the corrals," mentions Judith W. about Black Rock Equestrian Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom facilities: Black Rock Campground offers more developed facilities than primitive horse camps. "Bathrooms are clean and well kept. Visitors center staff was friendly and helpful. Sites are decently spaced but there will be sharing with RV's and generators," explains Mark D.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature centers and educational programs seasonally. "There is a cool museum were the amazing staff provided us with interesting history about the lake and Indian tribes," shares Lauren R. about Lake Perris State Recreational Area.
Activity options: Many equestrian campgrounds have adjacent hiking trails suitable for children. "Sites are good, bathrooms are always cleaned. Close to amenities if you need it (we travel with small children so that's a plus) compared to the more remote stays," points out Ashley W. regarding Black Rock Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When visiting equestrian campgrounds with an RV, research site dimensions carefully as many aren't designed for larger rigs. "Wide gravel sites, most with 50/30 amp service and water, many right on the small fishing lake. No trees or other screening between sites although not packed in like a standard RV park," explains Patrick M. about Lake Cahuilla's layout.
Leveling challenges: Many mountain campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "The sites were close together, narrow roads and the sites were not level. We found a rock to level our van which helped, but flat spots were expected," shares Julie K. about her experience at Black Rock Campground.
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