Equestrian camping near Tollhouse, California offers access to Sierra National Forest's diverse trail systems. Located at approximately 3,000 feet elevation, the area's terrain transitions from oak woodlands to pine forests. Weather conditions vary seasonally with summer daytime temperatures averaging 85-95°F and winter months often bringing snow to higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Sample Meadow Campground provides proximity to Kaiser Wilderness trails. "There was trails close by and so many meadows. The roads nearby can take you to Kaiser Wilderness and Kaiser Peak," reports Darlene M., who notes the area's vibrant green landscape and abundant wildflowers even in June.
Water recreation: Mono Hot Springs offers unique thermal bathing opportunities. "There are a dozen hot springs and mud baths peppered around a couple acres on the south side of a very pretty, clear, cold stream," shares Chris M. The springs range in temperature from "lukewarm to bath water to Hot," according to Mollie M., making them suitable for different comfort levels.
Fishing spots: Sequoia RV Park provides access to regional fishing areas. "Lots of room to get around. Grassy large spots with full hook ups. Close to King Canyon and other attractions," notes Rick L. The nearby rivers and streams offer seasonal fishing opportunities depending on water levels and stocking schedules.
What campers like
Natural hot springs: Mono Hot Springs consistently receives praise for its thermal features. "This place is amazing! My boyfriend and I recently camped at the mono hot springs campground, and absolutely loved it," says Colleen C., who appreciated that "hiking trails to lakes, meadows and hot springs run directly off of the campground."
Creek-side camping: Sample Meadow offers waterfront sites that create privacy. "The Campsites are far enough apart to feel like you are all alone in the woods! The Kaiser Creek provides hours of fun for the kids and you are close enough to trail heads for the adveture seekers in your group," shares Regina P.
Winter accessibility: Some campgrounds remain open during off-season months. "We decided to come in the off season in February and we got lucky with weather. Low tonight is only supposed to be in the upper 30s. Very quiet but some sledding and hiking activity close by," reports Lydia H. about Azalea Campground, noting it costs "only $10 a night" during winter.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires careful driving. "Kaiser Pass was a bit of an adrenaline rush. It took 2 hours to drive 18 miles on a one lane road that is not in good repair. But WORTH it!" warns Chris M. about reaching Mono Hot Springs.
Bear safety: Many campgrounds provide bear boxes for food storage. "There are bear boxes at such a remote place!" notes Mollie M. about Mono Hot Springs, while Collin mentions at Sample Meadow "each site had a picnic table, fire pit, and bear box."
Limited facilities: Goat Meadow dispersed camping area provides minimal amenities. "Beautiful scenery, clean, close to Yosemite, and easy to reach," reports Derrick H., while Alexander Mark C. cautions, "Coyotes and bears are active in the area—coyotes raided a bag I had hanging from a tree and stole my food!"
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe local wildlife safely. "Coyote, Bobcat, and deer are frequently seen," at COE Eastman Lake Codorniz Campground, according to Tom D., who also mentions a seasonal "Tarantula migration" in fall.
Kid-friendly water features: Some campgrounds offer safe water play areas. "We rented sites #10 & #11 for the weekend... Sites #9-11 make up the cul-de-sac so it was great for our kids to ride their bikes and scooters," shares Haley M. about Codorniz, adding, "There is also a day-use area across the lake with some good swimming sites."
Playground amenities: Certain campgrounds include built-in recreation facilities. "Clean grounds, restrooms showers," notes Scott about Codorniz, while Haley M. mentions "There is also a nice playground for the kids too."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Sweetwater Campground offers spacious RV sites. "Large sites for tents. Only thing I would complain about is it's very close to the highway," notes Toni K., adding that amenities include "Nice drinking water, bathroom, and trash can."
Hookup availability: Sequoia RV Park provides complete services for recreational vehicles. "Grassy large spots with full hook ups," according to Rick L., while Sue L. mentions, "It is affordable. It is quiet. The hosts are very accomodating. It is not fancy, but then neither are we. The spots are large and comfortable."
Road access limitations: RV drivers should research route conditions. "The road in was an adventure. The last 18 miles over Kaiser Pass took 1.5 hours. A sub-par road surface little bigger than one lane in many places made transit.. interesting," reports Chris M. about reaching Mono Hot Springs, clarifying "RV usage prohibited and likely not possible over Kaiser Pass."
