Horse Flat Campground provides dispersed camping opportunities in Trinity National Forest approximately 10 miles north of Trinity Center. The campground sits at an elevation of 3,200 feet within a dense forest canopy that limits sunlight exposure to campsites. Most sites are accessible via a rough dirt road that narrows significantly and contains washouts that can challenge vehicles, particularly after seasonal rains.
What to do
Trail riding access: Horse Camp Primitive Campground offers direct access to wilderness trails. According to Web H., "There are only two camp sites reasonably far apart. Nice clean outhouse and potable hand pump water. Picnic tables and trash bins provided as well as a fire pit."
Fishing nearby: The Trinity River and surrounding lakes provide multiple fishing opportunities within 30 minutes of most equestrian campgrounds. Valerie T. notes about Horse Camp, "Nice huge site with basically your own valued bathroom one other campsite shares. Perfect for dry camping with your rv if you want some extra quiet."
Backpacking excursions: Lovers Camp Trailhead serves as a starting point for multi-day treks. Erin reports, "We just finished a backpacking trip in marble valley and sky high lakes area, both accessible about 5+ miles from the Lovers Camp Trailhead. It was absolutely beautiful! So much to do in that area and such great views."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the significant spacing between sites at most equestrian facilities. Aaron S. mentions that Horse Flat Campground has "a lot of space between each camp site," making it suitable for those seeking privacy while camping.
Water sources: Philpot Campground offers natural water access. DirtyMountainBoy A. describes it as "a very beautiful place with lush green forest all around! There's no power no running water they do have bathrooms and a creek runs through the campsite."
Private facilities: Several equestrian campgrounds feature limited sites that share facilities among few campers. Jules S. observed at Horse Camp Primitive Campground that "Sites are SUPER uneven and not really defined. The picnic table/fire pit area has large boulders around them and a road runs right between both sites."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most equestrian campgrounds in the Trinity Alps region operate from late spring through mid-fall, with specific opening dates varying by elevation. Brittany S. reported about Horse Camp, "As of May 2019, the camp was closed to the public due to safety hazards."
Limited maintenance: Several campgrounds show signs of reduced upkeep following winter conditions. Matt S. observed at Horse Flat, "The campground proper has not been maintained. Very little evidence of recent campers. Many of the sites have been degraded by debris carried by flooding."
Road conditions: Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort offers alternative camping when forest roads are impassable. Jason D. notes it was "an easy tow on rural but well maintained roads all the way to the campground. Easy tow for my 25.5 foot travel trailer and 2019 Chevy taho."
Tips for camping with families
Water access: Creeks near campsites provide recreational opportunities during summer months. Jason D. mentions, "Just around the corner from the campground (walking distance) is access to the river. The whole family enjoyed dipping in when it's warm outside."
Pet restrictions: Some equestrian facilities restrict pets while others welcome them. Scott D. shares that Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort is "a very nice Mom and Pop Rv Park. The host is very friendly and helpful. Very quiet and relaxing stay."
Amenities proximity: Philpot Picnic Area offers facilities suitable for day use. DirtyMountainBoy A. describes it as "a great little spot never too many people here nice and quiet lots of forest around it good for hiking and just good scenery all the way around."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most equestrian campgrounds have uneven parking areas requiring significant leveling equipment. Jules S. reports, "Sites are SUPER uneven and not really defined. Good spot for large rigs. Long windy road to get up to sites."
Supply planning: Limited services require self-sufficiency for extended stays. Corey L. shares about Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, "The rv spots are full hook up with nice green grass, no cable but ok Verizon signal and we got a few local channels on the tv antenna."
Cell coverage: Connectivity varies significantly across equestrian camping locations. Tara D. notes, "Great little park. Lots of shade and green grass, good management, Clean restrooms and well kept grounds. Close to river and lakes for boating and fishing."
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