Best Equestrian Camping near Truckee, CA

Meadow View Equestrian Campground near Truckee offers six well-spaced campsites with a pasture area for horses. The dirt and gravel access road remains easily navigable for trailers and RVs despite some rough sections. Each site includes a bear box, fire pit, and picnic table, with most sites relatively flat and offering a mix of sun and shade. The hand-pumped water spigot at the campground entrance provides fresh drinking water, though some visitors choose to boil it first. The campground rarely fills to capacity even during peak season, allowing for a quiet, peaceful camping experience with excellent privacy between sites.

Located near Frenchman Lake, the campground connects to multiple side roads and trails ideal for horseback riding, ATV use, and hiking. While officially designated as an equestrian campground, non-horse campers are welcome to stay as well. Horse corrals are available near the campground, and riders can explore miles of trails directly from their sites. The campground features vault toilets but no garbage service, requiring visitors to pack out all trash. Horseflies can be numerous during late morning and early afternoon hours. The surrounding area offers beautiful views of a large meadow, and the campground's secluded setting provides a tranquil base for exploring the Eastern Sierra landscape. Cell service is unavailable from major carriers including AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Truckee, California (29)

    1. Logger Campground

    13 Reviews
    Floriston, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 587-3558

    $23 - $75 / night

    "We loved camping at Logger Campground bear the Truckee Tahoe area. Put your boat in the water, set up camp, enjoy the long weekend with all sorts of water sports and tree climbing."

    "Right next to the water, and close to town. Cell phone reception. is spotty ."

    2. Washoe Lake State Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    Carson City, NV
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (775) 687-4319

    $15 - $30 / night

    "The lake and the surrounding area takes on a different appearance depending on the season you visit, and whether it's been a wet year or a dry one."

    "We stayed here for just under 2 weeks around Thanksgiving. Very beautiful area with hiking near the lake and mountains. The horses nearby were nice. Right between Reno and Carson City."

    3. Benson Hut

    1 Review
    Norden, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 426-3632

    "I guess it’s a 5 minute uphill walk from the PCT and is hidden (plus not on PCT maps) so it’s relatively unused for non-locals. Always find something fun here left behind. 8 bunks."

    4. Lookout Campground

    7 Reviews
    Verdi, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (775) 882-2766

    $6 - $25 / night

    "First, it's quite an adventurous (read: bumpy) drive to get to it from the nearest paved road. Once you arrive, you'll be amazed at how much space there is between the sites."

    "But most stay in other "dispersed" camping, and there aren't nearly as many vehicles as you might see, for example, in a Nevada dunes off-road park."

    5. Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe

    35 Reviews
    South Lake Tahoe, CA
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 544-0426

    $47 - $128 / night

    "The campground itself is beautiful, walking distance to Fallen Leaf Lake and short drive to South Lake Tahoe. My husband, my pup and I liked the campsite a lot."

    "From the East you’ll pass thru all of that, past the Camp Richardson and finally turn away from Lake Tahoe into Fallen Leaf Campground."

    6. Peter Grubb Hut

    1 Review
    Norden, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 426-3632

    "Fun historical place a nice hike away from Castle Peak and far enough away that you don’t get the crowds. Kitchen, firewood, fireplace, and a bunch of bunks"

    7. East Meadow Campground

    7 Reviews
    Sierra City, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 265-8861

    $24 - $48 / night

    "Bugs were minimal, a far cry from about 3 weeks ago at a nearby site. We were in Site 16, which has the ‘camp’ side opposite of our camper door - only reason we gave 4 stars & not 5."

    "So remote and private but everything you need at the campground with water access within walking distance. Sites are great with picnic tables and bathrooms near by."

    8. Loon Lake

    16 Reviews
    Tahoma, CA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 293-0827

    $30 - $160 / night

    "Just returned from a weekend getaway to Loon Lake. We (2 people, 1 pup) stayed two nights at site #25 at Loon Lake Campground. Perfect location for daytime fishing and nighttime stargazing."

    "These two sites are right on the road next to the toilets and trash bins. Some smells and lots of noises and foot traffic, some 4x4 traffic as well."

    9. North Canyon Campground

    1 Review
    Glenbrook, NV
    21 miles
    +1 (775) 831-0494

    10. Desolation Wilderness - Aloha Zone

    5 Reviews
    Twin Bridges, CA
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (916) 744-3320

    $5 / night

    "we just did 20+ miles, from echo lake in, around, and out to Aloha before heading back over 2.5 days.  Aloha is kinda surreal. "

    "This is a great glimpse at what the High Sierra lakes further south look like... but better. Dispersed camp sites all over. (Make sure to follow signs and camp appropriately distanced from the lakes)"

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Truckee, CA

9 Photos of 29 Truckee Campgrounds


Equestrian Camping Reviews near Truckee, CA

181 Reviews of 29 Truckee Campgrounds


  • Samantha  T.
    Jun. 18, 2019

    Meadow View Equestrian Campground

    Great secluded campground

    This campground is labeled as equestrian however anyone can stay. Great place close to Frenchman lake. Has pasture area for horses. Spots are well spaced out and never filled up while we stayed for 4 days. Tons of horseflies late morning and early afternoon. Pit toilets, and drinking water available. Easy to stay with trailers and rvs. Road is dirt/gravel on way in but easy to navigate.

  • C
    Jun. 19, 2023

    Dru Barner Campground — Eldorado National Forest

    Beautiful quiet place

    The good part is this is a beautiful place in the trees to camp with nearby hiking,. And it's equestrian friendly if you want to bring your horse. The Verizon connection was strong. Even when the campgrounds full on weekend. It's very quiet, more soldier in the week. Bring water as there is none available due to poor quality.

  • amanda E.
    Apr. 19, 2019

    Washoe Lake State Park Campground

    Located in one of the oldest settled Valleys in Nevada

    If you like Bird Watching (or wildlife in general), Boating, Fishing, Hang Gliding, Paragliding, Equestrian Activities, Camping or BBQ's, or even history, then this is a place you might enjoy.

    The lake and the surrounding area takes on a different appearance depending on the season you visit, and whether it's been a wet year or a dry one. Sometimes when it has been extremely dry, the larger of the 2 lakes dries up either partially or entirely, leaving the smaller one as a valuable water source for Wild Mustangs who live in the area. (which is a great opportunity for photographers).

    When the larger lake bed dries up a little, it extends the hang gliding / paragliding landing zone. (take off point is up on the hill on Eastlake Blvd, which is also a good view point of the lakes).

    During the wetter years, the larger lake fills up, allowing water activities such as boating to take place on both lakes, and provides you with the opportunity to bird watch at any of the wildlife viewing areas provided. The smaller lake also provides bird watching opportunities (Osprey and other birds of prey like to fish there) You can also fish at the smaller lake, just don't eat them, the area was once used for the processing mills during the mining boom.

    Also if you are into wildlife, there is the occasional coyote hunting the area, owls, hawks, bald eagles, and if you want to see deer, take a little drive up Eastlake Blvd towards little Washoe Lake, and one of the fields on the right often has huge herds of Mule Deer, and the occasional wild horse. Talking of Wild horses, you are requested not to feed or harass the wild Mustangs anywhere in Nevada (Washoe lake park included). Horses can be defensive, especially when they have young foals. Also feeding them anything other than what they naturally eat in the wild, not only causes a high number of deaths in the herds, it also creates dangerous situations on the roadways when horses come to retrieve the food. (it can also cost you thousands of dollars in fines) There are people who regularly monitor the interaction visitors have with the horses. But if you want to interact with a horse, why not bring your own for a ride around too, people often bring their horses down for a trot around the grounds.

    There are restrooms available throughout the park, and facilities for camping. It is a good place for dogs, though it is requested that you clean up after them. There are doggie clean up stations available, and containers for waste.

    The land the park sits on was once owned by one of Nevada's wealthiest men Theodore Winters, who was a prominent businessman and politician in early Nevada history. He once owned some of the most famous racehorses in the world, and his cheese was world renown. His Ranch is still around, and you can find it located just on the other side of the lake (Old Route 395), not far from the Chocolate Nugget Candy Factory (which is great if you get a hankering for something sweet), and Old Washoe City.

    The lake's history goes back even further than that, the area was once inhabited by the local tribes people, and before the early pioneer's came and settled here, they used hunt ducks on the lake, and fished here. There is probably still the odd chance you might come across old Native tools and arrowheads, but the State of Nevada does ask you to leave artifacts where they are found. Check the local and federal laws before attempting to remove anything.

    It has some lovely sunsets here, the view can be spectacular at times and changes according to season and weather, and the wildlife seem to enjoy it. Nice place to go and hang out with family and friends, and if you happen to forget to bring anything, you are only a little drive from Carson City :)

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 30, 2021

    Washoe Lake State Park Campground

    Quiet, clean park

    We stayed here for just under 2 weeks around Thanksgiving. Very beautiful area with hiking near the lake and mountains. The horses nearby were nice. Right between Reno and Carson City. Access to Casinos and Restuarants nearby(10 minute drive or so). The Park has showers and bathrooms as well as water and electricity hook ups. The camp host was nice and provides us with a huge bundle of firewood for only a $5 donation.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 17, 2021

    Meadow View Equestrian Campground

    Beautiful

    Officially this is listed as an equestrian campground. We were there during the off season so no one else was around. The campground was quiet and peaceful. Website stated that fees are not collected at this time. There are only 6 sites here and it is a compact little campground. The sites are a good size but the loop is tight and it took some creative maneuvering to back into our site. 

    The road in was fairly smooth with some areas of washboard, managed fine in our 26’ Class C. Water is available from an hand pumped spigot at the entrance of the campground, website states non potable but we drank it and it was fine and in fact tasted really fresh. There is no garbage so pack in and pack out. 

    The bathrooms were open. Each space has a bear box, fire pit and picnic table all in good condition. Sites were relatively flat and a mix of sun and shade. 

    There is hiking and biking on the main dirt road and on the multiple side roads. There was a few vehicles coming and going but not so busy as to be annoying. 

    The view of the huge meadow was nice and just before you reach the campground there are a few buildings that are open and some horse corrals. 

    Zero cell service from AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile.

  • Kade H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2018

    Lookout Campground

    Unbelievable privacy in the Eastern Sierra!

    This campground earns 4 stars because of its amazing privacy. First, it's quite an adventurous (read: bumpy) drive to get to it from the nearest paved road. Once you arrive, you'll be amazed at how much space there is between the sites. From most sites, you can scarcely see that there are other campsites around! Yet there are still vault toilets.

    Lookout is oddly named; it's tucked deeply enough into the forest that it doesn't have much in the way of a view (though in fall, the numerous aspen are undoubtedly stunning).

    This campground is dog friendly, with no one to enforce leash rules (if there are any). Since the separation between sites is so large, this doesn't seem to be much of an issue. Down off the mountain, both human and pooch alike can splash around in the Truckee River to cool off. There's excellent swimming right by the bridge.

  • Andrew D.
    Jun. 29, 2018

    Logger Campground

    Camping at Stampede

    We loved camping at Logger Campground bear the Truckee Tahoe area. Put your boat in the water, set up camp, enjoy the long weekend with all sorts of water sports and tree climbing.

    camping with tent or RV is available.

    Fire pits are taller than I’m used to, so build a bigger fire because the temps drop a lot overnight.

  • Patricia N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Meadow View Equestrian Campground

    Peaceful and quiet

    This place is a great place to camp with or without horses.

    Ride out from your site on your ATV or SBS for miles of trails to explore.

    There is a water but must be hand pumped from the well and boiled.

    Only 6 sites here, not very level but easy to fix with blocks. This campground is in an area that burned but no damage to the campground. Plenty of tall pine trees, hang a hammock and chill.

    There are corals for horses near the campground.

    We were the only people there on a Friday afternoon.

    Came in from Frenchman Lake and out on Doyle Grade Rd. Of the two we will go back on Doyle Grade Road, not as much dirt road and in better condition.


Guide to Truckee

Horse camping in California offers a unique way to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the companionship of your equine friends. With a variety of campgrounds catering to horse enthusiasts, you can find the perfect spot to set up camp and ride the trails.

Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

  • At Logger Campground, you can enjoy beautiful lake views and access to trails that are perfect for horseback riding.
  • Lookout Campground provides a serene environment with trails leading to scenic spots, ideal for a day of riding and exploring.
  • East Meadow Campground is close to Jackson Meadows Reservoir, offering ample opportunities for horseback riding along the water's edge.

Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like corrals and water access

  • Washoe Lake State Park Campground features amenities such as drinking water and picnic tables, making it a convenient choice for equestrian campers.
  • At Mumford Bar Trail Campground, you’ll find a vault toilet and access to the Mumford Bar Trail, perfect for a day of riding along the American River.
  • Benson Hut offers a rustic experience with basic amenities, making it a great spot for those looking to camp with horses in a more secluded setting.

Tips for equestrian camping near Truckee, California

  • When visiting Loon Lake, be prepared for rocky terrain and ensure your horse is comfortable with uneven ground.
  • At Fallen Leaf Campground, take advantage of the nearby bike trails that can also accommodate horseback riding, providing a scenic route for you and your horse.
  • Always check for water access and trail conditions at Little Lasier Meadows Campground to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your horse.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Truckee, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Truckee, CA is Logger Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 13 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Truckee, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 29 equestrian camping locations near Truckee, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.