Horse camping options near Ukiah, California offer varied terrain for trail riding in the Mendocino National Forest and surrounding areas. Elevations range from 600 to 4,000 feet, with oak woodlands and pine forests providing diverse riding environments. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with average highs in the 70s.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The Mendocino National Forest provides extensive riding trails through diverse terrain. "This is normally a ohv area but since all trails are closed it is quiet and peaceful. You can hear the creek running along the camp, as well as the wild turkeys. There must be over 15 different species of birds as well," notes one camper at Middle Creek Campground.
Explore coastal routes: Mackerricher State Park Campground offers riding access near the ocean. "Campground is adjacent to the beach. You can hear the ocean and sometimes catch peeks of the ocean from the campground," explains one reviewer. The park has several routes suitable for day rides along coastal bluffs.
Fishing access: Several camping areas provide fishing opportunities alongside horse trails. "When the water level is high great fishing from this camp ground," mentions a visitor to Surveyor Campground. Many riding routes pass near lakes and streams where campers can combine trail riding with fishing stops.
What campers like
Natural surroundings: The oak woodlands create appealing camping environments. "This campground is dry and built primarily for HOV people cuz the Elk mountain area is very much a dirt bike and four-wheel Haven," explains a visitor to Middle Creek Campground. Most horse camping areas feature native vegetation and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds accommodate trailers and provide ample room for horses and equipment. "Oak flats... The campground has vaulted toilets non-flushable of course. There is water at the campground except during the winter as they shut it off to keep the pipes from bursting," shares a regular visitor to Oak Flat Campground.
Proximity to towns: Despite wilderness settings, most equestrian sites maintain reasonable access to supplies. "There's a small town not far, 15 minutes or so, that has gas, a market, pizza places, and a few other stores. So there's plenty of access to food and gas when necessary," notes a Middle Creek camper about nearby Upper Lake.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most equestrian sites offer basic amenities only. "Cowboy Camp... Great free campground! We've stayed here many times. It's open, grassy level and quiet. Next to a stream and surrounded by hills. The only tough part is getting across the stream to some of the hikes," explains one visitor to Cowboy Camp, a primary horse camping area.
Seasonal considerations: Water availability varies throughout the year. "If you come with that in mind I would say this place is really really nice. It's very clean. If it's in a beautiful location and if you're into four-wheeling or dirt bikes, you're going to have a blast," mentions a Middle Creek visitor, highlighting the importance of preparation.
Road conditions: Access to some horse camping areas involves unpaved routes. "Just keep in mind that Elk mountain road, especially the part leading up to the top of the mountain right as you leave the campground is an absolutely terrible road, it needs a lot of maintenance," warns a Middle Creek camper. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for reaching certain equestrian sites.
Tips for camping with families
Day-use alternatives: For families new to horse camping, consider day trips first. "Quiet stop, but I wouldn't call it the most beautiful stop I've ever stayed. Camping spots are to the left and the right I'd the day use. Pit toilets. No garbage," notes one Cowboy Camp visitor, indicating that day-use areas can be preferable for initial visits.
Access to recreation: Select sites with multiple activity options. "The campground is nice and has a lot of availability- even on weekends! The camp facilities are fine. The sites are spacious and there are a mix of shady and sunny sites," explains a visitor to Bu-Shay Campground, highlighting amenities that appeal to families.
Wildlife viewing: Many horse camping areas offer wildlife observation. "Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground which was an unexpected bonus," adds another Bu-Shay camper, noting that families can enjoy nature alongside riding activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose campgrounds with suitable access for horse trailers and RVs. "We had a great time when we stayed a night here in October. The campground is nice and has a lot of availability- even on weekends! The sites are spacious and there are a mix of shady and sunny sites," recommends a Bu-Shay Campground visitor.
Potable water locations: Not all horse camping areas provide water hookups. "Problem is that the spigots don't have any hose fittings, so you can't hook up, which I think is a good thing to keep people from taking over water for an extended period of time," explains a Middle Creek visitor, noting water access limitations.
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies significantly at horse campgrounds near Ukiah. "We had OK cell coverage with Verizon- we could usually browse the internet but streaming videos were difficult (you could download and watch them pretty quickly, but just streaming was hit and miss)," reports a Bu-Shay camper, offering practical technology guidance for those needing connectivity.
