The Mendocino National Forest region surrounding Upper Lake offers varied terrain from 1,500 to 7,000 feet elevation, with oak woodlands transitioning to mixed conifer forests at higher elevations. Seasonal creek beds throughout the area typically run full in winter and spring but dry considerably during summer months, affecting water availability for campers and horses alike.
What to do
Trail riding access points: At Cowboy Camp, riders can explore multiple paths through rolling hills. According to Jorg F., the camp is "next to a stream and surrounded by hills. The only tough part is getting across the stream to some of the hikes. It's a hot spot for horses."
OHV recreation: The Middle Creek Campground area caters to off-highway vehicle enthusiasts with nearby riding trails. Justin W. notes, "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."
Target shooting: Near Oak Flat Campground, visitors can practice target shooting at a designated range. Keith B. mentions, "Target shooting is available at the end of the airstrip which you will pass over on the way to the campground."
Water activities: When Lake Pillsbury has adequate water levels, fishing opportunities abound. Jeanette C. states about Oak Flat Campground, "When the water level is high great fishing from this campground."
What campers like
Affordability: Budget-conscious equestrian campers appreciate the reasonable rates at established sites. Donna M. says about Middle Creek, "It was $8.00 a nite but offered a discount with a America the beautiful pass."
Open space: The dispersed camping areas provide ample room for trailers and multiple animals. Catherine L. notes about Cowboy Camp, "Quiet stop... Camping spots are to the left and the right of the day use. Pit toilets. No garbage."
Wildlife viewing: Many sites offer chances to observe local fauna. Angela from Oak Flat Campground recommends, "Quiet and peaceful, watch elk, birds, lizards, toads/frogs on weekdays. All but the hardiest of wildlife and people should avoid the weekends."
Proximity to supplies: Despite remote settings, most equestrian camping sites have reasonable access to provisions. Justin W. mentions regarding Middle Creek, "There's a small town not far, 15 minutes or so, that has gas, a market, pizza places, and a few other stores."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Some camps restrict access during certain times of year. Several reviewers note temporary closures, with Derek D. reporting, "The camp area is closed, as of 2/9/2024. No indication of that on the BLM website."
Insect presence: Horse camping areas naturally attract flies, especially during warmer months. Patricia Y. warns about Cowboy Camp, "No trees just dry open land inhabited by an unusual amount of flies. It was crazy how thick they were."
Water limitations: Most equestrian sites have minimal water amenities. Michi P. explains about Middle Creek, "Beautiful location... no hook ups... Vault toilets, no showers. There is potable water close to the campsites."
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites require careful driving. Justin W. cautions, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Midweek timing: For equestrian camping near Upper Lake with children, weekday visits offer calmer experiences. Angela from Oak Flat notes, "Quiet and peaceful... on weekdays. All but the hardiest of wildlife and people should avoid the weekends... disrupted by people yelling and/or blasting music."
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds may have variable populations. Taylor L. reported about Middle Creek Campground, "There was a woman who seemed to be experiencing homelessness and/or mental illness occupying multiple sites... The man at the campsite next to us didn't have a tent or anything, just paid then sat in his truck screaming."
Playground access: For families looking to balance horse activities with child entertainment, consider sites with play structures. Although not directly in Upper Lake, nearby options like Bu-Shay Campground have family amenities, with Israel M. mentioning, "VERY beautiful scenery. There are bathrooms with showers. Water spickets everywhere."
Seasonal creek exploration: Children can enjoy investigating the seasonal waterways when flowing. Jorg F. describes Cowboy Camp as "open, grassy level and quiet. Next to a stream and surrounded by hills."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers with horse trailers should evaluate campground layout carefully. Crispin S. shares about Cowboy Camp, "The disbursed camping area was down a gravel road to the left next to the day use vault toilet through a cattle gate. There were several campers already there but plenty of room for more."
Leveling requirements: The terrain at most equestrian sites requires adjustment for comfortable RV parking. Jorg F. reports, "We always manage to level out in our 23" Winnebago View. There is lots of open space so no crowding."
Dry camping preparation: RV campers should come fully equipped for sites without hookups. Michi P. describes Middle Creek as having "no hook ups, nice picnic table, grill and fire pit. Vault toilets, no showers. There is potable water close to the campsites."
Spigot configurations: Water access points may not accommodate RV hose connections. Justin W. notes, "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."
Traveler
