Horse Flats Campground offers tent and RV camping sites in a setting popular with equestrians visiting the Angeles National Forest. Located at an elevation that provides cooler summer temperatures, the campground features large, spread-out sites that accommodate horses and provide adequate space between campers. The first-come, first-served sites are arranged in groups of 2-4, with fire rings and picnic tables available at each location. While Horse Flats lacks running water, it provides vault toilets for visitors. The campground remains relatively quiet compared to nearby Buckhorn, though weekend occupancy can reach 75% during peak seasons. Visitors describe the area as nicely secluded with plenty of space for multiple campers.
Trails surrounding Horse Flats Campground connect to numerous riding opportunities, including access to the historic Pacific Crest Trail. Riders can follow routes to destinations like Glenwood Cabin or take the trail from Rosenita Saddle to Mt. Hillyer. The nearby area offers excellent bouldering opportunities for climbers wanting to combine activities with their horse camping experience. Horse owners should come prepared with all necessary water for themselves and their animals, as no water sources are available on-site. The campground typically operates from April through October, closing during winter months. Bug activity can be significant during warmer months, making insect repellent essential equipment for both riders and horses visiting the area.
"Horse Flats is not as popular as Buckhorn, and is a little less "green" with regards to the immediate scenery. It is also quieter for this reason, which is nice."
"We usually only see rangers come around in the morning. With that said, we still like Horse Flats because there is usually a spot or two open if we arrive on a Saturday."
from $12 / night
"great views 360 degrees once you're on top. a 7 mile hike north on the Pacific Crest Trail from mill creek fire station. fire rings with multiple spots"
"But otherwise a great spot to spend a few summer days away from anyone not hale enough to trek in a few miles."
"Crossing the tiny bridge at the west end of Switzer Picinic area(park up top during the weekdays, adds half a mile), you’ll see Switzer Trail Camp."
from $25 - $50 / night
"The lakes are nice, there are mountain views, and some cool hikes to explore in the riverbed area."
from $3 - $40 / night
"Nice level grounds to walk around. Lakeside has gravel roads / pads... other side has asphalt roads / concrete pads. Restrooms are clean and acceptable."
"The lakeview area has dirt roads, sparse grass and a few spots close to the lake. The Cottonwood campground has concrete pads and well maintained grass throughout."
from $40 - $55 / night
"Nice place to camp, weather is around 75 during the day and about 50 to 36 degrees cold through out the night. Has everything you'll need. Bathrooms are close by, showers HOT water available."
"The Pacific Crest Trail passes nearby. It is away from the populated cities, but not far from them. It still gives you a sense of seclusion."
from $3 - $40 / night
"A little remote and you have to drive to the nearest town(s), but clean grounds and nice site. Very easy to book online. The RV park is pretty large so it's a nice daily walk."
"It’s right near Magic Mountain theme park and many useful stores nearby: Home Depot, Walmart, Target, genetic stores, movie theaters. I’ll camp here again."
"There is some garbage, target shooting in the distance and the occasional maniac driving through too fast and kicking up lots of dust. Generally it was quiet."
"We pulled in at night and passed a few other people camping, but there are so many little roads/trails around we had no problem finding a spot."
ScoutBeautiful spot on seal Beach naval weapons command base. A bit pricey, but has showers and free laundry facilities seems to be on the flight path to John Wayne Airport beautiful grounds must have a DBIDS card to get in and out of base if not military.
TravelerI was lucky to find this place. It’s well run, comfortable, friendly. Nice spots.
ScoutThe hike-in experience has captivating views and diverse environment. Really felt away from the " concrete jungle" of the city.
TravelerI do recommend. Beautiful, peaceful place. Good folks. It’s right near Magic Mountain theme park and many useful stores nearby: Home Depot, Walmart, Target, genetic stores, movie theaters. I’ll camp here again.
TravelerPeople shooting here all waking hours, found a group of kittens that some loser left to die.
Definitely a shooting-first, camping second place. Plenty of space once people are done shooting. Won’t personally be back here
GuideLarge, level, gravel lots off highway. Quite a few semis parked. As you continue past there are tons of open spaces to camp, just find a spot you like and set up.
LegendThe Views are fantastic sites are rugged but very cool locations, This is mainly a Hike in CG most of the time and better have some serious clearance to get there even when the road is open in summer, BUT very worth it!
ScoutSome nights very windy, but it’s extremely beautiful out here. It’s a great time.
GuideThis is a big area right off the 15 with plenty of space to have a good time. We pulled in at night and passed a few other people camping, but there are so many little roads/trails around we had no problem finding a spot. We woke up on a Saturday morning to people shooting around 7am. It seems like the classic dispersed spot with scattered trash and broken glass from shooting practice, but with the spring flowers it was very beautiful and really quiet at night :) it worked great for what we needed, a spot to break up our long drive.
Horse Flats Campground offers secluded camping in Angeles National Forest at 5,500 feet elevation. The campground remains cooler than surrounding areas during summer months due to its higher elevation position. Sites are arranged to accommodate equestrians with their animals, making it one of the few dedicated horse campgrounds near Valyermo, California.
Bouldering opportunities: Horse Flats Campground provides excellent climbing routes for all skill levels. "Nice place to stay for climbing - there is mostly bouldering in the area, with some trad stuff. Plenty of sites!" notes Kathleen L. about Horse Flats Campground.
Hot springs exploration: Deep Creek Hot Springs offers a natural retreat after hiking. "The hike to the springs is pretty rough but also worth it when you get there," reports a visitor to Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground. This natural feature requires moderate hiking ability but rewards with natural thermal pools.
Archery practice: The range at Tapo Canyon provides weekend instruction opportunities. "There is archery with lessons for kids on the weekends. Very fun!" says a reviewer about Tapo Canyon Park. The range opens to the public on Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm for a $5 fee.
Seasonal temperature variations: The higher elevation offers relief from summer heat. "We camped here this weekend, which is the latest we've gone before the winter months... Even though it was 79 degrees in the day, temperature got down to 54 at night," says Les R. about camping at Horse Flats in October.
Accessibility for overnight trips: Many campsites sit within reasonable driving distance from urban centers. "It's a great escape from the city, about an hour from DTLA," notes Kate O. about Horse Flats Campground, making it practical for weekend outings without extensive travel time.
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts diverse birds and animals. "Lots of birds. Fishing. Wide open spaces," mentions a reviewer about Mojave Narrows Regional Park, where the unusual surface flow of the normally underground Mojave River creates habitat for various species.
Limited connectivity: Cell service ranges from minimal to nonexistent. "Do not expect cell service. I could only work from this spot by placing my mobile HomeFi router on top of the camper. Our Verizon phones were paper weights," warns April Y. about Tapo Canyon Park.
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds close during winter months. "Know before you go - it's closed from November-ish to April-ish - so check the forest website before you head out there," advises Kate O. about Horse Flats.
Insect preparation: Bug activity increases during warmer months. "Bring some bug spray if you're bugged by bugs," advises Josh F. about Horse Flats. Another camper at a nearby site notes: "Lots of flies. Toilets were unbearable with the amount of flies."
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "The campground has a lush grass area and nice covered playground," notes a visitor about Tapo Canyon Park. These amenities provide recreation options for children when not hiking or exploring.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing teaches children about desert ecosystems. "Lots of birds," notes a reviewer about Mojave Narrows, where the unique river conditions create opportunities for nature observation and learning.
Camping near water features: Some sites offer fishing access for family activities. "There are two lakes to fish at," mentions a reviewer about Rancho Jurupa RV Park. The park also features "a splash pad, park, mini golf" according to another camper.
Site selection considerations: Look for level, well-spaced sites with adequate facilities. "Good size campsites. Full hookups, Public Restrooms and nice playground area," notes Larry B. about Tapo Canyon Park, indicating the amenities available for recreational vehicles.
Weather preparation: Temperature variations require planning for both heat and cold. "We stayed here for the weekend... Went in January with snowfall, hardly any campers and nature all around!" reports Kelly Anne M. about Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground, highlighting the need for seasonal preparation.
Gate access logistics: Some campgrounds restrict late entry. "Gates close at 10 pm, you're provided with a security gate code to get back in if you're out late," notes Jody R. about Rancho Jurupa Park. This information helps RVers plan arrivals and departures accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Valyermo, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Valyermo, CA is Horse Flats Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 8 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 19 equestrian camping locations near Valyermo, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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