Best Equestrian Camping near Warner Springs, CA

Ribbonwood Equestrian Campground near Idyllwild accommodates RVs with water hookups in a horse-friendly environment. The campground features toilets, picnic tables, and trash facilities, making it suitable for short or extended stays with horses. Reservations are required, and pets are allowed alongside equine companions. Dripping Springs Campground, located in Aguanga, offers both drive-in and walk-in access with tent and RV camping options. The sites maintain dedicated areas for horses with firewood available for purchase. Campgrounds in the region tend to fill quickly during peak riding seasons, particularly on weekends when trail access is optimal.

Located approximately 40 miles from Warner Springs, these equestrian camping options provide strategic access to mountain and desert bridle trails. The campgrounds connect to trail systems suitable for day rides of varying difficulty levels. Water access for horses is available at designated points throughout the facilities, though riders should confirm seasonal availability before arrival. Alcohol is permitted at both campgrounds, and fires are allowed in designated fire rings when fire restrictions are not in effect. Trail conditions vary seasonally, with spring offering the most comfortable riding temperatures and best trail conditions. Horse owners should bring their own feed and secure storage containers, as wildlife in the area may be attracted to grain and supplies left unsecured overnight.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Warner Springs, California (23)

    1. Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

    23 Reviews
    Descanso, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 765-3023

    $40 - $250 / night

    "The only downside to this site is that it was very close to the bathrooms. That actually bummed me out a bit when we first arrived, but it ended up not being much of an issue at all."

    "The trash cans were just a few feet from the site and the bathrooms were a short walk just a couple spots away."

    2. KQ Ranch Resort

    9 Reviews
    Julian, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 765-2771

    "Membership costs us around $2000 And have access to / 3000 different camp sites nationwide At any time of the year a drop of a dime essentially"

    "Great location and beautiful scenery in the mountains. The resort has lost of activities to participate in. Also, great hiking trails."

    3. Dripping Springs Campground

    15 Reviews
    Aguanga, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 788-0250

    $25 - $50 / night

    "well ran, all sites were marked open or reserved with the arrival and departure date on it, bathrooms are the cleanest vault toilets we have ever seen (and we camp all over), there is a fire station located"

    "Equestrian sites up the hill. Saw a few rabbits and lizards, not too loud, it’s peaceful and good distance between some sites."

    4. Green Valley Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

    16 Reviews
    Descanso, CA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 465-3020

    $40 / night

    "Headed back to the ranger and they gave us an open disabled spot (we have a placard) in the horse camp. It was AMAZING. Large flat pad that had the sweet water river right behind."

    "While both have their positives, I personally love this one for its close proximity to the waterfalls that are a short trail from the campsites."

    5. El Prado Campground

    22 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 473-2082

    $35 / night

    "This is the closest campground to the lakes. Just a couple steps away from the beautiful meadow it overlooks. Lots of trees for hammocking!!"

    "It is a big, big campground that is wooded and adjacent a large meadow, recreational area and lake (when not dried out, drought sucks)."

    6. Lake Skinner Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    Temecula, CA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (951) 926-1541

    $25 - $45 / night

    "This is a great family campground right around the corner from Temecula, Murrietta, and Menifee."

    "The charge $10 per person per day to fish in their Lake. And you can’t swim or let the kids play in the lake because it’s a reservoir."

    7. Stagecoach Trails Resort

    2 Reviews
    Julian, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 765-3765

    $45 - $640 / night

    "Beautiful location, secluded, lots of space to get a big trailer in. It's off the beaten path, staying here for a few days, really like it!"

    "Had alot to offer at this location."

    8. Lake Cahuilla

    12 Reviews
    La Quinta, CA
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 564-4712

    "Equestrian sites are partial hookup and are $35. There is a dump station on site for all campers to use."

    "Lake Cahuilla has a lot to offer, including a playground, lake for fishing only (no swimming), and a pool that was closed while we were there, and somewhat spacious sites."

    9. Thousand Trails Oakzanita Springs

    6 Reviews
    Guatay, CA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "The entrance is a hair-pin turn (from the south) and you'll need to go a little further north to turn around."

    "The drive getting here is wicked, if you’ve never been here before. In my scooter club, the San Diego Pharaohs, we’ve ridden up here in the mountains plenty, so I knew what I was in for."

    10. Ribbonwood Equestrian Campground

    1 Review
    Indian Wells, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 862-9984

    $15 / night

    "Good campsite, has the coolest hike trails, and the nights are really beautiful. It was so much fun and I would definitely come back Id just need more blankets because the nights are beyond cold."

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Warner Springs, CA

5 Photos of 23 Warner Springs Campgrounds


Equestrian Camping Reviews near Warner Springs, CA

216 Reviews of 23 Warner Springs Campgrounds


  • K
    Sep. 27, 2022

    Dripping Springs Campground

    Very relaxing

    I was so excited to check this campground out. When my hubby and I arrived we automatically were happy. The campground was very clean, well ran, all sites were marked open or reserved with the arrival and departure date on it, bathrooms are the cleanest vault toilets we have ever seen (and we camp all over), there is a fire station located close to the campground which was good to know in case of fires. The host is very nice and helpful. If you have any questions or concerns he is happy to help! There is running water for dishes and campfires as well as horse corrals for your horse. Pull through sites for trailers. Everyone that was staying on the equestrian loop was amazing. Site 31 did have a problem with ants.

  • B
    Jul. 8, 2017

    Sweetwater Summit Regional Park

    Good urban Experience

    This is a San Diego County Park/Campground. It offers everything from tent/car camping to full hook-up for large RVs. The campground also has some nice amenities: good trail system, a splash pad (open in spring and summer months), a playground, some areas to have a group picnic, even a large event room. There are about 60 camping spaces, mostly partial hook-ups (electricity and water) and a few full hook-ups (electricity, water, and sewer) in the original campground. These sites, 1-60 offer a bit more shade than the newer campsites which are all full hook-up. The newer sites (61 and higher) are on a hill and offer some good views of Bonita Valley. 61 and higher all are all full hook-ups - but you can put a tent on 'em.

    The campground is freeway close and only a few miles away from grocery stores and restaurants.

    This campground has a nice feel. It is a good place to unwind and enjoy a campfire and the whole camping experience. Good place for kids. There are several campsites with horse stalls for the equestrian campers.

    Sweetwater is perched near a Freeway/Toll Road (not a terribly busy one) and it is under the San Diego Airport glide path for incoming flights. So yeah, a little more city than some other campgrounds.

    At this time sites cost between $26 and $36 (?) per night. That gets yo one motor vehicle. Additional vehicles are $4 per night. There is a $1 pet fee, per pet.

    http://www.sdparks.org/content/sdparks/en/park-pages/SweetwaterSummit.html

  • MomentoMori C.
    Nov. 30, 2020

    Sweet Oaks Winery - Temporarily Closed

    Great camping for newbies

    Sweet Oaks winery campgrounds has 16 sites available for both tent camping and RV’s (no hook-ups). It’s pretty close to grocery stores and big box stores just in case you forgot some gear/supplies. They have a beautiful well-kept property with super-clean restrooms (no showers). They do have a water hose for you to fill up your tanks or Jerry cans. They didn’t allow campfires due to high fire danger though. You’ll have to bring your own fire pit setup if they ever allow them in the future. It was a beautiful walk around the vineyards but there are also hiking trails nearby. It’s off a road suitable for road bikes but there are also mountain bike trails nearby. They have equestrian activities also available for guests. We were able to get our tin top Eurovan to fit on one of their tent sites which offered a beautiful view of Temecula valley. The wine tasting room was closed due to the pandemic but you can order wine online and they will deliver to your site. One more thing, we counted about 8 hot air balloons as we had breakfast!

  • Beth W.
    May. 7, 2024

    Boulder Oaks Eqst

    Beautiful and quiet

    Super cute area, and much cooler since it’s a little higher altitude. Nice big sites and an entire loop with equestrian sites.

    Pit toilets. One dumpster. Water.

    I was there May 5, 2024 and the fee was $14.

  • n
    Jun. 4, 2021

    Green Valley Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

    Horse camp blessing

    Was able to score a site that fit our 28’ trailer- joke was on us... there was NO way it could’ve worked, not to mention there was not a single other trailer, only tents. Headed back to the ranger and they gave us an open disabled spot (we have a placard) in the horse camp. It was AMAZING. Large flat pad that had the sweet water river right behind. Lots of area for the kids to play and ride bikes on the paved loop around the sites. The walk to the waterfall “hike” was manageable and another day we hiked to the airplane monument (don’t get your hopes up lol) and that was a solid moderate hike. Also drove out to hike to stonewall mine Beautiful weather and the falls were super fun to see, and splash in the top most parts (take a left at the split in the trail just at the bottom of the dirt little hill from the entrance)

  • Dad & B R.
    Jun. 23, 2019

    Dripping Springs Campground

    Great hiking

    Make sure to reserve, spots fill up in the summer. Awesome hike and great campfire, camp host was nice and helpful. Site number 8 is great, also 7 (double site) and 29. Equestrian sites up the hill. Saw a few rabbits and lizards, not too loud, it’s peaceful and good distance between some sites. Heads up, site 3 is so small that I genuinely don’t know how anyone ever uses it. Even a one man tent would have to squeeze in. Most other sites have plenty of room though. Had a good time here. FYI: You can get firewood at Vail Lake RV Resort, right at the gate. $8 a bundle. Camp host let us know when we got in to Dripping Springs that some people had problems finding firewood. Another tip is to gather some kindling from the trails.

  • K
    May. 21, 2018

    Green Valley Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

    Close and Perfect for Weekends

    This is my favorite out of the two campgrounds in the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. While both have their positives, I personally love this one for its close proximity to the waterfalls that are a short trail from the campsites. Depending on what campsite you are in, you can walk to the trail and down to the falls which are perfect for swimming around when it is hot outside. I love this campground for a quick weekend getaway from San Diego that has minimal preparation. Every site is a drive up site, most have shade and there are plenty of bathrooms. Most sites also have a fire ring and picnic table to use as well. A perfect, lower cost campsite that is great for families and people who want an easy camping experience with some water involved!

  • Roger W.
    Oct. 10, 2018

    Dripping Springs Campground

    Quick Get Away

    Good location to get out of Temecula for a quiet night. There is hiking and horse trails, but no other draw. The downside is the standard Forest Service pit toilets.

  • Jessica  M.
    Sep. 27, 2019

    Dripping Springs Campground

    Great

    First time tent campers. We reserved spot #8. This site was large, flat, had nice shade from large trees, but also offered lots of sunshine. It really was one if the biggest and, to me, best sites, compared to others there. One of the water faucets with potable water was on the outskirts of our space, not at all bothersome. The toilets and dumpster were conveniently close, but not too close to be noticed. The campground was easy to find, and kept very clean. The camp host came by on his cart with his dog to make sure we had everything we needed. We brought our own wood in for the fire. The location here is great, because it is located away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but easy and close to get back in. We arrived on a Friday, enjoyed some wineries on Saturday, and went home Sunday. There is a popular trailhead inside the campground. I will definitely come back.


Guide to Warner Springs

Equestrian camping options near Warner Springs provide access to mountain trails at elevations between 3,000 and 6,000 feet. The terrain varies from arid desert landscape to pine forests with temperature ranges of 40-80°F during spring and fall riding seasons. Trail difficulty ranges from beginner-friendly flat paths to steep mountain ascents requiring experienced riders.

What to do

Trail riding to mountain peaks: The riding trails near Cuyamaca Rancho State Park offer varied terrain for horseback riders. "Lots of sites to choose from. Plenty of animal and bird watching. Star gazing is amazing as well. I have camped here in fall, spring and summer. I have never been disappointed," notes Loren D. The park connects to multiple trail systems with elevation gains of 500-1,500 feet.

Fishing access with horses: Several equestrian campgrounds provide direct access to fishing lakes within short riding distance. At Lake Skinner Recreation Area, campers can combine riding and fishing. "The lake is stocked with fish throughout the year, but they require you to buy a riverside county lakes fishing permit for each day if you want to fish," explains Timothy A. Daily fishing permits cost $10 per person.

Mountain biking on shared trails: Many equestrian trails in the region permit mountain biking on designated routes. "There is a bike trail around the lake and fishing. Playgrounds and other child friendly activities available upon request," reports Sam T. from Lake Cahuilla. Riders should expect to encounter cyclists particularly on weekends and follow proper trail etiquette when passing.

What campers like

Spacious sites for horse trailers: Equestrian sites typically provide extra space for trailers and corrals. At Dripping Springs Campground, "sites all have a table, fire ring and grill... we had campsite #29 which seems to be one of the better ones along with #33 and #8," says Tyler B. The campground's equestrian sites feature level parking areas for trailers up to 40 feet.

Night sky visibility: The dark skies in this region offer excellent stargazing from horse camps. "Dark, beautiful skies at night. Good hiking trail into the mountains, with the trailhead near the entrance to the campground," writes Patrick M. about Lake Cahuilla. Most equestrian campgrounds maintain minimal artificial lighting to preserve night sky viewing.

Seasonal wildflower viewing: Spring brings wildflower displays along many equestrian routes. "We happened to be there during the poppy super bloom and the butterfly migration so that was also really cool!" shares Jennifer D. about Lake Cahuilla. Peak wildflower season typically runs from late February through April, depending on winter rainfall.

What you should know

Trail conditions vary by season: Seasonal changes significantly impact trail riding conditions. "This is a great campground all year long. You feel like you are in the middle of nowhere even though there is a small mountain town 20 minutes away," explains Loren D. Spring offers the most reliable trail conditions, while summer trails can become dusty and fall trails may be hard-packed.

Limited shower facilities: Most horse campgrounds have minimal or no shower facilities. At Green Valley Campground, "Bathrooms and showers were decent and relatively clean...showers do cost 25 cents for 2 minutes!" reports Joseph W. Riders should bring quarters for pay showers or plan for alternative washing options.

Permit requirements: Some trail systems require day-use permits in addition to camping fees. "The campground is at the trailhead of a popular trail and gets crowded during the weekends. I do not recommend camping here if you're looking for peace and quiet," advises Jason H. about Dripping Springs. Weekend trail permits should be secured in advance during peak spring and fall seasons.

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly water features: Several campgrounds offer water play areas for children. "They have a super nice splash pad park that's no additional cost! There are lots of walking trails," notes Jennifer D. about Lake Skinner Recreation Area. This splash pad operates seasonally from May through September.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can observe diverse wildlife from many horse camps. "Tucked away from the city lights of San Diego. Very nice camp ground with multiple trails climbing up Mt. Cuyamaca," writes Zachary M. about El Prado Campground. Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing times, with wild turkeys, rabbits, and deer commonly sighted.

Safe riding areas for beginners: Several campgrounds offer beginner-friendly riding areas for children. "The sites are cute and back up to old Oak growth and chaparral forest," explains Andy H. about Dripping Springs Campground. Designated practice areas with flat terrain are available near most equestrian campsites for young riders to practice before hitting trails.

Tips from RVers

Water and electrical connections: Not all equestrian sites provide full hookups. At Stagecoach Trails Resort, "Beautiful location, secluded, lots of space to get a big trailer in. It's off the beaten path," reports Dustin A. RV sites with horse accommodations typically offer 30-amp service and water hookups, with dump stations available at central locations.

Road access considerations: Mountain roads to horse camps can present challenges for larger rigs. "Limited 30/50 amp full-hookups. Large rigs, beware. Access roads are narrow, hilly, AND curvy. But, it CAN be done," cautions John D. about Oakzanita Springs. RVers should research specific route conditions for trailers over 30 feet.

Temperature management: Mountain elevations experience significant temperature swings. "Wouldn't come again this time of year without a heater, as it got uncomfortably cold at night," notes Jessie W. RVers should prepare for overnight temperatures that can drop 20-30 degrees below daytime highs, particularly at higher elevation campgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Warner Springs, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Warner Springs, CA is Paso Picacho Campground — Cuyamaca Rancho State Park with a 4.3-star rating from 23 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 23 equestrian camping locations near Warner Springs, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.