Horse-friendly camping is available within a short drive of West Hollywood, California. The Angeles National Forest provides multiple equestrian camping options at elevations between 4,300 and 5,700 feet. The higher elevation campgrounds typically remain 10-15 degrees cooler than Los Angeles proper during summer months, with overnight temperatures dropping to the 50s even when daytime temperatures reach the high 70s.
What to do
Hike to historic sites: The Pacific Crest Trail near Horse Flats Campground connects to multiple hiking routes with historical significance. "Hike the Pacific Crest Trail to historic Glenwood Cabin," mentions one reviewer describing nearby attractions. The trailhead is accessible directly from the campground.
Try archery: At Tapo Canyon Park, visitors can access a premier archery range on weekends. "The archery range is one of the best in California. There is a members area and the original range is open to the public on Saturdays from 9-1, with a nominal $5 fee," notes one camper. This makes for a unique day activity during longer stays.
Explore movie locations: Several camping areas feature Hollywood history. "The state park is a former movie set and is filled with easily accessible trails for hiking and some for mountain biking," explains a camper at Malibu Creek State Park. "Some interesting movie TV sets in the area," confirms another review, making this a unique feature for film enthusiasts.
What campers like
Overnight access to trails: Musch Trail Camp offers straightforward trail access with multiple route options. "Musch Camp is an easy one mile hike from from the Trippet Ranch Parking Lot in Topanga State Park. If you want a longer hike you can hike up the East Topanga Fire Road and then drop down into Musch Camp on the Backbone Trail from Eagle Junction," explains a visitor who appreciates the hiking versatility.
Wildlife viewing: Naturalists appreciate the animal encounters in these wilderness areas despite their proximity to urban areas. "The wildlife is abundant. There is plenty of birdwatching, and coyotes were wandering through the park and campground without fear. On a hike right out of the park a few hundred yards, I came across a pair of bobcats—mom and cub—making their way to a running creek," reports one camper.
Reliable facilities: Campers consistently mention clean amenities at several locations. "Did not expect the bathrooms to be very clean. They have running water to flush the toilets, and to wash your hands," notes a reviewer of Musch Trail Camp. Another camper describes Tapo Canyon as having "lush grass area and nice covered playground. The showers and bathrooms are nice."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Bring your own water to several campgrounds. At Bear Canyon Campground, a camper advises: "Three fire pits, dig your own commode, lots of water year round, but little wood. Expect to forage far if you want a fire." Other locations have no water sources at all, requiring complete self-sufficiency.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is inconsistent throughout the camping areas. At Musch Trail Camp, reviews note "limited cell service at the campground." Tapo Canyon presents more severe restrictions with one camper stating: "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."
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect campground accessibility. Horse Flats Campground typically closes from November through April. One visitor shares: "We camped here this weekend, which is the latest we've gone before the winter months. This past week had record high temperatures for all of Southern California, so I can't say how representative our experience was compared to typically late fall trips in other years."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Valencia Travel Village provides dedicated recreational facilities for children. "The people here are so nice, the pool is clean and rarely busy from what we have seen," mentions one family. Another adds that the campground has "large pools (adult pool, family pool, spa and splash pool)," providing segregated swimming areas for different age groups.
Wildlife awareness: Parents should monitor children around local wildlife. "Mountain lions were spotted while there," warns a Tapo Canyon visitor. At Malibu Creek, a camper observes that "coyotes were wandering through the park and campground without fear. If you have a dog with you make sure they don't try join the pack."
Educational opportunities: Several locations offer learning experiences for children. "There is also a visitor center in the park, but it has limited hours," notes a camper at Malibu Creek State Park. The nearby grocery stores also make family meal planning more convenient: "As a bonus, there is a Ralph's just up the street, so you'll never be far from anything you'd need."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV campers should research space limitations. Malibu Creek State Park has "decent cell coverage. Best for tents, tight for RVs," according to one visitor. The campground layouts at Horse Flats are "set up in groups 2, 3 or 4," which may affect larger rigs' ability to maneuver.
Full hookup availability: Tapo Canyon Park provides complete RV services. "The campground has a lush grass area and nice covered playground. The showers and bathrooms are nice, we highly recommend Tapo Canyon," reports a satisfied RVer who appreciated the comprehensive facilities alongside the natural setting.
Laundry facilities: Some campgrounds offer convenient amenities for longer stays. Valencia Travel Village has "a few nice pools and hot tub" plus "laundry was credit card which made it easy to avoid a hassle of getting quarters," making extended visits more comfortable for travelers with RVs.
