Horse campgrounds near Whiskeytown National Recreation Area offer terrain-specific camping options at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 feet. The region features mixed conifer forests transitioning to oak woodland, with summer temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F between June and September. Several sites accommodate both equestrians and standard campers with varying levels of amenities and accessibility.
What to do
Trail riding access: Horse Camp Primitive Campground connects to several miles of trails that remain accessible despite past fire damage. "The Carr fire that burned many trees in the area" is noted by campers, but the trails provide worthwhile exploration options for equestrians seeking day rides.
Fishing opportunities: Nearby Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort offers excellent access to multiple fishing spots. "We fished Lewiston lake less than 10 min. away and Whiskeytown Lake about 20-25 min. away with great luck," reports one visitor who appreciated the proximity to water bodies.
Creek exploration: Some campgrounds feature creek access for both people and animals. "There's a trail that leads down to the creek" at Horse Camp, while other locations offer direct river access where "The whole family enjoyed dipping in when it's warm outside."
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: The more primitive campgrounds attract those seeking solitude. One camper at Philpot Campground describes it as "a super sweet secluded spot right off Highway 36...secluded with beautiful green forest all around and there's a bunch of campsites."
Reasonable separation: Most equestrian-friendly sites provide adequate distance between campsites. "Nice huge site with basically your own valued bathroom one other campsite shares. Perfect for dry camping with your rv if you want some extra quiet and privacy," notes a visitor to Horse Camp.
Accessible natural features: The surrounding landscape offers immediate natural attractions. At Philpot Picnic Area, one visitor mentions it's "nice and quiet lots of forest around it good for hiking and just good scenery all the way around there was a burn scar from a fire a couple years back but still beautiful nonetheless!"
What you should know
Post-fire conditions: Several camping areas show evidence of past wildfires. "Trees are dying causing danger from falling limbs &/or trees" at Horse Flat Campground, where "The canopy is dense enough that there is very little sunlight."
Road quality varies: Access roads to more remote equestrian sites can be challenging. "The road up the the campground is a rough dirt road," notes one camper, while others mention "Long windy road to get up to sites" requiring careful navigation.
Uneven terrain: Many equestrian sites feature natural, undeveloped terrain. "Sites are SUPER uneven and not really defined. The picnic table/fire pit area has large boulders around them," reports one Horse Camp visitor, noting potential challenges for level parking.
Tips for camping with families
Water access considerations: Look for campgrounds with creek or river frontage for family activities. At Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, "Just around the corner from the campground (walking distance) is access to the river," making it convenient for children and pets.
Facility assessment: Bathroom facilities vary significantly between locations. "The tent camping spots are nice. They have a picnic table and a metal firepit and they provide wood. The front office has a little store," reports a camper who appreciated the shower access without needing coins.
Entertainment options: Some locations offer amenities beyond basic camping. "They do have a 'club house' where you can get on the wifi, charge your phone, and watch a movie on the TV or play a board game," notes a camper about convenience features for families with children.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most equestrian campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. "Biggest I would put in here would be about a 30 foot trailer. You have to disconnect your tow vehicle," advises an RVer, while another mentions "Our 35 foot fifth wheel easily navigated the space" at one of the more accommodating locations.
Hookup availability: While some sites offer full hookups, many equestrian camps are primitive. "The rv spots are full hook up with nice green grass, no cable but ok Verizon signal and we got a few local channels on the tv antenna," reports a visitor at one of the more developed campgrounds.
Parking considerations: Plan for disconnecting tow vehicles at most equestrian sites. "The park has lots of trees for shade and the spaces are wide. Wider than any other places we have stayed," notes one RVer, emphasizing the importance of site layout for comfortable horse camping.
