Equestrian Camping near Yerington, NV

Equestrian camping near Yerington, Nevada offers options in the high desert terrain along the Carson River corridor. Summer temperatures often reach 90-95°F during day and drop to 50-60°F at night, with minimal rainfall throughout camping season. Most equestrian sites around Yerington are primitive with limited facilities, requiring self-sufficiency for both riders and horses.

What to do

Trail riding beyond Fort Churchill: Scout Camp at Fort Churchill provides access to trails along the Carson River with historical significance. "There's a nice trail along the River. As of October 2023 the access road to scout camp was washed out. But there is dispersed camping on the terrace to the south," notes a visitor at Scout Camp at Fort Churchill.

Lake access riding: While bringing horses to beach areas requires careful planning, Lahontan State Recreation Area offers shoreline routes when water levels permit. "The terraced views of the lake are beautiful. You can walk down to the water but know the lake is farther out than it looks," says one camper at Sportsman's Beach.

Burnside Lake trails: For more experienced riders with 4x4 trailers, the Burnside area provides mountain terrain options. "We went just up the road into the wildlife reserve and drove all the way up to burnside lake. Beautiful. Definitely need 4x4 and the road is super bumpy. We had a great spot that looked over the mountains."

What campers like

Riverside camping: The Carson River corridor offers shaded sites ideal for equestrian camping. "Scout camp is on the Carson river and within the tall cottonwoods. Camp in the shade or out in the open if it's very windy as the trees can shed branches," explains a visitor at Scout Camp.

Spacious sites for trailer parking: Many areas provide ample room for horse trailers. "The sites are pretty level and can accommodate a larger rig. Be sure to go all the way to the end to find the RV sites with covered picnic tables and fire rings," recommends a camper at Sportsman's Beach.

Privacy between sites: Despite being primitive, some equestrian-friendly areas offer good separation between campers. "Sites have lots of space, table, fire ring and generally level drive pads. Water spigots are not too far," reports a camper at Fallen Leaf Campground.

What you should know

Sand hazards for trailers: Many areas around Yerington present challenges for heavy horse trailers. "Be careful!!! Almost got stuck in the sand while trying to find a spot level enough to park. Many people had dug out around their trailer to get the slides out," warns a camper at Developed 7 — Lahontan State Recreation Area.

Limited water access: Most equestrian sites require bringing water for horses. "No water hookups, but what a sweet place to stay! I will be back," notes a camper, highlighting the need for self-sufficiency.

Weather considerations: The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations and occasional high winds. "It did get windy at the night I was there but calmed down by 10PM. My only annoyance was the poopy smell coming off the water."

Tips for camping with families

Scout for level ground: Families with horses should prioritize stable terrain for setting up corrals. "Sites are gravel and dirt so you will likely need to level. Several pull thru sites."

Fire restrictions: Verify current fire regulations before planning campfires at equestrian sites. "Sites have a pre-made fire pit. There's a few spots here to choose from, although if you're looking for privacy they are somewhat close together," explains a visitor at Dispersed Campgrounds — Lahontan State Recreation Area.

Temperature preparation: Plan for significant day-night temperature swings when camping with children and animals. "Right off the main road with minimal traffic noise. So beautiful, open, and feels safe. Late March is hot in the day and a little cool at night. Family friendly."

RV tips

Trailer positioning: For combined RV and horse camping, careful site selection is essential. "Large sites with water and electricity (loop A). Beautiful views of the mountains. Lots to do in the area," reports a camper at Washoe Lake State Park Campground.

Road conditions: Many horse-friendly areas have challenging access roads. "There is a few large, flat, hard-pack areas to park in and multiple dirt roads that lead off to smaller, more secluded sites. Many of the roads will require 4-wheel drive and high clearance but they are not too bad."

Limited hookups: Most equestrian camping around Yerington lacks full RV services. "Winter camping is available on Loop A with full power hookups on a first come, first serve basis. Bathrooms are open all winter. Hiking is nice right from the campground and wild horses graze not far away."