California

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Bandido Campground is a horse only campground.
There are several pipe-corrals, water (potable), pit toilets and great access to many trails, including PCT. There is also just past this group camp an area called Sulpher Springs which has 4 pipe corrals, water for stock and no other facilities.
PH 818-574-5200
Submitted By:Melinda Toney Click Here

Soquel Canyon Pkway: Great riding on easy rolling hills at Chino Hills State Park. Located in So. Calif. 60 Freeway to 71 expressway turn on Soquel Canyon Pkwy. and then Left on to Elinvar Rd. then Left on Saphire Rd. You'll see the park entrance Dirt road, one lane.
Equestrian staging area and campground with pipe stalls and horse water. PH 909-780-6222
Submitted by: Jerry and Judy Spivey Click Here
Added Note: The gravel road is very steep and if you are not going fast enough you will get stuck and have to back down and begin again.

Davenport: Rancho Del Oso State Park is located 16 miles north of Santa Cruz across the street from the Waddell Beach parking lot on Highway 1. Reservations are required year round and can be made by phone at 831-425-1218. Please leave your name and phone number and a Ranger will return your call.
Rancho Del Oso has some long and relatively difficult trails ranging from 14 to 40 miles long. The beach is also open to riding.
There are 6 campsites, each with a picnic table and a fire stove. There is a centrally located fire pit. The campsites have a 10x10 pipe corral and a 6' pipe tie. A vault toilet and potable water are located near the campsites.
Campsites are $12.00 per night. The fee includes one vehicle and a trailer, each additional vehicle is $3.00 per night. A deposit of the first nights fee is required when you make a reservation.
Dogs are not allowed in the campground or on the trails.
Please call the park for any questions.
There is NO horse rental at the park.
Phone 831-425-1218
Submitted by: Connie DeJong Click Here

Loafer Creek Recreation Unit (530) 538-2217 Lake Oroville: State Recreation Area, Finished a horse-in campground Summer, 1996. NICE. The Loafer Creek Unit has been an RV and tent campground located on Lake Oroville, California for years. The unit also offers day use with a picnic area/b-b-q's/beach/boat launch/hiking and horse trails. They added the horse in campground this past summer and it is nicer than the other campground.

• Loafer Creek Horse Camp - A unit of Lake Oroville State Recreation Area
• Located at Loafer Creek Campground
• 15 Campsites - two horses per site
• Horse washing station
• Improved restroom facility with showers - handicapped accessible
• Horse tethering and feeding station near each campsite
• Reservations available through Destinet (1-800-444-7275)
• Reserve from one site up to the entire campground
• Fees are $16 per night (check on this - weekend rates, in season rates, weekday rates, and off season rates usually differ)
  
• Extensive horse trail riding system close by (no dogs allowed on trails)with 20 miles of trails that go from 200 to 1000 feet in elevation. Trails offer a variety of animals to watch for: wild turkeys, deer, beaver, and occasionally bear; they'll also see some interesting historic sites like a settler's cabin, historic orchard, an old flume from the 1850's. The Lake Oroville Mounted Assistance Unit helps maintain and patrol these trails. There is a brochure available on the trail system - contact the district headquarters (address below).
  
  Lake Oroville State Recreation area near Oroville, CA also offers hiking, sailing and bower boating, water skiing, fishing, swimming, picnicking, boat in camping and floating campsites. It's located about 75 miles north of Sacramento on the Feather River.
  
  Lake Oroville State Recreation Area
  400 Glen Drive
  Oroville, CA 95966
  (530) 538-2200
  Submitted by: Shelly Medford Click Here
  

Pt. Reyes National Seashore, Olema, California, just North of San Francisco. Water is available. The trails are excellent and the riding is beautiful. You can ride to the Pacific Ocean. No pets are allowed and the fee is per person or per horse, the greater. This is a popular weekend area, not only for horse people but for others who use trails, just outside an urban area.
Ph 415-663-1362
Submitted By: Paul Peachin Click Here

More Information From: Tina Rushing Click Here

From US 101 exit Sir Francis Drake Boulevard and drive... 20 miles?...to the town of Olema.
The horse camp is very near to Five Brooks Ranch, a boarding and rental stable, and they have a site at www.fivebrooks.com including directions. I never take US 101 through San Francisco with a horse trailer. It takes forever and it's a harrowing experience.

I have been there a few times and it's a great place. Fire pits, showers, spigot for horse water. Bring a hose, firewood, manure fork, and people water. High lines for picketing if you bring own line. Portable corrals and trailer tying are okay.
Great trails - through the redwoods to the sea.
starting next year weed free hay (cubes) or certified hay only in the campground, also next year no persons without horses.

Eldorado National Forest information
3070 Camino Heights Drive
(916)644-6048 For camp reservations call 1-800-280-CAMP

Dru Barner Park

Dru Barner Park Elev. 3,000 feet. From Wentworth springs Road five miles east of Georgetown, turn left on Bypass road. Go 1.5 miles on gravel road.
Home of the 50 mile endurance ride. Wentworth Springs Road Ranger
District (916)333-4312
Information for Dru Barner Park Click Here
Submitted by: Jeff and Theresa Rhine Click Here

More Information from:
Mark/Jodi Reed, E-mail link
Dru Barner Campground is located at the 3200' elevation in Georgetown, Ca. aprox. 23 mi. SE of Auburn. From Hwy 193 in Georgetown turn E at stop sign and go 5.8 mi. on Wentworth Springs Rd. Turn left on paved forest service road and go 1.7 mi. into the campground.

The campground is beautifully wooded with 48 campsites for equestrians including pull-thrus to accommodate large rigs. There is water available with troughs & faucets near the campsites with picnic tables and firerings in many. The park also includes a group area with picnic tables, barbecues, and a large fire pit. There are flush toilets.

The campground is adjacent to the Rock Creek Recreational Area with over 160 mi. of trails. Some of the trails have been marked and a map is available at Camp Virner Restaurant on Wentworth Springs Rd. or by contacting El Dorado Equestrian Trails Foundation, P. O. Box 321, Georgetown, Ca. 95634 or email jodimark@jps.net .

The campground is on a first come, first serve basis with the exception of special use permits for endurance rides etc. It is best to check with the Georgetown Ranger District PH 530-333-4312. There is a $6. per night fee with 80% of the funds collected going back into the campground.
Jodi Reed, President El Dorado Equestrian Trails Foundation.
Submitted By: Mark/Jodi Reed Click Here

Loon Lake Equestrian

Loon Lake Equestrian (both single and Group facilities) Elev. 6500 acres to Desolation Wilderness. (get your use permit) Located on Loon Lake approx. 29 miles north of Hwy. 50 via the Ice House and Loon Lake roads. Reservation. 5/24 - 9/30 9 units, 7$ fee. piped water, vault toilets. Group $35 fee, 25 people. Crystal Basin Pacific Ranger Station information 916-644-6408
Submitted by: Jeff and Theresa Rhine Click Here

Tells Creek Horse Camp

Tells Creek Horse Camp Elevation 6,300 ft. Access to Desolation Wilderness (get your use permit) Primitive equestrian camping. Narrow paved road. No water, No toilets. Stream water available. From Hwy. 50 about 20 miles east of Placerville turn onto Ice House Road. Travel north 20 miles to Robbs saddle, turn right (east on Tells Creek Road) Tells Creek horse Camp/ Desolation Wilderness Trailhead road # 13n22. Travel 6 miles to the parking area.
Submitted by: Jeff and Theresa Rhine Click Here

Update: Feburary 2004:
The Tells Creek Horse Camp now has a vault toilet. Also, a lot of work has been done to make the campground more large-rig friendly, including several pull-thru sites.
Can accommodate quiet a few rigs and groups now. Plenty of trees for high-lines.
Several local horse groups have adopted the campground and the trails so they get at least annual maintenance. Great trails, from 2 hour loops to all day rides into the wilderness.
Some multi-use trails so you may see hikers and bikers (who are typically very conscientious of the horses).

Submitted by: Gerry Bourn Click Here

Wright's Lake

Wright's Lake (closed for 1997) Elevation 7,100 Access to Desolation Wilderness (get your use permit) Campground, picnic units and horse camping. No motor boats. Camping is in the meadow with no facilities and no fee or reservations. 34 miles east of Placerville and 8 miles north on Wrights Lake road in the Crystal Basin.
Submitted by: Jeff and Theresa Rhine Click Here

Update from: Sabra Mehl Click Here
Update for, Wrights Lake Equine Campground.
It's $12.00 per night. Approx. 20 plus sites. About 6 water faucets and pit toilets. It sits along a creek so you can use the creek for whatever. Some of the sites can accommodate a 35-foot unit (motor home or big horse trailer). The access road from highway 50 has been rebuilt and is now open. (had been destroyed in the 98 storms and floods).
Submitted By:Sabra Mehl Click Here

The Daley Ranch is a 3,044 acre property in the hills of northeastern Escondido that will be preserved as open space forever. It has more than 20 miles of multiuse (hiking, biking and horse riding) trails, as well as a rustic ranch house built in 1927. There are 7 trails from the 1.4 mile Caballo Trail to the 5.5 mile Central Valley Loop Trail. A loop around the property is 12.2 miles. A trail map is available at both entrances, as well as at Dixon Lake.

The main entrance is at the southernmost part of the property, just north of Lake Dixon at the top of LaHonda Drive. The entrance to the northernmost part of the property is along Cougar Pass Road, 0.5 mile south of Alps Way. Cougar Pass Rd. is a dirt road, but suitable for normal vehicles. Coming from Escondido, go north on Broadway to Cougar Pass Rd. Comming from Fallbrook, take the Deer Springs/Mountain Meadow exit on I-15, go east along Mountain Meadow Rd. and Mountain Glen Way to Cougar Pass Road.
Submitted by: Linda Davis Click Here

Bridgeport: The Visitor's Guide put out by the Forest Service in Bridgeport to where to horsecamp gives you miserable places to camp. You are allowed to disperse camp along Buckeye creek, before the campground and trailhead.
Sounds good, but you can't access the creek unless your horses are first cousins to a mountain goat . There is one large area that you can water your stock but it's a at a major intersection with lot's of traffic. The other area is Green Lakes. Where another trailhead begins. The dirt road to Green Lakes is long and very rough.
Great places to camp if you don't mind battling mosquitoes the size of dive bombers! My preferred place is at Virginia Lakes-at the top of Conway Summit. As of 2001, horses were still allowed at the first undeveloped campground. After passing the helipad, on the left, there is a paved road on the left that drops down in the campsites. The first two sites belong to BLM, the second site on the right is ideal for horses.
There is plenty of more sites but they belong to the Forest Service in Bridgeport. Lots of riding of both sides of the road besides riding up to the trailhead. There is another undeveloped campsite further up the road, but I think horses aren't allowed there but you can ride through with no problem.
Horses are not welcomed, even through they are allowed, starting with the Lodge Owner at Virginia Lakes to the Forest Service people in Bridge- port. There is another place to horsecamp that belongs to the BLM-Dogtown, before Bridgeport. I haven't checked it out, but I've been told that it is a good place to camp with horses in the spring and fall.

The BLM office in Bishop, CA. who me about me about Dogtown .
Information about Mammoth Lakes-another place that doesn't like horses. If you ask at the Forest Service Info Office in Mammoth Lakes they will direct you to the only place that you can camp with your horses-Agnew Meadows. Not at all telling you that the three sites are booked up, over ran with mosquitoes until July 15th or later. That campsites 8&9 are small cramped sites, especially #9. That you have to haul water from campsite #10 for your horses. Campsite #10 is the best site. Plus the riding from Agnew Meadows is very rocky, steep and that horses have died there because of the high altitude and rough terrain.

Addditional Information for Bridgeport:
Sierra Meadows Ranch Equestrian Center: offers nightly, weekly and monthly boarding from Memorial Day weekend through October 1st. Sierra Meadows has been in continuous operations since 1970. There are numerous trails surrounding the area, not to mention the surrounding John Muir Wilderness. Also offered is local information for equestrians to enjoy the area and amenities.
Other sercives available at Sierra Meadows: Horseback and mule rides - 1 hour, 2 hour, 3 hour and All Day.
Fishing trips to Sherwin Lakes, Evening Hayrides and dinner hayrides, petting zoo, walk 'n' lead rides for the little dudes, and camping (contained) for horse boarders.

McGee Creek Pack Station - offers daily trail rides and pack trips - bring your own horses - your gear and provisions can be packed into the John Muir WIlderness with a variety of areas offering great trail riding from a base camp. Bring your own feed rather than depend on grazing. Also offered are guided trail rides in a variety of wonderful areas - the Alabama Hills of Lone Pine (hundreds of western movie locations!),
Trail Driving stock to the Owens River, Owens Valley Trail drive, spring - beginning 2007; and John Muir Trail rides.
Call winter: 760-878-2207; summer: 760 935-4324; www.mcgeecreekpackstation.com or email mcgee@qnet.com
Web Page McGee Creek Pack Station Click Here
Submitted by: McGee Creek Pack Station Click Here

If your horses are in real good shape the High Trail, behind the Pack Station, is a real nice ride with great views. As of last year Red Meadows Resort and Pack Station, next to the Trailhead for Rainbow Falls, had pens for privately owned horses. For $15.00 a day your horse was fed, watered and the pen cleaned. The riding was very good and varied. There is a campground up the road from Red Meadows or you can stay in their rental cabins. I was allowed to camp with my horses, but it's not a sure thing.
Best time is after the mosquitoes have left, around July 15th, 17th.

Submitted by: Terri Sullivan Click Here

People can stay with their horses for as long as they like during the summer season - Memorial Day weekend through October 1.
Pipe corrals, arena, round pens and miles of trails. no hookups at this time, coming soon (summer 2007) horse camping with hookups.
Phone: 760 -934-6161 Address is : HCR 79, Box 162, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Burney: There is no actual horse camp at Burney Fall although the Sierra Crest Trail goes through the park and you can find places to camp off of Clark Creek Rd. Pretty area.
On the other hand, Lassen Park has a very nice facility with tie posts but no corrals.
(See Lassen NP Just below) Burney Falls State Park, PH 916-335-2777
Submitted by: Sam McMurry Click Here

Mineral: Lassen Park has a very nice facility with tie posts but no corrals.
The trails are in excellent condition for the most part and soft enough to not need shoes. To preserve the trails no stock is allowed to stand in the creeks or lakes, so you must bring a folding bucket on your ride. Dogs are allowed in camp on a leash, but not on the trails. Back country permits are required to use the trails.
The contact number for the Lassen Volcanic National Park is, 530-595-4444.
Submitted by: Sam McMurry Click Here

This pristeen Wilderness in Modoc County is little used and the tails are in good shape.
There are 77 miles of trails in this 70,385 acre wilderness. The corrals at Soup Springs are in excellent shape with potable water and pit toilets.
At Pepperdine Pack Station the corrals are smaller and the camp area is about 1/4 mile from the corrals. Potable water and pit toilets are also available here.
This is actually my favorite spot to camp as it is a little more quiet. The trails are at 6000 to 9000 foot elevation and generally are not accesable until late June or early July. At this time, no permits are required to use the wilderness, but as it becomes more popular I am sure the number of trails users will be limited.
The contact for more information is Warner Mountain Ranger District in Cedarville at 530-279-6116.
Submitted by: Sam McMurry Click Here

Sept 12 2006: up date for the Peperdine Horse Camp and Trail head, there are now approxamatly 15 new pipe corrals all built by the High Country Back Country Horsemen with a huge trailer turn around, mounting block, all graveled axcces to the new horse camp. Each camp spot has a table, fire ring and a corral. Running water. A short 2 min ride from the new camp area brings you right to the trail head. Submitted by: Vicky Sjoberg Click Here

Weott: The horse camp is called Cuneo Creek. One hour south of Eureka you turn west on the road to Honeydew. Driving slowly through old Redwood trees for about 20 minutes will bring you to the entrance. It's a beautiful area with water troughs, hitching rails, corrals, and coin operated showers. As of Spring 2002 they were looking for campground hosts with horses. More information can be found by calling the park headquarters at (707)-946-2409

Off of Hwy 88 near Kirkwood ski resort in Alpine county. This is a "roughing it" campsite with no facilities. Water is near by in a high country stream. The trails are worth the lack of comfort though with high ridge line views of Lake Tahoe and the sourounding forests! Ride through summer snow pack, verdant valleys and meadows with greenery all around. Bring your bug spray, the mosquitos are thick sometimes.
E-mail: Carrie Giannandrea Click Here

Horse Trails at Redwood National Park:
We have a 3 hr. loop and a 6 hr. loop. We also have a one overnight trail and a three day trail. The trails are currently in good repair and there are campgrounds on the trails. Some are just horse camps and those have corrals. One of them is a backpacking campground and I believe that it just has hitch racks. If you have any questions you should call the Redwood Information Center in Orick to get a map and register if you are going to be camping or riding on the trails. I hope this helps out a little and enjoy!
Ph 707-464-6101
Submitted by: Teresa Roberts Click Here

Orick Rodeo Grounds offers some camping options for those who want to come and enjoy the horse trail in Redwood National Park. The Rodeo grounds is located at the trail head and offters corrals for your horses, a place to park your rig and pitch a tent. They currently charge $10/night per horse for corrals & your camping comes free. A camphost is currently onsite.
For more information call (707) 488-2885.
Submitted by: Kristina Combs Click Here

North Palm Springs: trails, Camping?? Ph 619-251-0812
Need more information, please send if you know something about it.

Chester: This is a beautiful area to ride and overnite. Trailhead has a small horse camp with feww horse corralls and water. Kind of primitive. Most campers turn off on side roads before trailhead to camp and ride their horses to trail head. This is a protected area for hikers and horses only. Fishing at the small lakes along the trail with licenses allowed. Deep snow in winter because of elevations, but excellent easy riding in summer. Beautiful scenery, good trails access to water for horses at all lakes, you can swinn your horses at some of them.
Located out of Chester, Ca. off of Highway 36, ride can tie into Lassen National Park area. Check with local Forest Service Lassen National Forest or Plumas National Forest for more info. I used to live there so I just went. No more info., but riders are missing a good bet on this one, especially if they like to camp.
Submitted by: Kay Cox Click Here

Bishop:
Offers all sorts of trail rides from cattle drives to fishing trips.
PH 619-872-831
Web Page: Rock Creek Pack Station Click Here
Submitted by: Phil Bulfinch Click Here

Rancho Bernardo: Obtain a trail park pass from the forest service.
PH 619-673-6180, 10845 Rancho Bernardo Road, Suite 200. 92127-210
Web Page: Cleveland National Forest Click Here

There is one place at Whiskeytown National Recreation area where horses are allowed. There are approximately 2 campsites with picnic tables and fire pits. No water and no corrals. Access to Whiskeytown trails is excellent from here. There is plenty of water for stock in streams approximately 1 mile away from campsite. To get there take highway 199 West of Redding CA.
Just as you get to the east end of Whiskeytown reservoir there will be a sign announcing the Visitors Center and Rangers office, go left there. The road is all paved except for the last mile. You will pass the visitors center and the Rangers office (get your fire and camping permit here as well as an excellent map of trails). Continue on this road until you arrive at the dam. At the dam stay to the left and do not cross the dam (the road curves to the right and across the dam, stay to the left to go to the horse camp).
The road you turn left on off the main road before the dam crossing is Paige Bar.
Continue down this road until you see the sign for the NEED camp
(NEED camp goes right). Go left here onto the gravel road. The horse camp is approximately 1 mile down the gravel road at a 3 way intersection.

The park is in a recreation area but is run by the National park service which is where the problems lie.
The "intersection" where horse camp is located is just a big wide area with a small Horse camp sign that tells people a special permit is needed. Be sure to get your parking permits before heading to camp. Also the gnats are awful in late summer so using a super repellant on your horse is recommended.
Additional Information from: Shelley Nelson E-mail Click Here

Whiskeytown: PH 916-241-6584

Crabtree Campground located right at the northwest edge of Emigrant Wilderness. It is a right hand turn (if you are going East)(or south side of highway 108) off of highway 108 about 3 miles west of Pinecrest on Crabtree Road. You follow Crabtree Road about 5 miles to Aspen Meadows.
There is a pack station at Aspen Meadows. Keep going past Aspen Meadows about 3.5 miles to Crabtree horse campground that has picnic tables, fire pits and lantern poles. Water for stock is via a nearby stream. No corrals, though there are hitching rails. The campground has parking for long pull through rigs and all of the roads and parking spots are paved.
There is access to the Emigrant Wilderness trails right from the campground. You will want to get a map of the Emigrant Wilderness trails from the Ranger Station located on Highway 108 west of the Crabtree turnoff. There is an excellent trail from Aspen Meadows that runs along the edge of Bell Meadows as well. The trails here are very well maintained.
Submitted By: Bill Langenfeld

Malibu State Park can be accessed by two ways. Pay in the parking lot off Malibu Cyn Road and ride directly in, or Park off Muholland and Cornell. You can also park at Paramount. If you park at Paramount Park or the free parking area, you have a choice of three trails that will take you over and drop you into the park.
These can get a bit narrow and sometimes steep, so this area would not be recommended for beginners.
Once you’re in the park itself, you have a few choices. However, most of the trail is maintained fireroad type trail system to ride. It’s pleasant, but heavily populated with mountain bikers and hikers. Also, this park has a tendency to have “not so horse friendly” mountain bikers, so your horse should be properly trained for this type of traffic.
Submitted By: Tom Torres E-mail Click Here
Ph 818-880-0350

San Francisco: I do know that they do provide a camp site for horses. One I know is more of a hitch or tie line and the other I believe has several 12X12 corrals. I live just outside the park and moved recently to this area.

I can tell you I've ridden from Walnut Creek to Danville through the mountain trail. Some of the trails are mild fire roads that are shared with bikers and hikers (sometimes dogs off leash). Other trails are steep, you can find single tracks as well. Bridges and or creek crossings are great for training young horses. Bikers are all very nice and willing and most stop unless you tell them it's ok to go!
First - all the EAST BAY PARKS web site.
Web Page: EAST BAY PARKS Click Here
Second - all of the STATE Parks web site.
Web Page: STATE Parks Click Here

Mt Diablo - There are several regional parks that flow into Mt Diablo STATE park… I tend to park in Castle Rock staging area - no fee for day rides.

Castle Rock area
http://www.ebparks.org/resources/pdf/trails/dfoothills_map.pdf (map)
Web Page: Map Click Here

http://www.ebparks.org/resources/pdf/trails/dfoothills_text.pdf (park text with contact numbers)
Web Page: park text with contact numbers Click Here

Mt. Diablo State park
http://www.parks.ca.gov/pages/517/files/mtDiabloBrochure.pdf
Web Page: Mt. Diablo State park Click Here
Ph 510-837-2525
Submitted by: Dawn Radtke Click Here

Idyllwild: trails Ph 714-659-2607
Need more info. Please send if you anything to add.

San Francisco: Trails, Frank Valley Horse camp 415-388-3215
Ranger station at Pantoll Station 415-388-2070

Mt. Tamalpais is in Marin County California. It's the small mountain at the top of Mt. Tamalpais State Park, part of the California State Parks and is the uppermost peak above Muir Woods. There is also a horse camp at the base of Muir Woods on Muir Woods Road in Franks Valley. The phone # for the ranger station at Pantoll Station (also a camping facility but not for horses) about 1/2 way up the hill between the peak of Mt. Tam. and Muir Woods is 415-388-2070.
The horse camp has pipe corrals, picnic table and a toilet inside an outhouse like structure. There is plenty of water for horses both there and across the street in the creek. Riding is great - you can go to the beach (Muir Beach in about 20 minutes), all the way south to the overlook of the Golden Gate Bridge (about 2 hr. ride) or all the way to the north to Point Reyes over Mt. Tam (about a 6-7 hour ride). It's fun to have lunch at the Pelican Inn at Muir Beach - they have a corral with tie up rings for day use & we ride there 1-2x a week.
The camp requires reservations and a note: the road is quite windy going down there (about 5-6 miles from Hwy. 101 - Shoreline Hwy. exit & follow Hwy. 1 in the direction of Muir Beach. After Pelican Inn, bear right on Muir Woods Rd. rather than following Hwy. 1 to the left. Trail maps are available through that same phone #.
Added Note: June 29 2003
The drive down Hwy. 1 is not recommended for very long rigs. Also, there was an article in the local newspaper saying that a 2 mile stretch of Hwy. 1 will be closed for the next 3 months (probably about June-Aug/Sep) for CalTrans repairs. Traffic will be diverted through Muir Woods which I certainly would not drive my 2 horse trailer on let alone anything wider. So I would not recommend trying to get down there this summer unless you leave the rig elsewhere, ride down the Miwok Trail and have someone bring things in by car. -duffy

Submitted by: Duffy Hurwin Click Here

Topanga: trails Ph 213-372-0200
Need more info. Please send if you anything to add.

There are 3 group campsites on a narrow road off Sir Frances Drake Road. They have 6 pipe corrals and 2 "pasture" areas for the horses. Water is available for the horses but you must provide your own container. The campsites are very large and private and have outhouses, picnic tables, BBQ and running water. The campsites border a creek that is below the campground via a somewhat steep, but accessible trail. You may use the shower facilities at the neighboring campground just down the road. I believe the fee's are $8.00 per horse. No extra charge for the campsite.

There are trails all around the campground but if you want to ride on the beach you'll need to trailer.

We we're told from other campers (on the day we left) that you can ride into the town of Olema from Devil's Gulch and there is an oyster bar that has a hitching post for your horses.
Devil's gulch horse camp 415-488-9897
Submitted by: Pam Click Here

The campground entrance is located 3.3 miles east of Highway 1 on County Road 409. The water is a well with a hand pump and water trough located in the center of the campground and services all 4 sites. The campground consists of four separate campsites, each with a picnic table, metal fire ring with grill and a cleared area for a tent. One unisex pit toilet services the campground. Each campsite will accommodate a maximum of four persons and four horses. Dogs must be on a leash at all times and are not permitted on State Park trails unless indicated. Horses may be tied only to the hitch racks provided and must not be left unattended.

Submitted by: Pam Click Here

Santa Clara: As of spring 2002, there are two entrances and two ways to camp in Coe Park: the main entrance has the visitor's center and organized camp sites, and is off Dunn Avenue (exit from 101) in Morgan Hill. Parking is sometimes limited. A dedicated horse camp with two paddocks is located a couple of miles from the visitor's center by reservation (info below).
If you call ahead you can get permission to drive a truck to the horsecamp site to carry gear/water/hay for your group. Check with rangers concerning campfires, you may be able to have one if you bring your own wood. The main entrance road is very steep and winding.
Be sure your vehicle and trailer are properly maintained to travel this road.

WARNING: If you travel anywhere within the 87,000 acres of Coe Park, be sure to carry a good map. Orienteering skills are a plus. The roads are marked, but occasionally the markers are damaged. Let someone know your destination and estimated time of return.

The Hunting Hollow entrance is off Roop Road (access from New Ave--San Martin Ave, off 101, or Highway 152) in Gilroy and has a large gravelled parking lot for horse trailers. Hunting Hollow is accessed by a less steep and winding road, although it is narrow in some places. From Hunting Hollow you would horse-pack your gear to several destinations within the park. You can camp anywhere beyond a 1/2 mile radius from the parking lot, car camping is not permitted. Campfires are not allowed because of fire danger and environmental concerns of picking up fallen wood. Bring water or a way to purify it.
During the summer, you'll probably need to bring horse pellets. Coit Camp or Coit Lake (same name but different places), Wilson Camp, Mississipi Creek, and Pacheco Camp are good destinations. Horse-packing, like back-packing is not recommended for folks who must have a hot shower every night.

The park phone number is 408-779-2728
Web Page: Cleveland National Forest Click Here
Submitted by: Lynge Simoni Click Here

Ohlone Wilderness Trail which is so close to the Area, and has a horse camp along the way, Alameda Co.
Submitted By: Lynge Simoni Click Here

Black Rock is located above the town of Yucca Valley and is away from the main part of Joshua Tree National Park - the California Riding Hiking Trail does join them. It is a very long, rather ho-hum ride for the most part so the entire trail, which runs all the way to Twentynine Palms, is not used that often.
Riders do use the CRHT frequently both at Black Rock and Ryan but just not the whole distance. The other thing that visitors to JTNP need to know is that dogs are NOT allowed on the trails and you are not supposed to leave them in or tied at your rig unattended.
People calling for horse camp reservations at the 800 number need to know that it is basically just a very large parking lot.

There is water available at Black Rock and tie rails but no corrals. The nearest restroom is just below the Visitor's Center and entails a short hike. There are some picnic tables and fire rings but you need to bring firewood if you want a camp fire. There are no numbered sites and the reservations desk will ask questions like "how long is your rig?". It doesn't matter what you tell them because this camp is rarely that full and they may give you a site number but don't worry about it because you will not find any site numbers once you arrive. If you have not paid camping fees in advance you can just walk up to the Visitor Center and pay there. On occasion there will be a large group using this horse camp and for this reason the Park advises to make reservations. Day use is free.

Travel directions to Black Rock Horse Camp are I 10 to SR 62. SR 62 to Yucca Valley at the traffic signal at Joshua Lane/Old Woman Springs Rd.-SR 247 turn right on to Joshua Lane. Follow Joshua Lane to San Marino (goes through housing developments) make a right on San Marino and follow the road to the entrance to Black Rock. At the entrance there is a dirt road to the right which leads to the Horse Camp.
This road is well marked and there is a split rail fence around the Horse Camp.

There are riders who like to come to this area who are not self-contained. They may choose to ride Black Rock as a day ride rather than camp there. There are motels in Yucca Valley and boarding for equines available at Yucca Valley Equestrian Center (760 - 365-4433) which is not far from Black Rock.
It is possible to ride to Black Rock from the Equestrian Center but most seem to prefer to trailer their horses up from YVEC.

Yucca Valley, Black Rock horse camp. Ph 760-365-9585
9800 Black Rock Canyon Road, Yucca Valley, 92284
Web Page: Joshua Tree National Park Click Here

RYAN HORSE CAMP is more centrally located in Joshua Tree National Park. The cost for overnight camping at Ryan is $5.00 which can be deposited in the "Iron Ranger" located near the large sign that says "Fee Area".
Day use is free and there is a separate parking area for day use vs overnight camping.
THIS IS A PRIMITIVE CAMP. IT IS NECESSARY TO HAUL WATER FOR YOURSELF AND YOUR ANIMALS if you plan to stay any time at all. The Park requests that riders bring only pellets to feed and that you begin feeding pellets a few days in advance as they are concerned about non-native grass species.

You must make reservations in advance to use the overnight area. Call Karen at (760) 367-5541 M-F, 8 AM to 4 PM. The regulations for overnight camping are two rigs per site (one rig can park in the site and the other on the outside edge). They allow 6 people per site. There are some tie rails on the outside edge of the parking area and there are pit toilets. The sites have picnic tables and fire pits. You will need to bring your own firewood if you want a fire. I realize this may only appeal to the more hearty types who are willing to haul water, etc. but there are some good trails to explore in this area.
It is also a very historic area and although the camping area is a bit cramped it is neat being camped among the large boulders.

Visitors coming in from the West will probably find the West Entrance the easiest route. Take SR 62 through Yucca Valley. In the village of Joshua Tree turn right at the second traffic signal which is Park Blvd. The fee station is approximately five miles.(Park Blvd. will become Quail Springs Road at the top of the hill.)
You will have to pay at the fee station unless it is closed, in which case they will probably catch you for the entrance fee on the way out.

Villa del Cavallo Sereno is a weekend/overnight contemporary desert vacation house on 5 acres, almost at the West Entrance to JTNP, which welcomes equestrians. There are corrals and lots of trailer parking. The house has kitchen, two bedrooms, two bathrooms also there is a single bed and other sleeping arrangements possible. The web page is:
http://www.rosebudrubystar.com/villa.html

From the fee station it is about 16 miles to Ryan Campground. There is a sign for the campground and the dirt road to Ryan turns to the right. The horse camp is located where the road curves to the right at the start of the campground. There is a metal gate at the entrance and at the exit of the horse camp,they want them closed after you enter and exit.

There are trail maps available at the fee stations and visitor centers but at the present time they do not have the trail names marked on the maps making them difficult to use. I do have a set of trail maps available with mileage marked and the trails clearly marked with trail names and rated for difficulty.
These maps were created by a local man who has never charged for them. If someone needs a copy of a trail map for either Black Rock, Ryan or West Entrance I will reproduce them and distribute them only for the cost of photocopying and mailing. Contact: desertmulesjt@yahoo.com
E-Mail: desertmulesjt@yahoo.com Click Here

WEST ENTRANCE: There is no trail head parking at West Entrance at this time. The Backcountry Management and Wilderness plan for the Park sets out a future goal for this but it has not been done as yet. What this means is that the great riding trails at West are not that accessible. If you are interested seeing day use parking become available in the West Entrance area perhaps a letter to the Joshua Tree National Park Superintendent would help bring this about.
The address is Superintendent, Joshua Tree National Park, 74485 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277

MORONGO VALLEY: If riders are interested in learning about or are interested in riding the trails in Morongo Valley they can contact Sue or Sally at Coyote Ridge (760 - 363-3380). They can do boarding or give guided rides for the trails in that area. They also have some rental horses available. Morongo Valley is located off of SR 62 and is the first little town before Yucca Valley.

PIONEERTOWN: This is a fun area! There are some great trails in the area and there is an "old west" feel all around. Downtown Main Street was once a movie site. On weekends they have reenactments, skits and gun fights for the public to view. Pappy and Harriet's often has evening entertainment and serves lunch and dinner. There is also food available at the Bowling Alley. You can learn more about the area at http://www.pioneertown.com/ This area is undergoing a lot of change so check out the web pages for updates.

At Betty B's Pioneertown Corrals (760 - 408-0771, 760-365-0891 or 760 - 365-7580) there is overnight camping with corrals (they have water barrels and feeders) and a covered area with barbecues and tables.
There is a fire pit and they supply wood. There are restrooms but no showers. The Fee is $10 per rig and $10 per corral with one horse, there will be an extra $10 fee even if you put two horses in one corral.
For big groups there is a flat rate. They are open year round. RESERVATIONS ADVISED. The office for this camping area is in The General Store.

The Pioneertown Motel has new owners and is undergoing some improvements. They have corrals available as well. (760) 365-4879 http://www.pioneertownmotel.com/

INDIAN CANYONS IN PALM SPRINGS: This is not in the Morongo Basin but quite often riders coming into the Morongo Basin plan a side trip to day ride the Indian Canyons beforehand. It is possible to leave early in the morning and arrive at the canyons in plenty of time for a fun ride before continuing on to overnight at Black Rock or Pioneertown or a motel in Yucca Valley. From the West on I-10 get off at the Hwy 111, Palm Springs exit. Hwy 111 turns into Palm Canyon Dr. (yes, you will be driving right through the heart of downtown) As East Palm Canyon splits from South Palm Canyon stay to the right on South Palm Canyon.
South Palm Canyon goes right into the Indian Reservation where there is a toll gate. The canyons are open daily 8AM to 5PM, no overnight stays are possible. The equestrian fee is $10.00. No dogs allowed.
The horse trailer parking is in a lot on the left hand side just up from the toll gate. There are maps available at the toll gate. The trails are pretty well marked and used, on weekends during the Spring and Fall (the ONLY time to go there) there will be hikers on the trails but no bicycles.
This is amazing area. The trails wander through native palm oases and there is often water in the streams and creeks. We have seen Big Horn Sheep and wild horses while riding the trails in this area.

Note: The Morongo Basin/Joshua Tree National Park is high desert. Spring and Fall are the prime riding seasons but even then be prepared for any kind of weather. Nights can be cold and days can be quite warm.
It can also be windy. The spring of 2005 should be spectacular for wildflowers due to all of the moisture we have received, so be sure to bring your camera.
Submitted By: Roberta Frederick Click Here

Santa Barbara: Rancho Oso has pipe corrals, box stalls, cabins, covered wagons, tent & RV parking for horse & mule clubs, as well as individuals. We are located within the Los Padres Nat'l Forest in the Santa Barbara area with acces to all the trails. We have hot showers, food service, horseboarding, arena, campfire rings. Whether you're on the road, just passing through, or looking for a unique riding vacation, stop by and say howdy! (805) 683-5686.
E-mail: Randy & Lil Click Here
Web Page Rancho Oso Click Here

Montana de Oro State Park is located in San Luis Obispo County.
It is possible to camp there with your horse and ride on the beach. I am sure that it is listed with other state parks within California.
Only potable water for the horses
Corrals available with the camp sites
No showers or toilets
Area divided into a "group" type of situation or "individual" camp sites
Mountain riding or riding on the beach
Located south of Morro Bay
Submitted By: Judithanne Young Click Here

Garland Regional Park : 10 miles east of Carmel. No camping facilities but water available in river, lake in park and one horse tank (and water for humans). 4500 acres of wonderful groomed trails, varying from long flat loops to mountainous climbs and decents into wonderful redwood canyons. Also, day passes available for VERY small groups into the Blumquist Reservation, about 8 miles further east.
Submitted By: Diana Tiernan Click Here

La Honda: I live in San Mateo County and we have a great horse camp here. Jack Brook Horse Camp is located just outside of La Honda CA. and is run by San Mateo County Parks and Recreation Dept.
For reservations call 650-363-4000. This camp has at least 40 pipe paddocks, hot showers, full kitchen set up, the works. Reservations are tough to get as it is booked at least a year in advance.
There are two other camp sites (2 and 3) which can each accommodate 9 people.
Web Page Click Here
Submitted By: Judi Baskin Click Here
Judi Baskin, New Century Equestrians. Web Page Click Here

Wheatland: Campfar West. located outside of wheatland california. there is overnight camping, fishing, boating. ect. trails for ever to ride on and backs up to spencerville wildlife preserve. call Cindy Hollis for more info 530-633-2121. ( i think.)
Submitted By: Laurie Bernard Click Here

Placerville: Slypark Campground, located on Jensen Lake above Placerville california and before Tahoe. Over night camping and the Black oak equestrian campground. there are fees. nice place but short rides.
Submitted By: Laurie Bernard Click Here

There's a lot of general County information at our website at alpinecounty.com, but for riding, both the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness and the Mokelumne Wilderness are great for day and overnight trips. The Carson Iceberg is accessed from Markleeville, California via Highways 88, 89 south and 4 at the Wolf Creek Meadows and from Hwy 395 at the former Antelope Pack Station near Walker, California. The Mokelumne can be accessed from Highway 88, and several trailheads in Hope Valley.
If people have questions, email me, or call us at 530-694-2475.

Submitted By: Bob Anderson  ,Alpine County Chamber of Commerce, Click Here
Web Page: Alpine County Click Here
Bob Anderson
Executive Director
Alpine County Chamber of Commerce

City of Norco,California as a place to ride. We have 44,000 horses that live here. We have more than 80 miles of trail on the city streets alone. This does not include 6,000 acres of verdant river bottom (River Trails Park-a bird sanctuary with more than 2,000 types of birds). There are other parks that are adjacent to this one making it possible to ride from the mountains to the sea (we are in the middle). We also have some nice steep hills for those endurance riders who wish to condition their horses for endurance riding. Naturally, we have a thriving area for those who show in all disciplines as well. The city was written up in Equus Magazine several years ago since it has the most liberal zoning laws in California as to horse ownership per lot size.

Anza Borrego - Stagecoach Trails RV, Equestrian and Wildlife Resort-
Tents or Full Hook-ups, Rental Units, Located at 7878 Great Southern Overland Stage Route, Julian, Ca 92036.
760-765-2197, or 1-877-896-2267 (fax) 1-760-765-1606
Adjacent to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park , California Riding and Hiking trail. Endless opportunities for hiking and wildlife discovery . Pipe corrals for horse camping, Horsegate for easy access to State park. Good place to ride in the winter.
Web Page: Stagecoach Trails resort Click Here
Submitted By: Linda Davis Click Here

KELTY MEADOWS: Horse Camp Ground / Sierra National Forest Aprox. 14 mi. N. of Oakhurst (N. of Fresno on the way to Yosemite) off of Hwy. 41. Aprox. 1 mi. N. of Rd 222 (turn-off to Bass Lake) Turn Right on Rd. 632 (Sierra Sky Ranch Rd.) Kelty Meadows is located between the Texas Flat turn-off and Fresno Dome Camp Grounds This is a "specific" Horse Camp at the 5,200' elev. with 12 sites, by a beautiful Meadow and towering view of Fresno Dome. It has no potible water, but does have creek water for Stock. There are "pit" Toilets, some hitch rails & fire pits. High-lining is permited. Terain is easy with many fire-road type trails that go off in all different directions. Great for beginners. Reservations are a MUST between May & September, made in advance by calling California Land Management CampGround Reservation Service 1-800-280-2267.
Submitted By: George & Victoria Ritchie BCHC-San Joaquin / Sierra Unit Click Here

Texas Flat: Camp Ground w/ Group Horse Facilities / Sierra National Forest This is aprox the same distance as Kelty Meadows from Oakhurst, but in a different direction. Take Rd. 623 (Sierra Sky Ranch Rd.) just 1 mi. past Rd. 222, (the Bass Lake Rd. turn-off), and follow signs that say Texas Flat.
Horse facilities are in the very back of the CampGround. Stop at Campground Host Trailer, and ask Jess West about Trails & Information. He's been up there in that area for Years! No pottible water. Creek Warter for Stock. Pit Toilets. Hitching Rails & Fire Pits. Reservations are a must between May & September, made in advance by calling California Land Management CampGround Reservation Service 1-800-280-2267.
Submitted By: George & Victoria Ritchie BCHC-San Joaquin / Sierra Unit Click Here

Nevada City: Skillman Flat Horse Camp was built by the Gold Country Trails Council in the beautiful Tahoe National Forest at the 5000-foot elevation. Enjoy marked, dedicated trails, while exploring this beautiful and scenic area.

Just 15 miles east of Nevada City, California, off Highway 20, the Skillman Flat Horse Camp provides 15 individual campsites, 4 horse corrals 12x14 each, tie rails, water for stock, fire rings and restrooms. There is ample campsite parking for your vehicle and horse trailers.

Group and individual sites available.
$20. per night per space
Double site with corrals.
Entire campground (15 spaces) per night
Special events rates are available
Information and Reservations 530-478-9664
Between the hours of 7 am to 8 am and 6pm to 10 pm daily
Submitted By: Barbara Spring, Secretary, Gold Country Trails Council Click Here
Web Page: Gold Country Trails Council Click Here

Sierraville: Little Lasier Meadows Horse Camp was established by the Gold Country Trails Council, at a Pacific Crest Trailhead, near a beautiful meadow and stream.

The camp provides:
12 campsites (2 vehicles each)
Picnic tables, fire rings, hitching rails, water for stock, restrooms
$13.00 per night per site

Information and Reservations call:
Truckee Ranger District 530.587-3558
Sierraville Ranger Station 530-994-3041
Reservation Fee: $8.

Directions: The campground is located near the Jackson Meadows Reservoir. Take Highway 80 to Highway 89, toward Sierraville. Travel approximately 15 miles on Highway 89 to the Jackson Meadows turnoff, which is Fiberboard Road. Proceed approximately 15 miles to the East Meadows turnoff. Go across a metal bridge, take the first left turn and its' approximately 2 miles to the Little Lasier Meadows Horse Camp.

Submitted By: Barbara Spring, Secretary, Gold Country Trails Council Click Here
Web Page: Gold Country Trails Council Click Here

Santa Barbara, Hwy 154 to Paradise Road to Upper Oso Campground
Campsites with pipe corrals, tables, fire rings, running piped water and bathrooms with flush toilets.
Access to MANY beautiful trails in the Los Padres National Forest. Access to Santa Ynez River and swimming holes.
Certain campsites can be reserved ahead of time by calling Reserve USA.
Campground can sometimes be closed during the winter/spring due to rains and high river crossings so call Ranger District ahead of time.
Submitted By: Michelle MacGilfrey Click Here

South Lake Tahoe: Bring your horse and a friend to enjoy the fresh air and incredible trails through meadows, streams and the forest. For a longer ride, trail to Lake Tahoe!

A beautiful home with 2 decks, hammock, BBQ, gourmet kitchen and formal dining area. There is a panoramic view from almost every room.
Two private bedrooms with their own full baths.
Internet access available. Steam bath with jetted tub.

Ormsby Drive
South Lake Tahoe, CA
Phone: 530-545-0476
E-mail: Mountian Meadow Getaway Click Here

As the Controversy and Rumors abound, about Horses NOT being allowed in Yosemite, friends of ours just (recently) Horse Camped in the (3-sites) at Wawonna Horse Camp Sites / by the old Stables (now shut down).....and.....at also camped in the Bridleveil Horse Camp (3-sites) up in Bridleveil CampGrounds up on the Glacier Point Rd......both IN Yosemite National Park.......so.......for at least THIS year, they have not completely shut us out from Camping there. Reservations MUST be made in advance, so call Yosemite National Park Reservations. 1-209-372-0200
Submitted By: George & Victoria Ritchie BCHC-San Joaquin / Sierra Unit Click Here

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We have made 5 trips to Bridleveil campground in the last 2 yrs and of those 5 every time we were told the campground was full. When we got there -most times we were the only ones there.
We can't figure out if they are trying to get rid of us horsepeople or just have a lousy reservation system. When you call to make reservations if you are told it is full please ask them to check again to make sure. Many times they are lumping the 3 sites in with the regular camping sites.
There use to be 6 camp sights but because they are not used ( res always shows full ) we are loosing them.
Submitted By: M D Click Here

Information from Andrea Loveday

Just returned from camping at Yosemite valley, boarding the horses at Yosemite stables. Although Yosemite is always a good trip, I would not return to the valley with horses. Most of the trails where horses are allowed have been at least partially paved with asphalt, which is very slippery for shod horses. Even the trail that leads to the top of Nevada Falls and to the John Muir trail, which is specifically marked for horses, starts out this way, and then transitions to granite - we found out later that the stable only takes mules on this trail. You better have a pretty sure footed horse for this trail. In addition, every time we asked about good horse trails, or looked for a map, no one, even the people at the stable, had any info. There is still a horse camp at Wawona, but again the trails were hard to find, and the locals gave poor information. So, in short - stick to the designated horse camps, and do good research on the trails ahead of time, because you may not get much information there.
Submitted By: A.L. Click Here

16 acre camp adjacent to the Mokelumne Coast to Crest Trail (MCCT) Staging Area at Camanche South Shore.
It has seven sites:
Two single family sites that accommodate a maximum of eight persons with two vehicles two trailers and four horses.
Two double sites.
Two triple sites that accommodate double and triple the single site capacity.
One quad site that accommodates a maximum of 32 persons and 8 vehicles with trailers and 8 horses.
All sites have picnic tables, a fire ring/barbecue grill, a paddock for each horse, lantern stands, and close access to water.
One of the single sites has accessible facilities including a transfer platform to assist in getting on and off horses.

Equestrian campers with East Bay MUD trail permits will have access to 7.25 miles of trail at the campground, and can trailer to North Shore for 5.1 miles of trail and a 3 mile loop, or to Pardee Reservoir for 10.6 miles of trail.
Work is in progress on the segment that will connect the trail at Camanche with the trail at Pardee. When completed there will be 21 miles of continuous trail on EBMUD's Mokelumne watershed.
Showers, coin-operated laundry, an RV dump station and a general store are available to equestrian campers elsewhere in the park.

Reservations can be made by calling the South Shore Park Office at (209) 763-5178, weekdays from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.
Web Page: Lake Camanche Click Here
Web Page: East Bay MUD Click Here

Submitted By: A.L. Click Here

Another site for horse camping is Tuolomne Meadows. ( to al a me ) This is a verrrrry long haul in and you better bring extra gas for the trip out BUT it is woth it. Your at aprox 9000' so it gets cold at night. You will be ridding some of the original John Muir Trail. If you have the time, ride this area. Res are necessary and you'll need to make them early in the year for summer.
Submitted By: M D Click Here

Barstow: We have here in the beautiful high desert country a facility for groups, singles, overnight stay or weekend trail riding.
R & L Cross Ranch is located approx. 30 miles south of Barstow, CA on Hwy 247, and approx. 15 miles north of Lucerne Valley, CA.
The facilities include: 50 pull thru spaces, restroom/shower, full kitchen in clubhouse, BBQ's, firepit, rec hall, lighted arena, wash rack, corrals, feed, and best of all, over 200 miles of mapped and rated trails in the surrounding hills, desert and mountains.
Your hosts are Bob and Lorraine Cross, very ameniable and ready to meet your club's desires, or help you with your overnight stay on your journey.
This IS a destination resort in the making! The best time for riding is fall thru spring, the trails range from flat and easy to long and steep. This place is easy to get to, but a little isolated and a whole lot quiet!
For information call (760) 774-9542 R & L Cross Ranch.
Submitted by: Janida Baader, Apple Valley Click Here

There are many places to stay and ride with horses in the Los Padres National Forest from San Luis Obispo to Ventura, in Southern California.

Look at our web site http://www.slopost.org under projects and find the Cuesta/Sespe Trail.
Cuesta/Sespe Trail web page Click Here
Submitted by: Steve Shaw Click Here

70 miles East of San Diego, 50 miles West of El Centro, Interstate 8.
30 Full Hookups for RV's ($20/night), 30 Primitive Campsites ($10/night)
Use of 2 10x10 Pipe Corrals, Showers, Restrooms, Riding Trails, Arena
Bring your own horse to camp and trail ride. Owned and Operated by the Manzanita Indian Tribe
Addr:
Manzanita Horse Camp, 80 Hubble Road, PO Box 1302, Boulevard, CA 91905
Phone: (619)766-4070, Fax:(619)766-4957
Manzanita Horse Camp, web page Click Here
Manzanita Horse Camp, web page Click Here
Submitted by: Kristi Bruner Click Here

Horse friendy RV Park and horse trails located near the Mendocino National Forest. The Black Butte Country Store and RV Park has camping facilities, corrals and stalls, a training ring, trails nearby, and the Mendocino National Forest right next door.
Directions:
Corner of Mendocino Pass Road and Etsel Ridge Road, Covelo, California 95428
Open 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Call 707-983-9434 for reservations
Please check out our web site at
Black Butte Country Store and RV Park Click Here
Owners, Scott and Kathy Mitchell and can be reached at mailto:blackbutte@saber.net
E-Mail: Scott and Kathy Mitchell Click Here

Ivey Ranch, located in Thousand palms, California.
Approx 40 miles of scenic desert trails we are located 1.5 miles N/E of Intestate 10 along the foothill mountains. 3.5 hours to Arizona border, 2.5 hours to San Diego. 2 hours to beach/ mountain/los angelos. A perfect stop over for people and their horses/mules traveling through.
We have 24 by 24 shaded corrals with water and Hay twice a day. We offer a barbacue pit and picnic tables with plumbed restrooms, no showers.
We have two round pens, two working arenas, and a wash rack that holds 4 horses at a time.
Access to water only at the ranch, $5.00 per night if you provide your own feed. $10.00 per night if we do it. Minimal camping facilities. Motels approx 2 miles away.
We operate year round.
John Ivey ( owner/operater ) PH (760) 343-4251
You can also reach us at IveyStables@aol.com
E-Mail John Ivey Click Here

McCall Park is $ 15.00 per night for a camp space. That includes 2 10 x 10 horse corrals, 1 rig, 6 people, and 1 extra vehicle. The number for McCall Park is (909) 659-2311. To get there, take highway 74 from Palm Desert to Mountain Center. The sign for McCall Park is just past the Mountain Center intersection. Follow the signs from there. You will turn right on McCall Park Road. It's very easy.
From Hemet, take hwy 74 'til you see the sign for McCall Park. You will be truning left from that direction. From Interstate 10, take the 243 out of Banning to Mountain Center. Turn right on 74 and follow the signs. From Anza, turn left on 74 and go just past Mountain Center. Follow the signs.
McCall Park has restrooms and showers. The showers cost 25 cents to use, so bring quarters. Cos is the manager. He's very nice and easy to get along with. He will tell you that reservations are required, but most of the time it's first come, first served. This weekend was the first time that we have seen all the corrals full. Usually, it's pretty quiet.
Submitted By: Diane Click Here

The new equestrian center is Ribbonwood.
Reservations are required and the money needs to be received by the parks dept 5 days before your arrival. The gate is always locked unless you have made reservations. The cost for day use is $ 10.00 per rig. To camp there is $ 15.00 per night, per rig.
The directions to Ribbonwood are: Hwy 74 out of Palm Desert to the first paved road just past Sugarloaf. Follow the signs. It's just across from Pinyon pines campground. You will be turning left. The gate is on the right before you get to the trash area.
From Hemet, take the 74 almost to Sugarloaf, just across from Pinyon Pines Campground. From I 10, you can take the 243 out of Banning. Go left on 74 and follow the signs. Fron Anza, Turn right on 74 fron the 371 and, again, follow the signs.
The number is (909)659-2117.
Submitted By: Diane Click Here

Squaw Leap horse campgrounds near Oakhurst and Coursegold, one hour from Fresno.
This is on BLM land, but with nice campsites and pipe corrals, water, toilet, firepits and picnic tables. My husband and I were there last fall, opening day of dove season, and we were the only ones to enjoy such a great spot. The only hazard: a group of rogue BLM horses who raided and destroyed much of our camp while we were enjoying our trail ride.
We returned to find them munching up everything they could find: alfalfa pellets, bread, fruit, crackers. It was amazing. I don't think even bears cause this much trouble. The trail to the river is well maintained, but heavily trafficked with (sometimes rude) bicyclists and less bothersome hikers.
The upper trails go through beautiful country, rolling hills, small streams, narrow but passable trails (about 8 miles roundtrip), beautiful valley and river views. We met some benign cattle. Good place to condition your stock and train inexperienced horse and rider. This is foothill country, so it's hot in the summer. Fall and late spring/early summer are great.
Submitted By: Donna Kirkland Click Here

San Diego: Located just one hour from downtown San Diego, San Vicente Inn has room for you and your horse. We have 28 newly decorated lodge rooms complete with HBO, refrigerators, private terraces, coffee makers -all with inspiring views of the mountain ranges and golf course.
Mid-week rates start at $75.00.
24157 San Vicente Road Ramona CA 92065(800) 776.1289

One of our two equestrian centers is the International Equestrian Center with a beautiful setting and offers a wide variety of arenas and work areas. The facility houses 2 hot-walkers, a cross-country course, 2 dressage arenas, 2 jumping arenas, 2 turnouts, 2 large outside wash-racks, hot and cold water wash-racks between barns, and 1 bull pen.
A ½ mile conditioning track circles a beautiful pond in the infield area. The Center is located at 16911 Gunn Stage Road.

The Casey Tibbs Western Center has its own flavor of kick back atmosphere. It offers a large show arena, a trail course, 2 turnouts, a hot-walker, 2 barn wash-racks with hot and cold water, and easy access to horse trails. The Center is located at 15910 Avenel Lane.

Corrals and barns are available for boarding at both centers for $12 per horse. We also have horse trailer parking and tack rooms available.
Miles and miles of horse trails are accessible from the Inn and Equestran Centers.

Please feel free to call the office at (760) 789-3407 if you have any questions or would like reservations.

Directions: From the 15 Freeway: Exit Scripps Poway Road and travel east to Highway 67 and turn left. Continue 11 miles into Ramona and turn right on 10th Street. 10th Street turns into San Vicente Road and the inn is 6.7 miles on the right in Country Estates.
E-mail Cherylee Gillespie Click Here
Web pageSan Vicente Inn and Equestrian Center Click Here

San Diego: Bright Valley Farms is located on a San Diego Wildlife Refuge and totals 44,000 acres near the Sweetwater Springs and is the most organized and professional Western and English trail ranches I have had the pleasure to visit. They allow access to the trails for $5 a day fee, boarding, training, lessons, pony rides or you can rent from one of their 50 plus trail horses and 5 hour trail rides.

The trails are beautiful and the history of the land is immense. The ranch has been there for 47 years and some of the horses just as long.

There is more information available on the website but the truth is you can’t enjoy it until you’ve been there.
Web page Bright Valley Farms Click Here
Submitted By Aliki Triant Click Here

Big Bear: There is wonderful horse camping at Heart Bar in the San Bernardino Mountains near Big Bear California.
There are several horse campgrounds, one of which is Wild horse. There are 11 sites there, each has two pipe corrals. There is water, flush toilets, and free hot showers! The campground has lots of trees, and is very easy to get to.
From the campground there are hundreds of miles of trails. Everything from tight and windy mountain trails, to open fire roads. Reservations can be made through he nation park system at 877-444-6777
Submitted By: Valerie Monroe Click Here

Located 20 minutes from old town Auburn, the Olmstead trails are part of the Auburn State Recreation Area and are extensive enough that you could spend all day riding them and not see them all. Located at the 1500' elevation level above the American River. The Terrain varies from steep climbs, to gently rolling hills, Oak trees on the "dry side" southern exposure, and dense forest on the northern exposure. In the spring and early summer, seasonal creeks run, and cross the trail at some points, but they are very shallow, suitable for water stops for your horse. The Olmstead trails connect to the Western States Trail. You can reach the American River in about 45 minutes riding time, starting from the Olmstead trail staging area parking lot. Some of the olmstead trails are multi-use- (bikes), and some are horse only, they are marked with signs.

To visit these trails, take highway 80 East (From Sacramento) , take the Elm Street Exit, Turn Left at the stop light, follow the signs for Highway 49. You will go down the American River Canyon and up the other side on a winding road. (7 miles) You will enter the tiny town of Cool- Look for the Fire station on the right as you enter Cool. Turn Right at the fire station.(If you get to the flashing stop light, you've gone too far)
The large gravel staging area is behind the fire station. water is available, bathrooms in parking lot, and there are restaraunts right next to the staging area for food.
There is a large display board in the parking lot with an area map, showing the trail system. Trail maps (not very good) can be purchased at Auburn Bike shops. (sorry, I don't have phone number) Small Grocery and gas station on the corner at the flashing stop light.

Submitted By: Amy Parsons, Webmaster Click Here
Web page Cool Trail Riders Club Click Here

Fort Bragg and Mendocino:
Highway 20, east of Highway 1, Fort Bragg. Map available at Forest Service office. PH 707/964-5674
55,000 acres. Some steep areas. Unload at Camp 1 or Camp 20. Many forest & logging roads. Mostly in trees.
Where to Stay: Cleone Lodge, Cleone, two miles north of Ft. Bragg. (800/400-2189) or other motels in Ft. Bragg or Mendo.
Where to Board: Lari Shea's Ricochet Ranch, Ft. Bragg (barn, stalls). 707/964-7669.
Submitted By: Sandy Greenblat, Marin Horse Council Click Here

Boulder Creek, Felton and Ben Lomond, Hwy. 9 & Hwy. 36, Boulder Creek area.
Two large separate State parks. Great trails. Many single track. Facilities at entrance.
Submitted By: Sandy Greenblat, Marin Horse Council Click Here

Bodega Bay: Beach riding + ride the Chanslor Ranch. Call 1st. Boarding available. 707/875-3333
Many motels, or stay at Chanslor Ranch. Reserve in advance.
Where to Board: Chanslor Ranch, or unload at Doran Beach for day rides, or the parking lot out near the boat harbor.
Submitted By: Sandy Greenblat, Marin Horse Council Click Here

Highway 88 south of Lake Tahoe, Off Hwy. 88 south of Carson Pass.
High Sierras. Granite. Steep in places. Some slow going. Views! Allow for altitude.
Stay at campgrounds. Bring feed and provisions for all.
Where to stay: Plasse's Resort. 209/258-8814. Store, restaurant, water, restrooms. Reserve campsites
Submitted By: Sandy Greenblat, Marin Horse Council Click Here

Stoneyford (Highway 5) Take Maxwell Sites Road and follow map. 32 miles.
West of Stonyford on Highway M10. Paved but hilly.
New horse camp. Paved road in. Thousands of acres. Little traffic.
Call 1st re: reservations and water availability.
707 983 6118
Submitted By: Sandy Greenblat, Marin Horse Council Click Here

Placerville, 50 miles, El Dorado NF. West of Tahoe, north of Hwy 50.
Borders Desolation Wilderness. Trail maps available. Remote. Allow for altitude acclimation.
1-800-280-2267
Submitted By: Sandy Greenblat, Marin Horse Council Click Here

Garberville: 707/946-2409. Reservations: call 1/800/444-7275
North of Garberville on Hwy. 101 at Myers Flat. Drive in 9 miles west.
Campsites for 24. Group camp for 75. Improved campgrounds with toilets and showers. Pipe corrals and water troughs.
Cuneo Creek Horse Camp is Class A! Call Rangers for details. Great group camp - barbecue - gathering area.
Submitted By: Sandy Greenblat, Marin Horse Council Click Here

Placerville, 60 miles. 1/800/280-2267
25 miles north of Hwy. 50, west of Tahoe. Take Highways 3 & 33 off of Hwy. 50.
Fairly remote. No electricity. Five campsites. Trail maps available.
Submitted By: Sandy Greenblat, Marin Horse Council Click Here

Fortuna: Humboldt County. 707/777-3416
50 miles east of Fortuna.
Private 9000 acre ranch. 40 miles of trails. Price per day (call for current price) includes all meals and room at ranch. 3 rustic cabins. Hot tub
Some stalls available + one corral. OK to bring portable corrals. Bring feed
Submitted By: Sandy Greenblat, Marin Horse Council Click Here

Carmel Valley: Stay in Carmel Valley and trailer out each day to a different park or riding area.
Ride Garland Park, Fort Ord, Toro and Wilder north of Santa Cruz on your way home.
Where to stay: Acacia Lodge & Hidden Valley Inn PH 800/367-3336
Horse boarding: Holman Ranch, 1.4 mile east of motel.
Submitted By: Sandy Greenblat, Marin Horse Council Click Here

Monterey and Seaside: Highway 1 north of Monterey, Monterey County,
50 miles of multi-use trails. Campsites.
Camp sites, or local motels and trailer in
Submitted By: Sandy Greenblat, Marin Horse Council Click Here

Olema and Point Reyes Station:
Point Reyes Country Inn and Stables. Inn + barns and corrals. Restaurants nearby.
Reserve way ahead of time.
Coast Highway 1 and Sir Francis Drake Blvd., 25 miles east of San Rafael
Submitted By: Sandy Greenblat, Marin Horse Council Click Here

Fairfax, Marin County. 415/488-9897
10 miles west of Fairfax on the way to Point Reyes National Seashore
Some corrals. Paddock area. Water, firepits, creek. Call early.
You must reserve site 1 through the State Park reservation system
Submitted By: Sandy Greenblat, Marin Horse Council Click Here

Muir Beach, Highway 1 near Muir Beach
Accommodates 12 horses, 25 people, 10 vehicles. Water, barbecues, toilets, tables.
Reservations only through Reserve America 1/800/444-7275
Submitted By: Sandy Greenblat, Marin Horse Council Click Here

Chico: Have room for overnight horses and trailor and apartment for people wanting to stop in Chico California and ride in the 3000 acre Bidwell Park.
Deni Whiting
530-343-1814
E-Mail: Deni Whiting Click Here

Springville: You and your horse can enjoy Camp Nelson at the 5,000-ft. level in the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains.

No more worries about where to keep your horse. Make plans to go into the back country. Ride among the Giant Sequoias along miles and miles of trails in the Camp Nelson Area of Giant Sequoia National Monument.

$10 a day per horse! We feed and water--12x24 pipe corrals.
Private swimming and fishing pond stocked with trout, no license required!

Contact Walt and Curly Long for Rates and Information at:
Phone 559-542-6218
Sierra Mountain Horse Resort
242 Cedar Drive
Springville, CA 93265

E-Mail: Sierra Mountain Horse Resort Click Here
Web page Sierra Mountain Horse Resort Click Here

Cassel: We are a Guest Ranch in Cassel, CA, 9 miles east of Burney, CA. We are a family owned & operated Resort. We offer the fishing community a comfortable and relaxing place to vacation, fish, horseback ride and get away from the everyday hustle and bustle.
We are trying to encourage families that this is the place for them. There are many things for the entire family to do while staying at Burney Mountain Guest Ranch. We are the closest Resort to the wild Trout section of Hat Creek, we offer rafting trips down the Pit River, we have horseback trail rides and also a brand new horse motel for your horses, we just built a new swimming pool with a volleyball net in the middle, Burney Falls State Park is less than 10 minutes away, champion golfing is less than 15 minutes away, hike or ride the 2,700 mile Pacific Crest Trail which runs adjacent to our Ranch north to Canada, South to Mexico and there is plenty of Antique shopping within the Intermountain region.
Your price includes one of our deluxe cedar cabins and 3 family style meals per day.
We also have discounted rates for booking the entire Resort.
Burney Mountain Guest Ranch is only a 4 hour drive from the San Francisco Bay Area and only a 3 hour drive from the Sacramento area. If you, your friends or your families would be interested, please visit our web site at www.burneymtn.com
E-Mail: Burney Mountain Guest Ranch Click Here
Web page Burney Mountain Guest Ranch Click Here

Lake Perris State Park has a very nice dry horse camp and a lot of trails going in different directions. Some of it is climbing hills and some is flat riding near the lake.
A nice place to ride for experienced and not so experienced riders. It is located off the Romona Expressway in Perris, Ca. and is operated by the California State Park system.

Submitted By: Penny Warren Click Here

San Jose: Hikers and equestrians have access to an extensive 52 mile trail system. Mountain bikes are permitted on nearly half of the park''s trails as designated. The diverse trail system at the park makes this a popular place to stage large-scale organized trail events such as equestrian endurance rides, mountain bike events and foot races.

It is beautiful old Ranch property, and cattle still graze in the tradition, and the Ranch house has been perserved as a musuem. In addition, in the proper season (early sunsets) there is an astronomy program.

This park has 8 equestrian individual campsites, first come first serve, currently $16 per night.
Calling to make sure there is no competing event with your intended date, is advised, and since staff are in field do call a few days in advance. The group equestrian campsite available for reservation, reservations made by calling (408) 355-2201 M-F 8:30-3:30 and of course cost.

The Joseph D. Grant County Park is located at 18405 Mt. Hamilton Rd., San Jose, CA 95140, in the east of Santa Clara Valley. Travel to the park by taking Highway 101 or Highway 680 to Alum Rock Avenue eastbound in San Jose.
Turn right onto Mt. Hamilton Road and travel eight miles to reach the park entrance.
Park Office: (408) 274-6121
Submitted By: Janice Frazier Click Here

There is a 600 equestrian park in Cherry Valley, just above Beaumont, California. The name of the park is Bogart. It is 3 miles north of the 10 fwy. The park has many trails and also has 4 pipe corrals, with overnignt camping sites. They do not have any electric hookups. Also has bathrooms, with running water.
Submitted By: Moonsalt37@aol.com Click Here

Yucapia also has a beutiful equestrian park of over 1000 acres. They are in the process of purchasing another 1000. I do not think you can stay overnight. There is water for horses on a few of the trails. They are located in the Wildwood Canyon of Yucapia. Just off of Wildwood Canyon Road.
Submitted By: Moonsalt37@aol.com Click Here

Euer Vally Ranch, Donner Pass/Truckee,Tahoe/Donner National Forest

Northern California

Fees:

$12.00 per night – horse/rider
$7.00 per night – non-rider
$5.00 per night – horse without rider

There are some corrals and lots of trees for high tieing horses. Spring water is available at each of the campsites and there are showers at the main camp, which by the way are very rudamentory. There are also outhouses located throughout the campgrounds.
Review: There are lots of trails that are mostly well marked. Some very steep, some just on the valley floor. Some 2 hour rides, some 4 hour rides. I did see signs of bear, but we weren't bothered on the trail or in camp. Very easy to get there even with a large rig. The people at the ranch make it an absolute delight to stay there. There is no access to Donner Lake though; it's on the other side of the freeway toward Truckee. Trails are well made. No granite riding although lots of granite surrounding. And some cabins you can rent that you can have the horses nearby. Pine trees and scrub brush.
It would be prettier in latter part of June/July. Drier in August. Spoke to some folks who rode in Sept and first part of Oct and they said it was great because less riders. Even though all campgrounds were filled when I went, you couldn't tell. That's how big this place is. There is a beautiful creek that runs through the valley that you, your horse and dog can just sit in if it gets hot. Yes, you can take your dog but PLEASE have it on a leash while in camp.

DIRECTIONS:

Take I-80 to Truckee.
Exit onto Highway 89 North toward Sierraville. (Exit 188B)
Turn Left onto Alder Creek Road (2 miles after exiting I-80, at bottom of hill).
Follow Alder Creek Drive/Road. There are signs for both so don't worry.
Approximately 7 miles down the road you will pass the Tahoe Donner Equestrian Center.
About ¼ mile past Tahoe Donner Equestrian Center, the paved road turns to dirt and rock.
Continue on the dirt road into Euer Valley. The road leads to the right and drops down to your left.
Where the dumpsters are straight ahead, the road takes a sharp left and descends to the bottom.

At the "Y" there is a big sign pointing to the various campgrounds. The cabins and showers are located to your left. The campgrounds are located if you drive straight between the boulders and go over the bridge. There will be signs pointing to different campgrounds.
Phone 530-550-9011

Submitted By: Ginger Barton Click Here

Black Butte River Ranch is a 14 acre resort at the edge of the Mendocino National Forest near Covelo CA.
We have a 14 full hook up RV site adjacent to 9 paddocks and a seven acre pasture.
We also have two cabins and a 26 foot travel trailer available.
There is a small laundry facility and country store on the property. The ranch is located with the Eel river at one end and the Black Butte River at the other.

To get to the ranch take highway 162 east off highway 101 about 12 miles north of Willits Ca. Follow 162 through the town of Covelo and continue east for about 12 miles. We are across the road from the Eel River Work Station for the U.S. Forestry Service.
Our address is 34985 Etsel
Ridge Rd., Covelo, Ca. 95428.
Ph# (707) 983-9438.
The web address is:
Web page Black Butte River Ranch Click Here
E-Mail: Thomas Ochsner Click Here

Little Grass Valley Reservoir in the Plumas National forest just north of the town of La Port. They have eight camp grounds around the resevoir, one being a horse camp.
It's primitive but each camp site has picnic table, fire pit and hitching post. There are 10 camp sites at the horse camp, no water in camp but drop toilets and water and dump station available a couple of miles away.
fee is $20 per night.

Nice trails, one that I believe goes all the way around the reservoir and a trail head right at the camp that goes to to bald mountain. The elevation is about 5000 feet.

We were there on Saturday and Sunday nights and were the only people in the camp.
Web page Little Grass Valley Reservoir Click Here

The Marble Mountain Wilderness is 227,000 acres of spectacular riding & hiking trails. The Pacific Crest Trail (running from Mexico to Canada) runs thru the center of this Wilderness Area, and the Kelsey National Recreation Trail passes thru the Northern end of the Wilderness. Marble Mountain Wilderness is in the southern end of the Cascade Range, just South of the Oregon border.

This historic trail was a primary trade route during the 1850's, traveled by countless mule trains making their way between mining camps along the Scott and Shasta Rivers and the ocean ports at Crescent City. The Marble Mountain Wilderness, the Russian Wilderness and the Trinity Alps Wilderness are all connected, and are all chock full of amazing trails, vistas, meadows, lakes and forests. The following description is taken from the Forest Service Wilderness map: "The Marble Mountain Wilderness is one of California's oldest formally designated wilderness areas. It was originally established in 1931 as the Marble Mountain Primitive Area, and was reclassified as Wilderness in 1953. The Marbles then became one of the original wildernesses in the National Wilderness Preservation System, established by the Wilderness Act of 1964. It was named for Marble Mountain, a huge monolith of white marble standing 6,880 feet above sea level. Boulder Peak, 8,299 feet, is the highest point in the wilderness. The mouth of Wooley Creek at the wilderness boundary is the lowest pint at 640 feet.

The Marble Mountain Wilderness has about 700 miles of trails.
The Marble Mountain Wilderness has many Trail Head accesses, from a number of directions. (NOTE: I'll just list a few of them today - and hopefully get back here and add some more later.

These first trail-heads can be accessed thru Scott Valley. To reach Scott Valley from I-5:
Heading South: Take the last Yreka exit, marked Hwy. 3, Ft. Jones & Weaverville.
Follow Hwy. 3 over the mountain and down into Scott Valley. The first town you will come to is Ft. Jones (which is only a couple blocks long). There is a gas station, grocery store, hardware store, Ranger office, and a few good restaurants in Ft. Jones. There is also a small motel, and a couple nice B & B's.
Can also contact me (rgroves@sisqtel.net) if you need a place to stay for your horses/mules.

Lover's Camp Trail Head:
You can reach this trailhead by following Scott River Road out of Ft. Jones for about 15 miles. Watch for the sign to "Indian Scotty", which is a Forest Service Camp-ground right at the bottom of the road going into the Trail Head. The TH is about 9 miles up the road.
It's paved all the way up, but is only one lane - so be alert as there are logging trucks which also use this road. Lover's Camp TH is a developed TH with camping facilities including free public corrals, water, nice out-houses which are handicapped accessible, hitch rails and loading ramp. There are separate parking/camping areas for hikers and stock users. There are also a couple commercial packer stations set up just before reaching the public TH areas.

Boulder Creek TH:
Follow the directions towards Lover's Camp TH, but you will make a turn to the Left a mile or so above Indian Scotty Camp-ground. Watch for the sign to Boulder Creek TH. This is not a developed camp area TH, but you can camp here if you like. The trail leading out of this TH is steep, but it's a nice short-cut if you are heading to Deep Lake or Wright Lakes and you are short on time/days.

Box Camp TH:
Follow the directions towards Lover's Camp TH, but at about 7 miles up the road watch for the signs directing you to Box Camp. This is not a heavily used TH, but it does have corrals.

Paradise Lake TH:
Follow the directions to Box Camp, and just keep on going. Paradise Lake TH is the last TH on this road. It is an easy ride of just a few miles into Paradise Lake and the PCT (Pacific Crest Trail) from this TH.

Kelsey Creek Trail Head:
You can reach this trailhead by following Scott River Road out of Ft. Jones. Go past Indian Scotty Camp-ground turn off, which is about 14 miles down river. Go another few miles till you cross a fair sized bridge over the Scott River. The turn off to the TH is immediately after you cross the bridge, to your Left. This is not a highly used TH, and there are some nice unimproved camp sites at the TH. The trail out of this TH is the historic Kelsey Creek Trail.

Shackleford Creek Trail Head:
This TH can be reached by turning Right on Scott River Road after going thru Ft. Jones.
About 7 miles down this road, look for the old red schoolhouse to the left. Signs on Scott River Road will indicate Quartz Valley. Turn left here and follow the road about 4 miles to the Shackelford Trailhead Road, where you will turn right. The road itself is marked Forest Service road number 43N21, and also is well marked for Shackleford TH. The TH is another 6 miles or so up the dirt road. This TH has corrals, hitching rails, and trailer parking separate from hiker parking. The out-houses are in the hikers parking area. There is no running water, but there is a creek for stock water. This TH gives you access to a number of nice lakes within just a few miles, the largest of which are Campbell and Cliff Lakes.

Kidder Lake Trail Head and Shelly Meadows Trail Head:
To reach these Trailheads, you follow Hwy. 3 thru Ft. Jones and continue on a number more miles till you turn Left onto Quartz Valley Road. At the first intersection, turn Left.
At the Post Office, turn Right. Follow this road until you reach the TH. It will turn into a dirt road within a mile or two from the PO. The Shelly Meadows TH is not marked, and cannot really be seen from the road. It will be on your Left. There will be a couple turn-offs to the left before you reach it. You might want to stop and walk around the corner of the turns to find the right one. The correct one has a wooden bridge, which usually has a closed gate across it. There are areas to park your rig both to the right and left before the bridge. Do NOT attempt to ride your stock across the bridge.
Take the road to the Right of the bridge, which goes down to the creek, and cross thru the creek. Then follow the FS road up, and stay to the right at the first fork in the road.
Follow this road for about a mile or so up to the old log landing, and the trail takes off up the mountain from here. Do not attempt this TH creek crossing early in the season when the water is high.

To reach the Kidder Lake TH, continue on up the road past the Shelly Meadows TH. You will come to a sharp bend in the road which goes to the right - the TH is directly ahead (instead of making the bend). This TH does have a FS Trailhead board at the trail entrance.
The road from the Shelly Meadows TH up to Kidder Lake TH is STEEP.
If you are not sure of the pulling ability of your truck, I recommend parking at the Shelly TH and riding your stock up the last 1/2 mile to the Kidder Lake TH. Both of these Trailheads will take you up to the PCT, and you can make a nice day-loop ride between the two of them also.

Rhonda
Zinkel Long Ears & Pack
Custom Made Pack Gear

"I wish I was the person my dog thinks I am"
http://mulepacking.freeservers.com Click Here
E-Mail Zinkel Long Ears & Pack, Rhonda Click Here

• Casper's Park located off Ortega Hwy. Corrals, overnight. Excellent trails for all levels.
• Marshall's Canyon located off 210 fwy/Foothill. Beautiful views and lots of trails.Good for conditioning, lots of creek crossing. Personal favorite.
• Rancho Palos Verdes... some auto traffic, road crossing depending on trail.
• Irvine Park and Rancho Santiago Canyon in Orange Co...variable terrain, easy access, and lots of wild life.

Submitted by: ALCHORN_N_D Click Here

It is a day use only area, but absolutely lovely. It is the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Preserve. It is on Clinton Keith Road off the 15 Freeway (Murrietta Area) in Southern California. Take the 15 Freeway towards Temecula. Exit at Clinton Keith Road and go west about 5 miles. You will pass the Nature Center on the left hand side of the road. It is a lovely place to visit with history, exhibits, clean bathrooms, picnic tables and miles of hiking. If you continue on up Clinton Keith Road about a mile and a half, you will see the Equestrian parking lot on the right. There is lots of parking for your rig, shade trees surrounding it, picnic tables, hitching posts and a big water cistern with ever-flowing water for your horses. The trails are lovely. They pass through meadows, up wooded hills, over sagebrush areas. Lots of wildflowers in the spring and early summer.
Some creeks in the spring. We frequently see rabbits, coyotes and last time we visited, we saw a bobcat! Birdlife is abundant also. The trails are well maintained and pass through a variety of terrain. Lots of shade and lovely vistas. It's a great day ride as it will take 4-6 hours to see most of the reserve. It is about 15 miles from the ocean (as the crow flies), so its much cooler than most of the area because of the ocean breezes that come through there. You can leave the preserve via one trail and will be in the La Cresta area where there are miles of equestrian trails that are maintained by homeowners in the area.
Another interesting thing to see in the area, although you can't take your horses there, are the vernal pools which are located across the road and about one mile further west on Clinton Keith. The vernal pools are only in existence in the spring and harbor tons of wildlife, including frogs, turtles, water snakes, etc. You can hike to them from the parking area (again its on Cllinton Keith road). Its about a half mile from the road and is an easy, level hike. There are boardwalks built out over the vernal pools. Very interesting to visit. The cost of visiting the Equestrian Trails is $3.00 per person and the money is deposited in the 'iron ranger' there in the parking lot. For more information--or to have us meet you there and ride with you, contact Martha Allen at mallen1@earthlink.net.
Submitted by: Martha Allen Click Here

(Note from Chuck Olsen - web site author)
Mark is interested in trail information for this area. If you have additional info. please contact Mark. Mark's E-mail: Mark Carter (mark@spiralcomm.net) Click Here

Of course we would like to have it on the Horse and Mule Trail riders web page to.

I've been collecting trailnotes for the past three years, with an eye toward a comprehensive guide to the central and southern Sierras, between Yosemite NP and Walker Pass. I don't take my animals to Yosemite, though, and have no notes for it. All of my trips so far use westside trailheads. I plan to explore some eastside entries to the Sierras next season. In the springtime.

TRAILHEADS in SEQUOIA and KINGS CANYON NP

ROARING RIVER AREA
General:
All trailhead camps are in Sequoia National Forest (c.f. Seq. Nat. Park), which in this area, is more or less surrounded by Kings Canyon National Park . Gently rolling, forested granite hills, make the area especially attractive to the day-rider and week-end camper.

Because of budget problems, some trails are not well-maintained, but the ones that are open are in good condition, suitable for riders and stock of all skill levels. (For glaring exceptions, see caution, below.)

Even without venturing into the back-country, riders may explore the National Forest near the trailhead camps during several successive trips without exhausting day-ride possibilities. Comparatively gentle terrain offers a rider the opportunity accustom his mount to such features as rocks and streams without having to deal with precipitous drops and dangerously deep waters.

Day-riders may go into the Jennie Lakes Wilderness, and, employing either Marvin Pass Trailhead or Rowell Meadow Trailhead, into the western part of Kings Canyon National Park. Riders well-grounded in pacing their stock in the mountains may enjoy day-long rides that offer breath-taking views of the back-country, while being able to return to a comfortable camp at the end of their excursion.

Travelers with back-country aspirations may explore Roaring River, Cloud Canyon, and Deadman Canyon, all of which are fine examples of wilderness travel into some of the more spectacular areas of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Riders may exit the area on horseback into Cedar Grove and Kern Canyon, but these trails are difficult, lack regular maintenance. I have not ridden these trails in their entirety. Information I have about them is based on unconfirmed rumors and outright lies.

User permits are not required for day-riders into the Jennie Lakes Wilderness, or into the National Park, but fire permits are necessary for all camps, except the fee-camps, which don't allow horses. You must get your fire permit at the Hume Lake Ranger Station, on Highway 180, near Clingan's Junction, some twenty-five miles before you get to the Park gate. Overnight campers into wilderness areas in Kings Canyon National Park must obtain user permits. You may get these permits at Grant Grove, after you enter the Park. (All fire permits are issued by the US Forest Service. Back country user permits are issued from the local Park Service or Forest Service ranger station near the trailhead.)

Fire permits may be used for the entire year, and must be renewed each season. Wilderness User Permits allow you to make a specified trip into the wilderness. Fire permits and user permits are free.

To get to this area, use Highway 180 from Fresno. Do not use the Highway 198 approach from Visalia. This scenic drive is long, twisted, and tedious. This route is prohibited to vehicles pulling trailers with more than a 22-foot axle spread. Although your horse trailer-truck combination is likely to be within this limitation, your stock probably will not enjoy the experience.
Save this tour for when you leave the trailer at home.

When you reach the gate, pay your fee and proceed about four miles to a stop sign, which is the northern terminus of the Generals Highway. To the left, in four miles, is the Grant Grove Visitors Center, where you will find a restaurant, store, gift shop, and a lodge. Because of complications incurred during a recent change of the concession's ownership, the gas station at Grant Grove, for the foreseeable future, no longer sells gasoline. The campgrounds in this area do not have facilities for horse-campers.

The Visitors Center, in addition to providing the necessary user permits, will have a good supply of trail maps of the area you will be visiting. When you are done here, return to the stop sign at the terminus of the Generals Highway.

This time follow the Generals Highway about seven miles (south), where a sign near the pullout at Mt. Baldy will prepare you for the sudden appearance of the road to Big Meadows and its environs, to the left. Follow this rather narrow paved road for about eight miles to the horse camp at Big Meadows. Since everything in the area seems to be named after Big Meadows, take care to distinguish between the horse camp, the trailhead, and the regular campgrounds (which have no facilities for horse-campers). The horse camp is on your left, the first campground you will encounter.

Big Meadows Horse Camp.
Elevation: Benchmark 7661 feet.
No Fee.
Five corrals. Highlines possible.
Water nearby for stock only.
Fire Pits.
Toilet.
At this comfortable horse camp, you may enjoy, during certain week- ends, the shoulder-to-shoulder conviviality of other horse-campers. In mid- season, you may share the area with cattle, and in September, with deer hunters. The corrals are small, but each is large enough to hold two horses who are confirmed buddies. Users are limited to 14 days. Back-country travelers may not leave their vehicles unattended.

The dirt road adjacent to the horse camps leads north to Buck Rock Campground, 1/2 mile. This camp, though primitive, has a toilet, and sea- sonal water for your stock only.

Big Meadows Trailhead.
The trailhead, one mile east of the horse camp, has ample parking for horse trailers, but no camping facilities. A pay phone is in a kiosk just before the entrance to the trailhead parking lot. Back-country travelers may leave their vehicles here while they are in the wilderness.

Rowell Meadow Trailhead.
No Fee.
Parking for trailers.
Potable water from a spigot.
Hitch post. Limited space for Highlines.
Toilet.
Follow the paved road east, past the Big Meadows Trailhead, three public campgrounds (for non-equestrians), and cross a narrow bridge over Big Meadows Creek. The road here becomes a one-track affair, though paved, that dips gently into a canyon until it reaches the bridge over Boulder Creek, where it climbs out the other side of the canyon to a signed junction. Go right at the junction, taking the dirt road past the Horse Corral Pack Station. The trailhead is two miles from the junction.

This newly-constructed trailhead may not be printed on some older maps. Look for Sunset Meadow. Sunset Meadow, about 1/2 mile before Rowell Meadow Trailhead, has no camping facilities. Those who wish to graze their stock there should be aware of the old barbed-wire fence, hidden in the grass around the perimeter of the meadow.

Marvin Pass Trailhead.
No camping facilities.
Ample parking for several trailers.
No water nearby. Water is available along the trail to Rowell
Meadow.

Horse Corral Meadow.
De facto campsites.
Water for stock in nearby Horse Corral Creek.
Instead of turning toward the Rowell Meadow Trailhead at the top of the grade out of Boulder Creek, take the left fork across the small bridge over Horse Corral Creek, for about two miles, until you come to a concrete bridge, and a sign that points the way to Marvin Pass Trailhead.

Do not turn, but continue straight for a couple of hundred yards, until you see a fence on your right. Campsites are on either side of the road. The fence marks private property owned by the Goins Cattle Company, and their territory comprises most of the expansive meadow.

You may obtain water for your stock in nearby Horse Corral Creek, but you must boil it thoroughly before using it yourself. These campsites are primitive, with no toilet facilities, and the fire pits probably will have to be reconfigured before you use them. Cattle are usually confined behind the fence, or else are driven over Marvin Pass into grazing concessions in the Jennie Lakes Wilderness, but sometimes roam the area around the campsites.
A dirt road leading north from the camps goes to Little Horse Corral Meadow, about 1/2 mile, with lush grass and a seasonal stream, but which is not usually accessible to vehicles towing trailers. Marvin Pass Trailhead is about a forty-five minute ride (by horse) up the dirt road to the south. You may park your vehicles and trailers there, but there are no camping facilities.
Rowell Meadow is about an hour's ride past the trailhead.

Other de facto campsites are available in the National Forest near both Big Meadows Horse Camp and Horse Corral Meadow. However, these campsites are not necessarily located in obvious places. If your first choice in campsites doesn't suite you, consider a day-ride on your first day to reconnoiter the area for a more suitable location.

Routes:
Jennie Lake is about eight miles from the Big Meadows Horse Camp, a round-trip within the range of most horses (and riders) who are in good condition. Other, nearer, destinations in the Jennie Lakes Wilderness provide wonderful views on moderate to easy trails. Numerous other routes exist in this area.

From Horse Corral Meadow, consult your map for routes on the dirt road toward Summit Meadow, Lookout Peak, and other areas overlooking the canyon above Cedar Grove. As mentioned above, the trails down into Cedar Grove may be suitable for the Men From Snowy River who visit the area, but most of the rest of us would rather take our horses home alive.

Caution: Poop Out Pass, near Jennie Lake, has a short section of dangerous trail on its eastern approach. This steep, twisty, ill-constructed rock chute is littered with loose rock, and features movable steps about two feet high. The chute dumps abruptly onto a well-graded trail that contours along the bluff below Jennie Lake. Experienced riders on seasoned trail horses can safely negotiate this brief but brutal section without too much trouble. Everyone must exercise extreme caution.
Those tempted to (illegally) circumnavigate this passage should survey the area carefully before choosing a route.

Caution: On some maps, a trail seems to lead from Heart Meadow into Boulder Creek, where it crosses the creek, then follows Horse Corral Creek up the bluff to a place near the Horse Corral Pack Station. Don't believe the map. The bridges that used to span both creeks no longer exist, and the crossings are extremely hazardous. In addition, blow- downs on the steep bluffs above both creeks may render the trail impassable. Likewise, the trail that used to connect Boulder Creek to Burton Pass, via Little Boulder Grove, is similarly impassable.

Caution: The narrow stream crossing above the gravesite in lower Deadman Canyon looks deceptively easy. During periods of thunderstorm activity or early-season snow melt, the water may be too deep to cross safely. The bones of a horse that didn't make the crossing (spring of 1996) are scattered among the bushes near the grave.

Notes: Horse Corral Pack Station, mentioned above, sometimes boards outside horses. They also offer the full range of pack station services. Contact them at 209-565-3404. As with all facilities of this kind, you should make arrangements in advance for their services.

CEDAR GROVE AREA
General:
All campsites in this area are in Kings Canyon National Park. You get there by taking Highway 180 past Grant Grove. This excellent road follows a meandering ridge line until it begins its spectacular nine-mile descent into the confluence of the middle and north forks of the Kings river, where it winds its way along the river to Cedar Grove. As you approach Cedar Grove, follow the sign to the pack station.

A nearby private concession operates a restaurant and store. They also have lodging, usually available only by reservation.
Although many day-ride possibilities exist in this beautiful valley, equestrian users are limited with respect to where they may keep their stock. They must use the Ranger Corral adjacent to the commercial pack station at Cedar Grove for their stock, and must camp in one of the several public campgrounds in the area. The Ranger Corral, about forty-feet square, is divided into two sections, one of which is sometimes used to hold Park Service stock. Livestock is prohibited on the paved roads around Cedar Grove, and in the public campgrounds.

Contact the Cedar Grove Pack Station for information about keeping stock in the Ranger Corral. They charge a fee of $5.00 per animal per day for its use. The Pack Station is owned by the Loverin family. They may be reached during the summer season at 209-565-3464. They also offer a full range of pack station services, including day-rides. Do not count on the availability of corral space if you arrive unannounced.

During the middle of the season, this area of Kings Canyon National Park is very popular with wilderness hikers, car campers, and day hikers. Its use declines significantly in September and October. Excepting the commercial pack station and a few National Park Service packers, equestrian use in this area is light.

Equestrians may enjoy the valley's floor any time after the area opens, usually in early June. But, because of the high elevation of the areas surrounding the canyon, stock users should consider these areas best suited for mid- to late-season use.

The level valley floor, at about 5000 feet elevation, stretches for nearly ten miles, winding its way through a granite canyon, whose walls tower three or four thousand feet above the sides of the valley. Day-riders may wander over easy trails in the valley's floor, taking in magnificent canyon views, without worrying about getting seriously lost.

Seasoned riders on exceptionally well-conditioned stock may take any of several trails that climb out of the valley toward the roaring River area, or, from Hotel Creek or Lewis Creek Trailheads, to the Monarch Divide, and destinations north, into the rugged terrain above the Middle Fork of the Kings River. You may not camp overnight at any of these trailheads. Trail conditions on the Sphinx Creek Trail, the Don Cecil Trail, and the Lewis Creek Trail vary from season to season, according to the availability of trail crews to keep up with blowdowns that occ