Wrights Lake Equestrian Campground
3.9410 reviewsWRIGHTS LAKE
Wrights Lake Equestrian Campground
$36.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$36.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$36 nightly rate applicable for equestrian nonelectric sites during peak season. Additional fees for reservations: $8 online, $9 via call center, and $3 in-person.
About this campground
Saddle up for an unforgettable mountain retreat at Wrights Lake Equestrian Campground, where horse enthusiasts and their four-legged companions find their perfect basecamp. Nestled in a pristine mixed conifer forest with meadows of soft grass underfoot, this specialized campground welcomes riders and packstock animals to explore the Sierra Nevada's hidden trails. The gentle murmur of nearby streams and sweeping mountain vistas create an authentic Western wilderness experience that beckons equestrians from across the region.
The Wrights Lake Equestrian Campground is tailored specifically for equestrian and packstock campers. It is not suitable for non-equestrian visitors.
Historical SignificanceWhile the campground itself may not hold ancient stories, it continues a long tradition of mountain horsemanship in the Sierra Nevada, serving as a modern gateway to the same rugged terrain that has challenged and inspired riders for generations.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 7,000 feet, this mountain sanctuary experiences the full drama of high-altitude weather. Summer days bring crisp, pine-scented air perfect for riding, though afternoon thunderstorms can roll in quickly with dramatic hail and refreshing rain showers. As autumn arrives, golden light filters through the forest canopy while temperatures begin their descent. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, with conditions that demand proper preparation for the extreme cold that grips these elevations.
ElevationRising 7,000 feet into the California sky, this high-altitude haven offers a refreshing escape from valley heat. The thin mountain air carries the essence of pine and wildflowers, while the elevation creates a natural air conditioning that keeps summer temperatures delightfully cool. This lofty perch provides expansive views and access to alpine ecosystems where verdant meadows meet towering evergreens.
Natural Features and SceneryWrights Lake sparkles like a sapphire jewel at the heart of this mountain paradise, inviting visitors to cast a line for trout, take a refreshing dip, or paddle across its pristine waters. The surrounding landscape bursts with life as lodgepole pines and stately firs create a living cathedral overhead. Spring and summer paint the forest floor with splashes of wildflower color - Indian paintbrush, lupine, and mountain asters dance in meadow breezes. The grassy understory provides natural grazing areas while maintaining the delicate balance of this mountain ecosystem.
Geological RegionThis remarkable landscape showcases the Sierra Nevada's signature mixed conifer ecosystem, where ancient geological forces have created the perfect conditions for a diverse forest community. Towering lodgepole pines and aromatic firs dominate the canopy, their roots anchored in granite-rich soils that tell the story of volcanic activity and glacial carving from millennia past. The gentle rolling terrain, punctuated by grassy clearings, reflects the patient work of time and weather in shaping this high-elevation sanctuary.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are accessible, and the campground layout allows for equestrian and packstock accessibility.
Sites SizeSites are moderately sized, but some may be challenging for larger rigs. "Some sites may prove challenging for modest-sized rigs," commented one reviewer.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are located in a grassy, open timber stand with large lodgepole and fir trees that provide partial shade. Privacy is moderate.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites with larger spaces are better suited for modest-sized rigs. Sites near water may require campers to carry water manually for animals. Consider bringing wheeled carts for water transportation.
Best CampsitesMany users praised campsites 077 and 079 for their proximity to facilities and overall experience.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Sites must be occupied by 1 PM the day following the reservation start date.
Check-out
Check-out time is at 1 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is limited to 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One equine or other pack animal is required per site.
Groups
Details about group camping accommodations are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 15 equestrian sites equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and grills. Sites are spaced adequately to accommodate equestrian needs.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites are available but must be claimed onsite. No guarantees upon arrival.
Cancellation PolicyReservations canceled on the day before arrival incur a $10 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night’s use fee. Late cancellation or no-show policies apply. Refund requests are subject to processing fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of recreational activities, primarily catering to equestrian users. Options include horseback riding on designated trails, trout fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming (in nearby Wrights Lake). Wildlife viewing is popular due to the area's serene natural setting. However, several users reported poorly marked trails, making navigation challenging. "The trails are rocky and some are not marked," noted a camper, while another reviewer recommended bringing a detailed paper map.
Hiking
Multiple equestrian trails access the Desolation Wilderness and backcountry. However, users frequently criticized the poor trail marking and rocky footing. Comments included, "Trails were very poorly marked if at all," and "The footing on most of them is mostly bad, with a lot of rock and many steps up and down."Fishing
Fishing is available in the nearby stream and lake, where trout is a popular catch. Motorboats are prohibited, enhancing the quiet atmosphere.Swimming
Visitors can swim in nearby Wrights Lake, which spans 40 acres. The lake's serene and quiet atmosphere makes it ideal for relaxing water activities.Boating
Non-motorized boating activities, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, are allowed on the tranquil waters of Wrights Lake.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, with opportunities to observe local birds and other species in the mixed conifer forest setting.Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational programs are offered at the nearby Wrights Lake Campground amphitheater.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, including kayaking and paddleboarding, are popular.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions can occur during dry weather conditions. Campfires and charcoal fires may not be permitted during these times.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent bear activity requires campers to use appropriate food storage. The rocky trails pose a challenge for horseback riders, with numerous steep steps and uneven surfaces.
Active alertsIce House Road repairs scheduled for May–September 2024 may cause traffic delays. Campfires and charcoal fires may be restricted due to dry conditions.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesJune 27, 2025 - August 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingCampground includes garbage disposal and a dumpster for horse manure. Campers are encouraged to use local firewood to prevent the spread of pests.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Wrights Lake, a shallow 40-acre lake ideal for fishing, swimming, and kayaking. Streams from the spillway flow nearby.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include poorly marked trails, low water pressure, and rocky terrain unsuitable for equestrian activities. Management confusion between federal rules and private contractor policies is also a concern.
HostCamp hosts are noted for their consistent visits and helpful demeanor. Regular checks enhance the camping experience.
Campground Map
WRIGHTS LAKE
Driving directionsFrom Placerville, CA: Travel US-50 east approximately 25 miles to Ice House Road. Turn north onto Ice House Road. Take the 1st right to stay on Ice House Road. Travel approximately 10 miles to the junction with Big Hill Lookout Road/Wrights Lake Tie Road. Turn right toward Ice House Reservoir on the Wrights Lake Tie Road. At approximately 1.2 miles, stay to the left. Travel another 1.7 miles, turn left. Continue approximately 6.2 miles to Wrights Lake Road (Wrights Road). Turn left and travel another 2 miles to the campground.
Road access includes steep and winding roads that may challenge drivers with larger rigs. Ice House Road will undergo repairs between May 2024 and September 2024, which may cause traffic delays. Some reviews suggest taking Wright's Lake Road for a shorter route.Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
3.9
10 reviews
Wrights Lake Equestrian Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews are positive about the campground's facilities and setting, but water issues and poorly marked trails are points of frequent criticism. "Nice horseback rides and then afternoons in the clean lake," highlighted one reviewer, while another stated, "The equine campground is perfect; the trails not so much."
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciated the clean facilities, proximity to Wrights Lake, and the natural beauty of the area. "Toilets are cleaned daily and don’t seem to smell," and "We kayaked around the lake, and it...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include poorly marked trails, low water pressure, and difficulties in refilling water tanks. One camper lamented, "Trails were not in good shape," while another noted, "Extremely...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing a detailed map, as trails are poorly marked. Using Wrights Lake Road instead of Ice House Road for access is also suggested for those with trailers. "Bring a wheeled cart...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with campers enjoying the lake and trails. However, weather can be variable, with occasional hail and rain. One reviewer noted, "The weather was a little extreme...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Loved the campground & access to trails. Our horse loved that there was grass available. We kayaked around the lake & up the creek. It was beautiful." "The campground itself is clean and the...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 076, 077, and 078 received specific mentions. For example, "Site 077 is highly recommended for its proximity to trails and lake access."
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets are accessible, and the campground layout is conducive to equestrian access.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews about pet policies or experiences were noted.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025