Agnew Horse Camp
3.388 reviewsREDS MEADOW SERVICES PO BOX 395, MAMMOTH LAKES, CA 93546, USA
Agnew Horse Camp
$48.00 - $48.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Fee structures for horse sites are $48 per night. Site 15 is charged as a double site but is disputed in reviews as being too small for its designated capacity. Site 14 and Site 13 are charged as single sites.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Reds Meadow Valley, Agnew Horse Camp offers an intimate equestrian retreat where riders and their horses can experience the Sierra Nevada's raw beauty together. This boutique campground features just four thoughtfully designed sites, each complete with its own horse corral, creating a perfect basecamp for wilderness adventures. As the gateway to both the legendary Ansel Adams Wilderness and the geological wonder of Devils Postpile National Monument, Agnew Horse Camp places you at the doorstep of some of California's most breathtaking backcountry, while neighboring Agnew Meadows Campground provides additional amenities just a short walk away.
Agnew Horse Camp is specifically designed for equestrian camping. It features four campsites with horse corrals and serves as an excellent base for horseback riding and hiking.
Historical SignificanceAgnew Horse Camp stands as a cherished gateway to two of the Sierra Nevada's crown jewels – the Ansel Adams Wilderness, named for the legendary photographer who immortalized these peaks, and Devils Postpile National Monument, where ancient lava flows created one of the world's finest examples of columnar basalt. This corridor has long served as a vital passage for explorers, photographers, and wilderness enthusiasts seeking to experience the untamed beauty that has inspired generations of adventurers and artists alike.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Agnew Horse Camp unfold under crystalline Sierra skies, with afternoon temperatures hovering around a refreshing 57°F before dropping to crisp 34°F nights that demand cozy sleeping bags and crackling campfires. Early season visitors should come prepared for nature's welcoming committee – mosquitoes thrive in the lush, wet conditions of late spring and early summer when snowmelt feeds the meadows. Winter's grip often extends well into late May or early June, with patches of snow creating a dramatic backdrop for early season camping adventures.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 8,400 feet above sea level, Agnew Horse Camp delivers the quintessential high Sierra experience. Here, the thin mountain air carries the scent of sun-warmed pine, while cool temperatures provide blessed relief from summer heat below. From this lofty vantage point, panoramic alpine vistas stretch in every direction, offering glimpses of jagged peaks and pristine wilderness that seem to touch the sky itself.
Natural Features and SceneryAgnew Horse Camp emerges from a pristine lodgepole pine forest, where towering evergreens create a natural cathedral at 8,400 feet elevation. Crystal-clear mountain creeks tumble through the landscape, their melodic waters joining the symphony of wind through pine boughs, while a jewel-like alpine lake mirrors the surrounding peaks. When spring awakens the high country, carpets of wildflowers paint the meadows in brilliant splashes of color – lupine, paintbrush, and shooting stars transforming the forest floor into nature's own masterpiece. Encircled by soaring granite peaks, the campground offers an ever-changing canvas of light and shadow as the sun traces its path across the Sierra sky.
Geological RegionDeep within the dramatic Reds Meadow Valley of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Agnew Horse Camp occupies a spectacular slice of California's most iconic mountain range. This alpine sanctuary, cradled by ancient lodgepole pine forests and surrounded by towering granite peaks, showcases the Sierra's remarkable geological diversity. Mountain creeks carve their paths through the landscape, feeding pristine alpine lakes that dot the valley floor. The entire ecosystem represents a living testament to the powerful forces that shaped these mountains – from volcanic eruptions to glacial sculpting – creating the breathtaking wilderness playground that draws adventurers from around the world.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility details are not specified. The narrow, single-lane road leading to the campsite and the high elevation (8,400 feet) may pose challenges for some visitors.
Sites SizeThe campground features four equestrian-friendly campsites with one horse corral per site. Some users noted that the horse pens are a bit small.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are described as being "set off from the regular sites," providing some level of privacy. However, there are complaints about non-equestrian groups occupying equestrian sites.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Site 14 for larger setups. Be cautious with Site 15, which is charged as a double site but is reported to be too small for its designated capacity.
Best CampsitesReviews suggest Site 14 may be preferable due to its size and capacity to accommodate multiple rigs.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Exact number not specified
- reviews suggest overcrowding is an issue at times.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features four equestrian-friendly campsites. Each site includes a horse corral.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen in summer, typically late May or early June until early fall, depending on snow conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityReserved sites will be held until checkout time (noon) the day following your arrival date. Walk-up availability not explicitly detailed, but unoccupied reserved sites may be released after this period.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before check-in incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (after midnight 1 day prior) forfeit the first night's fee in addition to the $10 fee. Once the reservation start date has begun, changes are not permitted.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Agnew Horse Camp is an excellent base for outdoor activities such as horseback riding, hiking, fishing, and photography. The proximity to trails like the High Trail, Shadow Creek Trail, and River Trail offers ample opportunities for exploration. Fishing enthusiasts can target trout in nearby lakes and the North Fork of the San Joaquin River.
Hiking
Hiking options include the High Trail, Shadow Creek Trail, and River Trail, which are accessible within a few miles of the campground. These trails also allow horseback riding. The terrain can be challenging due to high elevation, and some trails have rocky and narrow sections, as noted by users.Fishing
Fishing is available in the many local lakes and the North Fork of the San Joaquin River, where trout fishing is popular.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife species in the area include black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, pine martens, pikas, and various birds and fish. Campers are advised to use food lockers and keep campsites clean to avoid attracting wildlife.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not available as the campground is only open during summer when the road is clear of snow.Water Sports
No information about water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding is provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires may be restricted during hot, dry weather conditions. Contact local visitor centers for current restrictions.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh elevation can cause altitude sickness. Wildlife, including black bears and mountain lions, are present. Mosquitoes can be abundant in early summer.
Active alertsSeasonal fire restrictions may be imposed. Snow may delay openings until late May or early June.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 36%
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
The nearest emergency services are likely in Mammoth Lakes, CA, which includes medical facilities, police, and fire services.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingCampers are advised to keep campsites clean and use food storage lockers to avoid attracting wildlife. Specific details about trash and recycling facilities are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to creeks and a small lake. Fishing opportunities are available in nearby lakes and the North Fork of the San Joaquin River.
Common complaintsReviews highlight issues with non-equestrians occupying horse sites, the misrepresentation of Site 15 as a double site, and overcrowding at times.
HostThe campground host, Tony, is described as friendly and diligent in maintaining the campground.
Campground Map
REDS MEADOW SERVICES PO BOX 395, MAMMOTH LAKES, CA 93546, USA
Driving directionsFrom U.S. Highway 395, take Highway 203 west through the town of Mammoth Lakes. Pass Mammoth Mountain Ski Area to Minaret Vista. Continue on Red's Meadow Road to the Agnew Meadows turnoff, about 2.5 miles.
The road to the facility is narrow and single-laned. The maximum trailer length recommended is 25 feet. The road is only open during the summer due to snow closures in winter and early spring.Nearby places
Mammoth Lakes (approximately 10 miles, 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Reds Meadow Pack Station and Resort nearby offers a general store and cafe for basic supplies. Mammoth Lakes provides full-service grocery stores and fuel stations.
Camper Reviews
3.4
8 reviews
Agnew Horse Camp has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, with some praising the campground's scenic beauty and equestrian facilities, while others raise concerns about site management and misuse of equestrian sites by non-equestrians.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews highlight the stunning trails, such as the High Trail and Shadow Creek Trail, and their suitability for horseback riding and hiking. The campground's proximity to scenic locations...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include non-equestrians occupying equestrian sites, which is frustrating for horse owners due to the limited availability of such sites. Several users also criticized the...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are advised to bring mosquito repellent and nets due to the prevalence of mosquitoes in early and mid-summer. Horseback riders are encouraged to bring highlines or portable corrals and hoof...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open only during the summer, as snow prevents road access in other seasons. Mosquitoes are abundant in early and mid-summer, so preparation is advised.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "This is our 2nd time here. We love coming here. The campsites are big and set off from the regular sites." - JAY S.
2. "Very upsetting. People with horses cannot camp in the campsites just for...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #15 is frequently mentioned as problematic due to its small size despite being designated and priced as a double site. Site #16 also receives criticism for being occupied by non-equestrians.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features or experiences from users with disabilities.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground allows up to two pets per site, but no detailed user reviews focus on pet-specific experiences.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025