Wild Horse Equestrian Family
4.4631 reviewsWild Horse Equestrian Family
$35.00 - $69.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
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
Fees range from $35 to $69 depending on the site type and season. A $10 service fee applies for changes or cancellations. Additional vehicle fees are $8 for single-family campsites and $8 each for the third and fourth vehicles in double-family campsites. A $2 holiday surcharge applies.
About this campground
Saddle up for an unforgettable mountain adventure at Wild Horse Equestrian Family Campground, where the spirit of the Old West meets modern comfort. This specialized haven for horse lovers offers 8 intimate single-family sites and 3 spacious double sites, each thoughtfully equipped with sturdy tables, campfire rings with grills, and the luxury of flush toilets and hot showers after a long day on the trail. Over two dozen well-maintained single-horse corrals ensure your equine companions rest as comfortably as you do. Beyond the essentials, you'll find a convenient horse watering station, ample staging area, and sturdy hitching racks. The real magic begins when you hit the trails—direct access to the legendary Santa Ana River Trail and portions of the iconic Pacific Crest Trail awaits, along with peaceful streams perfect for casting a line. Previous guests rave about the spotless facilities and the warmth of the campground hosts, though they advise arriving with a vehicle suited for mountain roads and bringing earplugs for occasional nighttime sounds.
Wild Horse Equestrian Campground is specifically designed for equestrian campers, offering facilities tailored for individuals with horses.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain retreat into a rider's paradise, with gloriously mild days hovering around 74°F and crisp, starlit nights cooling to 52°F—perfect for gathering around the campfire. While the dry season typically dominates, occasional mountain showers can sweep through, adding a fresh scent to the pines and creating muddy but manageable trail conditions that seasoned riders navigate with ease. The campground embraces its seasonal rhythm, closing for winter to let the mountain rest under its blanket of snow.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 7,000 feet, this mountain sanctuary offers the rare combination of accessible altitude and equestrian excellence. Here, the thin, pine-scented air invigorates both horse and rider, while the cooler temperatures provide welcome relief from the valleys below—creating ideal conditions for those long, contemplative rides through the wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering pines stand sentinel over this 7,000-foot mountain retreat, their ancient branches creating a natural cathedral of dappled sunlight and whispering shade. The landscape tells a story of geological drama—rocky outcroppings and steep terrain challenge riders just enough to keep things interesting, while remaining perfectly suited for beginners finding their confidence and intermediate riders honing their skills. This is Southern California's pine-forested wilderness at its finest, where the scent of sun-warmed pine needles mingles with mountain air, and every turn of the trail reveals another postcard-worthy vista.
Geological RegionNestled within Southern California's dramatic pine-forested highlands at 7,000 feet, this campground occupies a fascinating geological crossroads where ancient rock formations meet verdant forest. The terrain bears the sculptural touch of millennia—rocky passages and steep inclines that nature has crafted into an equestrian playground perfectly calibrated for beginning and intermediate riders seeking authentic mountain experiences without overwhelming technical challenges.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome campsites and facilities, including flush toilets, showers, and drinking water, are accessible.
Sites SizeThe campground offers eight single-family campsites and three double campsites. User reviews indicate mixed experiences regarding campsite sizes, with Debbie K. commenting, 'The spaces offer plenty of room,' whereas Rhonda Hardison stated, 'The campsites have suffered a lot of rain damage as well. They were very very uneven.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some users enjoying solitude while others reported noise disturbances, such as Jill M., who noted a 'large group of people came in a bunch partied most of the night' (2021).
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites with corrals (#03 and #11) are noted positively. Campsite #10 has proximity to trails but experienced noise disturbances in the past. Campsite #01 noted for its clean-out valve, though a dump station is absent.
Best CampsitesCampsite #03 and #11 are frequently praised for their facilities and overall experience.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out time not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights and a rolling limit of 14 nights total within 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Up to 8 guests allowed per site based on general campsite policies
- official limit not explicitly stated in source materials.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly described. However, Janet B. shared, 'Our group had a great time. We had reserved 8 out of the 11 campsites so we basically had the entire campground' (2021).
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 8 single-family campsites and 3 double campsites. Parking space is limited.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from July 1 to September 20 (peak season), closed out of season from September 20 to May 1.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are made via Recreation.gov online or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations are required; no explicit mention of walk-up availability in source materials.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (starting from midnight one calendar day before scheduled check-in) additionally forfeit the first night's use fee. For group facilities, late cancellations within 14 days forfeit the first night's fee. No-show reservations result in a $20 fee and loss of the first night's use fee. No modifications or cancellations are allowed for 'Scan & Pay' transactions.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides activities centered around horseback riding, hiking, and fishing. It is strategically located near a variety of trailheads and mountain streams.
Hiking
The campground features proximity to renowned trails, including the Santa Ana River Trail and portions leading to the Pacific Crest Trail. Trails offer options for beginners to experienced hikers. Kathryn T. praised the variety of trails, mentioning 'multiple trails from easy, moderate to challenging' (2022).Fishing
Fishing is available in nearby mountain streams, though specific details like fish types are not provided.Biking
Biking trails are mentioned alongside hiking, but specific details on trail conditions or difficulty are not provided.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned explicitly but the campground operates seasonally.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Visitors are encouraged to buy and burn local firewood to prevent the spread of pests ('Don't Move Firewood').
- Not explicitly stated, but user reviews mention noise disturbances caused by parties and generators running at night. Quiet hours may not be strictly enforced.
Hazards
General hazardsSafety concerns include rough roads leading to the campground ('The road is rutted') and uneven campsites ('Campsites have suffered a lot of rain damage, very uneven'). Wildlife hazards are not explicitly mentioned.
Active alertsNo active alerts mentioned in source materials.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 74%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Closest emergency services are referenced generally; no specific hospitals or police stations are mentioned in source materials. User reviews do not provide details on emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1 - September 20.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned, although users describe the campground as clean and well-maintained.
Proximity to water featuresNearby mountain streams offer fishing opportunities. Big Bear Lake is approximately 20 miles away and provides additional water-related recreation.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently cite road access issues with rutted and washed-out sections. Campsite unevenness due to rain damage is also a concern. Occasional noise disturbances from parties and generators are noted ('Finally, Host asked them to break it up').
HostHosts are praised for being helpful and attentive. Specific hosts named include Robert and Janet ('Camp host Robert was so nice and helpful').
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom I-10 in Redlands, turn onto State Highway 38 and continue north for approximately 31 miles, to Forest Route 1N02. Turn right and continue less than a mile to the campground.
The road leading to the campground features both paved and dirt sections. User reviews cited issues with dirt roads being very rutted and having large gullies, which can be challenging for large rigs or trailers ('HUGE gullies and hard to go around with big rig, BIG BUMP in the road'). Another review noted, 'The road is rutted'. Additionally, one review pointed out the road off the main highway is very washed out, making it 'very easy to bottom out a long living quarters horse trailer.'Nearby places
Big Bear Lake: Approximately 20 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Big Bear Lake, located approximately 20 miles away, offers access to shopping and restaurant options. Specific supply locations are not detailed in the source materials.
Camper Reviews
4.5
31 reviews
Wild Horse Equestrian Family is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight positive aspects such as clean facilities, helpful camp hosts, and excellent horseback riding trails, but also mention areas for improvement, including uneven campsites and noise disturbances.
Review Summaries
Based on 31 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground is praised for its clean facilities, accessible flush toilets and showers, numerous horse corrals, and proximity to great trails. Many users also commend the camp hosts for their...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users raised concerns about uneven campsites, noise disturbances from inconsiderate campers, and maintenance issues with horse stalls and trails. Rhonda Hardison noted, 'The campsites have...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing necessary equestrian gear and being prepared for uneven terrain. They also emphasize respecting the campground's equestrian exclusivity policies.
Based on 31 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground sees seasonal challenges such as trail and campsite damage from heavy rains. During summer, conditions improve significantly, making it an ideal time for camping.
Based on 31 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Clean bathrooms and showers.' - Renee Elliott (2018) 2. 'Great place to camp with your horses. Well maintained.' - Kim Brooks (2018) 3. 'Loved the hot showers!' - Jill M. (2021) 4. 'Campground...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight differences among campsites. For instance: 1. Susan S. (2022) mentioned difficulties with road access at Site 01. 2. Laura D. (2022) praised clean bathrooms at Site...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features include flush toilets and showers. No reviews specifically address experiences from users with disabilities.
Based on 31 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, but user reviews do not specifically discuss pet-owner experiences.
Based on 31 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025