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Equestrian Campground

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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The Equestrian Campground is a fantastic location for RV enthusiasts wishing to travel with their horses. The Bureau and Land Management (BLM) maintains the large parking lot, which provides plenty of space, and there are corrals where horses can roam. Drinking-water spigots are available near the corrals, and there is an on-site restroom. The campground also offers easy access to several nearby trails, which you can use for horseback riding, hiking, or mountain biking. The three campsites are ADA and ABA accessible.

The campground is located near the town of Auberry, outside of Fresno, California. Kings Canyon National Park and the Sierra National Forest are only a short drive away. To find other BLM sites that offer camping or equestrian amenities, search for "BLM camping near me."

What to See and Do

What to See and Do

Hiking and BikingHiking and Biking

San Joaquin River Trail

Located in Fresno, this picturesque trail is perfect for hiking but also offers several spots for fishing and birdwatching.

Length: 3.2 miles

Intensity: Easy

Tollhouse Rock

This trail in Auberry offers stunning views of the area, but parts can be rocky and challenging to follow.

Length: 1.3 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Wuh-Ki'o Trail

This trail, located in the Sierra National Forest, is pet-friendly and an excellent option for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding.

Length: 8 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Horseshoe Bend Trail

Located along the San Joaquin River in the San Joaquin River Gorge, this trail is secluded enough that it's a fantastic choice for a quiet hike.

Length: 7.1 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Pa'san Ridge Trail

This scenic trail offers views of wildflowers during the spring and summer months.

Length: 7.9 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Fishing and BoatingFishing and Boating

The San Joaquin River is one of the most popular and beautiful fishing areas near the Equestrian Campground. The river is ideal for trout fishing, and flyfishing is the most popular catch method. Shaver Lake is also a popular fishing spot where anglers can catch trout, salmon, and bass. The lake is also fantastic for boating, jet skiing, and swimming.

ClimbingClimbing

The San Joaquin River Gorge offers several areas that are perfect for bouldering. Tollhouse Rock, located closer to Fresno, is great for rock climbing and offers more than 60 traditional, sport, top-rope, and bouldering routes of varying difficulties.

Wildlife ViewingWildlife Viewing

The trails near the Equestrian Campground are fantastic for spotting wildlife. Visitors to the area can also head to Kings Canyon National Park, the Sierra National Forest, or the San Joaquin River Gorge for more wildlife viewing options. Native species include marmots, pika, mule deer, beavers, porcupines, several species of squirrels, bats, bighorn sheep, and black bears.

Picnicking

The Equestrian Campground offers picnic tables, wood grills, and fire rings, making it a great choice for a picnic. The Dora Belle Picnic Site is also an excellent option. Aside from beautiful views, this area features clean restrooms and several picnic tables. The Helms Picnic Site also offers dramatic mountain views and bathrooms.

Horseback RidingHorseback Riding

The area around the Equestrian Campground is ideal for horseback riding. A short trail connects the campground to the main trailhead. That trailhead leads to several other trails that crisscross the area.

Camping

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping Caravan Icon

BLM RV camping is available at the Lily Pad Campground in Lakeshore. This small campsite features restrooms, gorgeous views, and easy access to fishing areas, but few other amenities exist. The Kings Canyon Campground is another good RV camping option. Water and sewer hookups are available at some campsites, and there are flush toilets and picnic tables.

Free Camping Campground Icon

Bureau of Land Management free camping is available at the Ross Crossing Camping Area. There are few amenities, but the surrounding landscape provides incredible views and fantastic wildlife viewing and photography opportunities. Visitors can also set up dispersed camping areas throughout the Sierra National Forest.

RV Rentals Near Equestrian Campground Plan your next adventure

Planning Your Trip

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Equestrian Campground BLM trip

The Equestrian Campground is relatively small, and no reservations are accepted, so arrive early or call to make sure that there is enough space. There is limited cellphone reception and no electricity, so plan ahead and bring everything that you need, including a generator if necessary. The parking area is large enough for trucks and trailers to turn around, but park responsibly and leave enough room for other campers and their horses. To build a campfire, you'll need to acquire a campfire permit.

The area near the Equestrian Campground experiences relatively mild weather throughout the year. Summer temperatures can reach the 90s, and winter temperatures may occasionally dip below freezing, particularly at night. Rain is scarce during the summer and early fall, but during the winter and spring months, the area sees six to seven days of rain each month. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace Leaf

Practicing Leave No Trace policies at Bureau of Land Management campgrounds helps protect and preserve these areas for future generations. Always stay on trails and camp only on durable surfaces to limit your impact on the environment. Be respectful of the local plants and animals, and observe wildlife from a distance. Only build a fire in a designated fire ring and ensure that the fire is entirely out before leaving. Always take all trash with you or throw it away in the proper areas.

Leave No Trace
Location

Equestrian Campground Location

From Fresno, head north on CA-168. After reaching Prather, continue for one mile before turning left onto Auberry Road. Continue for 2.9 miles, passing through the town of Auberry. Take a left onto Powerhouse Road. Continue for another 1.8 miles before turning left onto Smalley Road. Continue along Smalley Road until you see the recreation area.

Ready to visit Equestrian Campground? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.

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