Horse Creek

3.94

594 reviews

37843 Sierra Drive

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

686 ft

Price

$20 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

80 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Horse Creek Campground site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

686 ft

Price

$20 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

80 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Horse Creek Campground site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Horse Creek

$20.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard campsites cost $20 per night. Double sites (e.g., site 81) cost $40 per night. Additional fees include $5 for extra vehicles, non-camping...

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$40.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

559-597-2301

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What Campers Say

3.94

Mixed Reviews

Based on 594 reviews

308 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanshowersspacious

Some mention

noise

"User reviews of Horse Creek Campground are mixed, highlighting both positive aspects like scenic views and affordable rates, and negative elements such as inconsistent facility maintenance and lack of privacy. The campground's proximity to Sequoia National Park is frequently praised. "Close to Sequoia National Park," one review noted. However, issues like loud neighbors and poor restroom conditions were common complaints."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

37843 Sierra Drive

Horse Creek

37843 Sierra Drive

Driving directionsFrom Visalia, CA, take HWY 198 for 20 miles east. Follow signs to Horse Creek Campground.

The campground is accessible via HWY 198. Conditions may vary depending on flooding during high water seasons, approximately April 1st to August 1st. Some roads within the campground may also become flooded.

Nearby places

Three Rivers, CA (11 miles, 15 minutes)

Lemon Cove, CA (3 miles, 5 minutes)

Visalia, CA (20 miles, 30 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Lemon Cove Market (5 miles)

Village Market in Three Rivers (11 miles)

gas stations and restaurants also available in Three Rivers.

Best Time to Camp at Horse Creek

Experience the full intensity of California's diverse climate at Horse Creek, where summer transforms the valley into a sun-drenched haven with temperatures soaring above 100°F, creating perfect conditions for early morning hikes and refreshing river dips. Even after sunset, the warmth lingers, making for memorable evenings under star-filled skies. Winter brings a gentler touch with mild days perfect for exploration, though you'll want to pack layers for the crisp evenings. Plan your visit carefully during the dramatic high water season from April through August, when snowmelt from the Sierra Nevada swells the Kaweah River, occasionally claiming riverside sites in nature's annual display of power.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Summer offers lake recreation but valley temps often exceed 100°F and shade is limited.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall is less hot and quieter; reviewers note pleasant cooler weather and access to trails.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring offers boating and hiking opportunities though water levels can be variable.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Some praise winter camping, but many sites are closed Oct–Feb which limits options.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 23–September 1 for peak season; September 2–December 31 for non-peak season.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Sites are open year-round, except for the majority of sites (9-56) which are closed October 1–February 28.
Current Alerts: Seasonal flooding may occur from April–August. Limited hot water availability in showers has been noted.

About Horse Creek

Nestled along the banks of the Kaweah River in California's stunning Sierra Nevada foothills, Horse Creek Campground offers an authentic outdoor experience with 80 spacious sites spread across its riverside setting. This well-appointed campground welcomes adventurers with modern amenities including flush toilets, hot showers, and a convenient dump station, all while maintaining a connection to the natural world. Though hookups aren't available, the campground's thoughtful facilities ensure comfort during your stay in this dramatic valley landscape where the river's gentle murmur provides a constant soundtrack to your camping adventure.

Horse Creek Campground offers a variety of camping accommodations, including standard campsites for tents and RVs, equestrian sites, and a double site. "Sites are far enough and there is good privacy," one reviewer noted. However, site conditions vary, with some reported as slanted or unsuitable for tents.

Historical SignificanceYour stay at Horse Creek places you at the gateway to one of America's most treasured landscapes. Just a scenic drive away lies Sequoia National Park, home to the awe-inspiring Giant Forest Grove where ancient sequoias have stood sentinel for millennia. Here, you can stand before the mighty General Sherman Tree, the largest living thing on Earth by volume. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure as you navigate the historic Highway 198, whose dramatic switchbacks were carved into the mountainside generations ago, offering both thrilling driving and spectacular vistas that have captivated travelers since the early days of automobile tourism.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full intensity of California's diverse climate at Horse Creek, where summer transforms the valley into a sun-drenched haven with temperatures soaring above 100°F, creating perfect conditions for early morning hikes and refreshing river dips. Even after sunset, the warmth lingers, making for memorable evenings under star-filled skies. Winter brings a gentler touch with mild days perfect for exploration, though you'll want to pack layers for the crisp evenings. Plan your visit carefully during the dramatic high water season from April through August, when snowmelt from the Sierra Nevada swells the Kaweah River, occasionally claiming riverside sites in nature's annual display of power.

ElevationWhile specific elevation details remain undisclosed, the campground's foothill location offers the perfect balance of accessibility and mountain atmosphere.

Natural Features and SceneryHorse Creek Campground embraces its position in a sweeping arid valley where the Kaweah River carves its path through the landscape. The open terrain offers unobstructed views of the surrounding foothills and expansive skies, with sparse but resilient vegetation creating a palette of golden browns and sage greens. While shade may be at a premium, the minimal tree cover means unparalleled stargazing opportunities and stunning sunrise vistas. The campground buzzes with life as playful squirrels dart between sites, coyotes sing their evening songs from distant ridges, and a variety of birds fill the air with their calls. Keep an eye out for the local toads that emerge after rare rainfall, adding their voices to nature's chorus.

Geological RegionSet within the iconic foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Horse Creek Campground occupies a remarkable geological transition zone where ancient granite peaks give way to rolling valleys. This broad, arid valley showcases millions of years of geological history, carved and shaped by the persistent flow of the Kaweah River. The surrounding landscape tells the story of tectonic forces, erosion, and time, creating a dramatic backdrop for your camping experience in one of California's most geologically fascinating regions.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in time begins at 2:00 PM.

Check-out

Check-out time is by 12:00 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum 14 nights during a visit. Maximum 14 nights within rolling 30 days.

Groups

Group sites are not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops, including TERM, CORAL, YOKU, SHOR, and LIVE. Sites vary in shade and size, with some offering proximity to restrooms and water spigots.

Reservation PlatformsReservations available at Recreation.gov. Must book at least 24 hours in advance.

Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability during high water season (April 1–August 1). Remaining sites are first-come, first-serve during this period.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made before the scheduled arrival date, with a $10 penalty. Late cancellations incur additional fees, including forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee. Site modifications incur a $10 fee under certain conditions.

AccessibilityAccessible features include paved sites, tent pads, and water spigots. One reviewer specifically noted, "Accessible occupant message," and older bathhouse facilities are described as being difficult but possible for ADA needs.

Site SizeSites vary in size, with options for RVs, tents, and equestrian camping. Some sites are reported as spacious, while others are noted to have steep inclines or limited flat space for tents.

PrivacyPrivacy varies across sites. Some reviewers appreciate the distance between sites, stating, "Sites are far enough and there is good privacy," while others describe them as "close together.

Total Campsites80 campsites

Recommended SitesFor views, choose site 81. For access to restrooms and relative privacy, site 73 is recommended. Avoid sites prone to flooding (lower-level sites) during high water season.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Horse Creek Campground offers a range of recreational activities. Kaweah Lake provides opportunities for boating, fishing, water skiing, and sailing. Hiking and horseback riding trails are available during low water. Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, with sightings of coyotes, rabbits, squirrels, and various birds. "We walked around 10 miles worth of trails around there," one user shared. However, activities such as swimming and lake access are limited by fluctuating water levels, as noted in a review stating, "The lake is really far. Like far and not worth a trek in bone chilling weather."

HikingHiking trails are available, including the old paved Highway 198 near Kaweah River. Trails are suitable for both day and moonlight rides for equestrian users. "Short hikes at the campground" were noted as enjoyable by one reviewer.

FishingFishing opportunities include largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and rainbow trout. Fluctuating water levels may affect fishing conditions.

SwimmingDesignated swimming areas are limited, and water quality varies. "Lake water was nasty," one user reported, while others appreciated the lake's refreshing qualities during hot weather.

BoatingBoating, water skiing, and sailing are popular activities at Kaweah Lake, accessible from the campground.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a highlight, with reports of coyotes, rabbits, squirrels, and birds. "Coyotes at night are good size if you get to see them," one review noted.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsWeekend programs are held May through September at the campground's amphitheater, offering interpretive experiences.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsFlooding during high water season affects site accessibility. Wildlife such as coyotes and ants may pose minor risks. Extreme summer heat is a concern.

Active AlertsSeasonal flooding may occur from April–August. Limited hot water availability in showers has been noted.

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed in designated fire rings. Use of local firewood is recommended to prevent pests.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesSequoia National Park ranger station (11 miles); hospital in Visalia, CA (approximately 20 miles); police in Three Rivers, CA (11 miles).

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but user reviews indicate occasional maintenance issues, such as overflowing bins or trash near water faucets.

Water FeaturesThe campground is alongside the Kaweah River and near Kaweah Lake. However, water levels may vary dramatically based on season.

Camp HostHosts are available and helpful but may vary in professionalism according to reviews. Hosts commonly assist with reservations and provide area information.

Weather at Horse Creek

Reviews

3.9

594 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Horse Creek has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of Horse Creek Campground are mixed, highlighting both positive aspects like scenic views and affordable rates, and negative elements such as inconsistent facility maintenance and lack of privacy. The campground's proximity to Sequoia National Park is frequently praised. "Close to Sequoia National Park," one review noted. However, issues like loud neighbors and poor restroom conditions were common complaints.

Review Summaries

Based on 594 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include scenic views, spacious campsites, proximity to Sequoia National Park, and clean facilities during certain stays. "Beautiful setting," "Great value at $20/night," and "Clean...

Based on 594 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include loud neighbors, dirty bathrooms, lack of shade, and inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours. "Bathrooms were filthy for the entire 4 days we were here," and "The campsite...

Based on 594 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips include bringing shade structures due to limited tree cover, checking campsite photos for suitability, and arriving early to secure desired sites. "Definitely bring a cot or something like that...

Based on 594 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews often mention extreme heat and lack of shade, while winter reviews highlight quiet surroundings and cooler weather. "Summer visits could be uncomfortably warm," versus "Camping in...

Based on 594 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Nice place to camp if the campgrounds are full inside the park." "The bathrooms are very clean. We have seen rangers/ caretakers come and clean them daily." "It was hot and humid, but that was fine,...

Based on 594 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews note conditions like slanted sites and proximity to amenities. "Site 73 was perfect for us. Restrooms and showers were close by," while, "Site 10 should not be used. It was so...

Based on 594 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility reviews mention older bathhouse facilities that are difficult but possible for ADA needs. "Accessible occupant message," noted one reviewer.

Based on 594 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, with reviews stating, "Horse Creek is dog and family friendly," and "Rangers were great with our dogs." However, ants were reported to bite dogs at certain sites.

Based on 594 reviews

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