Horse Campground

Star5.00
10 reviews
Scenic Views

Quick Facts

335 ft

Price

$50 - $150/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Horse Campground
$50.00 - $150.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary based on site type: $50 for individual equestrian primitive campsites and $150 for equestrian group primitive sites. An additional...
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Standard Site Fee$50.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$150.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Reserve California
Provider
805-772-1465
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What Campers Say

5.00

Top-Rated

Based on 10 reviews

3 Google reviews

"Reviews highlight the Horse Campground as a niche spot for equestrian campers, with minimal facilities catering specifically to horses. Users appreciate the location and equestrian focus but note the lack of more general amenities."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Horse Campground

35.2971, -120.8629

Driving directionsLocated in Montaña de Oro State Park. Directions: From Highway 101 in San Luis Obispo, take Los Osos Valley Road west for about 7 miles until you reach the park entrance. Follow signs to the Horse Campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Los Osos Valley Road is a well-maintained major road leading directly into Montaña de Oro State Park.
Nearby places
Los Osos: 0 miles
Morro Bay: 6 miles (approximately 10 minutes)
San Luis Obispo: 12 miles (approximately 20 minutes)
Pismo Beach: 23 miles (approximately 35 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Los Osos (approximately 2 miles away). Larger stores like Walmart and other retail options are in San Luis Obispo (12 miles away).

Best Time to Camp at Horse Campground

Experience the gentle embrace of California's Central Coast climate, where temperatures dance between a crisp 39°F on winter mornings to comfortable 70°F afternoons throughout the year. Winter brings refreshing Pacific storms that paint the landscape emerald green, while summer unfolds with golden sunshine and dry breezes perfect for long rides along coastal trails. The mild Mediterranean climate ensures year-round riding opportunities, with each season offering its own spectacular coastal display.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season in summer; warm afternoons (~70°F) and coastal access favor outdoor activities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Mild Central Coast fall weather and fewer crowds make it a strong season for visiting.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Mild weather and likely wildflower/habitat activity in spring make it a good season for visits.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Open year-round but cooler mornings (~39°F) and lack of hot-water amenities may reduce comfort.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Peak season is typically summer months, but the campground is open year-round.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Campground is open year-round.
  • Current Alerts: No current advisories or closures specifically affecting the Horse Campground.

About Horse Campground

Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure at Horse Campground, a hidden gem within Montaña de Oro State Park where equestrian dreams meet coastal splendor. This specialized primitive campground caters exclusively to riders and their four-legged companions, offering a rare opportunity to explore California's dramatic coastline from horseback. With dedicated horse facilities and exclusive trail access, it's a haven where the rhythm of hoofbeats mingles with the crash of Pacific waves.
The Horse Campground is a primitive camping site specifically designed for equestrian use. It offers both standard primitive campsites and group primitive sites.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 10 consecutive nights.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The campground primarily supports equestrian activities. There is also access to general outdoor recreation such as hiking in the nearby park, but details specific to this campground are sparse.
HikingHiking trails are accessible within Montana De Oro State Park, but specific trails tied to the Horse Campground are not detailed.
Wildlife viewingMontana De Oro State Park offers opportunities for viewing local wildlife, but no specific areas or species tied to the Horse Campground are described.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsVisitors can access cultural and educational programs at the Spooner Ranch House visitor center in the park, but these are not directly tied to the Horse Campground.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include ticks, rattlesnakes, and unpredictable coastal weather. Visitors should take precautions when interacting with wildlife.
Active AlertsNo current advisories or closures specifically affecting the Horse Campground.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Horse Campground

Reviews

5.0
10 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Horse Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the Horse Campground as a niche spot for equestrian campers, with minimal facilities catering specifically to horses. Users appreciate the location and equestrian focus but note the lack of more general amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews

What Campers Love

Equestrian-specific amenities such as hitching posts and stalls are valued. Users also appreciate the scenic surroundings of Montana De Oro State Park.
Based on 10 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the lack of potable water, showers, and flush toilets. Some users noted that the campground is not suitable for non-equestrian campers.
Based on 10 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water and supplies, as amenities are minimal. Ensure you have horses to camp, as stated in the site restrictions.
Based on 10 reviews

Seasonal Insights

No seasonal trends are explicitly noted, but users may find the lack of hot water and showers challenging during colder months.
Based on 10 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Must have a horse to camp at any horse campsite.' 'No dogs on trails.' 'Equestrian facilities are great for horse owners.'
Based on 10 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Standard sites include Lupine, Cham, and Manz, which accommodate up to 6 horses. Group sites like GMAD and GOAK allow up to 25 horses and larger groups.
Based on 10 reviews

Accessibility Features

No user reviews specifically mention accessibility features.
Based on 10 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but dogs are restricted from trails. Horses are explicitly welcomed.
Based on 10 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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