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Horse Riding and Camping

Traveling by horse is a great way to explore Mendocino National Forest's diverse landscapes. Most trails are suitable for both horse and foot travel, although early in the season there may be downfall and wet areas on some trails.

Trail etiquette for multiple use trails calls for horses to have the right-of-way. Hikers should yield to horses. Bicyclists should yield to horses and hikers. Horse riders are responsible for the control of their horse at all times.

Keeping horses in non-designated forest campgrounds and picnic grounds is prohibited.

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding in the Mendocino National Forest provides a mix of scenery and mountain trail riding. Ride through ancient Douglas fir tree stands to high vistas with views across deep river valleys and barren ridge tops.

Horse Camping

Whether it be overnight camping or an extended trail ride by horseback, the Mendocino National Forest will provide you with unique experience. Overnight camping by horseback is a great way to introduce young and old alike to the pleasures of the great outdoors.

Keeping horses in non-designated forest campgrounds and picnic grounds is prohibited.

Search for Horse Riding and Camping Opportunities

Showing: 1 - 10 of 34 results

Bathhouse Trailhead

Site Open
Hiking Horse Riding and Camping
Trailhead is located less than a mile from Fouts Springs OHV area and connects to Deafy Glade trail, Dixie Glade Equestrian Campground, Summit Springs trail, and the rest of Snow Mountain Wilderness.…

Cold Creek Trailhead

Site Open
Hiking Horse Riding and Camping
The trailhead is at Windy Gap on the west side of the road. The trail sign was burned in the Ranch Fire. This area has burned in a recent fire. Downed trees, dropped limbs, stump holes and unstable…

Deafy Glade Trailhead

Site Open
Hiking Horse Riding and Camping
Deafy Glade Trail is a popular trail for horseback riding and hiking. Located near (.8 mile) the Dixie Glade Campground which has some facilities for horse camping. The trail begins nearby the…

Dixie Glade Campground

Site Open
Horse Riding and Camping Hiking Picnicking
This campground is located on Forest Road M10, just above the Fouts Springs OHV area.  There are 7 sites with tables and grills.  Corrals and hitching post are available for packstock animals.  A…

General Campgrounds & Trailheads

Horse Riding and Camping Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Hiking Water Activities Picnicking Outdoor Science and Learning
There are campgrounds on the Mendocino National Forest that are Pack it In, Pack it Out for dealing with waste. This means that garbage cans are not provided. Campers and hikers are asked to bring…

Last updated March 3rd, 2025