Cowboy Camp

For California residents seeking an authentic, back-to-basics outdoor experience, Cowboy Camp in Clearlake Oaks offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without the fuss of crowded campgrounds or reservation systems. This Bureau of Land Management (BLM) site is a haven for those who appreciate dispersed camping, providing a tranquil setting amidst California's beautiful rolling hills, oak trees, and the meandering Bear Creek. It’s a perfect spot for locals looking to unplug, embrace the wilderness, and create their own adventure, whether you’re in an RV, tent, or with your horses.

Cowboy Camp is renowned for its free, first-come, first-served access, embodying the true spirit of spontaneous Californian outdoor exploration. While it may not offer the typical amenities of a commercial RV park, its rustic charm and abundant natural beauty are its greatest assets. Imagine waking up to the sounds of nature, spotting a large herd of elk grazing in the meadows, or hearing the distant moo-ing of cows – these are the moments that define a stay at Cowboy Camp. It’s a place where simplicity reigns, and the focus is entirely on the incredible natural environment.

Originally envisioned as an equestrian camp, Cowboy Camp has evolved into a popular spot for a variety of outdoor enthusiasts, including full-time RVers and road nomads. The expansive, flat areas make it suitable for diverse camping setups. While some areas might be overgrown, the overall consensus is that there's plenty of usable space to find your perfect spot. The emphasis here is on self-reliance and respecting the environment, aligning perfectly with the "Pack Your Trash" and "Leave No Trace" principles that are vital for preserving California's wild spaces.

For Californians, Cowboy Camp provides an accessible escape from urban life, offering a chance to disconnect and truly experience the state's diverse landscapes. The lack of cell service is often seen as a highlight, encouraging a complete digital detox and deeper connection with your surroundings and fellow campers. It's a testament to the fact that some of the best experiences are found when you step away from modern conveniences and simply enjoy the raw beauty of the Golden State.

Cowboy Camp is located in Clearlake Oaks, CA 95423, USA. More specifically, it's situated off CA-16 within the Cache Creek Natural Area of California. It lies about 23 miles east of Clearlake, CA, and approximately 19 miles west of Williams. The camp is set amidst a hilly expanse of oak woodlands, grasslands, and chaparral, creating a scenic and secluded environment.

Access to Cowboy Camp is generally straightforward. From Yolo County, Woodland, and Davis, you can take Highway 16 up the Capay Valley. As you pass Rumsey, the road narrows, with Bear Creek on one side and canyon walls on the other. Continue on Highway 16 for about a mile south of its connection to Highway 20, and a large sign for Cowboy Camp will indicate your turn. Visitors should note that while there are large paved and graveled flat areas for parking, the lower campground area may be closed with a locked gate, as observed in April 2025. However, the upper parking lots, despite signs indicating "no camping," are frequently used for overnight stays without issue, particularly by RVs and other campers.

It's important for California locals to understand that this is a dispersed camping area managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). This means that while it's accessible, it's a more rustic experience compared to developed campgrounds. There is no cell service, reinforcing the "unplugged" nature of the camp. The area is also popular for horse riders, with horse trailers frequently stopping for day rides, adding to the authentic "cowboy" feel of the place. Given its remote nature, careful planning, and adherence to Leave No Trace principles are crucial for a rewarding visit.

Cowboy Camp offers essential services designed for a rustic camping experience:

• Plenty of Bathrooms: Visitors note the availability of pit toilets, which are a key amenity for dispersed camping.
• Flat Ground for Camping: There are extensive flat, paved, and graveled areas, suitable for both tent and RV camping, including large vehicles like 21’ Class C RVs.
• Day Use Area: The site includes a dedicated day use area, complete with a wildlife viewing deck, perfect for observing local fauna.
• Overnight Parking Area: Designated areas for overnight parking accommodate various camping setups.
• Group Campsite: The site features a group campsite with 27 individual horse campsites, offering parking for horse trailers and additional vault toilets.
• Fire Rings: While fire rings are present, it is crucial to always check for current fire restrictions, as "No Fires" may be enforced, especially during dry seasons.
• Trash Dumpster: While one review mentions "No garbage," other BLM descriptions for similar sites emphasize packing out your trash. It's best practice to always "Pack Your Trash."

Cowboy Camp provides a rugged yet rewarding outdoor experience with several distinct features and highlights that appeal to California’s outdoor enthusiasts:

• Free Camping: This is a significant draw, as it's a free, developed campground managed by the BLM, with no reservation fees or permits required.
• Dispersed Camping Experience: It offers an authentic dispersed camping environment, perfect for those seeking solitude and a genuine connection with nature.
• Spectacular Wildlife Viewing: A major highlight is the regular appearance of a large herd of 60-80 elk that comes to feed on the meadows across Bear Creek every morning and evening – a truly "Very Cool!" experience. Herds of cows on the opposite hillside also add to the rustic charm.
• No Reservations Needed: Its first-come, first-served policy allows for spontaneous trips and flexibility in travel plans.
• Dog-Friendly: Cowboy Camp is a "Dogs Allowed" location, making it ideal for campers who want to bring their canine companions along for the adventure.
• Equestrian Friendly: With facilities for horse trailers and a history as an equestrian camp, it’s a great spot for horse owners looking to hit nearby riding trails.
• Rustic Amenities: The presence of pit toilets (vault toilets) offers a basic but crucial convenience for dispersed camping.
• Quiet and Peaceful: Despite its popularity, the camp is described as quiet, allowing for a truly peaceful retreat.
• Beautiful Scenery: Springtime brings green rolling hills with oak trees and the presence of Bear Creek, providing a picturesque backdrop.
• Opportunity to Disconnect: The lack of cell service ("No Cell Service") encourages a digital detox, fostering a deeper immersion in nature.
• Fishing Access (with caveats): Fishermen frequent the area, though river access can be difficult due to thick brush along the banks.

For general inquiries about Cowboy Camp, as it is a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) site, direct phone contact for the specific campground is typically not available. However, you can contact the Ukiah Field Office of the BLM, which manages this area:

Address: Clearlake Oaks, CA 95423, USA (Note: There is no specific street number for the campground itself, as it's a dispersed camping area within the Cache Creek Natural Area)

BLM Ukiah Field Office Phone: (707) 468-4000

It is always recommended to check the official BLM website for the most current information regarding closures, fire restrictions, and any changes to access or regulations before your visit. Given it is dispersed camping, there is no direct reservation line or dedicated site office.

Cowboy Camp stands out as an exceptional destination for California locals seeking a unique and genuine outdoor experience. Its free, first-come, first-served nature makes it incredibly accessible for spontaneous adventurers looking to escape the hustle and bustle without the need for advance planning. For RVers, tent campers, and even horse enthusiasts, the spacious, flat grounds offer ample room to set up camp and enjoy the serene environment. The highlight for many will undoubtedly be the incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly the majestic elk herds that frequent the meadows – a truly Californian spectacle right outside your tent or RV door.

The rustic amenities, including pit toilets, contribute to an authentic wilderness feel, while the absence of cell service provides a rare chance to completely disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural world. This encourages a deeper appreciation for the simple pleasures of camping: the quiet mornings, the sounds of nature, and the vast, starry skies. For locals, Cowboy Camp offers an affordable and invaluable opportunity to practice Leave No Trace principles and contribute to the preservation of California’s beautiful public lands. It’s a perfect spot to recharge, enjoy the state’s natural beauty, and create unforgettable memories, all within a reasonable drive from many California communities.

Cowboy Camp

Clearlake Oaks, CA 95423, USA