Horse Creek Campground

For Californians seeking an ideal balance between outdoor recreation and access to some of the state's most iconic natural wonders, Horse Creek Campground in Three Rivers offers a compelling proposition. Nestled on the Kaweah River in the picturesque foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and just a stone's throw from the vast Kaweah Lake, this campground serves as an excellent basecamp for diverse adventures. Whether your passion lies in water sports, exploring national parks, or simply enjoying a peaceful outdoor setting, Horse Creek Campground provides a welcoming environment for all types of campers.

Horse Creek Campground is known for its well-maintained facilities and a friendly atmosphere that makes campers feel right at home. As one happy visitor shared, "We had such a great time!! Working toilets and showers. They keep the grounds really nice and clean." While some sites might present a slight leveling challenge for RVs, and some wish for full hookups, the overall consensus points to a highly enjoyable and value-for-money experience. Its proximity to both the recreational opportunities of Kaweah Lake and the awe-inspiring giant sequoias of Sequoia National Park makes it a strategic choice for many local adventurers. For Californians, this campground offers a practical and scenic gateway to some of the most cherished landscapes in the Golden State.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the specifics of Horse Creek Campground, including its convenient location and accessibility, the range of services and amenities it provides, its unique features and highlights, and essential contact information. Discover why Horse Creek Campground is a favored destination for locals looking to explore the natural beauty of Central California.

Horse Creek Campground is conveniently located at 37843 Sierra Dr, Three Rivers, CA 93271, USA. This places it directly on the Kaweah River, in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and crucially, just 11 miles from the southern entrance of Sequoia National Park. Its proximity to Terminus Dam and Kaweah Lake (approximately three miles east of Lemon Cove) means easy access to significant water-based recreation.

Accessibility to Horse Creek Campground is generally straightforward. From Visalia, CA, visitors can take Highway 198 east for about 20 miles, following signs directly to Horse Creek Campground. The roads leading into the campground are typically well-maintained and suitable for various vehicle types, including RVs and trailers, although some internal roads might be narrow with sharp turns, as noted by some campers with larger rigs. Disconnecting a tow vehicle at the office upon arrival is a helpful tip for those with big setups. The campground experiences seasonal flooding between mid-April and mid-July due to rising lake water, which can affect site availability, making it important to check conditions, especially during spring and early summer. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov, as this campground does not offer first-come, first-served or same-day reservations. As a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers managed site, there is an entrance station that may be intermittently open; fees for camping and day use are typically paid via credit card as cash or checks may not be accepted.

Services Offered:

• Eighty campsites: Accommodating both tents and RVs. While many sites are without hookups, the campground does offer amenities that enhance the camping experience.
• Flush toilets: Modern and generally well-maintained restrooms are available throughout the campground.
• Showers: Warm showers are available, a significant amenity for campers, although some reviews indicate they might be limited or occasionally out of service, requiring coin operation in some areas or being free in others.
• Dump station: A sanitary dump station is available for RVs within the campground, with a non-camping dump station fee if applicable.
• Potable water: Water spouts are available, with some sites potentially having direct water access (e.g., sites 8, 9, 45, 59, 71, 74).
• Picnic tables and fire rings: Each campsite includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate for campfires (always check for current fire restrictions).
• Dumpsters: Conveniently placed in various spots for trash disposal.
• Extra portable toilets (Porta Potties): May be available when main restrooms are undergoing maintenance or during peak times.
• Amphitheater: Features weekend programs, particularly from May through September, offering educational and entertaining activities.
• Camp hosts and rangers: On-site staff provide assistance, ensure safety, and offer local information.
• Reservable sites: All campsites are reservable via Recreation.gov, with reservations closing 24 hours prior to arrival.
• Pets allowed: Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash.

Features / Highlights:

• Proximity to Sequoia National Park: Located just 11 miles from the southern entrance, making it an excellent base for day trips to see the Giant Forest Grove, the General Sherman Tree (the world's largest tree by volume), and other majestic sequoias. Note: Vehicles over 22 feet are restricted on Highway 198 through Sequoia National Park.
• Access to Kaweah Lake: Offers extensive opportunities for water recreation including boating, water skiing, sailing, and fishing for largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and rainbow trout. Boat-in camping is also an option for select sites during high water levels.
• Scenic Views: Situated on the Kaweah River in a broad, arid valley, the campground provides beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains, with spectacular sunsets and sunrises. Shade, however, can be limited.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Grounds: Consistently praised by visitors for overall cleanliness, including bathrooms and grounds.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With amenities like an amphitheater for programs, it's a great spot for families.
• Designated Walking/Hiking Trails: An easy trail is available up above the amphitheater, offering a pleasant short hike. Horse and walking trails are also available during low water levels.
• Spacious Sites: Campsites are generally large and well-spaced, contributing to a peaceful experience, though leveling might be a challenge on some sites.
• Stargazing Opportunities: The rural location provides good opportunities for stargazing.

Contact Information:

Address: 37843 Sierra Dr, Three Rivers, CA 93271, USA

Phone: (559) 597-2301

Mobile Phone: +1 559-597-2301

For reservations, campsite availability, and the most current information on park conditions (including lake levels, fire restrictions, and any facility closures), it is highly recommended to visit the official Recreation.gov website for Horse Creek Campground or contact the Lake Kaweah office directly using the provided phone number. It is crucial to verify operational status, especially regarding showers and water spouts, as reviews indicate these can vary.

For Californians, Horse Creek Campground offers an unparalleled blend of convenience, natural beauty, and recreational diversity, making it an excellent choice for a local getaway. Its strategic location near Three Rivers provides not only easy access to the numerous water activities on Kaweah Lake—from boating and waterskiing to fishing—but also serves as an ideal launchpad for exploring the majestic Giant Sequoias of nearby Sequoia National Park. This dual access to both aquatic and mountainous adventures is a significant draw for active locals.

The campground's commitment to cleanliness, particularly its restrooms and showers, ensures a comfortable stay, addressing a common concern for many campers. While the lack of full hookups on all sites might be a minor drawback for some RVers, the presence of dump stations and water access points still caters effectively to most. The spacious sites, friendly staff, and regular ranger patrols contribute to a safe and enjoyable environment for families and individuals alike. For those living in the Central Valley or Southern California, Horse Creek Campground represents a fantastic opportunity to immerse themselves in the stunning Sierra Nevada foothills and create lasting memories, all within a reasonable driving distance from home. It truly provides a valuable and versatile outdoor experience that embodies the best of California's diverse landscapes.

Horse Creek Campground

37843 Sierra Dr, Three Rivers, CA 93271, USA