Pepperdine Equestrian Campground

Hey there, California outdoor enthusiasts and equestrians! Are you dreaming of a tranquil escape into the pristine wilderness, where shaded campsites, direct access to scenic trails, and dedicated facilities for your horses are all part of the package? Look no further than Pepperdine Equestrian Campground, nestled high in the beautiful Modoc National Forest near Alturas, California. This unique campground offers a serene setting that's ideal for both traditional campers and those who love to explore the backcountry with their equine companions.

Pepperdine Equestrian Campground stands out as a prime destination for its specific focus on equestrian camping, while still welcoming general campers. Unlike many general campgrounds, Pepperdine provides 12' x 12' metal corrals at each site, making it incredibly convenient for horse owners to bring their animals along for the adventure. This thoughtful amenity ensures that both two-legged and four-legged adventurers have a comfortable and secure place to rest after a day on the trails. The campground’s setting beneath a forest canopy, at an elevation of almost 7,000 feet, guarantees pleasant temperatures even during the warmest California summers, offering a refreshing escape from the heat.

What truly sets Pepperdine Equestrian Campground apart is its direct access to the vast trail network of the Modoc National Forest, including the renowned Summit Trail that leads directly into the South Warner Wilderness. Imagine saddling up your horse or lacing up your hiking boots right from your campsite, ready to explore miles of diverse landscapes, from lush meadows to towering conifers. This immediate access to wilderness trails, combined with the campground’s peaceful ambiance and essential facilities, creates a truly immersive and convenient outdoor experience. Whether you’re an avid rider, a dedicated hiker, or simply seeking a quiet retreat in Northern California, Pepperdine Equestrian Campground offers an unforgettable adventure.

Pepperdine Equestrian Campground is situated on Parker Creek Rd, Alturas, CA 96101, USA. This places it within the Modoc National Forest in the far northeastern corner of California. The town of Alturas is approximately 19 miles away, serving as the closest community for supplies and services. The campground's location, at almost 7,000 feet elevation, contributes to its refreshing summer temperatures and often means it opens later in the season due to snow, typically from early July to late October, weather permitting.

Access to the campground is straightforward, making it relatively easy to reach for a remote location. From Alturas, you head east on County Road 56 for about 13 miles until you reach the Modoc National Forest Boundary, where the road seamlessly transitions into Forest Service Road 31/Parker Creek Road. Continuing for another 6 miles on Road 31 brings you directly to the campground entrance road on the right. While the campground is not recommended for very large RVs or long trailers due to potentially tight turns and low-hanging branches, it generally accommodates a variety of vehicles and trailers suitable for equestrian camping.

The strategic location within the Modoc National Forest, bordering the South Warner Wilderness, provides unparalleled accessibility to a vast network of trails. This means campers have direct access to some of California's most beautiful and less-traveled wilderness areas for hiking, backpacking, and, of course, horseback riding. Its relative remoteness ensures a genuine escape into nature, while still being reachable for Californians seeking a true high-country adventure. The blend of accessibility and a deeply wild setting makes Pepperdine Equestrian Campground a highly desirable destination for those looking to explore California's hidden gems.

Services Offered:

• Designated Campsites: Pepperdine Equestrian Campground offers 7 individual campsites, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Horse Corrals: Each campsite is equipped with a 12' x 12' metal pipe corral, allowing for convenient and secure stabling of horses.
• Picnic Tables: Every campsite includes a picnic table for outdoor dining and gathering.
• Fire Rings: Designated fire rings are provided at each site for campfires (ensure you have a current California Campfire Permit).
• Vault Toilets: Clean vault toilets are available for campers' convenience.
• Potable Water: Potable drinking water is generally available during the open season, though it's important to note that water systems are typically turned off seasonally (e.g., late October). Stock water is also available for horses.
• Trash Services: Garbage receptacles are usually provided, encouraging responsible waste disposal.
• Shaded Sites: Campsites are mostly shaded by the forest canopy, offering comfort during sunny days.
• Easy Trail Access: Direct access to hiking and equestrian trails, including the Summit Trail leading into the South Warner Wilderness.

Features / Highlights:

• Equestrian-Friendly Design: Specifically caters to horse owners with individual corrals at each site, a significant highlight for this niche.
• High-Elevation Comfort: Located at almost 7,000 feet, offering pleasant, cooler temperatures even during the hottest parts of summer.
• Direct Wilderness Access: Provides immediate entry to the South Warner Wilderness via the Summit Trail, ideal for backpacking and extended horse rides.
• "Beautiful Campground": Consistently praised by visitors for its scenic beauty and serene surroundings.
• No Reservations Required: Operates on a first-come, first-served basis, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips.
• Affordable Camping: A low daily fee ($15/single campsite) makes it an economical choice for outdoor adventurers.
• Dog-Friendly: Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash.
• Ample Shade: Most sites are shaded, providing a comfortable environment.
• Historical Use: Formerly a combined family and horse camp, now primarily focused on equestrian use with dedicated corrals.
• Proximity to Falls: Reviews mention a "short hike to the falls," indicating additional scenic attractions nearby.

Contact Information:

Address: Parker Creek Rd, Alturas, CA 96101, USA

Phone: (530) 279-6116 (Warner Mountain Ranger District, which operates the campground)

Mobile Phone: +1 530-279-6116 (Warner Mountain Ranger District)

For Californians, Pepperdine Equestrian Campground offers a uniquely appealing outdoor experience, particularly for those who cherish both solitude and the company of their horses. This campground stands out because it's specifically designed to accommodate equestrian enthusiasts, providing those essential 12' x 12' corrals right at your campsite. This level of convenience for horse owners is a significant draw for locals who often seek destinations where they can seamlessly integrate their passion for riding with a wilderness camping trip.

The campground's high-elevation setting in the Modoc National Forest is another major advantage for Californians. During the hot summer months, escaping to almost 7,000 feet means cooler, more comfortable temperatures, making outdoor activities much more enjoyable. The direct access to the Summit Trail and the South Warner Wilderness right from the campground is invaluable for both hikers and riders, offering endless opportunities for exploration without needing to drive to a separate trailhead. This immediate immersion into the vast, untouched beauty of the wilderness is a powerful draw for those seeking a true escape.

Furthermore, the "first-come, first-served" policy provides flexibility for spontaneous adventures, a welcome change from often fully booked reservation-only campgrounds. While it means planning for potential availability, it also allows for last-minute decisions to hit the trails. The affordability, combined with the serene, shaded environment and basic yet essential amenities like vault toilets and potable water, makes Pepperdine Equestrian Campground an excellent choice for any Californian seeking a peaceful, authentic, and truly equestrian-friendly outdoor experience in the majestic landscapes of the Modoc National Forest.

Pepperdine Equestrian Campground

Parker Creek Rd, Alturas, CA 96101, USA