Open
— Open year-round, first-come, first-served. A permit is required for campfires. Limited to 14 consecutive days of camping. Day use hours are 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
About
Located in the San Joaquin River Gorge Special Recreation Management Area, the Equestrian Campground is specifically designed for horseback riders and their animals. Nestled by large oak trees near the Nuckahee Learning Center, this BLM-managed campground provides three accessible campsites, each equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, and wood grills. The campground features corrals for horses and drinking water available via a paddle-style spigot next to the corrals.
The large gravel parking area can accommodate 2-3 trucks with horse trailers and provides ample space for turning around. A convenient 1/4 mile bypass trail connects campers to the main trailhead, providing access to more than 22 miles of multi-use trails throughout the management area. These trails are shared by hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrian users, offering scenic views of the San Joaquin River Gorge.
The campground includes accessible restrooms and trash collection services. With no electricity and typically no cell service, this campground offers a peaceful, back-to-nature experience. The area is managed by the BLM Bakersfield Field Office and is best visited during fall, winter, and spring months.
Directions
From Fresno, take CA-168 north. One mile after the town of Prather, turn left onto Auberry Road. Follow Auberry Road 2.9 miles through the town of Auberry and turn left at the Y onto Powerhouse Road. After 1.8 miles, turn left onto Smalley Road and follow it into the recreation area. The visitor center is located at 40060 Smalley Road, Auberry, California.
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