Preacher Meadow (CA)

The Camp

The 44 single sites at Preacher Meadow average 16 feet of backing room — tight for RVs but workable for horse trailers and smaller rigs. Each site comes with a picnic table and fire ring with grill, but that's where the amenities end. Vault restrooms handle the basics, and you'll need to bring every drop of water you plan to use.

The campground's horse-focused design means wide sites and hitching areas, though the primitive nature keeps things simple. Sites are first-come, first-served only — no reservations, and you must physically show up to claim and pay for a spot the day you plan to use it.

What to Know

Payment works through the Recreation.gov app's scan feature or the on-site iron ranger that takes cash and checks. The no-advance-payment rule means busy weekends can fill up, but the equestrian focus keeps crowds lighter than typical car camping spots.

Water is the main logistical challenge here. Plan accordingly, especially if you're bringing horses that drink heavily after trail rides.

Nearby

Trinity Lake stretches out 6 miles away, accessible via the Bowerman boat ramp when water levels cooperate. The lake's 145 miles of shoreline and three distinct arms — Papoose, Buckeye, and Stuart Fork — offer plenty of fishing territory. Spring brings the best trout action nearly anywhere on the 2,387-foot elevation reservoir, while bass concentrate near dredger piles at the lake's head.

Multiple hiking trails branch out from the area, though the campground page doesn't detail specific routes. The lake itself handles everything from quiet cove fishing to open-water skiing on the main body.