Public Campground
1-2 tents
Campo, California
Campground in California.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Black Canyon Group & Equestrian Campground
Campground in California.
Nestled in the scenic landscape of California, Black Canyon Group & Equestrian Campground offers a unique RV camping experience designed with both group gatherings and horse enthusiasts in mind. This public campground welcomes travelers seeking a more intimate connection with nature, away from crowded commercial parks yet still equipped with the essentials for comfortable camping.
The setting at Black Canyon provides an ideal backdrop for those who want to combine their RV adventure with equestrian activities. If you're traveling with horses or planning to enjoy horseback riding during your stay, this campground caters specifically to those needs. The dedicated equestrian facilities make it a standout choice for riders who don't want to leave their animals behind. Even if you're not an experienced rider, the peaceful rural setting makes it perfect for families and groups looking to escape city life and experience California's natural beauty.
What makes this destination special is its appeal to multiple types of travelers. Whether you're organizing a group camping trip with friends or family, or you're a solo traveler seeking a quieter, more nature-focused experience, Black Canyon accommodates both scenarios. The campground's group-friendly layout makes it an excellent choice for club gatherings, family reunions, or special occasion celebrations under the stars.
The surrounding California landscape offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration. Hiking, nature walks, and wildlife observation are natural pursuits in this region. The campground serves as a peaceful base camp for those wanting to explore the broader area while maintaining their RV home base.
Visitors consistently rate this campground highly, with many praising the well-maintained grounds and welcoming atmosphere. The 4.7 out of 5 rating from 16 reviews speaks to the quality experience campers have enjoyed here. This public facility represents excellent value for travelers looking for authentic camping experiences without the pretense of commercial RV resorts.
Black Canyon Group & Equestrian Campground is perfect for anyone seeking a genuine California camping adventure that celebrates outdoor living, community, and the simple joy of being close to nature.
The setting at Black Canyon provides an ideal backdrop for those who want to combine their RV adventure with equestrian activities. If you're traveling with horses or planning to enjoy horseback riding during your stay, this campground caters specifically to those needs. The dedicated equestrian facilities make it a standout choice for riders who don't want to leave their animals behind. Even if you're not an experienced rider, the peaceful rural setting makes it perfect for families and groups looking to escape city life and experience California's natural beauty.
What makes this destination special is its appeal to multiple types of travelers. Whether you're organizing a group camping trip with friends or family, or you're a solo traveler seeking a quieter, more nature-focused experience, Black Canyon accommodates both scenarios. The campground's group-friendly layout makes it an excellent choice for club gatherings, family reunions, or special occasion celebrations under the stars.
The surrounding California landscape offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration. Hiking, nature walks, and wildlife observation are natural pursuits in this region. The campground serves as a peaceful base camp for those wanting to explore the broader area while maintaining their RV home base.
Visitors consistently rate this campground highly, with many praising the well-maintained grounds and welcoming atmosphere. The 4.7 out of 5 rating from 16 reviews speaks to the quality experience campers have enjoyed here. This public facility represents excellent value for travelers looking for authentic camping experiences without the pretense of commercial RV resorts.
Black Canyon Group & Equestrian Campground is perfect for anyone seeking a genuine California camping adventure that celebrates outdoor living, community, and the simple joy of being close to nature.
4.7
Rating
16
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
Essex is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
California weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Essex.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near Essex. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Black Canyon Group & Equestrian Campground Reviews
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Robin White
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Robin White
Had fun with a large group here. Good view of stars. Was very windy when in late November. Smooth grounds for tent set up and plenty of parking.
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Sheri Devouassoux
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Sheri Devouassoux
This is a great campground for getting away from it all with your horses. Six corrals are available. They are all a nice size (18 x 18) and have nice soft sand footing inside. Water was recently restored to this campground, although the water spigots are a little tricky to use (tip: pull down on the small valve on the underside of the hydrant before raising the handle). There are pit toilets avail... This is a great campground for getting away from it all with your horses. Six corrals are available. They are all a nice size (18 x 18) and have nice soft sand footing inside. Water was recently restored to this campground, although the water spigots are a little tricky to use (tip: pull down on the small valve on the underside of the hydrant before raising the handle). There are pit toilets available. There is a herd of cattle that roam the canyon right behind the corrals, which can be a little exciting if your horse is not accustomed to cows. Overall this is a wonderful campground. We have camped here twice since we discovered it six months ago.
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Tricia Murphy
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Tricia Murphy
Best: group campground has a large covered table area with 8 tables. Good: bathrooms are very clean and close by. Bad: Layout of the campsite; The tent area is off, out of the way from everything else, which could be a good thing, but we didn't prefer it. Worst: in the left bathroom, the handle sticks and you think you are locked in but just turn the handle upwards and you can get out. Extras:... Best: group campground has a large covered table area with 8 tables. Good: bathrooms are very clean and close by. Bad: Layout of the campsite; The tent area is off, out of the way from everything else, which could be a good thing, but we didn't prefer it. Worst: in the left bathroom, the handle sticks and you think you are locked in but just turn the handle upwards and you can get out. Extras: fire ring is large and has plenty room around it fir everyone. Stars are amazing! Especially on a new moon.
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Dan MacLachlan
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Dan MacLachlan
Decent camp ground with some nice views of rock plateaus. The two pit toilet houses were nice. The site is quite out in the open without much privacy, but it's so remote that it likely won't matter. The ranger staff was quite friendly. Across the road is the visitor center and the normal camp ground. Also some hiking trails. A nice place for a family weekend camp out.
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Sparky
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Sparky
Descent camp area for large groups. Coverage for the rating area was helpful with the weather and nice to sit on the benches to eat. Water was across the way in the visitors area about 1/4 mile away. So on motorcycles it was a bit of a hassle to quickly fill up on water.
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