horse on the prairie

Horseback Riding

Nevada County is a great place for equestrians to explore.

Highlights

Empire Mine State Park has easy access equestrian trails to explore within minutes of downtown Grass Valley.

At Skillman Horse Campground, you and your trusty steed can “cowboy camp” under the stars and boughs.

The Tahoe National Forest has lots of options across the county. Whether you’re staying on the east or west end of Nevada county, you can find a perfect adventure!

If you’re staying closer to Truckee, book an adventure with Piping Rock Horses.

Resources

To connect with local equestrian resources, visit the Gold Country Trails Council website.

Find out more about horseback riding in Truckee

Plan Ahead! Visit Mother Lode Trails to get updates on local trail conditions.

Camping season typically begins in May and ends at the first snowfall. Campsites fill up quick though, so make sure you book your reservation ahead of time!

Jump in the Saddle and Explore Nevada County

In addition to numerous walking, hiking, and biking trails, Nevada County also offers plentiful equestrian trails and campgrounds. Feel free to bring your horses to our “horse-friendly” parks and RV campsites, complete with hookups and restrooms. Horseback riding enthusiasts have an abundance of trails to choose from, including ones in the Tahoe National Forest, historic Empire Mine State Park and other locations. At Skillman Horse Campground, you and your trusty steed can “cowboy camp” under the stars and boughs. Complete with corrals, hitching posts, and horse troughs. Only 20 minutes from Truckee, you can stay at Boca Spring which also offers equestrian trails, hiking, grill pits, and spacious campsites. The Tahoe National Forest has lots of options across the county. Whether you’re staying on the east or west end of Nevada county, you can find a perfect adventure! There’s so much to explore! 

Horseback riding near Frog Lake on Donner Summit.
Horseback riding near Frog Lake on Donner Summit.
Horseback riding along the Pacific Crest Trail.