Equestrian Information
The horse staging area is at the Santa Margarita County preserve: 37329 De Luz Rd. This is at the corner of Sandia Creek Rd and De Luz Rd. This small county preserve is owned and maintained by the San Diego County Park Department. The area has a horse trailer only parking lot, several water spigots, horse corrals, trash cans, picnic tables and 2 miles of trails. These trails connect to the 18 miles of trails on the private property owned by The Wildlands Conservancy.
The parking area can get quite full at times so if you are planning a large group visit please inform the Rangers at the Wildlands Conservancy and Fallbrook Trails Council. We can at times provide a volunteer horse guide to lead your ride. Please contact us.
Horse Trailer Parking Lot
Many of our trails are for advanced trail horses and riders. Always stay on the marked trails - never go into unmarked areas. Several trails go up steep single track areas where turnarounds are impossible. Be sure you are ready for what’s ahead before you enter a trail. All horses should be in good condition and have a high fitness level. Horses need to be accustomed to crossing water and mud holes. Some crossings can be belly deep on a very tall horse.
View from the high trails
In early spring many crossings will be closed as the water level is dangerous or soft footing (quicksand) is present. Please check our Facebook page for all trail news and closures. Do not cross over into any closed area. This is for your safety and/or the stability of the trail.
All river crossings are named, numbered and marked with a trail post. In addition, there are Pink Ribbons hanging at the water edge to show where you enter and exit the water. DO NOT ride up or down stream in the river. These are protected nesting areas and for wildlife only.
