Cowabunga -- the surf's up, dude

Depending on your point of view, California horses just might be luckier than most because they get to go to the beach.  

For the past fifteen years we've gone camping at Hazard Horse Camp with a large group of our equestrian friends.  Our horses enjoy trail rides--of about two miles--to and from the beach through sand dunes. Other favorite activities include a half-mile run on the beach, and if your horse is up to it. a romp in the surf.

Hazard is a primitive equestrian campsite for groups of up to 50 people.  The camp has pipe-corral stalls, pit toilets, and plenty of room for motor homes, but no hook-ups. Campers must haul in feed, and haul out their own trash and muck-out the stalls. Recycled water for horses only is there, but campers need bring their own potable water.

Our group is livelier than some, so camping usually includes some Gymkhana equestrian events consisting of speed, pattern-racing and timed games for riders, a luau complete with mandatory Hawaiian shirts, all-you-can-eat food, and more-than-you-should-imbibe drinks, and a late-night bonfire.

Hazard Horse Camp is located in Montana De Oro State Park on California's central coast.  The park features over 8,000 acres of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and peaks where equestrians and their horses can enjoy the solitude and freedom found on the park’s trails.  The park’s name--"Mountain of Gold"--comes from the golden wildflowers that bloom in spring. Wildlife in the park includes black-tailed deer and the black oystercatcher. 

Maybe we'll see you on the beach.  Cowabunga -- the surf's up, dude!