3 Hour Camel Trek into the Forest and Ranch in California

If you’re looking for something truly different during your Los Angeles trip, a camel trek into the forest might be just the ticket. This tour combines the novelty of riding camels—rare in the US—with the tranquility of nature, a hands-on animal encounter, and a cozy campfire experience. It’s a mix of adventure, relaxation, and animal interaction all rolled into one unforgettable outing.

What we really love about this experience is how seamlessly it blends active exploration with laid-back fun. You get to enjoy a camel ride in lush forest surroundings—a rare sight in LA—and then unwind with a picnic of pizza and strawberries, topped off with campfire s’mores. The fact that all this is private and all-inclusive makes it feel like a special day out designed just for your group.

One possible consideration is the cost—at $875 for up to two people, it’s definitely on the premium side. But for a unique, personalized experience away from crowded tourist spots, many will find the price worthwhile. This tour is ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking an authentic, nature-rich adventure that’s both fun and educational.

Key Points

• Unique experience of camel trekking in a forest setting—rare in the US and especially in LA.
• All-inclusive with no hidden fees, including food, drinks, and animal interactions.
• Private tour ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Variety of activities—camel ride, ranch tour, animal encounters, campfire.
• Great for animal lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape into nature.
• High safety standards and friendly staff, with detailed attention to safety and guest comfort.

What to Expect from the Camel Trek Experience

The journey begins at Reptacular Ranch in Sylmar, a location known for its variety of animals and family-friendly vibe. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by friendly staff who make sure every detail is taken care of, including safety instructions and a quick overview of what’s ahead. The tour lasts around three hours, perfectly paced to enjoy each aspect without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The Camel Trek into the Forest

The star of the experience is, of course, the camel ride. Unlike traditional horseback riding, camels offer a unique, bumpy but charming way to explore the woods. The guides—who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge—help you mount and steer the camels Herbie and Sully, two gentle giants that are described as “friendly and smart” by previous visitors.

The forest trail is surprisingly scenic—lush trees, dappled sunlight, and fresh air—making it a calming escape from city life. Reviewers often highlight the safety measures, noting that “every safety detail was attended to,” which is reassuring if you’ve heard any misconceptions about camels being unpredictable. Instead, many find them to be quite gentle and easy to handle, even for first-timers.

The Picnic and Relaxation

After the initial ride, a heart-shaped pizza, chocolate-covered strawberries, and champagne or sparkling cider await you at a cozy picnic spot. This is a lovely touch that elevates the experience beyond just riding animals; it feels truly personalized and special. The setting allows about 30 minutes of relaxation, where you can soak in the peaceful forest scenery, take photos, or just unwind.

Return Camel Ride and Ranch Tour

Refreshed, you’ll climb back onto the camels for the return trek to the ranch. The scenic ride back gives you another chance to enjoy the natural surroundings and perhaps chat with your guides about the local flora and fauna. Once back at the ranch, you’re invited to explore a hands-on tour of the animal farm, home to over 200 animals—including reptiles, birds, bugs, and farm animals.

This ranch visit isn’t just a quick look—it’s interactive, allowing you to meet and greet the animals, many of which are described as friendly and well-cared-for. Reviewers especially appreciated the personal interaction with animals, noting that “all the animals were amazing,” and the staff made everyone feel comfortable handling and learning about them.

Campfire and S’mores Finale

The tour wraps up with a private campfire where you can roast marshmallows and make your own s’mores. This cozy ending is often highlighted as a highlight, with visitors sharing that it’s a perfect way to end a magical day. Plus, with no extra charge for photos, you can happily capture your special moments with the animals and scenery.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Understanding what makes each part of this tour special helps you visualize the day.

Start at Reptacular Ranch — You’ll meet your guides here, who are praised for their friendliness and professionalism. They ensure everyone knows how to safely ride the camels and handle animals, which is especially good if you’re new to camel trekking.

Camel Trek into the Forest — The trail is a gentle, scenic ride. The guides help you mount Herbie or Sully, and you’re off into the woods, where the air feels fresher and the environment more peaceful than typical urban parks. The forest setting provides a stark contrast to LA traffic and urban sprawl, making the ride a refreshing escape.

Picnic Break — After about an hour of riding, the group stops for a thoughtfully prepared picnic. The heart-shaped pizza is a charming detail, and the strawberries and champagne add a celebratory touch. Reviewers rave about the quality and presentation, noting that it feels like a special treat rather than just a snack.

Camel Return Ride — The trek back is equally scenic, allowing you to enjoy the surroundings at a relaxed pace. Many mention feeling safe and comfortable during the ride, which is a testament to the attentive guides.

Ranch Exploration — The one-hour ranch tour is highly interactive. Visitors love meeting the farm animals, reptiles, and birds, often commenting on how friendly and well-behaved the animals are. The guides are described as knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making it easy to learn about each animal.

Campfire and S’mores — The finale is a cozy campfire, a perfect spot for unwinding and sharing stories. Making your own s’mores adds a nostalgic, fun element and offers a warm, social ending to the adventure.

Pricing and Value for Money

At $875 for a group of up to two people, this experience falls into the premium category, but it’s packed with personalized touches and unique moments. The all-inclusive nature—covering food, drinks, animal encounters, and photos—means there are no hidden costs. Many reviewers felt the price was justified for a private, one-of-a-kind outing that combines adventure with relaxation.

Considering what’s included—scenic camel rides, a hearty picnic, close-up animal interactions, and a cozy campfire—the value is solid for those looking for an exclusive and memorable experience. It’s not your typical LA activity, but rather a crafted adventure that feels more like a day at a private sanctuary than a tourist trap.

Practical Details That Matter

• Location: Reptacular Ranch in Sylmar, a bit outside the city center but easily accessible by car.
• Duration: About three hours, a good length that allows plenty of time for all activities without fatigue.
• Group Size: Private, so just your group—perfect for intimate gatherings or special occasions.
• Booking in Advance: Recommended at around 8 days ahead, especially during peak seasons.
• Age & Accessibility: Most travelers can participate, but closed-toed shoes are required, and allergies to animals or hay should be considered.
• Weather Considerations: The experience is weather-dependent; poor weather may lead to rescheduling or a full refund.

Authenticity and Reviewer Insights

Multiple reviewers highlighted the friendly, knowledgeable guides—particularly praising Jen, who set a “beautiful afternoon” and was “very accommodating.” Herbie and Sully, the camels, are described as “gentle and friendly,” dispelling myths that camels can be difficult. Safety is a consistent theme, with many guests feeling secure thanks to attentive staff who follow safety protocols diligently.

The forest setting is frequently lauded. One reviewer noted, “the views are stunning,” emphasizing how the scenery elevates the experience beyond just riding animals. The picnic section garners praise too, with many describing it as a “special treat,” thanks to the quality of the food and the intimate setting.

The Sum Up

This 3-hour camel trek offers a rare blend of adventure, nature, and animal fun, all wrapped up in a private, all-inclusive package. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families who want something more than just sightseeing—a chance to connect with animals, enjoy scenic surroundings, and relax with good food around a campfire.

The thoughtful itinerary, friendly guides, and focus on safety make this a trustworthy choice for those seeking a memorable outdoor activity. It’s a bit of a splurge, but the personalized touches and unique experience make it worth considering for a special occasion or a fun day out.

If you’re after an experience that combines LA’s natural beauty with the charm of animal encounters, this camel trek might become the highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and children who can wear closed-toed shoes and follow safety instructions will enjoy it. It’s a family-friendly activity, especially for animal-loving kids.

How long is the entire tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours from start to finish, including the camel ride, picnic, ranch visit, and campfire.

Do I need to bring anything?
The tour provides everything necessary, but wearing comfortable, closed-toe shoes is recommended. You might want to bring a camera or phone for photos.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.

What is included in the price?
All activities, food, drinks, and photos are included. There are no hidden fees, making it straightforward to budget.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If the weather is poor, the experience may be canceled or rescheduled. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers a delightful mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic animal encounters, making it a truly memorable addition to any LA itinerary.