5 Favorite Horse-Friendly Campgrounds in Colorado

There is something iconic about taking a camping trip in Colorado along with your horses. Saddling up before sunrise to watch the sun peak over the mountain tops or an evening ride along a crystal clear creek are truly unbeatable experiences.

And after a long day in the saddle, sitting by a campfire, cooking up the day's catch, and listening to your horse's soft whiny only adds to the incredible ambiance of the experience. In fact, for centuries, humans have been setting up camp with their faithful four-legged companions corralled nearby.

If you are ready to explore the Colorado trails with your trusty steed, this is the guide for you. Check out our top five favorite horse-friendly campgrounds in Colorado.

Hermit Park Campground - Estes Park, CO

Hermit Park Campground is located just outside Estes Park. The campground offers easy access to trails, which wind their way through a registered National Historic District. In the 1800s, the area was home to a bustling settlement, with the last resident living in the area in 1952.

Today, the trails allow you to explore remnants of the homesteads found here with placards explaining the story of each homestead family.

The campground features pens and shade as well as room for setting up a tent or camping in your trailer's living quarters. Keep in mind that are no hookups, but there are on-site restrooms available. After a long day of riding, take a few hours to explore nearby Estes Park, where you can enjoy shopping, dining, and sampling local craft beers.

Indian Creek Equestrian Campground - Sedalia, CO

The Indian Creek Equestrian Campground is a wonderful choice for the avid horseback rider. This campground gives you easy access to the Indian Creek Equestrian Trail and the Rampart Range. You'll love the serenity of the campground which has a total of seven campsites and parking that can accommodate horse trailers up to 60 feet in length.

You are allowed to bring along up to four horses and a total of 10 people per campsite. Per the national forest regulations, make sure to bring certified weed-free hay only. Facilities include hitching rails, small corrals, and drinking water. Note that there is no watering trough at the campground, so you'll need to bring along your own.

During your stay, you'll be able to explore numerous trails and soak in the incredible beauty of the area. Elk and deer roam the hills, and the high peaks offer an incredible backdrop for each ride.

Winding River Resort - Grand Lake, CO

For an elevated stay, consider booking a night or two at the Winding River Resort in Grand Lake. Adjacent to Rocky Mountain National Park, a stay here gives you the perfect chance to explore some of the state's most iconic trails. You can camp in dedicated RV sites or book lodging at the resort's cabins, covered wagons, or lodge rooms.

Horses can spend the night at your campsite on a horse run or in one of the resort's covered barns.

If anyone in your group needs a horse to ride, the resort also offers daily horse rentals. This is the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park while having access to all the amenities.

Golden Gate Canyon State Park - Blackhawk, CO

If you are looking for a camping trip that is only a short jaunt from Denver, Colorado, this is the perfect solution. Located near Blackhawk, book your stay at the park's guest house. Along with access to the guest house, you can use the two accompanying electrical RV sites.

Nearby, explore over 12 trails packed with stunning views of snow-capped mountains and lush valleys. When you need a break from the trails, you can journey into Blackhawk to test your luck at one of the area's casinos. Or go on a guided gold panning adventure and learn more about the area's rich mining history.

Soap Creek Corral - Gunnison County, CO

For those who enjoy getting away from it all, the Soap Creek Corral dispersed camping is just the ticket. Located adjacent to the established Soap Creek Campground, this dispersed camping area permits you and your horses to camp for free. Be sure to bring along all the water and power you'll need as this is true boondocking style camping.

With easy access to the southern trails of the West Elk Wilderness, camping at Soap Creek Corral will give you the unique opportunity to explore segments of Colorado that are untouched by civilization.

Shop Transwest for Horse Trailers

If you are interested in planning a camping trip with your horses, make sure you are ready for the journey with a new horse trailer. At Transwest, we can help you explore a variety of horse trailer options, including horse trailers with living quarters, which can turn your next camping trip into a more luxurious experience.

At Transwest, we know how important your horses are to you, which is why we carry top-quality horse trailers backed by leading manufacturers. We want to help you and your horses access the trails safely and comfortably. Stop by to explore our inventory or give our team a call to learn more.