Gabaldon Horse Campground provides dedicated camping facilities for equestrians approximately 30 miles from Show Low in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. The campground contains eight designated sites equipped with horse stalls. At 7,000 feet elevation, the campground offers cooler temperatures during summer compared to lower elevations. Forest Service roads connect to multiple trail systems suitable for both day rides and overnight camping trips.
What to do
Trail riding with creek access: Trails directly adjacent to Gabaldon Horse Campground cross multiple small creeks that offer natural watering spots for horses. According to Calvin G., the campground is "Right next to a nice little trail that crosses the creek. Quiet and peaceful."
Explore nearby lakes: Big Lake is accessible within driving distance of Grayling Campground, providing fishing and water recreation opportunities. As Layne L. notes, "This campground is in the middle of a recreational enthusiast's dream. Many different opportunities to play and explore... And within walking distance of Big Lake."
Wildlife viewing: Colcord Ridge Campground offers opportunities to observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. Caitlin S. reports, "Active wildlife from deer to coyotes to wild horses. Perfect for families with kids as there are also lakes creeks and caves within driving distance."
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation of horse campgrounds near Show Low provides relief from summer heat. Desert Falcon Ranch offers "Peaceful and serene" conditions where visitors can "go on walks, listen to wildlife, look at wildflowers and read a book," according to Judy L., who adds, "Magnificent sunsets and stars are bright at night."
Spacious sites: Larson Ridge Camping Area features "Spacious campsites; some have phenomenal views overlooking a canyon," as Rose C. describes. She notes additional benefits: "Free entry and a toilet near the entrance. Saw some deer while on a hike and seems like a great area for off-roading in an ATV or dirt bike."
Privacy and solitude: Most equestrian campgrounds in the Show Low area remain relatively uncrowded. Calvin G. observed at Gabaldon Horse Campground, "No one else was there when I went. Nice stalls for horses, though I had none."
What you should know
Bear precautions required: Proper food storage is essential at horse campgrounds near Show Low. Matthew K. warns about Gabaldon: "We had everything in air tight containers in the back of the truck locked up a night. After the first night we woke up to bite and claw marks on the tailgate of my truck... So plan smart and bring BEAR SPRAY. Even the hiking trails say to."
Road conditions vary: Access roads to some campgrounds may be challenging. Kevin H. notes about Lancelot Desert Camping: "The only issue is the road to get to the campground is almost 10 miles of a non maintained road, very bumpy."
Seasonal restrictions: Many forest campgrounds operate seasonally. Colcord Ridge Campground is open from May 15 to October 15, while Grayling Campground operates from May 13 to October 31. Fire restrictions are common during dry periods, as Jacob S. notes: "This is part of Tonto National forest so fire restrictions and usually in place through the summer."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple recreation options: Family-friendly activities abound near Show Low horse campgrounds. Jacob S. recommends Colcord Ridge: "Forest Lakes and the rim lakes are close by. They are great for kayaking, fishing and camping. The fish hatchery is a fun stop for kids but the hours are pretty specific."
Vehicle accessibility considerations: For families with standard vehicles, Kat E. suggests: "Do you want to get away from the city but only have a vehicle that's is low to the ground making dirt roads challenging or sometimes impossible? This is the campsite for you. While the site is on a dirt road it has been maintained enough that my typical sedan can get to it easily."
Facility limitations: Most horse campgrounds have basic facilities. Zachary C. describes Colcord Ridge: "There's a picnic table and fire ring at the sites as well as a couple vault toilets at the campground. There's a beautiful view looking out to the NW however there are some fairly large power lines to the west."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Some horse campgrounds can accommodate larger vehicles. Ashley F. recommends Lancelot Desert Camping: "I love that this space can fit those extra large RV's or tents. With your own platform to picnic on or pitch your tent, and yard games to play, this is a cozy and cute spot to visit on your next adventure."
Bathroom considerations: Vault toilets are standard at most horse campgrounds. Krista Z. notes at Larson Ridge: "The bathroom is very simple. One men's and one women's. There is a sign that the bathroom is maintained by volunteers. I've always seen it stocked with toilet paper but the floor is normally dirty and the trash is half full."
Weekend crowds: Expect more company during peak times. Rose C. observed at Larson Ridge: "It was kind of crowded and noisy until late this Memorial Day weekend" and "some of the campsites are close to the road and passing trucks can be loud."
