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Established Camping

Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground

Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground, near Meeker, Colorado, is a unique destination primarily catering to horse lovers, but it welcomes all campers when it’s not busy. With around ten sites, some equipped with powder river corrals, it’s a cozy spot for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

The campground offers basic amenities like drinking water and a single toilet, but keep in mind that there’s no shade, so be prepared for some sun exposure. Visitors have noted that the access road is in great shape, making it easy for various vehicles and trailers to reach the site. As one camper mentioned, “We had our campground to ourselves,” highlighting the peaceful atmosphere you can expect.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the area around Trappers Lake is a hiker's paradise, with stunning trails leading to breathtaking views. The nearby lake is a fantastic spot for fishing and enjoying the scenery, although some areas may have been affected by past forest fires. Campers appreciate the tranquility and the chance to immerse themselves in nature, making it a great choice for a weekend escape or a longer stay.

Description

USDA Forest Service

Trappers Lake is known as the "Cradle of Wilderness." At approximately 302 surface acres, the lake contains a strain of native cutthroat trout and the Colorado Division of Wildlife operates a spawn collection station at the Cabin Creek inlet during May and June. Trappers Lake itself lies completely within Flat Tops Wilderness; motorized boats and wheeled carts for boat transport are prohibited. Trappers Lake Lodge rents cabins and boats, and there are 5 Forest Service campgrounds nearby. Dispersed camping is prohibited within 1/4 mile of Trappers Lake and the campgrounds. The video below is provided courtesy of Flattopsbyway. A downloadable audio tour of the Flat Tops Trail Scenic and Historic Byway is also available.

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Location

Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground is located in Colorado

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Meeker, take Colorado Highway 13 east for 1 mile, then turn right on Rio Blanco County Road 8 and follow this for 39 miles to Trappers Lake Road #205. Turn south on Trappers Lake Road #205, and continue for 10 miles just past the Outlet Trailhead. The Trapline Campground is on the left.

Coordinates

39.99524256446367 N
107.23769765318126 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Picnic Table
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Big Rig Friendly

Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 26, 2024

Equestrian focus CG

This is the official CG for the horse crowd, however if it is empty anyone can camp there. FCFS, about 10 sites some with powder river corrals. One water spigot up at top by the single toilet one issue is NO shade.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground by Greg L., July 26, 2024
  • Review photo of Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground by Greg L., July 26, 2024
  • Review photo of Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground by Greg L., July 26, 2024
  • (12) View All
Reviewed Jan. 9, 2021

Nice USFS campgrounds

There are 4 small US Forest Service campgrounds here.  The access road is in great shape and while it is gravel, it is passable with any vehicle and trailer combination.

One of the campgrounds is reservable, the the others are FCFS.  We stayed in the equestrian campground.  In two of the campgrounds (on the left as you come in), only the smallest of trailers will work.  The first one on the right is the equestrian campground and the second one on the right is the reservable campground.  We have a short 5th wheel (26') and we found only a couple of sites we could fit in.  I would say that 32' is about it.  On the other hand, the campgrounds get very little use and you should have no problems finding a spot.  We were there in early June and we had our campground to our selves.  There is water but no other services.  Cell service?  Forget about it.  

The hiking is fantastic from the campground.  Trappers Lake is outstanding.  There was a forest fire a few years back so the trees around the lake are gone.  There are many trails and the views are some of the best.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground by Doug W., January 9, 2021
  • Review photo of Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground by Doug W., January 9, 2021
  • Review photo of Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground by Doug W., January 9, 2021

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost to camp at Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground?

    Camping at Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground can cost between $11.00 and $25.00 depending on the site.

  • Are fires allowed at Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground does not have wifi.