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Established Camping

Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

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.

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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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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

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

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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

Are reservations required for Trappers Lake Campground in Colorado?

Trappers Lake has four small US Forest Service campgrounds in the area, with only one of them accepting reservations. The Horse Thief Equestrian Campground specifically operates on a first-come, first-served (FCFS) basis. If you're planning a visit during peak seasons or holidays, arriving early is recommended to secure a spot. For the reservable campground, it's advisable to book well in advance through the official US Forest Service reservation system. Contact the White River National Forest office for the most current reservation policies.

What amenities and facilities are available at Trappers Lake Campground?

Trappers Lake Horse Thief Equestrian Campground is a small facility specifically designed for equestrian use, though anyone can camp there if space is available. It offers approximately 10 campsites, some equipped with Powder River horse corrals. Facilities include a single toilet and one water spigot located near the top of the campground. The campground notably lacks shade, which is something to consider during hot summer months. Basic amenities support a rustic camping experience with access to nearby hiking trails.

What's the difference between Cutthroat and Trapline campgrounds at Trappers Lake?

There are four distinct US Forest Service campgrounds in the Trappers Lake area, including Cutthroat and Trapline. While specific details about these individual campgrounds aren't provided, they differ from the Horse Thief Equestrian Campground in their intended use. The Horse Thief campground is designed primarily for campers with horses, featuring corrals at some sites. The access road to all Trappers Lake campgrounds is well-maintained gravel, accessible with any vehicle and trailer combination. For specific differences between Cutthroat and Trapline, contact the White River National Forest office.

Is dispersed camping allowed at Trappers Lake?

While specific dispersed camping regulations for the immediate Trappers Lake area aren't detailed, the area is managed by the US Forest Service, which typically allows dispersed camping in designated areas of national forests. Visitors should check with the White River National Forest office for current dispersed camping policies around Trappers Lake. The presence of four established campgrounds in the area suggests that camping may be directed to these designated sites to protect the sensitive lake environment.