Horse Ranch Park provides dispersed camping approximately 14 miles from Almont in Gunnison National Forest. At an elevation of 9,400 feet, this area receives consistent afternoon thunderstorms during summer months. Trail access directly from camping areas allows equestrians to explore without trailering horses between rides, though riders must bring their own containment systems.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Horse Ranch Park serves as a gateway to backcountry trails. Near Lost Lake Campground, riders can access multiple connecting routes. "Found this place late afternoon and fell in love with Gunnison National Forest! Lost Lake was right across the road from where we camped," notes a visitor to Horse Ranch Park.
Mountain biking at Hartman Rocks: Located 40 minutes from Almont, this area offers extensive trail networks for riders of all abilities. "Hartman's is MASSIVE and has tons of sites! There are many different ways to explore the array of trails, so you can bike, take a four-wheeler, horse-back ride, hike, or just drive your car," explains Elizabeth A. from Hartman Rocks Recreation Area.
Fishing in Taylor River: The river provides productive trout fishing spots within walking distance of campsites. One Mile Campground visitor Stacy notes, "Awesome campground if you love to raft or fish! The campground sits right across the highway from the beautiful and currently rip roaring Taylor River where there were was much rafting, kayaking and fishing happening."
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Many equestrian sites offer ample room for trailers and portable corrals. At Soap Creek Campground, Glenna L. found "site 8 as it was fairly close to the restroom, had decent shade, and large enough to accommodate our large tent and two vehicles...with room enough to spare to play washers!"
Natural water features: Creeks provide both horse watering options and ambient sound. "We were able to walk to the creek and what a view!" reports a Soap Creek visitor, while Betsy A. adds, "the nearby creek provides soothing background noise during nights."
High-elevation climate: Summer temperatures remain moderate compared to lower elevations. Amber R. from Lost Lake Campground observed it was "Surprisingly not buggy at the end of June and not too chilly at night. Tons of wildflowers in bloom!!"
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Some horse camping areas require navigating rough forest roads. At Raspberry Gulch, a visitor noted, "You don't really need 4wd, but it is a dirt road and some parts are less smooth than others."
Limited water sources: Most equestrian sites lack running water. Pack sufficient water or filtration systems. One camper at Lost Lake advised, "You'll lose internet connection about an hour before getting there. Make sure to get gas for your car too, it's pretty rare to find substantial towns on the way in."
Fire restrictions change seasonally: During dry periods, fire bans may be implemented. Check current regulations before departure. A Soap Creek visitor mentioned, "Camp hosts Wade and Tammy were so awesome. They give all campers a briefing on the rules and try by all means to save people money on fines that Park Rangers will no doubt issue if the rules are not followed."
Tips for camping with families
Bring portable corrals: No permanent horse containment exists at most sites. "We enjoyed riding our ATV and have found some beautiful trails full of wildflowers and wildlife," reports Evelyn R. from Soap Creek Corral, an area that provides alternatives to Horse Ranch Park.
Pack for variable weather: Mountain conditions change rapidly, even in summer. "We wore 6-7 layers and were warm the whole night. Very quiet, very peaceful, and the town of Crested Butte is not too far away," shares a camper who visited Musician's Camp in early October.
Plan day trips to nearby attractions: Within driving distance of horse campgrounds near Almont, families can access multiple recreation options. From One Mile Campground, Cyndi C. reports, "we were close enough to the towns of Almont and Gunnison to drive to for essentials we needed and to take a cooking break one night and have dinner at the wonderful Garlic Mike's."
Tips from RVers
Large rig access limitations: Many forest roads narrow significantly. Brian E. reports from Browns Creek: "I was able to get my 25ft rig pretty far up the mountain on road 274A. There was 30-40ft class A in the spot closest to me."
Limited hookups: Most horse camping areas lack electrical and water connections. At One Mile Campground, Cathleen G. notes, "This campground has electricity which is hard to find in this area!" making it an exception among equestrian camping options.
Extended stay preparation: For longer trips, bring sufficient supplies. "There is even one port-o-potty in summer. Plenty of sites suitable for trailers and RVs," reports Karen D. about Raspberry Gulch, though most dispersed camping areas require complete self-sufficiency.
Guide
