Equestrian camping near Antonito, Colorado requires careful planning due to limited dedicated facilities. Located in the southern San Luis Valley at approximately 7,800 feet elevation, this region experiences wide temperature swings even in summer, with overnight lows often dropping below 40°F. While several campgrounds accommodate horses, most lack formal equestrian amenities and operate seasonally from late spring through early fall.
What to do
Trail riding at Rio Costilla Park: Located about 45 minutes from Antonito, this 10,000-acre park offers extensive riding opportunities through aspen and ponderosa pine forests. "Awesome hiking trails for avid fishermen and hikers alike. From the 9 Lakes or Latier lakes however you prefer to call them to the hidden Little Blue Lake. A must visit for nature enthusiasts!" according to reviewer Larry S. at Rio Costilla Park.
Fishing with equestrian access: Many campgrounds permit access to quality fishing waters. At Ponderosa Campground, reviewer Michael M. notes: "The owner manager is great, providing quality fishing advice, conversation and even a free cup of coffee in the morning. Hiking on the CDT is near the campground and fishing is right in the campground."
High-elevation exploration: The Valle Vidal area provides riding options at elevations around 9,500 feet. "We watched several herds of Elk down in the valley on one of our hikes. We had deer roam through our campsite, they could care less that we were even there," reports Terry R. about Cimarron Campground, which is horse-friendly.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds offer sites large enough for horse trailers. At Rio Costilla Park, Joel H. reports: "For $25/night it's a good deal. There's not clearly marked camping areas, which is both kinda cool and a little disorienting. Some of the camping areas have small, perfectly sized covered picnic table areas which are absolutely wonderful."
Cooler temperatures: The high elevation provides relief from summer heat. Reviewer Sara S. notes about Hopewell Lake Campground: "This is our favorite spot for our annual big family camping trip. It is gorgeous! The views are spectacular. It's nice and cool even in summer. The trout fishing is fun and always a success at the lake."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Horse campers appreciate the abundant wildlife. "It is a mountainous terrain with small lakes and streams running through the camgrounds. It's beautiful! If you're lucky, you'll see some deer on one of your hikes," shares Jennifer G. about Rio Costilla Park.
What you should know
Horse facility limitations: While some sites can accommodate horses, formal facilities are minimal. At Hopewell Lake Campground, Megan E. observes: "Some sites have livestock pens, but I'm not sure on the campground policies. Hopewell Lake has tables for day picnics and is a popular fishing location. Be prepared for summer monsoon rains."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "It will drizzle regularly and sometimes pours so prepare for that. There is no running water at this campground, so bring plenty," advises Jennifer G. about camping with horses at Rio Costilla Park.
Road conditions: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. "The drive in is easy on Route 17 and does not require a vehicle with high ground clearance," notes Michael M. about Ponderosa Campground, while other campgrounds need 4WD access, especially with horse trailers.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly fishing: Several campgrounds offer accessible fishing for children. Karen N. shares about Hopewell Lake: "No luck fishing but several people around us were catching very nice sized trout. Extra dispersed campsites up dirt road from campground entrance."
Moderate hiking options: Trails suitable for various ages exist throughout the region. "There is a walking trail at the back of the campground to get to Surree Ponds. I would say it is of medium difficulty as there is a precarious creek crossing, and it is uphill the whole way back to camp," advises Jen M. about Cimarron Campground.
Water recreation: Streams provide entertainment for children. "We took inner tubes and rode them down the stream!" shares Anthony Z. about camping at Rio Costilla Park, offering a fun option for families with horses seeking additional activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection with horse trailers: Choose campgrounds with adequate space for both RVs and horse trailers. "Nice, clean privately owned campground with lots of amenities. Hot showers, bath house, ice and few supplies sold in the office. Campsites right along the river," reports Angelica B. about Ponderosa Campground, which can accommodate modest-sized rigs.
Seasonal accessibility: Roads to equestrian-suitable campgrounds often close seasonally. At Carson NF - Forest Service Road 578, Kala J. notes: "A nice secluded little forest road. RVs will not make it, so it's nice and quiet. AWD/4WD needed on the rutted rocky road."
Water and waste management: Plan for limited services. "There are no bathroom facilities just nature. It is a nice quiet cove with amazing views," shares Kelly P. about primitive sites at Ponderosa Campground, highlighting the importance of being self-sufficient when horse camping.
