Best Equestrian Camping near Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland
The Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests offer limited horse camping options near Estes Park and the surrounding mountain areas. While most campgrounds accommodate tent and RV camping, specialized horse facilities are minimal throughout the region. Campsites at Peaceful Valley Campground provide access to nearby horse trails but lack dedicated equestrian amenities like corrals or stalls. The campground features 17 sites with standard fire pits and picnic tables, with approximately half able to accommodate RVs or trailers. The adjacent trails connect to the wider Buchanan Pass Trail system where riders can access permitted horse routes. Visitors note the campground is especially busy during summer weekends.
Trail access from the developed campgrounds requires careful planning as horse trailer parking is restricted at most locations. The Meadow Creek Reservoir area offers dispersed camping options more suitable for equestrians, with space for larger vehicles and horse trailers along forest service roads. Riders can access the Columbine Lake trail system from this area, though high elevation means cold overnight temperatures even in summer months. Water access for horses is available at creeks and the reservoir, but no dedicated equestrian facilities exist. Horse owners should bring portable corrals or highlines as no permanent tie facilities are provided. The 9-mile dirt road accessing the Meadow Creek area can accommodate trailers but requires careful navigation during wet conditions. Several visitors report occasional moose sightings along the trails and campsites.
