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Best Equestrian Camping near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

78 Reviews

Surrounded by a steep gorge lies Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, near the small city of Montrose, NV. RVers and campers will want to stop and stock up on supplies before heading toward the campgrounds by the Gunnison River. Offering some of the best camping in Nevada, campers can wander the trails catching stunning views of the striated Painted Wall cliff. Some of the wildlife you can expect to see include deer, elk, mule, and majestic golden eagles. Pitch a tent at one of the campsites by the river for a day of fishing or get a group together and stay in a cabin.

Map showing campgrounds near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, ColoradoExplore the Map

Best Equestrian Sites Near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (15)

    1. Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground

    7 Reviews
    Curecanti National Recreation Area, CO
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 641-0471

    "Many of the sites are shaded by the trees and the nearby creek provides soothing background noise during nights. Trails near the sites are very accessible. Views are gorgeous."

    "We arrived at Soap Creek Campground around noon on a Friday in mid-July and found several wonderful sites to choose from."

    2. Soap Creek Corral

    4 Reviews
    Crawford, CO
    21 miles
    Website

    "This is a great spot tucked away behind the reservoir and along a sweet little creek. I didn’t stay because no one was there this time of year and I had no cell service."

    "What draws us to this campground is the beauty of the surrounding area. Black Canyon is close by for those who like to hike."

    3. Silver Jack Campground

    5 Reviews
    Ridgway, CO
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 537-8888

    $20 - $275 / night

    "Beautiful area around Silver Jack Reservoir with scrub brush low turning to pine forest and huge aspen glades as you climb."

    "Quite a drive up but well worth it. Nearly in July (Sunday-Tuesday). Aspens everywhere, and trails right off our site. Clean bathrooms easy access to water."

    4. Lost Lake Campground

    13 Reviews
    Crested Butte, CO
    34 miles
    Website

    "There are some reserve able sites near the lake, and some first come/first serve sites as well. Also dispersed camping on the way up to the campground."

    "Lost Lake Campground near Crested Butte, Colorado, is a hidden gem that combines serene alpine beauty with a peaceful camping experience."

    5. Hartman Rocks Recreation Area

    20 Reviews
    Gunnison, CO
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 642-4940

    "The location shown looks like it’s super far out but you can find campgrounds pretty close to the entrance(10 minutes from parking lot)."

    "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. There are about 3 toilets (nothing fancy)."

    6. Kebler Corner

    5 Reviews
    Somerset, CO
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 929-5029

    $35 - $725 / night

    "It is quiet and peaceful next to the roaring of the river. Perfectly situated between Paonia (Big B’s cider) and Kebler pass leading to Crested Butte."

    "The tent spots were in a different area on the other side of the property a little away from the busier parts."

    7. Mill Creek

    8 Reviews
    Lake City, CO
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 642-4953

    $20 / night

    "It is located away from Lake City that it feels quiet and ties neatly into local 4x4 roads and mountain passes."

    "Nestled in pine trees alongside the lake fork of the Gunnison river. Most sites have tons of privacy. All have picnic tables and bear boxes. First-come first-serve. Very clean vault toilet restrooms."

    8. Horse Ranch Park (dispersed)-paonia Rd

    1 Review
    Crested Butte, CO
    36 miles
    Website

    "Lost Lake was right across the road from where we camped. Found a beautiful spot with a great view! Most of the other spots were taken so we were blessed. Can't wait to go back again."

    9. Grand Mesa FS 105 Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    Mesa Lakes, CO
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 874-6600

    "Our site was hidden by trees off a short dirt drive which wasn’t too bad."

    "We spent two weeks near vela resevoir. No fish but lots of mushrooms. The first trees are inoxicating. We are disappointed in the virtual take over by atvs."

    10. Musician's Camp

    4 Reviews
    Crested Butte, CO
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 641-0471

    "Crested Butte (wisely) decided to control the previously out-of-control dispersed camping situation around the region."

    "Not too far outside Crested Butt CO. (About 25 mins) The road is ok , but not great getting there.  Campsites and view of the mountain range is great."

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

2 Photos of 15 Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Campgrounds

Equestrian Camping Reviews near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

78 Reviews of 15 Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Campgrounds

  • Whitney L.
    Sep. 10, 2021

    Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground

    free views plus free noise pollution

    This is for "Soap Creek Corral/ Coal Mesa Horse Camp" dispersed camping not the actual Soap Creek Campground. There were spots at the formal campground but they were small, unconcealed, and within close proximity to all other sites. However, there were true dispersed spots near the horse corrals where lots of horse trailers and off roaders park to ride the trails.

    Off of HWY 50, we turned on to HWY 92 and then took FR 721 to FR 721 E where we turned and went right down to the proper campground before looping back out. We went out the same way in (FR 721) but split off onto the side road to find the horse corral area. Bear country. Pros/Cons: no mobile service, primitive, right next to a creek, lots of OHVs, milky way visible, mountain views, shade, creek sounds at night.

  • Ali W.
    Sep. 21, 2016

    Lost Lake Campground

    Great campground you don't have to leave!

    Stumbled upon this place accidentally one weekend. There are some reserve able sites near the lake, and some first come/first serve sites as well. Also dispersed camping on the way up to the campground. Place for your horses, group sites, small sites, lakeside site, trailer sites, this place has it all! Great fishing on the lower lake, hike up to the pass or upper lakes. Great trails surround this campground . Spectacular fall foliage! Camp host you can get wood from. Bathrooms and great hammock spots, nice pull in spots for your car, accessible in any vehicle! Fire rings and picnic tables, everything in great shape.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 15, 2024

    Lost Lake Campground

    Tranquil Alpine Retreat

    Lost Lake Campground near Crested Butte, Colorado, is a hidden gem that combines serene alpine beauty with a peaceful camping experience. Tucked away in the Gunnison National Forest, this campground offers stunning views of wildflower-filled meadows, dense forests, and the pristine Lost Lake itself, which mirrors the surrounding peaks.

    The campsites are well-maintained, spacious, and thoughtfully spaced for privacy, with some offering lakefront views. There’s a charming rustic vibe, with basic amenities like vault toilets and picnic tables, but no hookups. The nearby trails, including the popular Three Lakes Loop, are perfect for hiking, fishing, and soaking in the mountain scenery.

    What sets Lost Lake apart is its tranquil atmosphere—especially if you’re visiting during the off-season. It’s the ideal spot to disconnect and enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty, whether you’re kayaking on the lake or simply relaxing by the campfire.

    Be aware that the road to the campground is a bit rough and narrow, so it’s best suited for smaller campers or tents. Also, temperatures can drop quickly at night, so pack warm gear even in summer.

    If you’re looking for a quiet retreat near Crested Butte with postcard-worthy scenery, Lost Lake Campground is hard to beat. It’s the perfect blend of solitude, recreation, and breathtaking views.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2024

    Hartman Rocks Recreation Area

    Easy access

    The location shown looks like it’s super far out but you can find campgrounds pretty close to the entrance(10 minutes from parking lot). There is also a portapotty within walking distance of the first camping loop, and the site has a table and fire ring. You do need to know how to drive on and around rock in the road though.

  • Jason G.
    May. 1, 2021

    Silver Jack Campground

    Great San Juan Getaway

    Beautiful area around Silver Jack Reservoir with scrub brush low turning to pine forest and huge aspen glades as you climb. Highly suggest taking 858/Cimarron road over the pass to highway 50/Cimarron Colorado in the fall due to the extensive Aspen population. This is where I grew up so camped in the area dozens of times at least.

  • Elizabeth A.
    Mar. 15, 2021

    Hartman Rocks Recreation Area

    Amazing Area

    Hartman’s is MASSIVE and has tons of sites! It’s all dispersed camping. There are smaller more remote sites, big sites, as well as areas where there are a few sites in clusters. There are shady areas, non-shady areas, spots with views, and more hidden spots. There really is something for everyone. I live here in Gunnison, and it’s a great last minute spot if you want to get out for the night. There are no water sources, as the area is just rocks and dirt. 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. There are about 3 toilets (nothing fancy). It’s an overall great area if you don’t want to get too far out of town!

  • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2020

    Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground

    Can’t recommend this place enough!!

    We decided to try this campground out on a whim, unsure how it would turn out. I’m glad to say it blew our expectations away! The campground was very well kept and quiet which is super hard to find nowadays. Many of the sites are shaded by the trees and the nearby creek provides soothing background noise during nights. Trails near the sites are very accessible. Views are gorgeous.

    One warning: the road in gets narrow at times so if you’re bringing an RV or a larger sized car be extra cautious.

    This has been our favorite campground in Colorado so far. I give this a 9/10!

  • Voyager D.
    Aug. 21, 2024

    Dark Canyon Trailhead (Dispersed)

    Not Dispersed

    Not an actual site. Pin took me to a feild with horse/cows (pics attached for cuteness). The actual site is in the campground on Google Maps, but IT ISNT ALLOWED!!!

    VERY CLEARLY SIGNED CAMPING IN CAMPGROUND SITES ONLY!!!

    There is a small fire ring by the trailhead, as description says, but the signs on the road are VERY clear. Also lots of rangers patrolling, so don't risk it!!

    So, unless you wanna pay a RIDICULOUS fee for a night, not worth it at all. Would've given it one mark, but figured someone later might find a touch of value.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Lost Lake Campground

    Almost perfect

    Fairly remote with basic services. Road was a bit rough with tight turns for the last 2 miles, so your 40' trailer might be challenging. Aside from those things, this was a fantastic campground in a great location. Beautiful lakes with good fishing, well marked hiking trails, waterfalls(!), friendly camp hosts, week maintained facilities and grounds. I've lived in Colorado most of my life, and this was the first time I'd been over Kebler pass... beautiful expansive views on the west side.

Guide to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Horse camping near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Colorado offers a unique experience for equestrian enthusiasts, combining stunning landscapes with well-equipped facilities for both horses and riders.

Campers appreciate these amenities for horses

  • The Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground allows pets and features ample space for horse camping, making it a great choice for those traveling with their equine companions.
  • At the Soap Creek Corral, horse camping is well-supported with nearby trails and a welcoming environment for both horses and riders.
  • The Silver Jack Campground provides a scenic backdrop for horse camping, with access to trails that are perfect for exploring the beautiful surroundings.

Tips for equestrian camping near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Colorado

Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

  • The Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground is surrounded by numerous trails, perfect for horseback riding and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
  • At the Soap Creek Corral, riders can enjoy access to scenic routes that lead to breathtaking views and hidden gems in the forest.
  • The Silver Jack Campground offers trails that are ideal for both horseback riding and hiking, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 7 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?

TheDyrt.com has all 15 equestrian camping locations near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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