Indian Creek Equestrian Campground connects riders to the extensive Colorado Trail system while providing a convenient base for horse owners exploring the Pike National Forest. This established campground features clean facilities with vault toilets and water spigots next to the bathroom facilities. The tent camping area sits to the right after entry, containing two loops with bathroom facilities. Indian Creek is lush and wooded while still relatively close to Denver, making it a popular destination for equestrian campers seeking proximity to urban areas. Horse facilities include spaces specifically designed for equine companions. Sites 1-4 have shade while sites 5-8 do not, with site 1 offering the most privacy despite being furthest from the bathrooms.
Trail #800 has become challenging due to excessive water erosion, with deep troughs and significant overgrowth making navigation difficult in some sections. However, the trail heading north from the parking area remains well-maintained and offers an enjoyable riding experience. The Indian Creek trail system is ideal for mountain biking or running alongside equestrian use. Daily trail rides connect campers to numerous scenic routes through the surrounding forest. The campground host regularly checks in with visitors and provides helpful information about trail conditions and horse management requirements. Highline options are available for those without portable corrals. Water access for horses can be found at designated areas throughout the campground. Campers should note that bears are present in the region, and proper food storage is essential when camping with horses in this area.
$36 - $200 / night
"Stay here a couple times a year, great amenities and lots to do with a swim beach, shore line, horses, boat ramp and model planes."
"Chatfield State Park is a great mixture of access to the outdoors with availability of many of the benefits of a metro area close by."
"Each of them have a parking area right along the road with a fire ring a short distance away surrounded by awesome rock outcroppings."
"Went further up the road to Wellington lake after we set up. There was maybe 3/4 other sites during that drive. Super cool area."
"Close proximity to the highway. Clean level spots. Geared more towards RV camping. Pros: great views of the foothills."
"So much to do in this little area-lakes, trails, horses. Very close to red rocks. This is still in town so great for beginners"
$30 / night
"This campground has a equestrian area and a tent camping area. The tent camping is to the right after you enter, there are two tent loops with bathrooms. Water spigots next to the bathroom."
"Lots of beautiful trails, close to Denver and very peaceful. Bring your ponies, its an equestrian campground!"
$28 / night
"The pit, very clean are at base, and there is a porta-potty by site 14, far enough away from 14 to not be a problem."
"We brought out the bike and did some trails to find the perfect spot and since we went in the middle of the week we had our choice of spot."
$7 - $22 / night
"Lots of hikers, mtn bikers, and horses. The camp host did check in and was very helpful and friendly. Good option close to Denver."
"There is a small trail you can hike. Pet friendly with a leash. I visited in off season for the trail, the picture is from the snow left on the drive into the sites."
$28 - $432 / night
"It’s we’ll thought out with lots of activity areas like, mountain bike trail, shooting area, off leash dog area, model airfield, equestrian trails, lake and hiking trails!"
"I only gave it 4 stars because on the outskirts of the state park we have a lot of homeless camps popping up oblong Parker road and 225."
$12 / night
"Easy drive and a half-mile hike with moderate increase in elevation from parking to tent pads, numbered 1-5."
$28 - $38 / night
"Colorado campground is situated outside of Woodland Park (10 minute drive) and right next to Manitou lake. "
"CAMPGROUND REVIEW: COLORADO CAMPGROUND PIKE NATIONAL FOREST https://www.recreation.gov/camping/colorado-campground/r/campgroundDetails.do?"
"* Most sites appeared to be just off the road so you will see others driving by, and some sites have close by neighbors so keep that in mind if you're looking for something more private.
- Livestock"
"Rock fire pits, wood around. No water, garbage, nor toilets. Cool temps, road in is rough go slow. Nice shady trees. First few spots you encounter left, then right seem ok."
LegendThis campground has a equestrian area and a tent camping area. The tent camping is to the right after you enter, there are two tent loops with bathrooms. Water spigots next to the bathroom. There are a few trails here, some are horse trails. Overall a beautiful spot with some shade!
TravelerThis is a bare bones remote campground with assigned sites and vault toilets. There is no potable water on site, so bring plenty of water for your stay. The 18 sites are on a first come basis and can't be reserved.
I don't own horses, but have seen some in the area so it is equestrian friendly. The campground is located in a canyon with high cliffs and there are several hiking and backpacking trails that branch off from the campground. The south fork of the white river runs through the campground affording good fly fishing.
While you can get to the campground in a standard automobile the gravel road is rutted in places as you get close to the campground and can become dicey in heavy rain or snow for the last mile or two.
I have been there numerous times as early as July and as late as September when snow can be expected.
GuideColorado campground is situated outside of Woodland Park (10 minute drive) and right next to Manitou lake. This is a great area central to the Pikes Peak wilderness area so many trails are nearby and activities while still being close to civilization if you forget something or choose to eat-out. The CG itself is large, but the sites are well spaced apart...it is a primitive CG with picnic table, fire-pit and gravel pull through or back-in spots. There are water spigots, vault toilets and garbage cans equally dispersed throughout. In the summer they have an educational series also on the weekends of various nature/wildlife "seminars" that are great for the kids in their small amphitheater, although i don't know how frequent they are scheduled. As others have stated its a short walk to the lake for fishing and canoeing if you choose. The CG is well maintained and hosts are friendly.
LegendCAMPGROUND REVIEW: COLORADO CAMPGROUND PIKE NATIONAL FOREST
https://www.recreation.gov/camping/colorado-campground/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=NRSO&parkId=70684
Colorado Campground is one of several campgrounds less than 10 miles north of the city of Woodland Park off Route 67 in the Pike National Forest.
Situated at 7800 feet elevation, even summer nights get cool. Nearby 5 acre Manitou Lake is a trail walk away. You can toss your canoe or kayak in, but unless you are simply trout fishing, it’s tiny size doesn’t offer much variation.
Numerous foot trails lead into the National Forest, offering wonderfully quiet hikes and exploration.
There are 81 sites available, but some are adjacent to highway 67, so periodic road noise will be heard. The ponderosa pines assist in muffling highway noise.
Neighboring sites are visible across the entire campground, but they are situated in such a way that you are not directly on top of each other.
The back loop sites are larger and set deeper (Site 19, 20,21, 22, 23) which are my choice. Sites can be secured on www.recreation.gov. There are double sites which garner double fees. At the time of this review, sites are $23.00 nightly (a bit pricey for no showers or modern facilities). When there during the week, not including the host and groundskeeper, only four sites were filled. Most sites were reserved for weekends and upcoming Labor Day holiday.
No RV/Campers over 36 ft permitted. Parking pads are gravel, a few are pull-through. Sites are non-electric with no hookups…no showers Water spigots, metal trash containers and pit latrines are spaced out through the campground. Each site has one stationary picnic table and a fire pit. Most sites appeared fairly level. No specific tent pad locations.
With the towering ponderosa pines, there is ample shade.
Plenty of trails permit mountain biking as well as the paved centennial bike path that runs along highway 67 from Woodland Park 15 miles north…that you can walk, in-line, cycle and even ebike.
You have plenty of local activities to keep you busy, including the Red Rocks a couple miles south…or drive east on Rt 24 to Pikes Peak, or further into Manitou Springs for the Incline, Red Rock Canyon Open Space, Garden of the gods and more!
Just six miles south into Woodland Park offers every food or shopping option.
All in all, a nice, clean campground in a great location.
GuideMy folks bought property you can ride to Indian Creek from. Love this area!!! Lots of beautiful trails, close to Denver and very peaceful. Bring your ponies, its an equestrian campground!
TravelerSite 5 was a great spot for a bigger group. It was nice to be tucked away in the corner with no groups behind us or next to us. There were other campers near by but it felt pretty private. The weather was great. We didn’t make it to the gross reservoir but it was nice to have the option of a good hike near by. It is very important that you have a high clearance car to drive on the road. It’s a lot like off roading on some parts. I would go back!
GuideGreat location within Colorado's Mueller State Park. Easy access to trails, visitor center, and scenic drives. Nice large site with level gravel tent pad, large table, and nice fire pit. Nearby sites seemed to be a good distance away.
GuideClose proximity to the highway. Clean level spots. Geared more towards RV camping. Pros: great views of the foothills. Lots of park amenities like horse stables, archery range, swim beach, boat rentals, hiking trails, picnic areas. Con: Orange glow of Home Depot sign at night and no shade during the day. Your camping reservation (strongly recommended) includes park admission.
GuideAlthough it was a quick overnight trip for us, don’t let that be you! It’s we’ll thought out with lots of activity areas like, mountain bike trail, shooting area, off leash dog area, model airfield, equestrian trails, lake and hiking trails! It’s a 4200 acre park with 850 acre reservoir. It’s a destination, really!
Indian Creek Equestrian Campground offers designated spaces for equestrian campers with access to extensive trail networks in Pike National Forest. Located at 39.39° north latitude and 7,800 feet elevation, the campground operates seasonally from May 23 to September 7. The campground connects directly to the Colorado Trail system while providing amenities specifically designed for horse owners and riders exploring the surrounding forest terrain.
Trail rides with horses: The Indian Creek Equestrian Campground offers direct access to multiple riding trails. "Beautiful scenery...Indian Creek is lush and wooded, while still being close to Denver. The drive in is easy, following a paved road most of the way," notes Steph A. The area provides excellent opportunities for riding through forests with numerous scenic routes.
Mountain biking on established paths: Trail systems around Indian Creek are well-maintained and suitable for mountain biking. "The Indian Creek trail system is ideal for mountain biking or running, with access to the Colorado Trail running through it as well," according to reviewer Steph A. Riders can enjoy miles of interconnected trails varying in difficulty levels.
Hiking with family: The Staunton State Park Campground area features well-maintained hiking paths suitable for all skill levels. "The trail heading North out of the parking lot is great, well maintained and also has hidden 7 dwarfs along the trail to try and find. We did it four times just to make sure we found all 7," writes D., describing a unique family-friendly hiking experience near the equestrian camping areas.
Privacy between sites: At Idylease Campground, campers appreciate the layout. "Make reservations in person at Jeffco Open Space in Golden - those ladies are the best! Easy drive and a half-mile hike with moderate increase in elevation from parking to tent pads, numbered 1-5," states Maria M. The campground provides "bear boxes between each campsite" for secure food storage.
Clean facilities: The bathrooms and public areas are well-maintained at most campgrounds near Buffalo Creek. Mary C. from Indian Creek Equestrian Campground says, "What an absolutely beautiful spot. Quiet, clean, great camp host and a really nice/clean vault toilet." This attention to cleanliness enhances the overall camping experience.
Proximity to Denver: Many equestrian campers value the convenient location relative to urban areas. "My folks bought property you can ride to Indian Creek from. Love this area!!! Lots of beautiful trails, close to Denver and very peaceful," writes Mikaela R., highlighting the accessibility for weekend horse camping trips from the city.
Trail conditions vary seasonally: Some trails deteriorate during wet seasons. D. notes at Indian Creek, "Trail #800 is pretty sketchy these days due to excessive water erosion. 3' deep and 8" wide troughs to walk along with so much overgrowth it's hard to navigate." Always check current conditions before planning rides.
Camping reservations recommended: Matukat Road Dispersed Camping offers free sites but fills quickly during peak seasons. "Matukat rd dispersed - nr Lake George. People seem to really like it yet it's incredibly quiet. No OHVs, no gunfire - so refreshing," reports Chris P., noting the peaceful atmosphere despite popularity.
Bear safety essential: Proper food storage is necessary throughout the region. Maria M. explains that at Idylease Campground, "Bear boxes sit between each campsite," while other reviewers mention seeing wildlife throughout the area, requiring appropriate precautions.
Search for hidden trail features: Some trails include special attractions for children. "The trail heading North out of the parking lot is great, well maintained and also has hidden 7 dwarfs along the trail to try and find," writes D. about Indian Creek, describing an engaging activity that keeps children interested during hikes.
Consider accessibility needs: For families with young children or mobility concerns, evaluate trail difficulty before setting out. At Mueller State Park Campground, "The end of the campground feeds into many trailheads, which are great for exploring," says Alexis B., with trails of varying difficulties.
Pack for cold nights: Even summer temperatures drop significantly after sunset. One reviewer at Mueller State Park Campground advises, "Got below freezing so be ready for the cold," despite visiting during regular camping season. Bring appropriate sleeping gear for all family members.
Limited big-rig access: Many campgrounds near Buffalo Creek have restrictions on RV size. Colorado Campground notes "No RV/Campers over 36 ft permitted," according to reviewer Dave V., who adds that "Parking pads are gravel, a few are pull-through. Sites are non-electric with no hookups."
Electric hookups available selectively: Amanda M. explains, "Some of the sites have electric but no sewer or water, and there is an extra $3 a night for electric." This information helps RV campers plan power needs and budget accordingly for extended stays.
Plan for weather variations: RVers should prepare for rapid temperature changes. At Mueller State Park, one camper noted temperatures "below freezing" even during regular camping seasons, requiring proper RV heating systems and insulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Buffalo Creek, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Buffalo Creek, CO is Chatfield State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 79 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Buffalo Creek, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 29 equestrian camping locations near Buffalo Creek, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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