Indian Creek Equestrian Campground sits near Calhan, Colorado, approximately 30 miles northeast of Colorado Springs at an elevation of 6,500 feet. The surrounding Pike National Forest offers a mix of wooded areas and open meadows with trails that range from beginner-friendly to challenging. Summer temperatures typically reach the 80s during daytime, while evening temperatures can drop into the 50s even in July and August.
What to Do
Mountain biking on forest trails: The Indian Creek trail system connects directly to the campground and provides ideal terrain for riders of various skill levels. "Indian Creek was pleasant and I would return. Attractive sites available with trees and grass... We hiked Indian Creek, but it was very hot. You can hike a portion along Bear Creek for a few miles which was the best part," notes Devin from Indian Creek.
Hiking with children: Some trails feature special attractions for younger visitors. "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," reports D. from Indian Creek Equestrian Campground.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Manitou Lake is a short distance from several campgrounds in the region. "Easy hike to Manitou Lake Recreation Area for fishing, and we always get at least one fish on the line here! Just a quick 10 min drive to Woodland Park and various amenities," writes Amanda M. from Colorado Campground.
What Campers Like
Natural shade coverage: Many campsites in the area provide tree cover that campers appreciate. "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. Great spot for car camping," says Steph A. who stayed at Indian Creek Equestrian Campground.
Proximity to Colorado Springs: The location provides a balance between accessibility and wilderness experience. "This location provides a great base from here in the Colorado Springs area and branch out for all adventures you can imagine," states Jeffrey C. from Peregrine Pines FamCamp.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention the upkeep of facilities as a positive aspect. "Sparkling bathrooms. Individual showers. Laundry rooms. Hummingbirds everywhere," says Judy F. who stayed at Cripple Creek KOA, which sits at a higher elevation than Calhan but offers additional amenities.
What You Should Know
Site selection strategy: For horse campgrounds near Calhan, site selection matters for privacy and shade. "Site 1 is the most private but furthest from the bathrooms, Site 2/3 are closest together, Site 3 has the very best flat pad with the table, ring and still room for a 10x10 tent or shade tent area. Sites 1-4 have shade, sites 5-8 do not," advises D. about Indian Creek Equestrian Campground.
First-come availability: Many sites operate on a first-come basis with no advance reservations. "First come first serve. We came out at 6 pm on a Friday night and there were about 3 spots left, which filled up quickly," shares Savanna M. about Indian Creek.
Trail conditions vary seasonally: Some trails can become difficult to navigate depending on weather and season. "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," reports D. about trails near Indian Creek Equestrian Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Choose campgrounds with activity options: Some sites offer multiple recreation opportunities for children. "There is a new playground that is huge for the kids with a rubber floor in case kids fall. In addition to the park there is tetherballs and open fields for fun ball or frisbee activities," shares Anthony B. from Peregrine Pines FamCamp.
Consider noise levels for tent camping: Families in tents should evaluate potential noise sources. "This campground is exceptionally nice and the staff is amazing, but if you are in a tent there is a lot of noise pollution from the interstate and trains that come by at all hours of the night blaring their horns," warns Shawn W. at Peregrine Pines FamCamp.
Introduce children gradually: For less experienced young campers, start with established campgrounds. "This is a great campground for introducing little ones to car camping. The campground is clean and well-maintained, the sites are good-sized and it's a short hike to decent fishing at Manitou Lake," recommends Cody R. from Colorado Campground.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure considerations: At some horse campgrounds near Calhan, water systems require equipment adjustments. "Water pressure here is really strong so make sure you have a water pressure regulator handy," advises Anthony B. about Peregrine Pines FamCamp.
Site dimensions vary significantly: RV sites have different capacities across campgrounds. "Most sites are better suited for tents or vans. I was able to fit a 20 ft travel trailer, but there's only a handful of trailer sites," notes Devin about Indian Creek.
Weather preparedness essential: The Colorado climate requires flexibility in planning. "We stayed here for 6 nights in March. One night we got snowed in and another night we slept with open windows!" reports Megan R. about Peregrine Pines FamCamp.
