Lower Hermosa Campground serves horse owners with stalls and cattle pens about 30 minutes from Durango. Located near the Hermosa Creek trail system, the campground offers equestrian access to extensive bridle paths directly from the site. While drinking water isn't available, the facility provides clean vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables at each of its 18 sites. The $20 nightly fee includes horse-friendly amenities and spacious parking for trailers.
What to do
Trail riding on Hermosa Creek: Horseback riders can access miles of trails directly from Lower Hermosa Campground. "This is a very simple campground but just what we wanted. Pack in pack out, clean and well maintained sites, the only sound birdsong. Helpful camp host," notes Sarah, who appreciated the quiet natural setting.
Alpine riding access: For equestrians seeking high-elevation trail experiences, the Mill Creek Campground provides excellent access to mountain trails. "This campground has a combination of reservable and first come first serve sites. Most of the sites are quite nice and can accommodate med to large rigs," reports Stephen K., highlighting its suitability for horse trailers.
Fishing opportunities: Horse campers can combine riding with fishing at nearby creeks. "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," writes Sarah M. about Mill Creek, noting its "great access to fishing, hiking, and ATV trails."
What campers like
Peaceful surroundings: Many equestrian campers value the quiet environment for both themselves and their animals. "Very sweet camp hosts that provided water. Clean bathrooms and large camp spots. There is horse/cattle stalls if you need," reports Toni K. who stayed at Lower Hermosa Campground.
Clean facilities: Horse owners appreciate well-maintained grounds and facilities. "The vault toilets are impeccable – they really couldn't be cleaner," states Martin W. about Lower Hermosa, though he notes, "there is no water or trash station."
Diverse terrain: Riders enjoy the varied landscapes accessible from these horse-friendly sites. "We stayed here for about 4 nights while trying to find my mom and apartment in Durango. It is first come, first serve. There are picnic tables and lots of resident cows (and super cute babies!)," shares Leah W., adding that "several trails leave from the area, so you can go for nice evening hikes."
What you should know
Water requirements: Horse owners must bring sufficient water for their animals at most sites. "Beautiful well kept campground. Nearby highway is a little noisy. Friendly campground host," notes David R. about Target Tree Campground, which has drinking water available but limited quantities.
Reservation systems: Many horse-friendly sites operate on different reservation models. "This campground has a combination of reservable and first come first serve sites," explains Stephen K. about Mill Creek Campground, while Lower Hermosa operates primarily on a first-come basis.
Seasonal conditions: Weather and trail conditions vary significantly by season. "Vault toilets were the cleanest we had ever seen. We loved having a spot next to the creek so our dogs could swim and drink. Although cold, the kids loved playing in the creek with their rain boots on," reports Boldt E. about their early summer stay at Mill Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Several equestrian campgrounds offer creek access that children enjoy. "We loved having a spot next to the creek so our dogs could swim and drink. Although cold, the kids loved playing in the creek with their rain boots on," shares Boldt E. about their Mill Creek experience.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Family horseback excursions often include wildlife sightings. "We saw Moose and Elk," reports Boldt E. during their Mill Creek stay, making for memorable family experiences while trail riding.
Affordable camping options: Families appreciate budget-friendly horse camping. "We had originally planned to disperse camp so we could ride our atvs on the Alpine Loop, but realized we couldn't pull our trailer after a certain point going up the mountain so decided to turn around and for only $7 a night decided to stay here," explains Boldt E., though they note "prices would go up to $20 a night starting July 1st."
Tips from RVers
Trailer accessibility: RV campers with horse trailers should verify site access before arrival. "Our Verizon and AT&T hotspots both worked well and cell service was good. There is what looks like a maintenance area behind the campground so there was traffic back and forth most of the day that kicked up some dust," reports Steve W. about La Plata County Fairgrounds, noting its urban location.
Level site availability: Horse owners with large trailers need relatively flat camping spots. "This is a small area at the fairgrounds that has space for 6 RVs. All of the sites are back in with 30 amp power and a shared water connection," explains Steve W. about La Plata County Fairgrounds, which offers limited but accessible sites.
Urban proximity for supplies: Some equestrian campers prefer sites close to towns for resupplying. "Basically a gravel lot with electric and water at each of the six slots. Good location close to the center of town. Trolley stop across the street will take you to Main Ave for $1 each way," notes Mark M. about La Plata County Fairgrounds.
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