Horse riders visiting Colorado Springs find accommodations ranging from basic to well-equipped campsites. Located at 6,035 feet elevation, the area experiences large temperature swings between day and night even in summer. The Pikes Peak region offers multiple horse-friendly locations with corrals, water access, and riding trails.
What to do
Trail riding from campsites: At Mueller State Park Campground, riders can access well-maintained trail systems directly from camp. "Lots of hiking and biking. We saw some deer that came through our site. Just a real nice relaxing place," notes Brian F., highlighting the natural setting for equestrian activities.
Practice in riding rings: The Historic Triple B Ranch offers designated practice areas for horse training. "Horse Barn and Equestrian Campground... Cabins available and horse rings/stables available all over," says Spencer B., noting the ranch's focus on equestrian amenities.
Mountain access rides: Exploring higher elevations provides cooler temperatures for summer riding. "The air is thin up here - real thin. That also means that it's pure, clean blissfully light oxygen so breathe deep and enjoy it," reports Sarah F. about rides near Cripple Creek KOA, located at 10,000 feet elevation.
Gold mining history tours: Many horse trails connect to historic mining sites in the region. "Close to rafting, Royal Gorge and other attractions," mentions Kara D. about the Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA, which provides access to riding trails near historic mining operations.
What campers like
Wide campsites for horse trailers: Space for equipment makes a significant difference for equestrian camping. "Level spots with many pull thrus. Helpful owners," mentions Judy F. about camping at Cripple Creek KOA, providing the room needed for both horse trailers and camping setups.
Water sources for horses: Reliable access to water ranks high among equestrian campers' priorities. "Site 16 is great for a travel trailer/small RV. Easy access to the river for fly fishing," notes Stephen K. about Spillway Campground, which offers water access points that work well for both recreation and horse care.
Privacy between sites: Horse camping often requires more space than standard camping. "The sites are pretty well spread out and its a nice, quiet campground," Kelly Z. observes about Colorado Campground, providing room for horses and gear without crowding.
Mountain views while camping: Scenic settings enhance the horse camping experience. "This is one of the gems in Colorado. Great well taken care of campground with electrical hook ups and gorgeous grounds," Jim W. says about Mueller State Park Campground, highlighting the natural setting.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Summer fire bans affect meal preparation for horse campers. "Fire ban, so no fire-pizza delivery to our campsite was a plus!" mentions Glenna L. about Royal Gorge KOA, showing how campers adapt when cooking options are limited.
Wildlife encounters: Bears and other animals require proper food storage. "We saw a herd of cows that initially we thought were bears so we had a split second of worry before realizing what they were," John M. reports about Matukat Road Dispersed Camping, highlighting the need for wildlife awareness.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes quickly in horse camping areas. "We came in on a Tuesday and it looks like we're just about the only ones out here," notes Chris P. about dispersed camping options, which typically have fewer people during weekdays.
Water supply limits: Not all equestrian sites provide reliable water. "Bring your own water! There is a pump out there but we still didn't feel comfortable drinking it (and forgot our filter)," Anna advises about Spillway Campground, emphasizing the importance of water planning.
Tips for camping with families
Educational wildlife viewing: Kids enjoy spotting animals from safe distances. "Humming birds were every where," Ruth L. mentions about Spillway Campground, providing natural learning opportunities for younger campers.
Playground access: Recreation areas help children burn energy between riding sessions. "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," Anthony B. explains about Peregrine Pines FamCamp.
Family-sized sites: Multiple tent setups require adequate space. "We had 7 people, 3 cars and two large tents and plenty of space," Mary D. says about Colorado Campground, highlighting the importance of selecting sites that accommodate entire families and their equestrian gear.
Easy climbing opportunities: Natural features provide entertainment between rides. "We camped right underneath a few rocks and kid absolutely loved to climb rocks even with thin air in high altitude," Frank C. explains about Matukat Road Dispersed Camping.
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookups for horse owners: Power access helps maintain equipment. "Full hookups are conveniently located and offer water/sewer and 30/50amp service," Jason F. notes about Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA, which provides essential services for RVers with horse trailers.
Level parking areas: Stable surfaces make a difference for larger rigs. "Sites all have great views and are paved," Sarah S. comments about Mueller State Park Campground, ensuring horse trailers and RVs remain secure during stays.
High-clearance access roads: Some equestrian camping areas require appropriate vehicles. "The road getting in was doable. We didn't need to engage the four-wheel-drive so the only thing I would advise is you need some reasonable clearance to get all the way back in here," Chris P. explains about Matukat Road Dispersed Camping.
Water pressure considerations: Equipment protection matters for RV horse campers. "Water pressure here is really strong so make sure you have a water pressure regulator handy," Anthony B. mentions about Peregrine Pines FamCamp, highlighting practical concerns for equipment protection.
