Horse Ranch Park provides primitive equestrian camping near Crested Butte, Colorado with direct trail access for riders. Located near Somerset at approximately 9,400 feet elevation, this dispersed camping area connects to an extensive network of backcountry trails through western Colorado's alpine terrain. The camping area experiences typical mountain weather patterns with afternoon thunderstorms common in summer months and early snowfall possible by late September.
What to do
Fishing at Lost Lake: Just minutes from Horse Ranch Park, Lost Lake offers fishing opportunities with stunning mountain backdrops. According to visitor Amber R., "The view is the lake is beautiful! Take the hike that goes around the lake and takes you to the other two lakes!! Surprisingly not buggy at the end of June and not too chilly at night."
Three Lakes Trail: This popular hiking route connects multiple alpine lakes for both day hikers and campers. At Lost Lake Campground, Jerry R. notes, "Beautiful lakes with good fishing, well marked hiking trails, waterfalls(!), friendly camp hosts, week maintained facilities and grounds."
Mountain biking: The area around Crested Butte contains numerous singletrack options suitable for various skill levels. A visitor to Hartman Rocks Recreation Area shared, "This is mainly a 4x4 and mtb park. If you have those 2 you will love it."
Horseback riding: Pack your tack for direct trail access from many camping areas. Equestrians can enjoy well-maintained forest service trails with connections to multiple recreational destinations. A visitor noted that Horse Ranch Park features "direct access to horseback riding trails through Gunnison National Forest."
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy found at dispersed sites in the national forest. At Musician's Camp, one reviewer described it as having "Epic views, river running through, a ton of cows. Really enjoyed. Only amenity is a bathroom."
Creek access: Waterfront camping spots provide both scenery and practical water access. At Avalanche Campground, Maria V. shared, "It's clean and the sites aren't piled on top of each other like other sites (only 6 sites total). I'm not a huge fan of campgrounds but I would definitely come back here in the future."
Fall colors: The aspen groves surrounding Crested Butte create spectacular autumn displays. Wayne H. observed at Lost Lake Campground, "The campsites were well laid out among the woods. The hiking trails are amazing. We are here in late September and it was full but we were lucky enough to get a space after a couple people left."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The mountain ecosystem supports diverse wildlife from small mammals to larger species. Several camping areas offer chances to see deer, elk, and various bird species. One visitor to Soap Creek Campground mentioned, "We selected site 8 as it was fairly close to the restroom, had decent shade, and large enough to accommodate our large tent and two vehicles... We were able to walk to the creek and what a view!"
What you should know
Elevation considerations: Many camping areas sit at high elevations with significant temperature swings. At Lakeview Campground, Arthur Z. advised, "Mosquitoes were pretty active—everyone in our group who's popular with bugs went home with a few bites, so don't forget the deep heavy bug spray."
Access roads: Some forest roads require proper vehicle clearance. According to Ciara W., "The uphill to get to the camping in a 2WD van was not easy. It's very steep and with the sun setting we couldn't see the road and just floored it hoping we'd make it to the top without crashing... turned around and left immediately."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas have minimal or no amenities. Johny R. notes, "There are some 2wd accessible spots but it is a maze and you could very easily get turned up and tear your 2wd vehicle up, especially if low clearance. Study Google maps sat images, stay to the main road and NEVER rush in at dusk."
No drinking water: Bring adequate water supplies for your entire stay. At Soap Creek Campground, Glenna L. mentioned, "No water at this time as it is spring fed and was low."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Several camping areas feature natural swimming holes perfect for cooling off. At Kebler Corner, Tarrah shared, "They have everything you could think of-ninja lines, playset, zip line, hammocks, jenga, frisbee golf, etc. There were tons of kids that had a huge time. Mine loved it!"
Camp hosts: Some established campgrounds have helpful staff to assist families. Cyndi C. reported, "Danielle was our campground host, and the care she took of the place was obvious. Best of all, she was one of those special hosts who was friendly and always available to help."
Beginner-friendly camping: Some sites work well for inexperienced campers. El barto shared about Musician's Camp, "My boyfriend and I spent our first time camping here! It was early October, we only stayed for 2 nights, and we stayed in a tent... Very quiet, very peaceful, and the town of Crested Butte is not too far away, we even caught a movie!"
Weather preparation: Mountain weather can change rapidly, requiring additional clothing layers and gear. A camper at Lakeview Campground advised, "The campground's location on the hillside allows for an excellent view of Twin Lakes and the surrounding mountains. Also close to the South Mt Elbert and Colorado Trail for easy hiking."
Tips from RVers
Generator policies: Check individual campground rules regarding generator usage times. At Avalanche Campground, Erik S. noted, "Avalanche campground is a unique campground with a remote and secluded feeling in a small valley with plenty of trees and the sound of a creek in the background."
Dump stations: Plan your waste management in advance since many forest service sites lack dump facilities. At One Mile Campground, Marvin W. mentioned, "30 bucks a night... some highway noise as this is situated right off the highway."
Electric hookups: Limited electric sites are available at some developed campgrounds. Cathleen G. highlighted, "This campground has electricity which is hard to find in this area! Very pretty hikes, rafting mountain biking."
Site selection: Arrive early to secure suitable sites that accommodate your RV size and leveling needs. According to Scott D., "The campground is small but well set up. Most sites are within earshot of the creek which is gorgeous. There are several trails from the trailhead at the end of the campground."
