Indian Creek Equestrian Campground features eight dedicated horse camping sites specifically designed for travelers with horses. Located in Pike National Forest, this campground provides essential equine facilities including stalls in good condition and ample space for trailer parking. Sites 1-4 offer shade from the surrounding ponderosa pines, while sites 5-8 are more exposed. Site 1 offers the most privacy but is furthest from the restrooms, while Site 3 has the best flat pad with adequate space for tents alongside horse facilities. Clean vault toilets and water spigots are available, though there are no electric hookups or RV facilities. The campground operates seasonally, typically closing shortly after Labor Day.
The Indian Creek trail system connects directly to the campground, offering multiple riding routes with varying terrain and difficulty. Trail #800 has experienced significant water erosion, creating 3-foot deep and 8-inch wide troughs with heavy overgrowth that makes navigation challenging. The northern trail from the parking area is well-maintained and features hidden decorative elements along the path that enhance the riding experience. Access to the Colorado Trail runs through the area, providing extended riding opportunities for horse campers near Deckers seeking longer backcountry routes. Horse owners should note that while the campground is relatively close to Denver, cell service is non-existent with major carriers. The friendly camp hosts provide helpful information about current trail conditions and maintain the facilities regularly during the operating season from May through September.
$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."
$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?"
$28 - $270 / night
"This Colorado state park brings visitors year-round for all types of recreation. We have traveled here several times, both tent camping and in our camper."
"By far my favorite campground in Colorado. Sites all have great views and are paved. The park is clean and rangers are always around checking in. Close to town and great hikes. Can’t wait to go back!"
"* 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."
$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!"
$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."
"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"
$24 / night
"On my last trip to Colorado I had crossed paths with this campground and vowed that this time I would make it a stop on my journey."
"It's a quick drive from Colorado Springs and tons of trails! Usually pretty quiet except for holiday weekends."
$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."
"Campground Review Note: This is a military campground only, on the grounds of the US Air Force Academy just north of Colorado Springs, CO. "
"Downtown Colorado Springs is minutes away and close to attractions. Plus you can take advantage of on base shopping and more."
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!
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!
GuideSo much to do in this little area-lakes, trails, horses. Very close to red rocks. This is still in town so great for beginners
Indian Creek Equestrian Campground isn't the only horse-friendly camping option near Deckers, Colorado. This region of Pike National Forest sits at elevations around 6,500-8,000 feet and features ponderosa pine forests with diverse trail systems. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August, creating variable trail conditions across the area's horse campgrounds.
Explore mountain biking trails: The Indian Creek trail system offers options for both horses and mountain bikes. "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. The Indian Creek trail system is ideal for mountain biking or running, with access to the Colorado Trail running through it as well," notes Steph A.
Fish at Manitou Lake: Near Colorado Campground, anglers can access fishing opportunities. "There's an easy path to Manitou Lake where lots of folks were fishing and boating," says Mary D. The 5-acre lake provides a convenient fishing spot within walking distance of campsites.
Hike Mueller State Park trails: With over 55 miles of trails, Mueller State Park Campground provides extensive hiking options. "The trails were beautiful, well maintained, and not crowded at all," explains Steve C., who added, "The end of the campground feeds into many trailheads, which are great for exploring."
Private, shaded sites: Campers appreciate the tree coverage at many locations. At Matukat Road Dispersed Camping, one visitor noted, "The area is surrounded by young aspens, mountain flowers, and rock outcroppings. The sites are open and spaced out from one another." Brandon emphasized the natural features: "There is also an ample amount of firewood from the dead, fallen trees."
Wildlife viewing: The area offers opportunities to spot local fauna. "Cattle roam freely throughout the property and you can hear coyotes at dusk and dawn," reports Chelsie B. about Matukat Road. Some visitors have even spotted larger wildlife: "Someone reported they saw moose but again, we saw none."
Accessibility without crowds: Many sites offer seclusion without difficult access. Charles G. writes about Matukat Road, "Up to the point where we camped, 2-wheel drive was more than enough to get us to our spot nestled in the rocks. The dispersed camping spots we saw seemed very easy to get to and we never needed to put our truck in 4WD."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location. "We had between two and three bars of Verizon service at the site but no Verizon service at the main road so it is spotty," notes Chris P. about camping at Round Mountain.
Weather preparation: Temperatures can drop significantly at night. Bruce K. warns, "Got below freezing so be ready for the cold" even when camping during warmer seasons at Mueller State Park.
Water availability: Water sources are limited or non-existent at dispersed sites. Crystal C. advises, "Prepare for your stay ahead of time by bringing everything you could need to camp this includes firewood and water" for Round Mountain.
Beginner-friendly locations: Indian Paintbrush Campground offers accessible camping for those new to the activity. Christina A. explains, "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."
Activities for children: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. Matthew J. recommends Colorado Campground: "Great campground close to the cities. Heavily wooded and spacious sites. Water available and clean latrines. Only downside was, since it is so close, all the open sites fill w/overnighters and it was a bit noisy, but everyone settled down by 930-1000. Great hiking for little kids around the lake."
Educational elements: Some trails offer unique features kids will enjoy. A visitor to Indian Creek mentions, "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."
Site selection for trailers: When camping with horse trailers or RVs at equestrian campgrounds near Deckers, Colorado, check site specifications carefully. D. at Indian Creek Equestrian Campground notes, "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."
Utilities and hookups: While many horse-friendly campgrounds have limited facilities, some nearby options offer more amenities. Amanda M. reports about Colorado Campground: "Some of the sites have electric but no sewer or water, and there is an extra $3 a night for electric. Site 56 fit our 23' camper and truck with room to spare and provided wide expanse of campsite for the kids and dogs to play away from other campsites."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Deckers, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Deckers, 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 Deckers, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 25 equestrian camping locations near Deckers, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
