Lower Hermosa Campground sits in San Juan National Forest at an elevation of approximately 8,000 feet, 30 minutes from downtown Durango. This equestrian-friendly destination can fill quickly during summer weekends. Fall visitors often find more open sites and stunning foliage along the trail network.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Connect directly to Hermosa Creek Trail system from Lower Hermosa Campground, where riders find extensive terrain. "There are horse/cattle stalls if you need. High elevation and lots of shade. Was a little chilly at night in early may," notes Toni K.
Day trips to Silverton: Venture north on the Million Dollar Highway for additional horse campgrounds near Durango, Colorado. The Little Molas Lake Campground offers high-elevation riding at 10,300 feet. "This is a very beautiful section of the Rockies. It is about 7 miles south of Silverton Co above 10,000 ft," shares Christopher K.
Fishing access: Many equestrian campsites near Durango provide access to fishing. "We loved this campsite. The bathrooms are currently open and super clean! It's also a great spot to set up base and go straight to the trails for hiking and dirt biking," reports Sydneu B. about Lower Hermosa.
What campers like
Natural surroundings: Regular campers appreciate the forested setting. "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," writes Sarah about Lower Hermosa Campground.
Accessibility to town: While most horse-friendly campgrounds around Durango feel remote, La Plata County Fairgrounds offers equestrian facilities within city limits. "What a find in the middle of Durango. Yes it is dusty and really there is nothing cute about it but you can't beat the location. We had access to the trails by the river," shares marine J.
Diverse accommodations: The region offers various options for equestrians. Echo Basin Cabin and RV Resort provides more amenities than forest service sites. "We stay at EB every year. It is our favorite campground. There are lots of things to do and the sites are good sized with plenty of shade. The restraunt/bar has a great atmosphere!" notes Sarah L.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Mountain elevations mean temperature fluctuations. "The internet reception ranges from okay to excellent, depending on the site. The pit toilets are impeccable – they really couldn't be cleaner. Unfortunately, there is no water or trash station," writes Martin W. about Lower Hermosa.
Reservation systems: Most horse campgrounds near Durango operate on first-come, first-served basis. Target Tree Campground offers an alternative location. "Beautiful well spaced sites with plenty of room to spread out. Sparkling clean bathrooms. Road noise but it's not so bad at night. Great camp host. Firewood and water," explains Lauren.
Trail conditions: Mountain terrain varies seasonally. "Above 10,000 ft. Several dispersed camp sites, vault toilets, no potable water. Absolutely stunning views, many trails and fishing," reports Christopher K. about the high-elevation options north of Durango.
Tips for camping with families
Pit toilet quality: Facilities at most horse campgrounds around Durango receive regular maintenance. "The pit toilets are impeccable – they really couldn't be cleaner," notes a recent camper at Lower Hermosa Campground.
Campfire regulations: Fire restrictions can change rapidly based on conditions. "Beautiful well kept campground. Nearby highway is a little noisy. Friendly campground host," reports David R. about Target Tree Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Cattle grazing occurs in many areas. "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. about Lower Hermosa.
Tips from RVers
Water access: RVers staying at equestrian sites should arrive with full tanks. "Camp Host is very friendly and helpful. This is a pack in pack out camp ground with vault/pit toilet. No water or shower. Sites have picnic table and fire pit with grill," explains David A. about Lower Hermosa.
Parking considerations: Many horse campgrounds accommodate larger rigs with trailers. Sportsman's Campground & Mountain Cabins offers alternative facilities for equestrians. "My wife and I stayed here in Aug. of 2019. We had a great time, friendly people, nice sites just a nice place. It's a little ways out but the drive makes up for the miles," writes David L.
Road conditions: Access roads to horse-friendly sites vary in quality. "I drove a 21foot bus with a 16x7 tandem axle trailer," notes David A. about his experience at Lower Hermosa, indicating the accessibility for larger equestrian setups.
