6 campgrounds with availability next weekend
Horse-friendly camping options near Eastlake, Colorado are limited, with no campgrounds specifically offering horse corrals according to available data. Nearby state parks like Cherry Creek, Chatfield, and Golden Gate Canyon provide established camping but lack dedicated equestrian facilities. Cherry Creek State Park offers spacious sites with full hookups surrounded by grass and trees, making it possible to camp with horses if park policies allow. The campground features paved pull-through sites, picnic tables, and fire rings. Sites are typically clean and well-maintained, though they offer minimal privacy between neighbors.
Trail access varies throughout the region with several parks offering multi-use trails that may accommodate horseback riding. Cherry Creek State Park contains miles of bike trails that connect to external trail systems, potentially usable for riding depending on trail regulations. Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir provides a more rustic camping option with picnic tables and fire rings, though specific horse policies aren't mentioned. Campers traveling with horses should contact parks directly to confirm current equestrian policies, as horse-specific amenities like corrals, wash racks, and designated trailer parking are not explicitly listed in the available data. Most campgrounds require reservations well in advance, especially during peak season from late spring through early fall.
"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."
Available next weekend
from $28 - $432 / night
"area was plowed open to exactly the width of our trailer, so with more than three feet of snow on the ground we needed to get some exercise and do a bit of shoveling so we could back in and be able to walk"
"Late October is very unpredictable in Colorado for a camper who is primarily a tent camper."
Available next weekend
from $18 / night
"The easy access to the trail around the lake, the spread out sites, the clean bathhouse and laundry room, the sunset over the mountains, the location close to town, and they don’t have any breed restrictions"
"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."
Available next weekend
from $36 - $200 / night
"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"
"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."
"The Gross Resevoir outside Boulder is a great place for people to go for some recreation just outside the city. People commonly drop in a paddleboard or kayak."
"This spot is just a quick ride outside of Golden. The scenery is gorgeous with several trails to hike or mountain bike. The campsites are clean and easy to get to."
"Stunning campground nestled right outside Golden and Boulder Colorado. We couldn’t believe it…so close but you feel incredibly removed once you get there."
Available next weekend
from $28 - $90 / night
"Walking distance to vault toilets. Some nice foresty hikes between Aspen Meadows and Reverend's Ridge. We could see some other campsites but didn't feel too squished."
"This site is surrounded by pine trees, aspens and boulders. Parking is a bit tight and the some of the sites pretty steep. Dude's Fishing Hole is within walking distance."
from $28 / night
from $39 - $50 / night
"Beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, with ample space, and easy access to the sugarloaf mountain trail. The road is in poor shape but a 2wd suv with decent clearance should be fine."
"You definitely need to know where you’re going with this one, as the location on here isn’t really even close."
"Our space was large enough to accommodate our 20 ft travel trailer with our truck next to it, still leaving plenty of room for the picnic table and a chair circle around the fire."
"The bathrooms were clean, and close to almost every site. They had a very nice playground for the kids with a climbing wall."
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $45 - $80 / night
RangerBathrooms were very nice and clean. Lots of sites with minimal privacy. Pretty packed and noisy in October. Our site had electrical hookups and its own water. Picnic tables and fire rings available as well. Looks like a very family friendly campground. Stayed one night.
TravelerFrom a Sprinters point of view.
Sites are $45.00 a day plus parking
Sites were sloped, we took the flattest one we could find and it took 6” to block our van level.
Pit toilets were very clean.
Sites had trees and boulders, spaced roughly 50’ apart, but there visible traffic on the main road below.
It was a nice campground but we liked the Bobcat Campground a couple miles farther up the road.
See separate review.
TravelerWe took our Sprinter for its maiden voyage, this camp ground was beautiful, private and secluded.
Camping was $45.00 a day plus a parking fee.
Paid at the entry point to an extremely friendly attendant. Reservations can be made on line ahead of time and highly recommended in peak season, especially on weekends.
Site were 50’ to 100’ apart.
Sites were wooded and tucked into granite boulders.
In the 24 hours we were there we saw one car and two people walking their dogs.
Sites were pretty level, each with fire pits and picnic tables.
The pit toilets were very clean and with in 100’ of most sites.
Road in had signs stating you had to be in four wheel drive to avoid damaging the roads but they were very well graded.
GuideSuper easy drive into town, 10min from beaver meadows entrance to RMNP. Hiking trails right off the campground. Sites a little close together but could definitely be a lot worse. Super friendly hosts. The clean bathrooms, hot showers, and dish washing station were amazing after days of dispersed camping.
ScoutPull thru site easy to maneuver, lots of space between sites. Hookups easy to use. Maintained nice, lake was beautiful. Seemed like bikers heaven.
GuideWe loved staying here! It was quiet and peaceful, even when it fully booked over Labor Day Weekend. The easy access to the trail around the lake, the spread out sites, the clean bathhouse and laundry room, the sunset over the mountains, the location close to town, and they don’t have any breed restrictions for dogs. I don’t have any complaints about the campground itself.
The only issue we had was that the $17 per vehicle day use fee wasn’t included in the camping cost. We were there for 8 nights and ended up buying the annual Colorado State Parks pass for $80 at the registration office because it was cheaper.
GuideHas a nice sandy beach inside the park that's conveniently walkable or drivable with ample of parking spots.
Paddleboard and kayak rentals available but should be done with reservation beforehand.
While there are public bathhouses, the showers is not free - it is pay-per-use metered.
GuideWhile there aren't many amenities (no comfort station), it is a great value place to stay if you're just needing a place to camp. Spacious and decent night sky view.
Automated secure gate where you get an unique digital code for access.
Quiet, good for value place (especially if you do weekly rates).
GuideThere must be another way in i would assume. 3.5 mile steep climb dirt rd in the rain was slick. After a 8 mile windy rd straight up. Like I said, probably another rd in. Campground is great once you get here. And it's paved!
Located about 10 miles northeast of Denver, Eastlake sits at approximately 5,280 feet elevation where the plains meet the foothills. The region experiences warm, dry summers with temperatures averaging 85°F and cold winters that can drop below 20°F. Camping options range from full-service state parks to primitive dispersed sites, with most established campgrounds requiring reservations 3-6 months in advance.
Hiking and biking trails: Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers extensive multi-use trails. "The park is enormous. The options for trails are endless. Great for mountain biking or hiking enthusiasts. The park feels like it's far from the city, but the drive is easy for a weekend camping trip!" according to Steph A.
Water recreation: At Cherry Creek State Park Campground, campers can enjoy the swim beach. "Nice Swim Beach with brand new Bldg. Many covered Picnic sites, but again, you MUST arrive at the break of day to secure one," notes Kay S. The park also features boating options, though one visitor observed "the boat traffic was awful" during peak times.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds provide opportunities to spot native animals. At East Portal Campground, "Mule deer came through every evening right by our camper to eat grass. One morning 3 large Bull Elk and a young bull came through the valley and up through the campground," Jennifer G. reported.
Reservoir access: Chatfield State Park attracts visitors for its water activities. "Great for biking and all kinds of water sports. Laundry facility on each loop sites are spread out giving plenty of room between sites," shares Rick. The park's reservoir serves as a focal point for recreation.
Scenic drives: The approach to many campgrounds offers visual rewards. "The drive from Golden up into the park is beautiful and you truly feel like you are leaving the noise of Denver and the metro behind," writes Amber B. about her journey to Golden Gate Canyon.
Proximity to attractions: Bear Creek Lake Park balances wilderness with convenience. "Proximity to Red Rocks amphitheater, Bear Creek Lake, Big Soda Lake, and a genuine braying donkey were a huge plus," says Kandisa S. Jennifer L. adds it has "great views of the foothills. Lots of park amenities like horse stables, archery range, swim beach, boat rentals, hiking trails, picnic areas."
Capacity limitations: Cherry Creek's popularity creates access challenges. "If you want to get into the Park, suggest you go EARLY, EARLY, EARLY in the day. Traffic backs up all the way from the Entrance on Parker Rd to the Entrance Booth on weekends and holidays. Plan on an hour OR MORE to just get to the booth."
Site spacing varies: Many campers note proximity concerns. At Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir, "the campsites are great" but one camper warned about peak times: "Given that this is so close to boulder, a ton of people come here. Our campsite definitely had litter laying around which was really sad to see."
Additional fees: Most parks charge entrance fees beyond camping costs. At Hermits Hollow, campers report: "Campsites average prices, but they add an entrance fee to the park for each day on top of the fee." This daily fee structure is common at Colorado state parks.
Playground access: Indian Paintbrush Campground offers family amenities. "Loved the hiking and biking trails. Beautiful lake for swimming and paddle sports. Will definitely be returning for the archery and horseback riding," reports Joshua H., highlighting activities suitable for various ages.
Equestrian-friendly parks: While dedicated horse facilities are limited, some parks accommodate equestrians. At Bear Creek Lake Park, Jennifer L. notes the presence of "horse stables and ring," providing options for families interested in horseback activities.
Noise considerations: For quieter family camping, timing matters. Golden Gate Canyon campers observe: "Child friendly... such a beautiful place. Trails are amazing. Although the sound of screaming children that pervades the campsite kind of ruins the experience." Weekday visits typically offer more tranquility.
Hookup availability: Reverend's Ridge Campground provides RV-friendly sites. "Loop E (electric hookups) is very spacious and well laid out. Every campsite is a pull thru allowing you to situate anywhere along the paved area to best suit your needs. Mostly level, fire rings, and very large metal picnic tables. Enormous amount of room," reports Dennis G.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access. For Winiger Ridge, Graham S. warns: "Camp sites are nice, but except for a few (~5) the rest require a serious climb (drive) up a gnarly hill with deep ruts. I wouldn't try this with a camper/RV, or anything that doesn't have high clearance and power."
Site levelness: Be prepared for uneven terrain. Rich M. notes about Reverend's Ridge: "The sites are not very level so be prepared to use your blocks." This is common throughout the foothills and mountain campgrounds near Eastlake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Eastlake, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Eastlake, CO is Cherry Creek State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 56 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Eastlake, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 29 equestrian camping locations near Eastlake, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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