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Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir offers primitive camping with accessible horseback riding routes west of Boulder. The dispersed campsites are spread around the reservoir's perimeter, with several spots providing room for horse trailers and multiple tents. Highline areas for securing horses overnight are available at some campsites, though campers must bring their own rope systems. The campground lacks formal corrals or dedicated equestrian facilities, requiring horse owners to be self-sufficient with portable containment options. Campsites featuring fire rings and picnic tables accommodate both equestrians and their horses, though the terrain can be challenging for some trailers. High-clearance 4x4 vehicles are necessary to access most campsites beyond the main parking area, with particularly rough roads leading to sites 7-20.
The trail system connecting to Winiger Ridge provides moderate riding terrain with scenic lake views and mountain vistas. Forest Service Road 359 serves as both the access road and a primary riding route, connecting to several unmarked paths suitable for horses. Water access points along the reservoir's edge allow horses to drink, though swimming is strictly prohibited for both humans and animals. The designated campsites fill quickly during summer weekends, with most equestrians arriving Friday afternoon to secure suitable spots. Weather conditions can change rapidly in this area, with afternoon thunderstorms common in summer months. Horse owners should pack in all necessary feed and water, as no on-site provisions exist beyond natural grazing areas. Trailhead parking at Forsythe Canyon provides an alternative starting point for day rides when campsites are full.
"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."
from $18 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $28 - $90 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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"
"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."
from $36 - $200 / night
Check Availability"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
Check Availability"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."
"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."
from $28 - $432 / night
Check Availability"Take the exit onto Fall River Road from the highway, a short road. You are then soon connected with forest service road of sorts York gultch."
"Might ROAD: Dirt, but not "off road trail"- again people live off of this road so its somewhat maintained. BEWARE OF RAIN WASHOUT AREAS, DIPS, AND WASHBOARD."
"Stayed here overnight for some hiking in the nearby foothills."
"Stumbled upon this small, nice campground simple because we liked the name :) It is very convenient from the main highway (which happens to be part of the Peak to Peak scenic byway- a FANTASTIC drive!"
from $29 - $58 / night
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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!
GuideThis is a beautiful campground with lots of family-friendly activities to do. They have direct access to the headwaters of the Colorado River. We visited a little late in the season (August) to catch many fish, but we still had fun. We found some tailwaters below the big lakes and caught some trout on the fly rods.
This site is minutes away from an entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. We got up early and hiked a trail in RMNP and had a few moose walk right past us. It is also close by to the major lakes of the area.
They rent ATVs and lots of people bring their own horses to this campground to enjoy the many back-country trails that begin at the back of the property and go high up into the mountains.
Facilities were well kept and clean.
TravelerThis is a bare bones remote campground with assigned sites and vault toilets. There is no potable water on site, so bring plenty of water for your stay. The 18 sites are on a first come basis and can't be reserved.
I don't own horses, but have seen some in the area so it is equestrian friendly. The campground is located in a canyon with high cliffs and there are several hiking and backpacking trails that branch off from the campground. The south fork of the white river runs through the campground affording good fly fishing.
While you can get to the campground in a standard automobile the gravel road is rutted in places as you get close to the campground and can become dicey in heavy rain or snow for the last mile or two.
I have been there numerous times as early as July and as late as September when snow can be expected.
LegendThree dispersed camping locations all completely booked so I chose to stay in this RV Park which is located within Rocky Mountain National park and right next to Arapahoe National Park. Very good price compared to other RV resorts and surrounded by beautiful flowers and mountains and silence. They have showers and laundry and free coffee and garbage dump, and a small country store, along with many equestrian activities for adults and kids and it's very homey feeling.
GuideAlthough this site is a no water/ electric site and next to the horses, we had a blast! Especially the kids. The site was a great size! We went horse back riding, hung out by the river, had s’mores, and even went for an ATV ride!! I was most impressed by how clean the bathrooms were, especially with the current COVID situation! Thank you Winding River Resort for keeping the place clean!
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!
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!
ScoutA lovely wooded campground literally on the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park - we even saw moose from the back window of our RV! Options for everyone from cabins, to FHU RV sites (limited and not the ideal locations, but still nice), water/electric sites and tenting areas. Even Conestoga wagons! There is horseback riding on site and we loved watching the horses run in and out each morning/evening and you just have to cross the road for a pretty hike along the Colorado River in RMNP (no dogs on the trails). We camped with our Great Dane - very dog friendly with bag stations around the park. Friendly and helpful staff, a small shop with supplies and souvenirs, a cute little petting zoo with goats, sheep, and pigs.
GuideThis is a great park. I camped in late July. With the exception of a few rain showers, the weather was great. This campground has all the privacy you would expect yet provides easy access to Estes Park and the Rocky Mountian National Forest. The Laramie County Staff that were on site were kind and helpful. I even had the chance to see some elk walk through while picking up firewood at the office. There are miles of trails within the park if you choose not to venture out to the National Forest. I will 100% be staying at this park again! Group sites and equestrian sites are available too.
Winiger Ridge dispersed camping area sits at approximately 8,000 feet elevation west of Boulder, offering primitive camping options throughout the Rocky Mountain foothills. The area experiences frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through August, with temperatures ranging from 70-85°F during summer days and dropping to 40-50°F at night. The ridge provides camping access along forest roads with varying levels of difficulty depending on vehicle type.
Hiking nearby trails: Multiple trail systems connect to camping areas at Golden Gate Canyon State Park, where "Golden Gate Canyon SP is enormous. The options for trails are endless. Great for mountain biking or hiking enthusiasts" according to reviewer Steph A.
Mountain biking routes: Technical riding opportunities range from beginner to advanced on forest service roads. "This park has great trails for hiking and mountain biking. There is also a high elevation lake as well as fantastic views of the continental divide," shares Mike M. about the nearby trail system.
Fishing opportunities: Several stocked lakes and reservoirs are accessible within 20-30 minutes of most campsites. At Gross Reservoir, anglers often arrive early to secure spots along the shore, though swimming is prohibited in the reservoir.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and dusk provide optimal wildlife viewing hours. Dawn hikes along ridge trails frequently yield deer, elk and bird sightings during summer months.
Privacy between sites: At York Gulch Road, campers appreciate the separation between camping areas. One visitor notes, "Not close to anyone. Road up is 2wd. Keep heading up the small road to get to all the secluded camp grounds."
Lake access: Water activities remain popular among visitors, though with specific limitations. At Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir, Karl G. explains, "You can only launch your boat at the boat launch on the southeast side of the reservoir that is monitored by a ranger. He requires you to have a life vest, whistle, and your name written on your boat."
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution allows for excellent stargazing at most dispersed sites. High ridge campsites provide unobstructed views of the night sky when weather permits.
Easy city access: Multiple campgrounds provide quick access to urban amenities while maintaining a remote feel. "The park feels like it's far from the city, but the drive is easy for a weekend camping trip!" notes Steph A. about the Golden Gate Canyon area.
Variable road conditions: Access to many campsites requires appropriate vehicles. Graham S. warns about Winiger Ridge: "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."
No facilities at dispersed sites: Most dispersed camping areas lack restrooms, water sources, and trash collection. Pack in all supplies and pack out all waste.
Cell service limitations: Communication networks are unreliable in canyon areas. One visitor to Golden Gate Canyon State Park noted, "There is no cell service anywhere in the park (for my Verizon phone anyway) which I actually enjoyed."
Reservation requirements: Established campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. For Reverend's Ridge Campground, Daniel R. advises, "If you're looking for a place to get away from crowds, this is not the place for you."
Beginner-friendly options: Aspen Meadows Campground offers accessible camping for those with young children. Andrew B. shares, "Our family loves this spot, the privacy and natural beauty all easily accessible for a 1 night trip for a family breaking in some unruly toddlers to the camping experience."
Water safety precautions: Lakes and reservoirs require adult supervision and safety equipment. Several areas enforce strict rules regarding water access and equipment requirements.
Wildlife education: Prepare children for possible wildlife encounters by reviewing proper behavior beforehand. Bear activity has been reported in several campgrounds in the region.
Temperature preparation: Pack layers for children as temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night are common even in summer months.
Site leveling challenges: Many mountain campsites require leveling blocks. According to Rich M. at Reverend's Ridge, "The sites are not very level so be prepared to use your blocks."
Length limitations: Most dispersed equestrian camping sites near Eldorado Springs cannot accommodate large rigs. Sites allowing larger vehicles typically need to be reserved well in advance.
Access road assessment: Farewell Gulch requires advanced planning for larger vehicles. One visitor reports, "We only made it just past the coordinates and parked on top of that hill. Thought we could get in farther but a quick walk showed us that it's little too washed out and steep for our pickup camper."
Backup site planning: Multiple campground options improve chances of finding suitable spots. The developed campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends with most arrivals securing spots by early Friday afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Eldorado Springs, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Eldorado Springs, CO is Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon with a 4.6-star rating from 48 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Eldorado Springs, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 37 equestrian camping locations near Eldorado Springs, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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