Equestrian Camping near Englewood, CO

Indian Creek Equestrian Campground sits at approximately 7,000 feet elevation in Pike National Forest, providing accessible equestrian camping options for horse owners near Englewood, Colorado. The campground operates seasonally from May through early September with a first-come, first-served system for some sites alongside reservable options. Dirt roads lead to the camping area, with separate sections designed for equestrian use and tent camping across multiple loops.

What to do

Trail riding connectivity: Indian Creek Equestrian Campground connects directly to the Colorado Trail system, offering extensive riding opportunities. "Lots of beautiful trails, close to Denver and very peaceful. Bring your ponies, it's an equestrian campground!" notes Mikaela R. from Indian Creek Equestrian Campground.

Mountain biking access: The Indian Creek trail system features routes suitable for mountain bikes with varied difficulty levels. "The Indian Creek trail system is ideal for mountain biking or running, with access to the Colorado Trail running through it as well," reports Steph A., who visited the campground.

Family scavenger hunt: The trail heading north from the parking area features hidden figurines along the path. "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," shares one camper from Indian Creek.

What campers like

Private site options: The campground layout provides varying degrees of seclusion among sites. "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," explains a reviewer who frequents the area.

Tent camping experience: While primarily known for equestrian use, the tent camping area offers a different experience. "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," shares Natalie B. from Indian Creek Equestrian Campground.

Camp host service: The staff receives positive feedback for their attentiveness. "What an absolutely beautiful spot. Quiet, clean, great camp host and a really nice/clean vault toilet," remarks Mary C., highlighting the maintenance standards.

What you should know

Bear awareness required: The campground sits in active bear territory with appropriate protocols in place. "You're definitely in bear country and they do a good job of warning you," notes Savanna M. from Indian Creek, who adds that there are "no trash cans available" - requiring proper food storage and waste management.

Water availability: Water sources are limited to specific locations within the campground. "Water spigots next to the bathroom," mentions a reviewer, noting the need to plan for water access during your stay.

Pricing and payment: The campground operates on a cash payment system with specific rates. "It was $22 a night at that time. You pay via a drop box with cash and there's no change available," reports a camper who visited late in the season.

Site selection strategy: Some sites offer advantages over others depending on needs. "Sites 1-4 have shade, sites 5-8 do not," advises a regular visitor, providing context for summer camping when temperatures can fluctuate significantly.

Tips for camping with families

Nearby alternative options: For families looking for developed facilities, nearby parks offer more amenities. "Great for families with little ones. You are pretty close to your neighbors and it's busy," comments Meghan H. about Reverend's Ridge Campground at Golden Gate Canyon, a potential alternative to the more primitive Indian Creek experience.

Trail conditions: Be prepared for varying trail maintenance levels with children. "Trail #800 is pretty sketchy these days due to excessive water erosion. 3' deep and 8" wide troughs to walk along with so much overgrowth it's hard to navigate," warns a recent visitor about conditions families should consider.

Animal encounters: The area hosts wildlife that may interest children but requires appropriate distance. "My folks bought property you can ride to Indian Creek from. Love this area!!! Lots of beautiful trails, close to Denver and very peaceful," shares an enthusiast who knows the region well.

Tips for RVers

Trailer site limitations: The equestrian campground accommodates horse trailers but has few dedicated RV sites. "I was able to fit a 20 ft travel trailer, but there's only a handful of trailer sites. No hookups," advises Devin from Indian Creek, providing important context for RV campers considering this horse-friendly destination.

Cell service considerations: Communication options are limited within the campground. "Cell service was zero with ATT and Verizon," notes the same reviewer, which impacts planning for those needing connectivity.

Alternative RV options: RVers seeking hookups may prefer nearby state parks. "Campground is very clean. 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," suggests Dennis G. about Reverend's Ridge Campground, an alternative to consider for those requiring electrical connections.