Best Equestrian Camping near Montrose, CO

Soap Creek Corral offers camping for equestrians near Montrose, Colorado with a dedicated area for horse trailers. Located approximately 40 minutes west of Gunnison off Highway 50 and Highway 92, this dispersed camping area provides sites near horse corrals where riders can access beautiful trails filled with wildflowers and wildlife. The campground features vault toilets and sits alongside a creek that provides soothing background noise at night. During peak season, camp hosts provide visitors with information about rules and regulations to prevent fines from park rangers, creating a well-maintained, family-friendly atmosphere for those camping with horses.

Trail access from Soap Creek makes it popular with both horse enthusiasts and ATV riders exploring the surrounding wilderness. The network of trails leads through forested areas with spectacular mountain views, ideal for day rides directly from camp. Black Canyon is nearby for those interested in hiking, while Montrose and Crested Butte are close enough for day trips. The road in gets narrow at times, requiring caution with larger vehicles and horse trailers. No hookups are available, and visitors should bring sufficient water supplies as the spring-fed water source can run low during dry periods. Many riders appreciate the isolated location that offers excellent star gazing opportunities with no light pollution, though visitors should be aware they are in bear country.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Montrose, Colorado (15)

    1. Silver Jack Campground

    5 Reviews
    Ridgway, CO
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 537-8888

    $20 - $275 / night

    "Beautiful area around Silver Jack Reservoir with scrub brush low turning to pine forest and huge aspen glades as you climb."

    "Quite a drive up but well worth it. Nearly in July (Sunday-Tuesday). Aspens everywhere, and trails right off our site. Clean bathrooms easy access to water."

    2. Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground

    7 Reviews
    Curecanti National Recreation Area, CO
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 641-0471

    "Many of the sites are shaded by the trees and the nearby creek provides soothing background noise during nights. Trails near the sites are very accessible. Views are gorgeous."

    "We arrived at Soap Creek Campground around noon on a Friday in mid-July and found several wonderful sites to choose from."

    3. Soap Creek Corral

    4 Reviews
    Crawford, CO
    30 miles
    Website

    "What draws us to this campground is the beauty of the surrounding area. Black Canyon is close by for those who like to hike."

    "This is a great spot tucked away behind the reservoir and along a sweet little creek. I didn’t stay because no one was there this time of year and I had no cell service."

    4. Hartman Rocks Recreation Area

    20 Reviews
    Gunnison, CO
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 642-4940

    "The location shown looks like it’s super far out but you can find campgrounds pretty close to the entrance(10 minutes from parking lot)."

    "There are many different ways to explore the array of trails, so you can bike, take a four-wheeler, horse-back ride, hike, or just drive your car. There are about 3 toilets (nothing fancy)."

    5. Lost Lake Campground

    13 Reviews
    Crested Butte, CO
    45 miles
    Website

    "There are some reserve able sites near the lake, and some first come/first serve sites as well. Also dispersed camping on the way up to the campground."

    "Lost Lake Campground near Crested Butte, Colorado, is a hidden gem that combines serene alpine beauty with a peaceful camping experience."

    6. Mill Creek

    8 Reviews
    Lake City, CO
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 642-4953

    $20 / night

    "It is located away from Lake City that it feels quiet and ties neatly into local 4x4 roads and mountain passes."

    "Nestled in pine trees alongside the lake fork of the Gunnison river. Most sites have tons of privacy. All have picnic tables and bear boxes. First-come first-serve. Very clean vault toilet restrooms."

    7. Kebler Corner

    5 Reviews
    Somerset, CO
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 929-5029

    $35 - $725 / night

    "It is quiet and peaceful next to the roaring of the river. Perfectly situated between Paonia (Big B’s cider) and Kebler pass leading to Crested Butte."

    "The tent spots were in a different area on the other side of the property a little away from the busier parts."

    9. Thunder Road Dispersed

    1 Review
    Norwood, CO
    37 miles

    "Thunder Trails are it!