3 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Horse Farm at the Base of the Rockies provides primitive camping with direct access to mountain trails for equestrians near Fort Collins. The campground accommodates both tent and RV camping with sites that allow horses, though it lacks dedicated horse corrals. Drinking water is available for horses and riders, and campfires are permitted at designated fire rings with firewood provided on-site. Each campsite includes a picnic table and trash disposal. The property maintains a peaceful atmosphere where horses can be kept near campsites, though riders should bring their own portable corrals or highlines as permanent equine facilities are limited.
Located approximately 30 miles from Fort Collins, Jacks Gulch Campground offers seasonal equestrian camping from May through November in the Roosevelt National Forest. The campground features drinking water access and toilet facilities, though no showers are available. Horse owners find the campground convenient for accessing multiple trail systems that connect to the broader Poudre Canyon area. Reservations are required for the equestrian sites, which accommodate both tent and RV camping. The campground's location provides a central base for exploring mountain trails that range from moderate to challenging terrain. Riders frequently encounter wildlife including elk and deer along the trails. The campground's higher elevation provides cooler temperatures during summer months when valley temperatures rise.
"This is a KOA journey, meaning it’s great for a stopover, and it is located next to a horse farm. If you are used to smelling farm life, then the smell won’t be a problem."
"We needed a stop on the way out of Colorado and grabbed a quick night here in a tent site. Water was off for weather but stoves made much needed coffee in the cold."
from $20 / night
"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."
"It would be nice if the county could put water in, there are two places to fill containers/rvs-one right by the entrance and another at the entrance to Bobcat Gulch."
from $35 / night
"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 this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $45 - $80 / night
"There are so many different types of sites, from those with several trees, lake side, open, or group spots. Water is available for filling bottles, but not campers."
"Easy drive from Loveland Colorado. The check In was very easy and the trails are right outside of the camp grounds. The park does have hook ups for water and power."
Available this weekend
from $10 - $200 / night
"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 bear box was a good size, easy to use, and well located. Restrooms were a short walk away. Our site was easy to get level on but some others looked difficult."
from $35 / night
"After driving for nearly 4hrs to find a spot in any of the first come first serve camp grounds up Poudre Canyon we started to head home only to pull into Pingree Park for one last cry for help... we stumbled"
"Well off the beaten path. We were afraid of it being full, so we arrived around 930am on a Saturday, there were plenty of spots to choose from, and several still available by the end of the day."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $42 - $206 / night
"Horse drawn wagon ride to senator steak house. Omg absolutely fresh and delicious meal. Thanks!!"
"Honestly, when we first pulled in, we were a little put off by the proximity to the highway, and a policy they have to keep your cc information on a handwritten card."
from $20 - $100 / night
from $35 - $40 / night
"There is a short drive over a tall hill to a valkey with 3 camp grounds. Hermits hollow, Bob cat and kruger equestrian . Hermits hollow is better for small rigs and tents."
from $35 / night
"Easy access to RMNP and hiking trails everywhere,including right out your cabin door."
from $90 / 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.
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).
GuideThe place is beautiful, tucked right beneath the mountain side. There are many trails nearby with many options for those seeking adventure, the campsite staff was very kind and helpful also
ScoutSuper clean toilets, great camp host, and good campsites. Some are really close together, and the water is down a lot.
GuideAs of August 2026 the reservoir is mostly empty.
Camping spots don't provide much of a view but they're spread out for privacy.
Road in is flat and gravel - I passed a two door Porsche (you do not need 4x4 in summer).
Guide20 degrees cooler than Fort Collins. Beautiful meadows with mountain views 360.
Nice large picnic table, fire ring (burn ban) and tent site. Fairly level gravel site.
RangerThe road was a bit rough but I made it without issue in my Tacoma pulling a trailer. Some spots were more private than others. There was significant ATV traffic. It was a good spot to visit RMNP west entrance.
Equestrian camping near Fort Collins, Colorado offers direct access to Roosevelt National Forest trails at elevations ranging from 5,500 to 8,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F during day and drop to 40-50°F at night, creating ideal conditions for both riders and horses. Most designated equestrian sites in the area operate seasonally from May through October.
Mountain biking trails: Hermits Hollow Campground offers excellent access to nearby mountain biking opportunities. "We took bikes and explored the endless dirt roads that spoke off in all directions. Little creeks abound," notes Morgan Y. from Jacks Gulch Campground. The interconnected trail systems provide options for riders of all skill levels.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer prime wildlife spotting opportunities. "We had a moose and her baby visit our camper first thing the next morning," reports one camper at Jacks Gulch Campground. For larger mammals, Estes Park areas are particularly productive, with one visitor noting, "Three large Bull Elk and a young bull came through the valley and up through the campground."
Fishing in reservoir waters: Curt Gowdy State Park provides accessible fishing from multiple shoreline locations. "Plenty to do with the reservoir and trails in the park. Boat, fish, hike or bike just take your pick," mentions Eric L. The park maintains multiple boat ramps with varying seasonal availability.
Private campsites: Bobcat Campground receives high marks for site privacy. "Our site was a nice size and felt private enough despite somewhat close neighbors. Good balance of shady spots and sunny spots. Lots of rock outcroppings and hills to explore," writes Lisa at Bobcat Campground — Hermit Park. The spacious sites provide room for equipment and horses.
Clean facilities: East Portal Campground maintains exceptionally clean facilities. "The bathrooms are large and clean! Auto flushing toilets, toilet paper and hand soap! A cleaning crew came in often and quickly," shares Jennifer G. from East Portal Campground at Estes Park. The individual shower rooms offer privacy after long trail rides.
Proximity to trails: Multiple campgrounds feature direct trail access. "The Kruger Rock Trailhead is inside the campground, and it is a nice hike with an amazing view of the Rockies and Estes at the top," explains Erin K. about Hermits Hollow. Equestrians particularly appreciate sites with immediate trail connections without requiring horse transport.
Bear safety requirements: Bear boxes are standard at many campgrounds in the region. "Each campsite had a bear box, picnic table, and fire ring. There are plenty of trees for shade and some privacy, but you are still near other campers," says Hannah F. about Hermits Hollow Campground. Rangers actively enforce proper food storage.
Reservation needs: Most equestrian-friendly sites require advance booking. "Book early!" advises Gregory R. about Estes Park camping areas. Winding River Resort offers specific equestrian sites that fill quickly during peak season (June-August).
Site conditions: Ground surfaces vary significantly across campgrounds. "Sites are very hard to get your unit level. Very high price for no hookups," warns Pat about Bobcat Campground. When bringing horses, check specific site details about terrain, as some may have rocky or sloped areas unsuitable for portable corrals.
Animal interactions: Some campgrounds feature opportunities to interact with animals. At Winding River Resort, "Horses within the ranch roam free and will come right up to you," shares Michael T. The resort also offers "a wonderful petting zoo area, playground, basketball courts and much more," according to Mary D.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities for children. Jennifer G. notes that at East Portal, "The playground was small but my kids were satisfied. There was a rock climbing wall and swings." Terry Bison Ranch features unique attractions with a reviewer noting, "Took the feed the bison train ride. Which was totally fun."
Kid-friendly trails: Several campgrounds offer accessible hiking options. "Bring your crayons - there are two trailmarkers on the trail that you can do rubbings of," suggests Erin K. about the Kruger Rock Trail. Shorter loop trails under 2 miles are available at most horse-friendly campgrounds.
Access considerations: Some equestrian campgrounds have limited access for larger rigs. "The road in is a bit narrow so if you have a trailer/RV over 30-35 feet, it'll be tight. With that being said, I pulled my 30 foot trailer with no problems.... just go slow," advises Nathan P. about Bobcat Campground.
Dump station availability: Facilities vary across campgrounds. "There is a fee upon entry. You have to pay for the nights you plan to stay and you have to pay for your vehicle to have a permit to be there," explains one camper about Hermits Hollow. Some locations charge additional fees for dump station use.
Hookup options: Full hookup availability varies seasonally. "Water and dump available at the entrance to the campground," notes Nathan P., while another camper mentions, "They do charge an additional $15 to use the dump station" at Hermits Hollow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Fort Collins, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Fort Collins, CO is Fort Collins North-Wellington KOA with a 3.9-star rating from 10 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Fort Collins, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 32 equestrian camping locations near Fort Collins, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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