Meadow Creek Reservoir Fishing Site provides equestrian camping opportunities on National Forest land approximately 9 miles from Tabernash. The dirt access road climbs to over 9,000 feet elevation through lodgepole pine forest, opening to mountain meadows where wildlife frequently appears. Campers can find numerous dispersed sites along the road leading to the reservoir, with most suitable for various camping setups and offering creek access during spring runoff.
What to do
Wildlife viewing along water sources: Morning and evening hours offer the best moose-viewing opportunities at Meadow Creek Reservoir. "Saw moose's almost everyday, a fox, ospreys and eagles everywhere feeding and trout," reports Johannes R. from Meadow Creek Reservoir Fishing Site.
Fishing in mountain streams: Catch brook and brown trout in the Williams Fork of the Colorado River. "Fishing on the Williams fork is fair to good for Brook Trout with the occasional Brown Trout being caught. Pressure is generally light upstream from Sugarloaf and a bit more congested downstream where the stream is slightly larger," notes David B. from Sugarloaf Campground.
Horseback riding: Access trail systems directly from camping areas with horses. "Winding River Resort is a hidden gem. There are plenty of campsites and a few cabins. All spaces are well laid out with plenty of space between each spot," shares Tanner S., adding "Be sure to book a horseback ride and get to the cowboy pancake breakfast on the weekends."
What campers like
Accessibility for various rigs: Many spots along forest roads accommodate larger trailers despite the mountain terrain. "We have a 38ft travel trailer and we were able to go only about 3 miles up but found a great off the road spot by a creek," shares amie M. from Meadow Creek Reservoir Fishing Site.
Private camping spots: Campers appreciate finding secluded areas away from crowds. "The spots around the lake were all full so we took on of the spots along the road in. I think we got a better spot! We could hear anyone else, saw a couple moose and got to fish right off our campsite!" notes Connor T.
Campground amenities: Some established campgrounds provide facilities for equestrian campers. "They offer all sorts of activities such as horseback riding, ice cream social, chuckwagon breakfast, square dancing, cowboy church. Some do have an additional fee. You may bring your own horses here too!" explains Mary D. about Winding River Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal access challenges: High elevation areas may have snow into summer months and early fall. "Due to the high altitude, the weather can be unexpected. We got snowed on in July! But the views made it all worth it," reports Steph A. from Meadow Creek Reservoir Fishing Site.
Road conditions vary: Forest service roads require appropriate vehicles. "Road leading to spots is dirt but not bad. Once you turn onto where the spots are the road does get Rocky. We stopped at the first site. Quiet. Off roaders showed up in the morning!" explains Cyndee F. from York Gulch Road.
Limited connectivity: Most dispersed camping areas lack cell service. "We passed so many parking lot campgrounds and were so happy we chose here. We had trees! 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. No Verizon reception," mentions Andy G.
Tips for camping with families
Consider established campgrounds: Family-friendly options provide amenities like bathrooms and playgrounds. "Our site was very clean, the only complaint I had about our site in particular was that the fire pit was below the picnic table which was below the spot for our tent and the fire smoke overwhelmed the rest of our site due to the upwind," shares Amber B. from Golden Gate Canyon State Park.
Look for child-friendly trails: Areas with easy access to water features keep children entertained. "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. Great for families with little ones," notes Meghan H.
Pack for temperature swings: Mountain camping requires preparation for cold nights even in summer. "It is a high elevation location so be prepared for cold nights and afternoon rain/snow," advises GoWhereYouAreDraw N. about equestrian camping opportunities near Fraser.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: RVers should research spots that accommodate their vehicle size. "Positives: The drive is gorgeous, the road is mostly smooth. Negatives: It is a pretty steep ascent. There were a few spots that would have been ideal but we're already taken. We looked a little further ahead and the road got rough. A lot of off road vehicles and the road is narrow in spots. The one spot we found didn't really fit us (31 ft Minnie Winnie)," cautions Melanie S. from York Gulch Road.
Look for level parking areas: Many forest road sites require careful positioning. "Loop E (electric hookups) is very spacious and well laid out. Every campsite is a pull thru allowing you 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," recommends Dennis G. from Reverend's Ridge Campground.
Prepare for limited hookups: Most equestrian-friendly dispersed camping lacks amenities. "We got here September 29 and the RV park closes for the season Oct 1. We stayed two nights and were pleased with the services. Full hookups and lots of space at the lower numbered full hookup sites. Nice and quiet," notes Christopher W.
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