Fluffle Group Use Campground serves as the primary equestrian-focused camping destination near Glade Park, Colorado, located at 8,400 feet elevation in western Colorado's high desert terrain. The campground's setting provides both sunny exposed sites and partially shaded areas beneath aspen trees, with temperatures ranging from mid-80s in summer to below freezing at night in spring and fall. Summer thunderstorms frequently roll through the area between July and August, creating challenging conditions for trail riding.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Direct trail access makes Mud Springs Campground ideal for day rides, with routes ranging from 3-8 miles round trip. "Great spot! Clean! Lots of room! The other sites are pretty spaced out. There are toilets and a water faucet near our site," notes Carlos M., highlighting the comfortable base for riding adventures.
Explore canyons on horseback: Pack water and lead ropes for day trips into Big Dominguez Campground area, located 25 miles from Highway 141 on remote trails. "Great spot! As in the description, very quiet, and accessibility can be tricky when weather comes into play," warns TJ C., emphasizing the need for weather awareness when planning canyon rides.
Wildlife viewing with horses: Early mornings and evenings offer the best opportunities for wildlife spotting from horseback. "We saw deer in the morning. We had a nice tent pad and firerings. Room for hammocks," reports Melissa K. about camping in the area, suggesting dawn rides for optimal wildlife encounters.
What campers like
Peaceful settings: The remoteness provides quiet camping opportunities away from crowded areas. A visitor to Lands End Camp shares, "Only 2 spots out here at lands end that are actually on the edge of the mesa. No tree cover out on the edge of the mesa. Alt is around 10.5k so won't get super hot."
Reasonable fees: Most horse camping areas maintain affordable rates compared to private equestrian facilities. At Devils Garden Campground, "We stayed at Devils Garden site 40 for 3 nights. The site was huge with large boulders for some shade early in the day. This site is well spaced from other campsites so you don't feel cramped," notes Bryan K.
Good cell connectivity: Unlike many remote camping areas, horse campgrounds near Glade Park maintain functional cell service. Greg L. confirms this at Fluffle Group Use Campground: "Cell signal is very strong. Sites all are reserved and paid for online." This allows riders to stay connected for safety and coordination purposes.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: The area experiences rapid weather changes, particularly afternoon thunderstorms in summer. "It seemed to rain in July there, although they go through severe droughts and then all of a sudden, rain for two days," observes Melissa K. about camping in the region.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly, with some requiring high-clearance vehicles, especially when towing horse trailers. For Pyramid Rock Camp, Tiffany C. advises: "Our 4WD 28ft RV had no trouble with the dirt road- even though it was a little soggy in some spots. Big ruts in some sections, but most vehicles shouldn't have trouble with the climb."
Water management: Most equestrian campsites lack reliable water sources for horses. "Update Aug 2024 visit..water system is working," reports Greg L. about Mud Springs, but this varies seasonally, so campers should bring ample water for themselves and their horses.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly trails: Look for shorter, gentler trail options suitable for children and novice riders near Fluffle Group Use Campground. "We love being surrounded by tall trees on one side and having a long distance view across the meadow on the other side, watching storm clouds approaching every day," says LINDA H. about camping in the Grand Mesa FS 105 area, which offers similar family-friendly terrain.
Wildlife education opportunities: The area provides excellent chances to teach children about local fauna and flora. "We saw deer in the morning" reports Melissa K., making morning nature walks productive learning experiences for families.
Evening activities: Plan non-riding activities for evenings at camp. "Stars were phenomenal! Make sure you check fire restrictions beforehand," advises Tiffany C., as stargazing becomes a highlight when fire restrictions permit evening campfires.
Tips from RVers
Parking considerations: RV sites with horse trailer parking require advance planning. "Sites are large and roomy and good for RVs and TTs," confirms Greg L. about Fluffle Group Use Campground, but availability becomes limited on weekends.
Leveling challenges: Many horse campgrounds near Glade Park sit on uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks. The Gunnison River Overlook camping area presents similar challenges: "There are several spots to pull over with fire rings along 123 rd. Definitely recommend high clearance 4x4 for the further spots," advises Kaylinn H.
Seasonal planning: RV accessibility changes dramatically with seasons. "If staying at this CG supply well so you don't have to leave the park," suggests Bryan K., highlighting the importance of bringing sufficient supplies when camping with both RVs and horses in these remote areas.
