Soap Creek Corral is located in the northern section of Gunnison National Forest, providing horse owners with dedicated camping facilities at 8,400 feet elevation. The area connects to extensive trail networks suitable for equestrian use throughout summer months when the forest is accessible. Water access fluctuates seasonally through the spring-fed system that serves both the formal campground and dispersed areas.
What to do
Trail riding with horses: At Soap Creek Corral, equestrians can access numerous backcountry trails directly from camp. One visitor noted, "We enjoy riding our ATV and have found some beautiful trails full of wildflowers and wildlife. It is also close enough to take day visits to Montrose or Crested Butte."
Mountain biking from camp: The Thunder Road Dispersed area offers immediate trail access for cyclists. A camper reported, "There aren't many places where you can camp in a cool pine tree forest, hop on your mtb or dirt bike, and ride right from camp. Thunder Trails are it!"
Reservoir activities: During summer months, many equestrian campers take breaks from riding to visit nearby lakes. At Silver Jack Campground, "The reservoir isn't visible from the campground but there's a trail in the campground that leads to a scenic overlook with a great vista of the area. There are no RV hookups but plenty of sites are big enough for an RV. Motorized boats are not allowed on the reservoir."
What campers like
Secluded equestrian sites: Horse owners appreciate the privacy at dispersed sites near corrals. At Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground, "We selected site 8 as it was fairly close to the restroom, had decent shade, and large enough to accommodate our large tent and two vehicles...with room enough to spare to play washers!"
Scenic overnight stops: Many equestrians camp while traveling between riding destinations. The Lands End Camp offers "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. Glow of the city lights from below at night is pretty."
Stream access for horses: Water sources are essential for equestrian camping. Near Big Dominguez Campground, riders find "Pretty spot with stream water right behind the sites. You have to drive over a stream when you come in but it was easily crossed when we visited."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to equestrian campsites require careful navigation with trailers. At Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground, riders should note "the road in gets narrow at times so if you're bringing an RV or a larger sized car be extra cautious."
Limited facilities: Most equestrian camping areas have minimal amenities. At Soap Creek Corral, "No water at this time as it is spring fed and was low."
Wildlife awareness: Proper food storage is mandatory when camping with horses. One camper at Soap Creek Campground warns, "BEAR COUNTRY. No cell phone service. Very quiet and primitive. Right next to a creek."
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate trails: When bringing children for equestrian camping, select areas with suitable riding options. At Silver Jack Campground, families appreciate that "There are trails to an overlook of the reservoir and down around the reservoir."
Campground layout considerations: Choose sites that accommodate multiple tents and vehicles. At Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground, "We arrived at Soap Creek Campground around noon on a Friday in mid-July and found several wonderful sites to choose from."
Off-horse activities: Plan alternative activities for children between rides. Near Big Dominguez Campground, "We enjoyed the trail near by and we were the only ones here while camping over night, occasionally some atv trails were used near by."
Tips from RVers
Trailer parking logistics: Position horse trailers strategically at dispersed sites. At Lands End Camp, one RVer noted, "Easy drive up for any vehicle. I clocked about 10 options before parking on a grassy flat area about half way up."
Extended stays with livestock: For multi-day equestrian camping trips, prepare for variable conditions. In Grand Mesa areas, campers report, "We spent two weeks near vela resevoir. No fish but lots of mushrooms. The first trees are inoxicating."
Elevation considerations: Higher elevation camps require different horse care. At Mud Springs Campground at 8,400 feet elevation, "Limited cell signal for Verizon, Att, but no TMobile. No trash and although normally water is available, it was not working in Aug 2021 due to drought."
