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Best Equestrian Camping near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests

97 Reviews

Soap Creek Corral provides horse-friendly camping in Gunnison National Forest, located along a small river approximately 40 minutes west of Gunnison. The campground accommodates equestrian campers with trailer parking and access to nearby horse trails. Primitive sites offer adequate space for horse trailers with easy access to the creek for water. The camp host assists visitors in finding suitable spots that can accommodate their horses and camping setups. Soap Creek is accessible via a 9-mile dirt road off Highway 92, making it somewhat remote but still reachable for vehicles pulling horse trailers. Vault toilets and fire rings are available at established sites. The campground remains open from mid-May through mid-September, with late May sometimes showing cooler temperatures but fewer visitors. Trail riders have noted the campground provides an excellent base for exploring the surrounding forest trails.

Located within Coal Mesa Horse Camp, this area offers multiple riding opportunities on forest service trails that extend through the mountains. Riders can access numerous trails directly from the camping area without needing to transport horses after arrival. The surrounding terrain features beautiful mountain views and creek access where horses can be watered. Camping spots near the horse corrals provide convenient options for those traveling with equine companions. Bear country precautions are necessary when camping in this area. For riders seeking amenities, Silver Jack Campground is located in the same general region and offers additional facilities, though with different trail access points. The area's remoteness ensures a quiet experience with minimal light pollution, making for excellent stargazing after a day on horseback. No cell phone service is available in most of these camping areas, allowing for a true backcountry experience while still having basic amenities like vault toilets and established camping areas.

Map showing campgrounds near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests, ColoradoExplore the Map

Best Equestrian Sites Near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests (17)

    1. Silver Jack Campground

    5 Reviews
    Ridgway, CO
    16 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
    19 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
    19 miles
    Website

    "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."

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

    4. Red Creek Rd Dispersed Camping

    4 Reviews
    Curecanti National Recreation Area, CO
    22 miles

    "Aspens were bright, about a mile or so back on the right was a perfect spot with a creek running right next to the campsite. Had a fire ring as well."

    5. Hartman Rocks Recreation Area

    21 Reviews
    Gunnison, CO
    38 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)."

    6. Lost Lake Campground

    14 Reviews
    Crested Butte, CO
    38 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."

    7. Mill Creek

    9 Reviews
    Lake City, CO
    40 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."

    8. Kebler Corner

    5 Reviews
    Somerset, CO
    37 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. Little Molas Lake Campground

    14 Reviews
    Silverton, CO
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 884-2512

    "Nice little campground on the Million Dollar Highway heading between Durango and Silverton, with the Colorado Trail passing right through the campground."

    "This spot would be great for large campers or campers with horses/trailers."

    10. Musician's Camp

    4 Reviews
    Crested Butte, CO
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 641-0471

    "Crested Butte (wisely) decided to control the previously out-of-control dispersed camping situation around the region."

    "Not too far outside Crested Butt CO. (About 25 mins) The road is ok , but not great getting there.  Campsites and view of the mountain range is great."

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests

2 Photos of 17 Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests Campgrounds

Equestrian Camping Reviews near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests

97 Reviews of 17 Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests Campgrounds

  • Whitney L.
    Sep. 10, 2021

    Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground

    free views plus free noise pollution

    This is for "Soap Creek Corral/ Coal Mesa Horse Camp" dispersed camping not the actual Soap Creek Campground. There were spots at the formal campground but they were small, unconcealed, and within close proximity to all other sites. However, there were true dispersed spots near the horse corrals where lots of horse trailers and off roaders park to ride the trails.

    Off of HWY 50, we turned on to HWY 92 and then took FR 721 to FR 721 E where we turned and went right down to the proper campground before looping back out. We went out the same way in (FR 721) but split off onto the side road to find the horse corral area. Bear country. Pros/Cons: no mobile service, primitive, right next to a creek, lots of OHVs, milky way visible, mountain views, shade, creek sounds at night.

  • Ali W.
    Sep. 21, 2016

    Lost Lake Campground

    Great campground you don't have to leave!

    Stumbled upon this place accidentally one weekend. 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. Place for your horses, group sites, small sites, lakeside site, trailer sites, this place has it all! Great fishing on the lower lake, hike up to the pass or upper lakes. Great trails surround this campground . Spectacular fall foliage! Camp host you can get wood from. Bathrooms and great hammock spots, nice pull in spots for your car, accessible in any vehicle! Fire rings and picnic tables, everything in great shape.

  • Annie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2018

    Little Molas Lake Campground

    Busy campground on the Colorado Trail

    Nice little campground on the Million Dollar Highway heading between Durango and Silverton, with the Colorado Trail passing right through the campground. There is a main road with sites spread out over a few close ridges, and a small loop that ends in at the day use parking and vault toilet. It seemed that the “group” sites were closest to the vault toilets next to the day use parking, which could present an issue as it was very busy. The “group” sites were very crowded, which could have been just too many people in a small area, or the area could have been just too small.  Sites further away from the toilets were more spacious, but no site was huge. All sites seemed to have good hammocking trees. It seemed the best sites were the ones closest to the entrance: the parking pads were up next to the road and the tent pads and fire rings were set back from the road down a steepish grade. This was a great spot to camp as a home base for hiking the Colorado Trail. There are great trails heading out of the campground in both directions. The usual picnic tables and fire pits could be found at all sites we looked at.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 15, 2024

    Lost Lake Campground

    Tranquil Alpine Retreat

    Lost Lake Campground near Crested Butte, Colorado, is a hidden gem that combines serene alpine beauty with a peaceful camping experience. Tucked away in the Gunnison National Forest, this campground offers stunning views of wildflower-filled meadows, dense forests, and the pristine Lost Lake itself, which mirrors the surrounding peaks.

    The campsites are well-maintained, spacious, and thoughtfully spaced for privacy, with some offering lakefront views. There’s a charming rustic vibe, with basic amenities like vault toilets and picnic tables, but no hookups. The nearby trails, including the popular Three Lakes Loop, are perfect for hiking, fishing, and soaking in the mountain scenery.

    What sets Lost Lake apart is its tranquil atmosphere—especially if you’re visiting during the off-season. It’s the ideal spot to disconnect and enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty, whether you’re kayaking on the lake or simply relaxing by the campfire.

    Be aware that the road to the campground is a bit rough and narrow, so it’s best suited for smaller campers or tents. Also, temperatures can drop quickly at night, so pack warm gear even in summer.

    If you’re looking for a quiet retreat near Crested Butte with postcard-worthy scenery, Lost Lake Campground is hard to beat. It’s the perfect blend of solitude, recreation, and breathtaking views.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2024

    Hartman Rocks Recreation Area

    Easy access

    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 is also a portapotty within walking distance of the first camping loop, and the site has a table and fire ring. You do need to know how to drive on and around rock in the road though.

  • Jess and Jess S.
    Aug. 18, 2024

    Little Molas Lake Campground

    Large spot

    We stumbled upon this campsite through Dyrt. We left on a 10 day honeymoon to the mountains with no real plans. This was our first time to the Silverton area and this spot was perfect for us to spend two nights. The spot we camped at was the first one when you pull in. This spot would be great for large campers or campers with horses/trailers. It had several large pines for us to put our tent between to help with the rain coverage as it rained both nights we were there. This spot is closer to the highway but we weren't there during the day and at night there was not a lot of road noise. We did have to drive to the bathrooms from this site due to the rain and distance. Would stay here again.

  • Jason G.
    May. 1, 2021

    Silver Jack Campground

    Great San Juan Getaway

    Beautiful area around Silver Jack Reservoir with scrub brush low turning to pine forest and huge aspen glades as you climb. Highly suggest taking 858/Cimarron road over the pass to highway 50/Cimarron Colorado in the fall due to the extensive Aspen population. This is where I grew up so camped in the area dozens of times at least.

  • Elizabeth A.
    Mar. 15, 2021

    Hartman Rocks Recreation Area

    Amazing Area

    Hartman’s is MASSIVE and has tons of sites! It’s all dispersed camping. There are smaller more remote sites, big sites, as well as areas where there are a few sites in clusters. There are shady areas, non-shady areas, spots with views, and more hidden spots. There really is something for everyone. I live here in Gunnison, and it’s a great last minute spot if you want to get out for the night. There are no water sources, as the area is just rocks and dirt. 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). It’s an overall great area if you don’t want to get too far out of town!

  • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2020

    Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground

    Can’t recommend this place enough!!

    We decided to try this campground out on a whim, unsure how it would turn out. I’m glad to say it blew our expectations away! The campground was very well kept and quiet which is super hard to find nowadays. 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.

    One warning: the road in gets narrow at times so if you’re bringing an RV or a larger sized car be extra cautious.

    This has been our favorite campground in Colorado so far. I give this a 9/10!

Guide to Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests

Horse camping near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests in Colorado offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes while enjoying the company of your equine friends. With a variety of campgrounds catering to horse enthusiasts, you can find the perfect spot to set up camp and ride the scenic trails.

Equestrian campgrounds include essential amenities

  • The Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground provides a welcoming environment for horse campers, featuring nearby trails and a peaceful creek for relaxation.
  • At Silver Jack Campground, you'll find spacious sites and friendly hosts, making it an ideal base for equestrian adventures.
  • The Soap Creek Corral offers a unique experience with access to horse trails and a serene setting, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy riding the scenic trails around Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground, where you can explore the beautiful surroundings and discover hidden gems.
  • The trails near Silver Jack Campground lead to breathtaking overlooks, providing a fantastic backdrop for horseback riding and photography.
  • Experience the tranquility of nature while riding along the creek at Soap Creek Corral, where you can also enjoy fishing and hiking.

Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like trails and facilities

  • Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground features well-maintained trails that are perfect for horseback riding, ensuring a memorable experience for you and your horse.
  • At Silver Jack Campground, the spacious sites and access to nearby trails make it a popular choice for equestrian campers seeking adventure.
  • The Soap Creek Corral is designed with horse campers in mind, offering easy access to trails and a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation after a day of riding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What horse camping facilities are available in Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests?

Lost Lake Campground in Gunnison National Forest offers dedicated facilities for horses, including space for equestrian camping with both reservable and first-come, first-served sites. The campground accommodates various camping styles with options for groups, small parties, and those with horse trailers. For a more rustic option, Soap Creek Corral (also known as Coal Mesa Horse Camp) provides dispersed camping near horse corrals. While the formal Soap Creek Campground has smaller sites, the horse camp area offers more spacious dispersed camping specifically designed for equestrians. Both locations provide essential amenities for horse owners while offering access to nearby trail systems.

Where are the best horse trails in Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests?

The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests offer exceptional horse trails throughout the region. The Colorado Trail, which passes directly through Little Molas Lake Campground, provides excellent horseback riding opportunities with stunning mountain views along the Million Dollar Highway. For extensive trail networks, Hartman Rocks Recreation Area features a massive trail system suitable for equestrians with varying terrain and impressive scenery. Both locations offer trail connections to longer routes, making them ideal for day rides or multi-day adventures. The higher elevation trails typically open by mid-June and remain accessible through October, weather permitting.

Do I need a permit for horseback riding in Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests?

Generally, no specific permit is required for day-use horseback riding in Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests. However, standard recreation fees may apply at developed trailheads and some camping areas like Silver Jack Campground. For overnight trips with horses, you'll need to follow camping regulations, including obtaining backcountry permits if staying in designated wilderness areas. Some locations like Dark Canyon Trailhead may have specific restrictions, so always check signage. For current permit requirements, contact the nearest ranger district office before your trip, as regulations can change seasonally and vary by location within these three national forests.

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