Horse Ranch Park dispersed camping offers equestrian accommodations in the Gunnison National Forest at elevations exceeding 8,600 feet. This high-country camping area provides direct access to forest trails while maintaining separation between campsites for privacy. Camping areas include space for horse trailers and portable corrals, with natural water sources available for horses during summer months.
What to do
Trail riding at Lost Lake: The area around Lost Lake connects to multiple scenic trails perfect for day rides. "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," notes Paulina B.
Mountain biking at Hartman Rocks: Located just 10 minutes from Gunnison, this recreation area offers extensive mountain biking opportunities. "Hartman's is MASSIVE and has tons of sites! There are shady areas, non-shady areas, spots with views, and more hidden spots. There really is something for everyone," explains Elizabeth A., who recommends exploring "the array of trails, so you can bike, take a four-wheeler, horse-back ride, hike, or just drive your car."
Fishing in creeks: Several camping areas provide access to fishing spots. At Soap Creek Campground, "We were able to walk to the creek and what a view!" reports Glenna L. Many horse-friendly dispersed sites also offer creek access for both riders and horses to cool off after trail rides.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: At Four Mile Road Dispersed camping, visitors appreciate the privacy. "Beautiful spot and very few other people around. Cute river running throughout. The four mile road itself is a pretty well maintained dirt road that's wide enough for trailers and two cars parallel," writes Mike C.
Access to water features: Campers often mention creek and river access as a highlight. At Deep Creek Trailhead Camp, "Our site was near the river. Lots of bugs so bring bug spray. Very calming and felt safe," reports Molly R., highlighting a benefit for both horses and humans.
Night sky views: The remote setting provides excellent stargazing opportunities. "Milky Way views on dark nights" are mentioned by Dustin V. about Hartman Rocks Recreation Area, while other equestrian campers note the clear mountain air enhances night sky viewing throughout the forest.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to prime horse camping spots can require navigating rough roads. At Four Mile Road Dispersed, "The road is long, so plan to stay without fresh water, utilities, etc. There was a brackish creek this time of year which could be filtered, treated and boiled with some work," notes Chris C.
Bear safety is essential: Many campsites provide bear-proof storage. "Bear proof storage boxes and fire pits are available for each space" at Avalanche Campground according to Hayley O., who also advises caution for vehicles without AWD/4WD "since the drive to get into the actual grounds requires a bit of off roading including crossing a creek."
Services are limited: Most horse-friendly sites have minimal facilities. "No mobile service, primitive, right next to a creek, lots of OHVs, milky way visible, mountain views, shade, creek sounds at night," summarizes Whitney L. about Soap Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed sites for amenities: Kebler Corner offers more facilities for families with horses. "We stayed in #33 which is on the end so we had more privacy and room. It was a concrete pad so easy to level and fire pits were great. They have everything you could think of-ninja lines, playset, zip line, hammocks, jenga, frisbee golf, etc. There were tons of kids that had a huge time," shares Tarrah.
Pack extra padding for tent camping: The gravel tent pads common at horse camping areas can be uncomfortable. "If you sleep in a tent the pads are filled with chunky gravel-so bring extra padding!" advises Dani S. about Avalanche Campground.
Early arrival recommended: Securing a good horse-friendly site often requires planning. "We arrived at Soap Creek Campground around noon on a Friday in mid-July and found several wonderful sites to choose from. 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," reports Glenna L.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions limit some areas: Many equestrian camping areas have access challenges for larger rigs. At Lost Lake Campground, Jerry R. notes, "Road was a bit rough with tight turns for the last 2 miles, so your 40' trailer might be challenging. Aside from those things, this was a fantastic campground in a great location."
Generator considerations: Some equestrian camping areas restrict generator use. "Mostly surrounded by tent campers, but a few RV's made it down the narrow, windy and bumpy dirt road to the campground...but for the most part they kept their generators off (no electricity at this campground) during quiet hours," observed Glenna L. at Soap Creek Campground.
Level sites are limited: Finding flat spots for larger horse trailers with living quarters can be challenging. Many equestrian-friendly sites have concrete pads at developed campgrounds, while dispersed areas often require careful positioning and leveling blocks.
