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Best Equestrian Camping near Gunnison National Forest

106 Reviews

Horse Ranch Park dispersed camping in Somerset provides primitive camping options with horse-friendly accommodations near Gunnison National Forest. Located along Paonia Road at an elevation of 8,630 feet, this dispersed camping area welcomes equestrians with their horses and offers basic amenities including fire rings. The spacious sites accommodate tent and RV camping with ample room for horse trailer parking. While no dedicated horse corrals are available, the area allows for portable corrals or highline setups. The dispersed nature of the sites provides sufficient space between campers, creating a peaceful atmosphere even during peak season.

The area connects directly to multiple backcountry trail systems ideal for day rides through aspen groves and mountain meadows. Trail access begins at the campground with routes extending into remote sections of Gunnison National Forest. Water for horses is available from nearby natural sources, though campers should bring their own drinking water as no potable water is provided at the site. The primitive camping experience requires proper preparation with all necessary supplies for both riders and horses. During summer months, wildflowers fill the surrounding meadows, creating spectacular riding conditions. Visitors should note that this free dispersed camping area has no toilet facilities or trash service, requiring pack-in/pack-out practices for responsible horse camping.

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Best Equestrian Sites Near Gunnison National Forest (15)

    1. Avalanche Campground

    10 Reviews
    Redstone, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 963-2266

    "For those without AWD/4WD vehicles I would use caution/advise against since the drive to get into the actual grounds requires a bit of off roading including crossing a creek."

    "Awesome valley with access to the creek. There is also a nice trail up the mountain that forks into two other trails."

    2. Lost Lake Campground

    14 Reviews
    Crested Butte, CO
    17 miles
    Website

    "Lost Lake Campground near Crested Butte, Colorado, is a hidden gem that combines serene alpine beauty with a peaceful camping experience."

    "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."

    3. Four Mile Road Dispersed

    20 Reviews
    Carbondale, CO
    19 miles
    Website

    "To start, we camped with a teardrop trailer, but once you pass the White River National Forest sign and parking lot for the babbish trail head, it’s not easy to turn around unless you find a campsite."

    "My first winter camping trip in Colorado."

    4. Kebler Corner

    5 Reviews
    Somerset, CO
    13 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."

    5. Musician's Camp

    4 Reviews
    Crested Butte, CO
    19 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."

    6. Dark Canyon Trailhead (Dispersed)

    1 Review
    Marble, CO
    12 miles

    7. Horse Ranch Park (dispersed)-paonia Rd

    1 Review
    Crested Butte, CO
    20 miles
    Website

    "Found this place late afternoon and fell in love with Gunnison National Forest! Lost Lake was right across the road from where we camped. Found a beautiful spot with a great view!"

    8. Hartman Rocks Recreation Area

    21 Reviews
    Gunnison, CO
    47 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)."

    9. Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground

    7 Reviews
    Curecanti National Recreation Area, CO
    40 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."

    10. Deep Creek Trailhead Camp

    7 Reviews
    Gypsum, CO
    40 miles

    "There are a few campsites next to the river and additional camp sites up the canyon."

    "Easy to find the site, ours was near the river. Lots of bugs so bring bug spray. Very calming and felt safe. Would recommend!"

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Gunnison National Forest

2 Photos of 15 Gunnison National Forest Campgrounds

Equestrian Camping Reviews near Gunnison National Forest

106 Reviews of 15 Gunnison National Forest Campgrounds

  • Trish M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Horse Ranch Park (dispersed)-paonia Rd

    Stunning & secluded

    Found this place late afternoon and fell in love with Gunnison National Forest! Lost Lake was right across the road from where we camped. Found a beautiful spot with a great view! Most of the other spots were taken so we were blessed. Can't wait to go back again.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Scott S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Deep Creek Trailhead Camp

    Good, not great

    Road was very easy to find and was very smooth. The first couple sites on the water were already taken so we headed up further. Found a steep, secluded pull-off just past marker #6 that looked like an old off road trailhead or access road that didn't seem to be in use anymore.

    The site was a good size but there wasn't a great flat option for the tent but it would be great for a van or small trailer and could easily fit 2-3.

    The views were absolutely amazing which is why I'm giving 3 stars. The mosquitos and thunderstorms were insane. Shout out to the REI base camp tent holding dry and not too many bugs in the tent.

    We also had the pleasure of a bunch of night riders on the first night traversing up and down the road all night which was incredibly loud. 2nd night was much quieter. I also moved the car to block the entrance to the site so people could see it was taken instead of driving up right next to us just to turn around the first night.

    Overall, easy access to the site, views were stunning, easy to get to Glenwood Springs.

    Edited to add that this site did have cell service

  • Voyager D.
    Aug. 21, 2024

    Dark Canyon Trailhead (Dispersed)

    Not Dispersed

    Not an actual site. Pin took me to a feild with horse/cows (pics attached for cuteness). The actual site is in the campground on Google Maps, but IT ISNT ALLOWED!!!

    VERY CLEARLY SIGNED CAMPING IN CAMPGROUND SITES ONLY!!!

    There is a small fire ring by the trailhead, as description says, but the signs on the road are VERY clear. Also lots of rangers patrolling, so don't risk it!!

    So, unless you wanna pay a RIDICULOUS fee for a night, not worth it at all. Would've given it one mark, but figured someone later might find a touch of value.

  • 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!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Lost Lake Campground

    Almost perfect

    Fairly remote with basic services. 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. Beautiful lakes with good fishing, well marked hiking trails, waterfalls(!), friendly camp hosts, week maintained facilities and grounds. I've lived in Colorado most of my life, and this was the first time I'd been over Kebler pass... beautiful expansive views on the west side.

Guide to Gunnison National Forest

Horse camping near Gunnison National Forest in Colorado offers a unique blend of scenic trails and well-equipped sites for equestrian enthusiasts. With a variety of campgrounds catering to horse camping, adventurers can enjoy the great outdoors while ensuring their horses are well accommodated.

Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

  • At Four Mile Road Dispersed, campers can explore numerous trails that are perfect for horseback riding, providing access to stunning views and natural beauty.
  • Lost Lake Campground features several trails leading from the campground, making it an ideal spot for riders looking to venture into the wilderness.
  • Musician's Camp is conveniently located near Crested Butte, offering access to trails that are suitable for both horses and hikers.

Campers appreciate these amenities for horses

Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like hitching posts

  • Avalanche Campground features designated areas for horses, ensuring that equestrian campers have the necessary facilities for their animals.
  • One Mile Campground includes amenities that cater to horse campers, making it a convenient choice for those traveling with their equine companions.
  • Soap Creek Corral is designed with horse camping in mind, providing essential facilities and access to beautiful trails for riding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Gunnison National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Gunnison National Forest is Avalanche Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 10 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Gunnison National Forest?

TheDyrt.com has all 15 equestrian camping locations near Gunnison National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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