Best Equestrian Camping near Gunnison, CO
We're here to help you find where to go horse camping in Gunnison. Camping with horses is a beautiful way to experience nature. Find Colorado equestrian campgrounds with ease on The Dyrt.
Best Equestrian Sites Near Gunnison, CO (17)
1. Hartman Rocks Recreation Area
Gunnison, Colorado19 Reviews•46 Photos•371 SavesRemember your OUTDOOR ETHICS when enjoying your public lands. Please RECREATE RESPONSIBLY. Overview Hartman Rocks Recreation Area includes over 14,000 acres of public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management and 160 acres (The Base Area) owned and managed by The City of Gunnison, and Gunnison County. Hartman Rocks has 45 miles of singletrack trail, 45 miles of roads, 50 designated dispersed campsites, and countless climbing crags. Singletrack trails are perfect for mountain biking, dirt biking, hiking, and trail running. Roads are often traveled by 4x4 trucks, ROVs and ATVs. In the winter months, 16 miles of roads are groomed as cross-country ski trails for classic and skate skiing; and some single-track trails are groomed as winter singletrack for fat biking. For more information, please contact the Gunnison Field Office. Know Before You Go Camping There are 50 dry/primitive campsites available. All sites are first come, first serve. No fees. No hookups! No potable water or developed facilities. Need a Map? Hartman Rocks Recreation Area Map- Climbing, Bouldering, and Rock Climbing Areas Hartman Rocks Trail__Map Helpful Links Visit: Gunnison Field Office ADA Access: Sea of Sage, Lost Dog and Broken Shovel Trails are wide trails used by hand cycles. Accessible restrooms are located at The Base Area and at the intersection of BLM Roads 3505 and 3500.
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
- Standard (Tent/RV)
2. Lost Lake Campground
Crested Butte, Colorado10 Reviews•57 Photos•827 Savesphoto of new cement accessible fishing deck Lost Lake Campground is a great place for families to camp. Kids and parents alike will enjoy fishing and hiking around Lost Lake, Dollar Lake and Lost Lake Slough. Beckwith Pass provides breathtaking vistas of the Ruby Mountain Range. The wildflowers in this region are phenomenal during mid-July and early August. Campgound Brochure Moreon Lost Lake Campground
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
3. Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground
Curecanti National Recreation Area, Colorado7 Reviews•20 Photos•198 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
- Equestrian
4. One Mile Campground
Almont, Colorado4 Reviews•4 Photos•107 SavesOne Mile Campground is located 18 miles from Gunnison, Colo.,f in the Taylor River Canyon. Visitors enjoy the area for its rafting, fishing and trail opportunities.
The campground offers single-family campsites, all of which have electric hookups. Several sites are also accessible. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
$30 / night
6. Soap Creek Corral
Crawford, Colorado4 Reviews•3 Photos•123 SavesVarious recreation sites in the Soap Creek Area
- RVs
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
- Glamping
7. Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
Nathrop, Colorado13 Reviews•46 Photos•559 SavesDon't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".
Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.
Please observe the following requirements when dispersed camping:
In some areas, dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers where posted. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites. BEARS and other wildlife When you go to the mountains and forest, you are in bear county. Do not leave ANY food, trash or other animal attractant unattended. Store all food and trash securely and pack out what you pack in. Failing to do so can result in a fine. Also be aware that; where not otherwise restricted, camping or leaving camping equipment at any location more than 14 days within a continuous 30 day period, and/or occupying any campsite within three miles of any prior camping or equipment location for a combined total of more than 28 days within any continuous 60 day period, is prohibited. Also, leaving camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours is not allowed. In addition; discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge. Plan your trip; phone ahead for restrictions and special regulations. Contact your local Ranger District office for more information.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
8. Lakeview Campground
Granite, Colorado18 Reviews•67 Photos•354 SavesOverview
Lakeview Campground, with wonderful views of the Twin Lakes Reservoir, is located about 20 miles south of Leadville, Colorado. The campground attracts many hikers looking to explore nature and the hiking trails in the surrounding area. Boaters can launch their craft at the nearby boat dock and fishing enthusiasts can find numerous locations at Twin Lakes Reservoir for fishing.
Recreation
The Continental Divide Trail, which runs from Canada to Mexico, is a non-motorized trail that passes Lakeview Campground. Mountain bikes are allowed in the section from Halfmoon Road south to Twin Lakes. Approximately 300 miles of the trail goes through Colorado. South of the campground lies Twin Lakes, Colorado's largest natural glacier lakes. Sailing and water skiing are among the popular activities here. Fishing includes lake, rainbow and mackinaw trout.
Natural Features
Lakeview is situated in a ponderosa pine and sage habitat at an elevation of 9,500 feet. The site is between Mt. Elbert Forebay and Twin Lakes. The Twin Lakes Reservoir spans 2,805 acres and Mount Elbert stands tall at 14,433 feet. To the north is the Mount Massive Wilderness area, 30,540 acres encompassing Mount Massive, Colorados second highest peak at 14,421 feet. To the south is the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness with 8 peaks over 14,000 ft high. Much of the wilderness is above timberline with many alpine plant communities and permanent snowfields.
Nearby Attractions
The Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway leads to Independence Pass, one of the highest paved passes in Colorado. The historic mining town, Leadville, is a half hour away.
Charges & Cancellations
Cancellations Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite. Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. No-Shows A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite. Refunds Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended. Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay. For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
$26 / night
9. Needle Creek Ranch
Sargents, Colorado1 Review•23 Photos•23 SavesNeedle Creek Ranch is 160 acres secluded inside the Gunnison National Forest. We are just 1 mile from Needle Creek Reservoir with private access. Enjoy fishing, hunting, endless hiking and motorsports trails.
Head down the way and enjoy Blue Mesa Reservoir and endless water sports in the Gunnison Valley and Arkansas Valley.
Located at the end of the road you can enjoy private camping in one of the beautiful spots around the property.
Covered in aspen groves, cottonwood trees and lush pastures there is room for all types of campers. Come enjoy the sunsets of the Gunnison National Forest on a private ranch.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
10. Musician's Camp
Crested Butte, Colorado2 Reviews•5 Photos•238 SavesLocated 6 miles up Slate River Rd, Musician’s Camp has 17 campsites. It accommodates RV’s, trailers, and tent sites.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Equestrian
Recent Equestrian Reviews in Gunnison
119 Reviews of 17 Gunnison Campgrounds
Paulina B.
Ranger
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.
Luke R.
Traveler
North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping
Solid Camp Spot for early September
My sister drove up from Denver Saturday morning. My daughter and I drove from Paonia and met her there. Road was bumpy but manageable in my Outback. Drove down the road and took a hike with the dogs. Great trail. Rained a little but it was not a big deal. Decent amount of traffic on the road throughout the day and into the evening. Really cool to be able to snag a spot around lunchtime on a Saturday.
- KKaren S.
Scout
Lakeview Campground
Beautiful quiet campground
Spaces are large and well maintained. Views vary with the spots but all are peaceful. There
- TTarrahScout
Kebler Corner
Hidden Gem
We stayed here Thursday through Monday over Labor Day Weekend. It is in an absolutely beautiful spot and the campground is kept immaculately. It is right on the river so my husband was happy to be able to fish right behind our RV. 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. Mine loved it! There is a trail to hike up to a beautiful meadow. They have a general store/liquor store on site with a really good selection of items. We were able to make a short drive to Black Canyon National Park as well as some really nice local produce stops. The town of Hotchkiss is 15 mins away and has propane/restaurants/etc. Highly recommend staying here.
- CCari B.Traveler
Lost Lake Campground
Beautiful and peaceful
This is a great campground - the lake is beautiful and there are several trails that leave from here. Friendly hosts and clean / well maintained! We arrived midday on a Saturday in late August and there were still several open sites, plus there are a handful of dispersed sites along the road in which were all empty.
Voyager D.
Guide
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.
- AAndrew S.Scout
Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
Cows?
Great site, plenty of room, but there were so many open-range cows wandering around. Really didn’t mind during the day, until they started loudly mooing and screaming during the night. All the reviews here say it was quiet at night, so this must be a new development or we just got unlucky with timing. Never experienced anything like it. Put a damper on what was otherwise a great area for camping
Bob D.Guide
Musician's Camp
Musician’s Campgrounds (Outside of Crested Butt, CO.)
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. Peaceful area but some traffic on the road coming in and it free range area for cows. Always a few walking around. Some sites are in open area and some sites are under the trees. Would stay there again. A few disbursed campgrounds in the area.
- SSierra F.Traveler
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.
- nnicole W.Traveler
Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
Great views, lots of options
We loved it! Very spread out, lots of space. Our camping spot was excellent and provided great views and seclusion. The creek on the map didn’t have any water in it though and the sun was brutal for a few hours.
robert T.Traveler
Salt House Dispersed
Salt house
Primitive at its best
- SSara W.Traveler
Kebler Corner
Planned on staying 1 night, ended up staying 2!
This campsite was a nice creekside getaway! It had community bathrooms that included a sink with soap and even a shower! They had a general store that was accessible and had any goods that you may have forgotten. Overall this was a very clean and safe campsite with beautiful scenery. About an hour out from Crested Butte, this was great for a weekend getaway.
Jeane L.GuideKebler Corner
Would happily visit again!
We stayed in a camper van over a busy holiday and loved it! We were hoping for a peaceful getaway for us and our dog and found it at Kebler. Yes, some of the spaces are close together but everyone there made it work well. The angled spots and strategic landscaping help too. Plenty of grassy common areas to stretch your legs and your pup’s (on leash), so much so we didn’t feel like we missed out on anything by not being parked with the big coaches along the river. Even better since the large river spots had little/no natural shade (most seemed to have their own awnings that our van didn’t so no worries there I think for them). The tent spots were in a different area on the other side of the property a little away from the busier parts. They also had less shade but had level pads and but seemed closer to the bridge (and hiking). The community vibe was respectful and friendly and it was lovely to stroll about and enjoy it all. Families were out and about, playing with their children and trying different things to do. There was a little playground and some activities in a covered space like velcro axe throwing and corn hole. There were soccer goals set up at one of the grassy areas too. There was also a frisbee golf course, hammocks and picnic tables scattered around the property. A sign by the bathrooms invited camp guests to go gentle group hike if you meet at the bridge at the posted time in the morning. The general store was open during the day and had more than I expected (came for stickers and snacks, left with a game of Bananagrams and more). There wasn’t cell service but wifi worked well for what we needed. The bathrooms were clean and the water was warm. On a busy weekend you might need to use the portable toilets near the tent sites if the regular ones are occupied at a busy time. In the future, splitting the shower and toilet facilities might help with that long term, but I am not sure how hard (and expensive) that is to do in places that are tucked away into the mountains like this. We did use the coin laundry and that worked well. At the time of our visit it was $2 for the washer and $3.50 for the dryer. There was a variety of cute cabins for rent with a good range in size and cost - and some have own their bathroom and even little patio spaces. The hosts and staff were friendly and helpful, even doing trash pickup in the morning if you left it out at a certain time by your site. Kebler is in a beautiful setting, has thoughtfully-designed spaces and is carefully maintained. We would definitely come back - hopefully in a camper van / travel trailer or even just to stay in one of the cabins.
- AAnne L.Scout
Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
Super accessible huge sites
We camped here ahead of whitewater rafting and found a huge, private site. Arrived mid-day Friday and plenty of sites available, definitely filled up through Friday evening. Great views and areas to walk around. Road was in great shape when we visited.
- ttjScout
Upper Mill Creek
Upper Mill Creek
Open space far away from access road where you’ll hear the nearby creek. Relaxing private space.
marine J.GuideRaspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
Beautiful views
It is gorgeous and so easy to access. From the 285 going north turn left on County road 270 until it becomes the 272 we went straight to the 274. At the cross of 2 National Forests, San Isabel and pike . We arrived around 5 pm on a Wednesday and most of the spots were taken but we were able to find one to fit our 40 feet toy hauler. We went for a hike, there were multiple hiking trails including access to the Colorado Trail. We also rode our mountain bikes on 272, 274A and the 273. It was very quiet and the sky was amazing at night. I highly recommend it if you are traveling on the 285.
Tessa P.TravelerRaspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
Perfect spot
Will definitely be back to this area. Plenty of spots to pick from on memorial day weekend when we rolled in around 5pm. The spot we found had 360 views of mountains. Plenty of open space with trees for shade and hammock hanging. Loved the porta potty option. Dogs loved the freedom and we loved not being on top of other campers.
Matt S.Guide
Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground
Great spot
We had this campground all too our selves in late May as it was still rather cold out in the area but it was a great spot for tent camping. Lots of trails near by to explore.
- OOmar R.Traveler
Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
Great place to spend the night or longer
We needed a place to camp on the road. This place sounded good and had the bonus of being next door to the Mt Princeton hot springs. It was in the middle of the holiday weekend and the place was pretty packed but we managed to find a site. There is loads of space in there and great views. We had to do some work to level our vehicle to make the roof tent comfortable as our site was on a slope but we got there. It was quiet despite the many people camping in the vicinity. We really loved the stay.
Mitch H.TravelerHartman Rocks Recreation Area
Go-to Spot in Gunnison
Great area with plenty of camp sites. Make sure to get there early as the area often fills up before sunset. Watched a lot of people come, make the rounds, and leave (myself included once lol).
Flannel Fabe ..RangerRaspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
Under big mountains
Kinda busy with good access to Browns creek and the Colorado trail, but otherwise quiet if you can squeeze in. Easy for trailers too.
- KKaren D.Scout
Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
In the boonies with cell service!
This is a great place to boondock. There is even one port-o-potty in summer. Plenty of sites suitable for trailers and RVs.
- SStacey F.Traveler
Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
Endless Stars
This place is heavenly for dispersed camping. We had a wide open spot with some shade and no other people within sight or sound. The perfect spot for us was up and up past the trailhead and around the road to where there's a long pull off spot on the left. There's no creeks so plan for that. People left plenty of wood for campfires. It's so quiet at night. The definition of wide open spaces. When the moon goes down and the millions of stars come out - you feel like you stepped back in time a million years and like you're the only people on earth. It's spectacula!
Jinho T.GuideLakeview Campground
Lakeview campground
Moderate shade, not a lot of bugs, dusty, sites seem more for RV camper set up based on layout but we were able to find spots with this site specifically to set up 3 tents (other sites seemed like this would have been difficult), trial right by site where mountain bikers, hikers & backpackers may go by but wasn’t a whole lot of traffic, privacy is minimal, about 10 min drive roughly from site to twin lakes, separate pit and grill, picnic table but no bear locker, bathrooms were nice & well kept
- CCyndi C.Scout
One Mile Campground
Beautiful Forest Setting with Plenty of Quiet
We spent three nights at One Mile Campground and are already looking forward to returning. Our site was level, very quiet, roomy, and comfortable with a lovely mix of sun and shade due to the surrounding trees. It was a treat to have an electrical hook up for our 30 foot trailer in a national forest campground. And as an added bonus, we were close enough to the towns of Almont and Gunnison to drive to for essentials we needed and to take a cooking break one night and have dinner at the wonderful Garlic Mike's. The campground sits right across the highway from the beautiful and currently rip roaring Taylor River where there were was much rafting, kayaking and fishing happening. The campground is very clean, with the pit toilets being the most immaculate we've sat in! Danielle was our campground host, and the care she took of the place was obvious. Best of all, she was one of those special hosts who was friendly and always available to help, but not the looky-loo, always in-your-face type. When we return, we hope she will still be hosting.
Lara S.GuideRaspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
Loved this spot
Close to hiking at browns which is really pretty hike and lots of options. We found a place on Memorial Day without a reservation which never happens in Colorado. It is near the co trail too! Quiet enough for our 1 year old
Erik B.GuideGunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground
Amazing views and creek
One of our best campsites so far. It’s a bit of a long road in and first come first serve sites. Nice tree shaded spots
Guide to Gunnison
Horse camping in Colorado offers a unique experience for equestrian enthusiasts, combining stunning landscapes with the freedom to explore on horseback.
Campers appreciate these amenities for horses
- The Hartman Rocks Recreation Area provides ample space for horse camping, with trails that cater to various riding levels.
- At Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground, visitors can enjoy nearby trails perfect for horseback riding, along with a serene environment.
- One Mile Campground features electric hookups and is conveniently located near the Taylor River, making it a great base for equestrian adventures.
Equestrian campgrounds include scenic trails
- The Soap Creek Corral is nestled near beautiful trails that are ideal for horseback riding, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
- Needle Creek Ranch is located just a mile from Needle Creek Reservoir, providing access to numerous trails for horseback riding and exploration.
- Lost Lake Campground boasts several trails that start right from the campground, perfect for a day of riding amidst breathtaking scenery.
Tips for equestrian camping near Gunnison, Colorado
- When visiting Musician's Camp, be prepared for some traffic on the road, but enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful mountain views.
- At Kebler Corner, families can enjoy a variety of activities while having easy access to horse-friendly trails.
- The Salt House Dispersed area offers a primitive camping experience, ideal for those looking to connect with nature and ride in a more secluded environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Gunnison, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Gunnison, CO is Hartman Rocks Recreation Area with a 4.2-star rating from 19 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Gunnison, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 17 equestrian camping locations near Gunnison, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.