Soap Creek Corral provides specialized equestrian accommodations in Gunnison National Forest. Located at an elevation of approximately 7,300 feet, this facility experiences typical mountain weather patterns with cold nights even during summer months. The area surrounding Hotchkiss features diverse terrain ranging from high alpine meadows to lower elevation sagebrush, creating varied trail experiences for horse riders.
What to do
Trail access: Explore multiple trail systems accessible from Lost Lake Campground, where riders can connect to the popular Three Lakes Loop. "There is a trail to hike up to a beautiful meadow. They have a group sites, small sites, lakeside site, trailer sites, this place has it all! Great trails surround this campground," reports one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Morning rides offer the best opportunities for spotting elk, deer, and various bird species in the meadows. "Quiet not too many people out on memorial weekend. Great place beautiful scenery elk bugle in the mornings," notes a camper who stayed at Lost Lake.
Photography: Rising early provides optimal lighting for capturing mountain vistas. "The view is the lake is beautiful! Take the hike that goes around the lake and takes you to the other two lakes!! Surprisingly not buggy at the end of June and not too chilly at night. Tons of wildflowers in bloom!!" shares a visitor.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Kebler Corner offers spacious sites with strategic landscaping for separation. "Yes, some of the spaces are close together but everyone there made it work well. The angled spots and strategic landscaping help too," notes one camper who appreciated the thoughtful layout.
River access: The sound of flowing water creates a peaceful camping atmosphere at several locations. "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," describes one Kebler Corner guest.
Star viewing: The minimal light pollution makes this area excellent for night sky observation. At Pyramid Rock Camp, "After dark they went away! Views were wonderful and stars were popping at night," reports a camper who visited in July.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Regulations change frequently during dry seasons. "Make sure to look up fire warnings!" advises a visitor to Pyramid Rock Camp.
Road conditions: Many access roads require careful navigation. At Hartman Rocks Recreation Area, "This area is large and has tons of dispersed campsites, but they're connected by a network of bumpy and rocky roads. You'll need a high-clearance vehicle with 4WD (like a Jeep Wrangler) - otherwise, don't even attempt."
Bear safety: Proper food storage is mandatory throughout the region. "BEAR COUNTRY. No cell phone service. Very quiet and primitive. Right next to a creek," reports a visitor to Soap Creek Campground.
Cell service: Connectivity varies significantly by location. "You'll lose internet connection about an hour before getting there. Make sure to get gas for your car too, it's pretty rare to find substantial towns on the way in," advises a Lost Lake visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Avalanche Campground provides natural play areas for children. "Avalanche campground is a unique campground with a remote and secluded feeling in a small valley with plenty of trees and the sound of a creek in the background," notes one visitor.
Weather preparation: Mountain temperatures fluctuate dramatically even in summer. "In September the creek wasn't very deep but probably in the spring or early summer the water would be deep enough that you should drive an SUV or truck. In mid September the nights and mornings can be cold, when I woke up at 6am the temperature was 34 degrees F," shares an Avalanche Campground visitor.
Swimming holes: Several creek access points provide safe wading areas for supervised children. "The host showed us a great hike behind campsite along a small river. Kids and dog enjoyed the river and its hidden swimming holes!" reports a family at Soap Creek.
Tips from RVers
Pad types: Look for sites with level surfaces to simplify setup. At Four Mile Road Dispersed, "We camped in 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."
Turning radius: Many forest roads have limited turnaround space for larger rigs. "The dirt road leading to the campground requires careful navigation with horse trailers but remains accessible for most rigs," notes a visitor familiar with equestrian camping near Hotchkiss, Colorado.
Creek crossings: Some access routes require fording shallow water. "Getting to the campground from the main road involves driving on a one-lane road for about a mile or two, there are places where all-wheel drive is necessary and you will need to drive through a creek," warns an Avalanche Campground visitor.
