Equestrian campsites near Hygiene, Colorado provide access to high-elevation mountain terrain with pine and aspen forests at 7,500-9,000 feet. The area's summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. Horse camping locations in this region often require advanced reservations, particularly for weekend stays from May through September.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Hermit Park Open Space offers convenient trail access for riders, with one visitor noting "the park provides every spot with a table, fire ring and bear box" and mentioning they "followed some animal trails and went on a few hikes. Seen a lot of animals, but seen no sign of fresh running water anywhere." Vault toilets are available in the camping areas.
Mountain views on horseback: East Portal Campground at Estes Park provides excellent views with nearby riding opportunities. A camper reports "Mule deer came through every evening right by our camper to eat grass. One morning 3 large Bull Elk and a young bull came through the valley and up through the campground. It was so surreal!" The campground is positioned for easy access to mountain trails.
Nearby day-rides: From Peaceful Valley horse camp, riders can access Buchanan Trail with minimal road travel. The campground is conveniently located as one visitor notes, "It is very convenient from the main highway (which happens to be part of the Peak to Peak scenic byway- a FANTASTIC drive!)."
What campers like
Quiet mountain atmosphere: Bobcat Campground — Hermit Park visitors appreciate the peaceful setting away from crowds. One camper shared, "This was by far the quietest campground I have ever stayed at! The pit toilets were clean. The bear boxes were very large and clean." The large bear boxes are useful for securing horse feed and supplies.
Well-maintained facilities: Horse campers value the cleanliness at Hermits Hollow Campground — Hermit Park, where one visitor noted it's "Close to Rocky Mountain National Park" and "Each campsite had a bear box, picnic table, and fire ring. There are plenty of trees for shade and some privacy, but you are still near other campers."
Practical amenities: Equestrian visitors appreciate facilities like water fill stations. A camper mentioned, "You must pay for the day pass each day you camp, but there is a water fill up station which is nice. The park roads are not paved but AWD isn't really necessary."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Horse campgrounds in this area book quickly. For Golden Gate Canyon State Park Campground, a visitor advises, "Book early!" Most equestrian sites require reservations 3-6 months in advance, especially during summer weekends.
Access challenges: Road conditions can be difficult for large horse trailers. One camper at Bobcat Campground warns, "The road in is a bit narrow so if you have a trailer/RV over 30-35 feet, it'll be tight. With that being said, I pulled my 30 foot trailer with no problems.... just go slow."
Additional fees: Most campgrounds charge day-use fees on top of camping fees. A visitor noted, "You have to pay for the nights you plan to stay and you have to pay for your vehicle to have a permit to be there."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing: Equestrian campgrounds offer excellent opportunities to see animals. At East Portal Campground, a visitor shared, "My kids enjoyed playing with sticks and rocks in this little field-something every kid should get to do! We had beautiful views in 3 directions."
Beginner-friendly trails: Choose campgrounds with gentle terrain for young riders. One family reported, "Our first hike we saw horse back riders from the YMCA and stunning views including a small waterfall. Wildflowers were scattered across the mountainside."
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes rapidly, requiring appropriate clothing. A camper advised, "We stayed a couple of nights and decided to move on because the park ranger gave us a visit about 3-4 times a day." Rangers often check on families during weather events.
Tips from RVers
Trailer positioning: Horse trailer owners should consider campsite layout. A visitor at Bobcat Campground mentioned, "Sites are very hard to get your unit level. Very high price for no hookups," suggesting bringing leveling blocks for your trailer.
Water and dump station access: Plan for limited hookups at horse camps. One RVer noted, "Water and dump available at the entrance to the campground. Each campsite has a fire ring (fire ban while we were there), table and bear box." Dump station fees may apply separately.
Trailer size limitations: Choose your horse camping location based on your rig size. A camper warned about Winiger Ridge: "Camp sites are nice, but except for a few (~5) the rest require a serious climb (drive) up a gnarly hill with deep ruts. I wouldn't try this with a camper/RV, or anything that doesn't have high clearance and power."
