Equestrian camping opportunities near Lake City, Colorado center around high-country trails between 9,000-11,000 feet elevation in the San Juan Mountains. The area features several designated horse campgrounds with seasonal access typically limited from June through September due to alpine conditions. Winter snowpack can persist into early summer at many trailheads, with afternoon thunderstorms common during peak season.
What to do
Trail riding from campgrounds: Ute Creek Trailhead #819 offers direct access to backcountry trails. According to CC C., "Only people here, but beautiful spot. Woke up with a light dusting of snow but it thawed by 10:30... Loads of foot and horse trails."
Wildlife viewing: Mill Creek Campground offers frequent animal sightings. Boldt E. reports, "We saw Moose and Elk. The pump water wasn't the cleanest but we only used it to boil and then wash dishes and such."
Fishing opportunities: River Hill provides river access for anglers. Courtney L. notes, "Spent time fishing in the river that ran by the campsite. Would love to come again!"
Mountain passes exploration: The Alpine Loop connects multiple horse camping areas. From Mill Creek, riders can access mountain passes that accommodate different trail users, with routes varying in difficulty and elevation.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Thirty Mile Campground maintains well-kept amenities. One camper noted, "The toilets are clean and the river helps drown out any noise from your neighbors."
Wildlife encounters: Early season visitors report consistent wildlife sightings. Adam P. mentions, "Early in June there are two moose that have babies in the area so keep your eyes open."
River sounds: Many equestrian-friendly campgrounds are positioned near water. JJ V. from River Hill reports, "Situated along the banks of the Rio Grande, we were able to sleep with the sound of moving water which was so relaxing."
Off-season solitude: Horse campers often find more privacy during shoulder seasons. CC C. notes about their October stay at Ute Creek, "Bathrooms were clean, unisex toilet last cleaned on oct 2nd, and well stocked."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: The high elevation restricts camping seasons. At Silver Jack Campground, "The elevation is 9,100 feet" according to Jason G., who recommends specific timing: "Highly suggest taking 858/Cimarron road over the pass to highway 50/Cimarron Colorado in the fall due to the extensive Aspen population."
Water quality concerns: Natural water sources require treatment. Boldt E. cautions about Mill Creek, "The pump water wasn't the cleanest but we only used it to boil and then wash dishes and such."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. CC C. experienced this at Ute Creek: "Woke up with a light dusting of snow but it thawed by 10:30."
Road conditions: Some horse camping areas have limited access. Dirt roads can become difficult after rain, and high-clearance vehicles are recommended for reaching certain trailheads.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible campgrounds: Antlers Rio Grande Lodge and RV Park offers family-friendly amenities near horse trails. Damon R. shares, "Kids area, river, bridge to trails super close, etc... My wife and I with a 4 year old and 1 year old went hiking right next to the park and had an amazing experience."
Pack for temperature swings: Mountain nights get cold even in summer. Elevation means temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, requiring warm clothing layers even during summer months.
Consider noise factors: Choose sites based on neighboring sounds. JJ V. recommends, "We stayed in site 5, which backed into a lovely meadow. The trailer was a bit of a tight fit, but ended up being a great block to the (minimal) road traffic."
Plan shorter rides for children: When bringing younger riders, select trails with lower difficulty ratings and shorter distances, focusing on meadow areas rather than steep terrain.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: Little Molas Lake Campground accommodates horse trailers with some planning. Jess and Jess S. advise, "The spot we camped at was the first one when you pull in. This spot would be great for large campers or campers with horses/trailers."
Altitude affects equipment: High elevation impacts vehicle and generator performance. RaD_Travels experienced this challenge: "Elevation is about 10,300 and posed a problem for our generator that caused severe spark-plug fouling. But, re-jetting the carburetor from a #61 to #58 solved the problem."
Water access for horses: Position trailers near water sources when possible. Horse campers note the importance of water accessibility, especially after long rides when animals need to rehydrate.
Preparation for limited services: No hookups exist at most horse campgrounds. Come fully supplied with water tanks filled and waste tanks empty, as most equestrian camping areas lack full service hookups.
