Limited equestrian camping options exist near Lake George, Colorado, though the surrounding Pike National Forest offers several recreational opportunities for horseback riding. While none of the campgrounds in the immediate Lake George area feature dedicated horse corrals, Round Mountain Campground provides sites that can accommodate small trailers and horses, with regulations allowing horses to be secured using highlines or portable corrals. The $20 per night fee includes access to nearby OHV and horse trails that connect to the broader trail system. The camp management maintains clean restrooms and designated fire pits at each site, creating a well-organized area that feels secluded despite being situated along moderately traveled routes.
Matukat Road Dispersed Camping offers free primitive camping options suitable for equestrians willing to bring portable containment systems for their horses. Located on a decently maintained dirt road that requires no special vehicle capabilities, these sites provide ample space for horse trailers and portable corrals. The surrounding Pike National Forest trail system provides extensive riding opportunities, though riders should obtain current trail maps as many routes intersect with OHV trails. Daily trail rides connect campers to scenic overlooks with breathtaking mountain views. Access to natural water sources is limited, so campers must bring sufficient water for themselves and their horses. The dispersed sites offer privacy with good spacing between camping areas, making them suitable for small groups traveling with horses.
$28 - $270 / night
"This Colorado state park brings visitors year-round for all types of recreation. We have traveled here several times, both tent camping and in our camper."
"By far my favorite campground in Colorado. Sites all have great views and are paved. The park is clean and rangers are always around checking in. Close to town and great hikes. Can’t wait to go back!"
"Matukat rd dispersed - nr Lake George. People seem to really like it yet it’s incredibly quiet. No OHVs, no gunfire - so refreshing."
"* Most sites appeared to be just off the road so you will see others driving by, and some sites have close by neighbors so keep that in mind if you're looking for something more private.
- Livestock"
$24 / night
"This is a wonderful campground at the end of the road near the dam and right next to the Platte. This is a wonderful spot for fly fishing, and can get busy sharing the river with day visitors."
"There is a trail above the camp that will take you up to some beautiful views through a meadow. Right in the camp are over 5 established bouldering routes and even more in the hill above camp."
$24 / night
"On my last trip to Colorado I had crossed paths with this campground and vowed that this time I would make it a stop on my journey."
"It's a quick drive from Colorado Springs and tons of trails! Usually pretty quiet except for holiday weekends."
$28 - $38 / night
"Colorado campground is situated outside of Woodland Park (10 minute drive) and right next to Manitou lake. "
"CAMPGROUND REVIEW: COLORADO CAMPGROUND PIKE NATIONAL FOREST https://www.recreation.gov/camping/colorado-campground/r/campgroundDetails.do?"
"Only downfall is that it was a bit of a drive to many main attractions in Colorado, but it was worth the drive."
"Convenient location to Cripple Creek CO. Mountain views. Situated on meadow hillside. Hiking trails, full hookups, fire rings with grills, picnic tables. Level sites with many pull thrus."
"Campground Review Note: This is a military campground only, on the grounds of the US Air Force Academy just north of Colorado Springs, CO. "
"Downtown Colorado Springs is minutes away and close to attractions. Plus you can take advantage of on base shopping and more."
"Each of them have a parking area right along the road with a fire ring a short distance away surrounded by awesome rock outcroppings."
"A large number of established roadside dispersed camping spots to choose from. All spots have metal fire rings, so campfires are allowed even with Stage 1 fire restrictions in place."
$36 - $200 / night
"Stay here a couple times a year, great amenities and lots to do with a swim beach, shore line, horses, boat ramp and model planes."
"Chatfield State Park is a great mixture of access to the outdoors with availability of many of the benefits of a metro area close by."
"Just outside woodland park. The drive in has incredible views of pikes peak. The ranch is close to a mile down a dirt road just off the highway it feels private and secluded."
LegendThis campground has a equestrian area and a tent camping area. The tent camping is to the right after you enter, there are two tent loops with bathrooms. Water spigots next to the bathroom. There are a few trails here, some are horse trails. Overall a beautiful spot with some shade!
LegendMatukat rd dispersed - nr Lake George. People seem to really like it yet it’s incredibly quiet. No OHVs, no gunfire - so refreshing. There are some cows as evidenced by dried cow pats but we didn’t see any. Someone reported they saw moose but again, we saw none. Directions using Google maps were perfect. Got you into the area. Once you reach the coordinates I suggest you keep going up the road for better sites. We found a spot on one of the turn offs and had some of the best views we’ve had while camping this year. See the photos for the views. So the trick is to go up Matukat Road and then start taking the little side roads once you get about 4 miles in. We had between two and three bars of Verizon service at the site but no Verizon service at the main road so it is spotty. We came in on a Tuesday and it looks like we’re just about the only ones out here. There’s one other trailer that we’ve seen near us and there are other campers in bigger rigs right at the very beginning of Matukat road, but you’ve got to stay on the road and just keep going further back to get the absolute best sites and views. The views are incredible. The rocks behind us are absolutely outrageous. There’s good hiking the area as well. The road getting in was doable. We didn’t need to engage the four-wheel-drive so the only thing I would advise is you need some reasonable clearance to get all the way back in here. Other than that this is definitely a site that will be coming back to the many years to come.
GuideColorado campground is situated outside of Woodland Park (10 minute drive) and right next to Manitou lake. This is a great area central to the Pikes Peak wilderness area so many trails are nearby and activities while still being close to civilization if you forget something or choose to eat-out. The CG itself is large, but the sites are well spaced apart...it is a primitive CG with picnic table, fire-pit and gravel pull through or back-in spots. There are water spigots, vault toilets and garbage cans equally dispersed throughout. In the summer they have an educational series also on the weekends of various nature/wildlife "seminars" that are great for the kids in their small amphitheater, although i don't know how frequent they are scheduled. As others have stated its a short walk to the lake for fishing and canoeing if you choose. The CG is well maintained and hosts are friendly.
ScoutMy grandson and I stayed there in June for 4 days in a 34ft travel trailer in a pull thru long enough not to have to unhook. The sites were large and plenty of room for my slideout and not too close to next site. About 30 min from Pueblo and 30 from Canon City on Hwy 50 just east of Hwy 115 Full hookup and good WiFi Also had 30 OTA channels. Beautiful sunsets of the mountains Hwy 50 close by but traffic was not loud enough to disturb us Horses on the property as well as a swimming pool and very friendly staff Very nice experience and only 40 min from Colorado Springs or Royal Gorge.
LegendCAMPGROUND REVIEW: COLORADO CAMPGROUND PIKE NATIONAL FOREST
https://www.recreation.gov/camping/colorado-campground/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=NRSO&parkId=70684
Colorado Campground is one of several campgrounds less than 10 miles north of the city of Woodland Park off Route 67 in the Pike National Forest.
Situated at 7800 feet elevation, even summer nights get cool. Nearby 5 acre Manitou Lake is a trail walk away. You can toss your canoe or kayak in, but unless you are simply trout fishing, it’s tiny size doesn’t offer much variation.
Numerous foot trails lead into the National Forest, offering wonderfully quiet hikes and exploration.
There are 81 sites available, but some are adjacent to highway 67, so periodic road noise will be heard. The ponderosa pines assist in muffling highway noise.
Neighboring sites are visible across the entire campground, but they are situated in such a way that you are not directly on top of each other.
The back loop sites are larger and set deeper (Site 19, 20,21, 22, 23) which are my choice. Sites can be secured on www.recreation.gov. There are double sites which garner double fees. At the time of this review, sites are $23.00 nightly (a bit pricey for no showers or modern facilities). When there during the week, not including the host and groundskeeper, only four sites were filled. Most sites were reserved for weekends and upcoming Labor Day holiday.
No RV/Campers over 36 ft permitted. Parking pads are gravel, a few are pull-through. Sites are non-electric with no hookups…no showers Water spigots, metal trash containers and pit latrines are spaced out through the campground. Each site has one stationary picnic table and a fire pit. Most sites appeared fairly level. No specific tent pad locations.
With the towering ponderosa pines, there is ample shade.
Plenty of trails permit mountain biking as well as the paved centennial bike path that runs along highway 67 from Woodland Park 15 miles north…that you can walk, in-line, cycle and even ebike.
You have plenty of local activities to keep you busy, including the Red Rocks a couple miles south…or drive east on Rt 24 to Pikes Peak, or further into Manitou Springs for the Incline, Red Rock Canyon Open Space, Garden of the gods and more!
Just six miles south into Woodland Park offers every food or shopping option.
All in all, a nice, clean campground in a great location.
GuideMy folks bought property you can ride to Indian Creek from. Love this area!!! Lots of beautiful trails, close to Denver and very peaceful. Bring your ponies, its an equestrian campground!
GuideGreat location within Colorado's Mueller State Park. Easy access to trails, visitor center, and scenic drives. Nice large site with level gravel tent pad, large table, and nice fire pit. Nearby sites seemed to be a good distance away.
TravelerDispersed camping up at the lake. I say anything next to water is a bonus!
For Night 1 we hiked in stayed somewhere off the trail, at what seemed like a horse camp stop. Night 2 we stayed up at the lake campground. Got there early afternoon and was able to claim a prime spot. There is not much access to the water, so those spots get taken up rather quickly.
Great views, awesome sunrise.
GuideClose proximity to the highway. Clean level spots. Geared more towards RV camping. Pros: great views of the foothills. Lots of park amenities like horse stables, archery range, swim beach, boat rentals, hiking trails, picnic areas. Con: Orange glow of Home Depot sign at night and no shade during the day. Your camping reservation (strongly recommended) includes park admission.
Camping options near Lake George, Colorado sit at elevations around 8,000 feet, creating cool nights even during summer months when temperatures typically drop to the 40s. The area features ponderosa pine forests with rocky outcroppings that provide natural windbreaks at many camping locations. Access roads to most sites require careful navigation due to washboard conditions and occasional narrow passages.
Hiking nearby trails: At Mueller State Park Campground, numerous trailheads connect directly to campsites. "The end of the campground feeds into many trailheads, which are great for exploring," notes Alexis B. The park features over 40 miles of trails suitable for all skill levels.
Mountain biking access: Multiple paths through Pike National Forest allow biking, including options from Round Mountain connecting to broader trail systems. "ORV trails nearby are fantastic," shares Loni P. These trails require intermediate skill levels due to rocky terrain and elevation changes.
Fishing opportunities: The South Platte River offers trout fishing spots, particularly near Spillway Campground. "River is easy to access and the fishing is very good. This is a popular area, but the reservation system does not allow overcrowding," reports Ruth L. Fishing licenses required, available at local shops in Lake George.
Natural privacy barriers: Sites at Matukat Road Dispersed Camping feature rock outcroppings that create separation between camps. "The sites are open and spaced out from one another. We only saw a few cars pass by but otherwise no signs of humans around," says Brandon, highlighting the natural boundaries that enhance privacy.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours offer opportunities to spot local fauna. "We saw some deer that came through our site," notes Brian F. from Mueller State Park Campground. Deer, wild turkeys, and occasional moose sightings occur throughout the region, especially in less developed areas.
Night sky clarity: The distance from major cities provides excellent stargazing conditions. "We spent 10 days at the top of the mountain. There were a few people that came in for a night or so, but not even close enough to hear them or see lights," reports Lesa L. about Matukat Road Dispersed Camping. The elevation and minimal light pollution create ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
Variable road conditions: Access to remote sites requires preparation. "The road getting in was doable. We didn't need to engage the four-wheel-drive so the only thing I would advise is you need some reasonable clearance to get all the way back in here," advises Chris P. about Matukat Road.
Limited water availability: Most dispersed sites lack water sources. "Access to natural water sources is limited, so campers must bring sufficient water," applies particularly to equestrian campers needing larger quantities.
Seasonal weather patterns: High-altitude camping means rapid weather changes. "Got below freezing so be ready for the cold," warns Bruce K. from Mueller State Park, where even summer nights can drop below freezing. Afternoon thunderstorms occur frequently in July and August.
Reservation requirements: For established sites like Colorado Campground, planning ahead is essential. "You can choose electric/water sites but there is no privacy from your RV neighbor," notes Dave V., highlighting the trade-off between amenities and seclusion.
Playground access: Cheyenne Mountain State Park offers family-friendly facilities. "A little playground. Beautiful and well groomed hiking trails," reports Ryan J. The playground provides entertainment for children when not exploring trails.
Wildlife education opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer wildlife viewing as learning experiences. "Cattle roam freely throughout the property and you can hear coyotes at dusk and dawn," shares Chelsie B., describing educational encounters at Matukat Road.
Site selection for multi-tent setups: "We had 7 people, 3 cars and two large tents and plenty of space," reports Mary D. about Colorado Campground. When traveling with larger family groups, prioritize sites designated for multiple units.
Short, accessible hikes: "Great hiking for little kids around the lake," recommends Matthew J. regarding Colorado Campground. These easier trails maintain child interest while avoiding excessive elevation changes that can challenge younger hikers.
Campsite parking challenges: "Sites 2, 4 and 6 - tent-only sites. Warning for parties that are larger than 2 people Site 2 was a bit small for a larger tent," advises Mindy R. about Spillway Campground, illustrating the importance of checking site dimensions.
Water pressure considerations: For those seeking horse campgrounds near Lake George, Colorado, water management matters. "Water pressure here is really strong so make sure you have a water pressure regulator handy," warns Anthony B. about RV hookups at established campgrounds.
Pull-through availability: Limited at most sites, requiring planning. "You can nestle your two-man tent perfectly in a flat spot in between some rocks and it is in the shade for almost the entirety of each day," explains Christina G. about Spillway, emphasizing the importance of site research before arrival.
Generator restrictions: Many campgrounds limit generator use. "Matukat rd dispersed - nr Lake George. People seem to really like it yet it's incredibly quiet. No OHVs, no gunfire - so refreshing," notes Chris P., highlighting natural quiet as a benefit of dispersed camping over developed sites with generators.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Lake George, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Lake George, CO is Mueller State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 61 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Lake George, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 29 equestrian camping locations near Lake George, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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