Indian Paintbrush Campground serves equestrians and other campers at 6,000 feet elevation in Bear Creek Lake Park. The campground sits 15 minutes west of Lakewood and offers access to multiple recreation opportunities throughout the 2,600-acre park. Water temperatures at Big Soda Lake average 70°F during summer months when swimming is permitted.
What to do
Horseback riding and trails: Several equestrian options exist beyond Indian Paintbrush Campground. "Loved the hiking and biking trails. Beautiful lake for swimming and paddle sports. Will definitely be returning for the archery and horseback riding," notes Joshua H. The park has marked trails that accommodate riders of various skill levels.
Archery practice: The dedicated archery range at Bear Creek Lake Park provides a target practice area. "Bear Creek Lake Lakewood co...they have archery, a beach, horse stables and ring, large lake to fish, clean bathrooms," reports Rebecca J. The range requires visitors bring their own equipment.
Mountain biking: Trails through Golden Gate Canyon State Park offer technical riding for cyclists. According to Pam B., "This campground was tiny and a little cramped but was very clean and had running showers that was a plus." The park contains over 35 miles of multi-use trails suitable for cycling.
What campers like
Access to water recreation: Big Soda Lake provides swimming and non-motorized boating opportunities from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "Beautiful lake for swimming and paddle sports," mentions Joshua H. about Bear Creek Lake Park. The swim beach includes designated swimming areas with lifeguards during summer months.
Proximity to Denver: Horse campgrounds near Lakewood, Colorado attract visitors due to their accessibility from urban areas. "While this campground is minutes from the city and seconds from a highway, at night you feel like you are in a quiet, mountain campsite with stars to gaze for days," shares Kandisa S. Many campsites at Bear Creek Lake Park can be reached within 30 minutes from downtown Denver.
Yurt accommodations: Alternative lodging options expand camping possibilities at Bear Creek Lake Park. Rebecca J. explains, "The yurt was awsome and we tent camped last night please come visit and see for yourself." Yurts provide sturdy shelter with beds and basic furnishings for those preferring not to pitch a tent.
What you should know
Reservations essential: Most equestrian campsites near Lakewood fill quickly, especially during summer months. At Chatfield State Park, sarah S. advises, "Without a reservation you put your name on a list that they start going through at 1pm to assign sites. As someone tent-camping this is no problem, just takes some time." Weekends often book 3-4 months in advance.
Park entrance fees apply: Camping costs include additional day-use fees for Colorado parks. Jennifer L. notes about Bear Creek Lake Park: "Your camping reservation (strongly recommended) includes park admission." Daily vehicle passes range from $9-11 depending on the park, in addition to camping fees.
Limited shade: Some campsites lack significant tree cover. "Con: Orange glow of Home Depot sign at night and no shade during the day," Jennifer L. mentions about Bear Creek Lake. Sites 5-8 at Indian Creek Equestrian Campground have similar exposure issues according to camper D: "Sites 1-4 have shade, sites 5-8 do not."
Tips for camping with families
Search for kid-friendly activities: Several parks offer dedicated recreational programming. Jennifer L. shares that Bear Creek Lake Park includes "horse stables, archery range, swim beach, boat rentals, hiking trails, picnic areas." These amenities provide structured activities for children.
Look for convenient facilities: Cherry Creek State Park provides extensive family amenities. Stephanie S. reports, "This place is huge and has many amenities. It's very well maintained. The bathrooms were very clean and the showers were pay only and only with a bank card. $1.50 for a five minute shower." The park also features a dedicated swim beach with new facilities.
Consider noise levels: Family camping areas may be noisier than backcountry sites. Jennifer S. observed at Reverend's Ridge Campground: "Such a beautiful place. Trails are amazing. Although the sound of screaming children that pervades the campsite kind of ruins the experience." Weekdays typically offer quieter experiences.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: RV-specific hookups vary between equestrian campgrounds. Christa C. notes at Chatfield State Park, "Clean bathrooms. Very friendly attendant. Level primative spots. $26 for primative." Reverend's Ridge in Golden Gate Canyon offers pull-through sites with electrical hookups.
Space between sites: Horse trailers require ample room to maneuver. Dennis G. describes Reverend's Ridge: "Loop E (electric hookups) is very spacious and well laid out. Every campsite is a pull thru allowing you situate anywhere along the paved area to best suit your needs. Mostly level, fire rings, and very large metal picnic tables. Enormous amount of room." This configuration accommodates larger rigs with attached horse trailers.
