Roosevelt National Forest sits at elevations of 6,000-11,000 feet near Laporte, Colorado, creating diverse camping environments from meadows to pine forests. Seasonal conditions vary dramatically with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during the day and dropping to 40-50°F at night. Many campgrounds in the area require higher clearance vehicles due to rough access roads, particularly those leading to more remote horse camping locations.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Visitors with horses near Beaver Meadows Resort Ranch can access numerous riding options. One reviewer noted, "The stables are managed separately but are directly across the road. Super friendly and reasonable rates for trail rides. Our 5 & 7 year old granddaughters were able to ride their own horses and had trail riders lead them." The resort offers numerous equestrian-focused amenities.
Fishing opportunities: Several stocked ponds and natural waterways provide fishing options within 30 minutes of Laporte. At Curt Gowdy State Park Campground, campers enjoy lake access with one visitor noting, "Having no neighbors and private lake access was fantastic. However, you are right on the main road with cars going by throwing dust at you day and night. The access to the water here was also very steep."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities. A camper at East Portal Campground reported, "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." Many campgrounds have regular wildlife visitors, including moose near Grand Lake.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Many sites in the Roosevelt National Forest provide privacy not found in more developed areas. At Hermits Hollow Campground, "The sites aren't sitting on top of each other, and some spots feel relatively secluded. It is within a few miles of Estes Park, so we hike during the day and dash into town for a drink with our dogs in the afternoon."
Trail networks: Extensive trail systems connect many campgrounds to wilderness areas. A camper at Jacks Gulch mentioned, "There were also trails all around the campsite that were accessible for bikes, or hiking. It was definitely a Father's Day to remember." Many trails accommodate both hikers and equestrian users without requiring permits.
Night sky views: Minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. At East Portal Campground, a visitor shared, "The stars were stunning too. We saw shooting stars and even the northern lights (flashing kind not curtains)." Most horse-friendly campgrounds near Laporte have open areas suitable for night sky viewing.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes quickly, requiring layered clothing year-round. A camper at Vedauwoo Wagon Road reported, "It was sunny and windy for our visit in September." Temperature swings of 40+ degrees between day and night are common in spring and fall.
Bear safety requirements: Many campgrounds mandate proper food storage. At Bobcat Campground, "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." Bear boxes are standard at established sites, but dispersed campers must bring appropriate containers.
Seasonal closures: Most higher elevation campgrounds close from mid-October through May. For example, Jacks Gulch operates from "May 22 - Nov 16" according to official information. Lower elevation sites like Fort Collins North-Wellington KOA remain open year-round but have limited amenities during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated family facilities. At Winding River Resort, "There's a wonderful petting zoo area, playground, basketball courts and much more. They offer all sorts of activities such as horseback riding, ice cream social, chuckwagon breakfast, square dancing, cowboy church."
Accessibility concerns: Not all sites accommodate larger family setups. One reviewer at Bobcat Campground noted, "Sites are very hard to get your unit level. Very high price for no hookups." Consider reserving double sites for larger family gatherings, especially when bringing horses.
Wildlife education: Incorporate wildlife awareness into family activities. At East Portal Campground, children can learn from real encounters as "a little fawn would come up out of [a field] and sniff around. My kids enjoyed playing with sticks and rocks in this little field-something every kid should get to do!"
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many horse-friendly campgrounds have difficult access roads. At Bobcat Campground, "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." Call ahead to confirm your rig and horse trailer can navigate entrance roads.
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited near Laporte. At Fort Collins North-Wellington KOA, they offer "water was off for weather but stoves made much needed coffee in the cold," highlighting the inconsistent utilities even at developed campgrounds. Horse owners should prepare for dry camping at most locations.
Leveling challenges: Uneven terrain affects many sites. A visitor to Hermit Park Open Space noted, "Our site was easy to get level on but some others looked difficult." Bring extra leveling blocks when camping with horse trailers, as many equestrian sites prioritize corral space over levelness.
