Indian Creek Equestrian Campground offers direct access to an extensive trail system in Pike National Forest. Sites are approximately 40 miles southwest of Denver at an elevation of 7,800 feet. The camping area splits into separate areas for horse campers and tent campers, with both having access to water spigots and vault toilets.
What to do
Explore Manitou Lake: Walk the easy trail from Colorado Campground to the nearby 5-acre lake. "There's an easy path to Manitou Lake where lots of folks were fishing and boating," notes Mary D.
Search for trail sculptures: Take the northern trail from the parking lot at Indian Creek Equestrian Campground for a unique scavenger hunt. "The trail heading North out of the parking lot is great, well maintained and also has hidden 7 dwarfs along the trail to try and find. We did it four times just to make sure we found all 7," reports D.
Mountain biking access: Connect directly to challenging routes from the campground area. "The Indian Creek trail system is ideal for mountain biking or running, with access to the Colorado Trail running through it as well," explains Steph A.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Sites 1-4 at Indian Creek offer good separation with natural barriers. "Site 1 is the most private but furthest from the bathrooms, Site 2/3 are closest together, Site 3 has the very best flat pad with the table, ring and still room for a 10x10 tent or shade tent area," explains D.
Clean facilities: The equestrian area maintains high standards. "What an absolutely beautiful spot. Quiet, clean, great camp host and a really nice/clean vault toilet. Campsite #2 is our favourite and we can't wait to go back!" shares mary C.
Proximity to Colorado Springs: The location provides quick access to urban amenities while feeling remote. "Lush and wooded, while still being close to Denver. The drive in is easy, following a paved road most of the way. Great spot for car camping," notes Steph A.
What you should know
Water erosion affects trails: Recent conditions have impacted some popular routes. "Trail #800 is pretty sketchy these days due to excessive water erosion. 3' deep and 8" wide troughs to walk along with so much overgrowth it's hard to navigate," cautions D.
Cash-only payment system: The self-pay system requires exact amounts. At Matukat Road Dispersed Camping, there are no fees, offering a free alternative. "Took my Nissan Altima back nice and slow and couldn't access certain paths back to site without 4wd. Many fire pits laid throughout the grounds," shares Chelsie B.
Wildlife and livestock presence: Multiple areas around Larkspur have grazing animals. "Livestock do graze in the area, we saw a herd of cows that initially we thought were bears so we had a split second of worry before realizing what they were," notes John M.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly option: First-time campers find Bear Creek Lake Park welcoming. "This is still in town so great for beginners," notes Christina A. "Clean level spots... great views of the foothills. Lots of park amenities like horse stables, archery range, swim beach, boat rentals, hiking trails, picnic areas."
Horse corrals for kids: Introduce children to equestrian camping safely. "This 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," explains Natalie B.
Shade considerations: Not all sites offer protection from summer sun. "Sites 1-4 have shade, sites 5-8 do not," warns D., which is important when camping with young children who need protection from direct sunlight.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: Limited options exist for larger vehicles at horse campgrounds near Larkspur, Colorado. "I was able to fit a 20 ft travel trailer, but there's only a handful of trailer sites. No hookups," cautions Devin.
Road access quality: Most access roads remain accessible without special equipment. "The campground road is easy to access and drive as it is paved and well maintained, and sites are clean and easy to get in and out of," shares Amanda M. about Colorado Campground.
Generator restrictions: Many equestrian sites prohibit generators to avoid spooking horses. Check regulations before arrival, as most horse-friendly campgrounds have specific noise limitations for the comfort of equine campers.
