Equestrian camping options near Monument, Colorado include specialized facilities across Pike National Forest. Monument sits at 7,135 feet elevation with camping season typically running May through September due to mountain weather conditions. Nearby campgrounds accommodate riders with varying levels of dedicated horse facilities and trail access for exploring the region's diverse terrain.
What to do
Trail riding access: The Colorado Campground in Pike National Forest offers excellent trail options. "There are numerous foot trails leading into the National Forest, offering wonderfully quiet hikes and exploration," notes Dave V., adding that "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."
Visit nearby attractions: From Peregrine Pines FamCamp, campers can explore the surrounding area. "Very close to city eateries and stores. Quiet campground. Clean. Well maintained group areas/picnic areas," writes Jonathan F., who appreciates how it's "5 minute drive to restraunts and stores."
Mountain exploration: The Mueller State Park Campground provides nature immersion with "awesome hiking trails with views of the mountains," according to Kenneth F. Another visitor, Sarah S., notes that "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."
What campers like
Spacious sites: At The Meadows Campground near Colorado Springs, "every site is huge and several pull through are on sides of the hill with sweeping view of Colorado Springs," according to Kurt K. Another camper, Ryan J., mentions that "sites are clean and bathrooms are fine. Paid showers at campgrounds. A little playground. Beautiful and well groomed hiking trails."
Clean facilities: The quality of amenities consistently impresses visitors to equestrian facilities near Monument. "Campsite #2 is our favourite and we can't wait to go back!" says Mary C. about Indian Creek Equestrian Campground, calling it "quiet, clean, great camp host and a really nice/clean vault toilet."
Wildlife viewing: Dispersed camping areas like Matukat Road Dispersed Camping provide natural encounters. "Cattle roam freely throughout the property and you can hear coyotes at dusk and dawn. Plenty of exploring and climbing around," reports Chelsie B., while Chris P. mentions "we saw some deer that came through our site. Just a real nice relaxing place!"
What you should know
Weather conditions: High elevation camping means dramatic temperature swings. Bruce K. warns about Mueller State Park: "Got below freezing so be ready for the cold." At Cripple Creek KOA, Jeffrey C. notes, "One night we got snowed in and another night we slept with open windows!"
Reservation requirements: Popular horse campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. For Colorado Campground, Mary D. advises, "We ended up at Colorado Campground on a whim. We arrived in the early afternoon on a Friday and were greeted by a friendly camp host. He told us we could drive around and select any spot without a reservation tag."
Access limitations: Some areas have specific vehicle requirements. At Matukat Road, John M. reports, "Plenty of campsites to choose from and accessible with 2WD (at least during the summer)," but Brandon cautions "a sedan could make it in if you don't mind a few bumps."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly trails: Indian Creek has special trails for younger visitors. One regular camper reports, "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."
Wildlife education: Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting opportunities. "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," shares John M. about his Matukat Road experience.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Anthony B. notes that Peregrine Pines has "a new playground that is huge for the kids with a rubber floor in case kids fall. In addition to the park there is tetherballs and open fields for fun ball or frisbee activities."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Consider noise factors when choosing equestrian campgrounds. At Colorado Campground, Dave V. advises, "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."
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "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)," reports Dave V. about Colorado Campground.
Water pressure management: Be prepared for variable water systems. Anthony B. warns about Peregrine Pines, "Water pressure here is really strong so make sure you have a water pressure regulator handy."
