Dispersed camping near Olathe, Colorado offers equestrian enthusiasts access to extensive trail networks at elevations ranging from 5,800 to 10,500 feet across Gunnison and Grand Mesa National Forests. The surrounding terrain consists of pinyon-juniper woodlands transitioning to aspen groves and pine forest at higher elevations, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 45°F at night to 85°F during daytime. Most dispersed camping areas remain accessible from late May through October, with higher elevation sites closing earlier due to snowfall.
What to do
Fishing at reservoirs: Visit Silver Jack Campground where anglers can access the reservoir for trout fishing. "The reservoir isn't visible from the campground but there's a trail in the campground that leads to a scenic overlook with a great vista of the area... Motorized boats are not allowed on the reservoir," notes Erik S.
Hiking through aspen groves: Explore trails near Lost Lake Campground for scenic mountain views. "Take the hike that goes around the lake and takes you to the other two lakes!! Surprisingly not buggy at the end of June and not too chilly at night. Tons of wildflowers in bloom!!" reports amber R.
ATV trail riding: Access designated motorized trails near Big Dominguez Campground for day excursions. "Woods and stream! Pretty spot with stream water right behind the sites. You have to drive over a stream when you come in but it was easily crossed when we visited... occasionally some atv trails were used near by," explains Alex T.
What campers like
Secluded spots away from crowds: Campers appreciate Gunnison River Overlook for its privacy. "Great views! We camped just south of the pin but there are several spots to pull over with fire rings along 123 rd... If you keep driving there are some better spots. Definitely recommend high clearance 4x4 for the further spots," shares Kaylinn H.
Natural water access: Many equestrian camping areas near Olathe feature creeks for horses and campers. "We stayed in a tent on a Saturday in August with no reservation. The camp host was amazing, helped us find a shady spot for our tents and hammocks. The host showed us a great hike behind campsite along a small river. Kids and dog enjoyed the river and its hidden swimming holes!" writes Colleen M. about Soap Creek Campground.
Panoramic vistas: At Lands End Camp, campers enjoy exceptional viewpoints. "Only 2 spots out here at lands end that are actually on the edge of the mesa. No tree cover out on the edge of the mesa. Alt is around 10.5k so won't get super hot. Glow of the city lights from below at night is pretty. During the daytime in clear weather, you have 100+ mile views," describes Donnie B.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many horse-friendly camping areas require navigating rough roads. "The road in gets narrow at times so if you're bringing an RV or a larger sized car be extra cautious," warns Ziggy Z. about accessing backcountry sites.
Seasonal limitations: Most equestrian camping near Olathe follows predictable patterns. "We stayed here the first day it opened in June of 2022. Only the middle loop of the campground was open at that time... The hosts were friendly and informative. The short hike out to the overlook is worth the stroll. The views are amazing. Closest store is 45 min away so come prepared with everything you'll need," advises Lacey O. at Silver Jack Campground.
Water availability: Plan for limited water sources at dispersed sites. "Went here in May when a lot of other places weren't accessible yet. Easy drive up for any vehicle. I clocked about 10 options before parking on a grassy flat area about half way up (options at both sides of road at this spot) About 4/5 others camped. Fire pits," reports Emily C. at Lands End Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration for children: Soap Creek Campground offers safe water play areas. "Spacious and Secluded... We selected site 8 as it was fairly close to the restroom, had decent shade, and large enough to accommodate our large tent and two vehicles...with room enough to spare to play washers!" notes Glenna L.
Organized activities: Some developed campgrounds provide family recreation. "They have everything you could think of-ninja lines, playset, zip line, hammocks, jenga, frisbee golf, etc. There were tons of kids that had a huge time. Mine loved it! There is a trail to hike up to a beautiful meadow," shares Tarrah about Kebler Corner.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife spotting times for families camping in the region. "We trucked along though. We got to the campground and we could see one site from the trailhead, which is also where the restrooms were. It was occupied but looked nice. Plenty of space to park and a lot of space to set up a big camp," explains Melissa K. about Big Dominguez Campground.
Tips for RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Grand Mesa FS 105 Dispersed Camping accommodates various RV sizes. "We towed a 35 FT 5th wheel heading west on 105 until we discovered the perfect campsite by turning south at the intersection with 108. The road was very rough but doable by moving along very slowly. Our site was hidden by trees off a short dirt drive which wasn't too bad," shares LINDA H.
Limited hookup options: Most equestrian camping areas near Olathe lack standard RV amenities. "Take 100(Lands end rd) to 108 and turned right (north) 1/4 mile turned left on reservoir maintenance rd. One FS campsite there overlooking 'reservoir 1'. Peaceful and gorgeous! Im in a class B van with low clearance and had no issues getting in & out," explains Alisa H.
Generator considerations: Check specific rules about generator usage at each location. "Beautiful area around Silver Jack Reservoir with scrub brush low turning to pine forest and huge aspen glades as you climb. Highly suggest taking 858/Cimarron road over the pass to highway 50/Cimarron Colorado in the fall due to the extensive Aspen population," recommends Jason G.
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