Browns Creek dispersed camping area serves equestrians with direct access to multiple wilderness trails between 9,000-9,500 feet elevation in the San Isabel National Forest. Located approximately 7 miles from Pitkin, Colorado, this high-altitude horse camping destination experiences seasonal closures from December through May due to snowfall that typically reaches 3-5 feet in winter months. The campground road system connects to several backcountry paths including the Continental Divide Trail.
What to do
Horseback ride to mountain lakes: Browns Creek offers direct access to wilderness trails including paths to alpine lakes. "The hiking is good with several trailheads and easy access to the Colorado Trail," notes camper Doug W.
Fish nearby rivers: Multiple streams run through the area with fishing opportunities. At Clear Creek Reservoir, "options for paddle boarding or fishing here, desert-like but surrounded by mountains. Also a good amount of shade and cute geese," reports Katie H.
Explore four-wheel drive trails: Several challenging routes branch from the main camping areas. "If you have a 4x4 vehicle and can make your way toward the trailhead for south Mt Elbert, there are some amazing spots," mentions Brielle E. from Twin Lakes dispersed camping.
What campers like
Spacious sites for larger vehicles: Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site provides ample room for equestrian setups. "We arrived around 5 pm on a Wednesday and most of the spots were taken but we were able to find one to fit our 40 feet toy hauler," notes marine J.
Privacy between campsites: Most equestrian camping areas offer good separation between sites. "Each campsight has lots of space between each other," states Isohilcious B. about Browns Creek, while at North Cottonwood "sites were spaced out really well," according to Daniel P.
Natural water features: Many campers appreciate the streams running through camping areas. At North Cottonwood Trailhead, "there is a nice creek that feeds into the lake at the bottom. There are a lot of sites going along this," explains Brandon M.
What you should know
Seasonal closures limit access: Most high-elevation horse camping areas close during winter. "Closed Dec 1-June 1 for wildlife management. Watch out in the wet weather-road super muddy a bit difficult to get through," warns Karen J. about Browns Creek.
Road conditions vary by season: Spring thaw can create challenging access. "The road a mixture of clay and old gravel turned out to be a little bumpy but nothing major," describes Crystal C. at Clear Creek Reservoir.
Increasing popularity means early arrival: Hartman Rocks Recreation Area and other spots fill quickly during peak season. "This area is large and has tons of dispersed campsites, but they're connected by a network of bumpy and rocky roads. You'll need a high-clearance vehicle with 4WD," advises Dan E.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra water for horses and humans: No water facilities exist at most dispersed sites. "There is no running water at these sites but the stream is flowing and with a filtration system, you can easily fill up," mentions Tommie J. about North Cottonwood.
Prepare for seasonal weather changes: Mountain temperatures fluctuate dramatically. At Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping, "It snowed/rained most of our stay, but Elbert & La Plata peaked through for some great views early morning," reports Garrett G.
Consider developed campgrounds for facilities: For longer stays with children, some prefer sites with amenities. "This campground has electricity which is hard to find in this area!" notes Cathleen G. about One Mile Campground.
Tips from RVers
Scout roads before bringing large trailers: Some forest roads narrow considerably. "This is a great place for dispersed camping. Each campsight has lots of space between each other," recommends Isohilcious B. about Browns Creek.
Bring leveling blocks: Most horse camping spots near Pitkin have uneven terrain. "Found a great little spot that had several fire rings and lots of space for parking. The road into the site was a bit sketchy but doable in my 2WD Honda CRV," explains Myrinda G. from Twin Lakes.
Plan for self-contained camping: No hookups exist at dispersed sites. At Lost Lake Campground, "There's a charming rustic vibe, with basic amenities like vault toilets and picnic tables, but no hookups," observes Paulina B.
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