Equestrian camping opportunities near Placerville, Colorado offer access to high-elevation trails through aspen groves and pine forests. The San Juan National Forest provides multiple horse-friendly campgrounds at elevations between 8,000-10,000 feet where summer temperatures typically reach 70-85°F during the day but can drop into the 40s at night. Most horse campgrounds maintain a 14-day maximum stay policy during the May-September season.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: At Thunder Road Dispersed campers can access multiple trail systems directly from their sites. "There aren't many places where you can camp in a cool pine tree forest, hop on your mtb or dirt bike, and ride right from camp. Thunder Trails are it! Easy to get to, well maintained gravel roads, each site is designated and has a fire ring, super quiet and private, and the trails are fun cross country style loops," notes one visitor.
Fishing access: Many campgrounds provide direct river access for both horses and anglers. Anvil Dispersed Campground sits beside a creek with "beautiful views and peaceful" surroundings. A camper reports, "We stayed two nights next to the creek. It was crowded but still peaceful with beautiful views."
Mountain passes exploration: The high-elevation routes near Mill Creek serve as excellent basecamps for longer expeditions. "Great location and price... The location of this campground was great for riding the Alpine loop and still a short drive to town. We saw Moose and Elk," shares one equestrian camper.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Horse campgrounds require additional space, and many sites deliver. "The wide-open spaces accommodate horse trailers comfortably," states one reviewer about Little Molas Lake Campground. "We stumbled upon this campsite through Dyrt. The spot we camped at was the first one when you pull in. This spot would be great for large campers or campers with horses/trailers."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained facilities. "This is a very simple campground but just what we wanted. Pack in pack out, clean and well maintained sites, the only sound birdsong. Helpful camp host," reports a visitor to Lower Hermosa.
Water access: Creeks and rivers provide natural water sources. At Anvil Dispersed Campground, "Several options on both side of the creek. Easy, flat road into the area. Two bars LTE for AT&T."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most horse campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis, but some accept reservations. At Target Tree Campground, "first come first served (I think some people missed out even this late in the season)," notes a camper.
Weather considerations: The high elevation means unpredictable weather. "The elevation is 9,100 feet. There are trails to an overlook of the reservoir and down around the reservoir," explains a McPhee Recreation Complex visitor.
Water availability: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water. A camper at Lower Hermosa notes, "Unfortunately, there is no water or trash station. However, you can refill portable water affordably at the Hydration Station in Durango or for free at the Durango Montessori School."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible trails: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly paths. "Great campsite in the aspens. Access point for good hikes. One harder hike down to the river and an easier wheelchair accessible hike to an overlook and a view of the peaks," shares a Transfer Campground visitor.
Cooling options: Creeks provide welcome relief during hot days. "The river is great for cooling off but very cold!" warns a Mill Creek camper. Another notes, "We loved having a spot next to the creek so our dogs could swim and drink. Although cold, the kids loved playing in the creek with their rain boots on."
Wildlife viewing: The area offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. A Silver Jack camper mentions, "Beautiful area around Silver Jack Reservoir with scrub brush low turning to pine forest and huge aspen glades as you climb."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Some campgrounds have better RV sites than others. At McPhee Recreation Complex, "According to the campground host our site (16E) is one of the most desired sites. The site has 30 amp electric service. It is adjacent to flush toilets. A few steps from the back of the site is a nice view of the reservoir. The site offers ample space for a tent in addition to the back-in paved pad that accommodated our 32 ft truck/trailer combination."
Dump station access: Plan for limited services. "The roads and pads could use some maintenance. At one time a nice dump station was provided but has since been abandoned. We dumped at the Maverick's in Cortez."
Elevation considerations: High altitude affects RV systems. "Elevation is about 10,300 and posed a problem for our generator that caused severe spark-plug fouling. But, re-jetting the carburetor from a #61 to #58 solved the problem," explains a Little Molas Lake camper.
