State Forest State Park offers ideal terrain for horseback riding near Red Feather Lakes, Colorado, with elevations ranging from 8,500 to 11,000 feet. Riders can access backcountry trails directly from designated camping areas. The region maintains cooler summer temperatures compared to lower elevations, typically 10-15 degrees cooler than Fort Collins.
What to do
Trail riding access: North Michigan Campground at State Forest State Park provides direct trail access for riders looking to explore Roosevelt National Forest. "Beautiful spot with gorgeous views. We had site 221 which is right above the water with it's own little trail going down to the reservoir. From what I've seen, I think this is one of the best sites available," notes Jen M.
Wildlife viewing: The area around Laramie River Road offers exceptional wildlife spotting opportunities while trail riding. "Wildlife is abundant with tons of deer and moose in the area. Topography is Aspen wetlands and is beautiful," reports Justin D., who camped at Laramie River Road Dispersed camping area.
Winter activities: Beyond summer riding season, Jacks Gulch Campground provides winter recreation options when horse trails aren't accessible. Morgan Y. notes, "We were able to get on bikes and explore the endless dirt roads that spoke off in all directions. Little creeks abound."
What campers like
Private spots with natural barriers: At North Fork Poudre Campground, riders appreciate the natural separation between sites. "This is a great little campground with only 7 campsites that are first come first served (no reservations). However, it's almost never full and if it is full there are plenty of free camping areas along the road (forest service road)," reports Joe O.
Mountain access: Equestrian campers value the direct trail connections to Roosevelt National Forest. "Direct access to mountain trails makes this area popular with riders seeking wilderness experiences," according to local equestrians who camp at Hermits Hollow Campground.
Water features: Sites with water access allow horses to cool down after rides. "We were able to paddle board and fish right from our campsite, and had a wonderful fresh trout dinner," shares B B. about their experience at State Forest State Park.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many equestrian-friendly sites book quickly during peak riding season (June-August). "We were shocked at the availability of spaces given that Colorado is notoriously booked up by February," notes Michelle G.
Fire restrictions: Check current fire restrictions before planning rides with campfires. "The area is extremely fire damaged in places & there was a fire ban in effect when we were there over 4th of July," reports Molly U. from Laramie River Road.
Wildlife precautions: The area has active wildlife that equestrians should prepare for. "We have had full grown moose run through our camp site and there has been reports of black bears near by as well as elk and deer," warns Darla R. who regularly camps in dispersed areas with horses.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly riding options: Bockman Campground at State Forest State Park offers supervised riding for younger family members. "We absolutely loved state forest state park. We stayed in the bockman loop, with beautiful Mountain View's. Staff was friendly, rangers drove by every couple hours," shares Jenna P.
Accessible water activities: For families with both riders and non-riders, campgrounds with water access provide alternative activities. "Each site is unique so we like to change it up each time - we go hiking, horseback riding, and fish in the stocked ponds!" explains Dan T.
Bear-aware practices: Families must practice proper food storage. "The park provides every spot with a table, fire ring and bear box. The bear box is for more than just food. If you have anything that smells good, the animals (not just bears) WILL try to get into your vehicle to steal it," advises Daisee Mae S.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: For those bringing horses in trailers with RVs, choose sites with adequate space. "If you have a larger trailer, avoid the lower sites. Keep to 1-5 or the Overlook for access," recommends Michelle G.
Water fill challenges: RVers note water access can be tricky with horse trailers. "Water for trailers is available bit a tad challenging to access simply because of sharp turns," notes one equestrian camper.
Trailer parking: Most equestrian camping areas accommodate stock trailers, but positioning can be tricky. "RV parking is a little tight for bigger rigs but great tent spots. There is a horse coral for you at nearly every RV site," reports Ian C.
