Equestrian camping near San Luis, Colorado offers several options despite limited dedicated horse facilities. The region sits at elevations ranging from 7,800 to 9,000 feet with dramatic temperature swings even in summer months. Many camping areas experience overnight lows in the 40s during July and August, requiring appropriate gear regardless of season.
What to do
Fishing at stocked ponds: Near Cimarron Campground, visitors can access Shuree Ponds for fishing. "There's a nice easy/moderate half mile hike down to the Shuree Ponds which were stocked with trout. Both are classified as 'Green Chile' waters so only flies or artificial lures with a single, barbless hook are allowed. 2 fish limit," notes Stephen K.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife spotting times. "We watched several herds of Elk down in the valley on one of our hikes. We had deer roam through our campsite, they could care less that we were even there," shares Terry R. from Cimarron Campground.
Hiking alpine trails: Numerous trails of varying difficulty traverse the region. At Rio Costilla Park, "The hikes they have at this place are great!! The views you get as you hike farther up the mountain are breathtaking! But it is a hard hike and you can get lost so I'd recommend taking a seasoned hiker with you if you're new," advises Jennifer G.
What campers like
Creek access for recreation: Campers appreciate sites near running water for both ambiance and recreation. At Mallette Creek North, campers enjoy "Serene surroundings and even and beautiful place to camp during a thunderstorm!" according to Erika L., while Rio Costilla Park visitors mention "My wife and I spent 3 days and 2 nights at Rio Costillo and really enjoyed our time... Most of the sites were close to running streams of water."
Relative isolation: Many campers value the remote feel of the region. Andrew H. notes about Mallette Creek North: "The site is stunning—verdant mountains, a babbling brook, unobstructed views of a lush valley. The trees are fantastic, and there are at least two excellent hiking trails."
Stargazing conditions: Clear mountain air and minimal light pollution create optimal night sky viewing. At The Chicken Ranch, Jennifer T. reports "Views are amazing! Very quiet and the star gazing is some of the best."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads can challenge some vehicles, particularly after rain. Greg K. from Purgatoire Campground notes "4 mile dirt road was a bit rough bringing my camper," while Jeff T. adds "driving from Castillo to the campground and then on to Hwy 64 east of Cimarron on 1950 was all very doable in a Subaru Ascent towing a trailer despite some heavy rains."
Limited services: Most campgrounds lack running water and cell service. About Purgatoire Campground, Patrick W. mentions "Easily navigable fire road leads to great creekside campground. Nice facilities. Incredible mountain and creek views," but Bryan P. cautions "Not sure how the listing can state fresh water when there isn't any. This is a very basic and primitive campground so don't expect too much."
Wildlife considerations: Bear activity requires proper food storage. Ken M. reports from McCrystal Campground, "Bears frequent the area trying to raid the garbage bins during the night. Makes tent camping a bit unnerving."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for temperature fluctuations: Even summer nights get cold at elevation. "It will drizzle regularly and sometimes pours so prepare for that. There is no running water at this campground, so bring plenty," advises Jennifer G. about Rio Costilla.
Water play opportunities: Streams provide natural entertainment for children. At Huerfano State Wildlife Area, Kyle T. notes "This is a wonderfully isolated, dispersed camping area. There are group sites and individual ones, scattered bathrooms, and a few picnic tables. Not much to do nearby, but the campsite is beautiful."
Limited supplies nearby: Marissa B. from Purgatoire Campground warns "The nearby towns are VERY small and don't have much to offer for activities, restaurants or supplies if you forget something. Several beautiful small lakes nearby though!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: Finding level spaces can be difficult. Terry from Rio Costilla Park shares "The sites are spread apart so much that it feels like dispersed camping. Portable toilets are close to all sites, but no running water."
Generator considerations: Some dispersed sites have noise concerns. Andrew H. from Mallette Creek North cautions "This place feels like a tailgating party. At no point did I not hear a generator. Friendly people, but no different than a state park, save for fees and amenities."
Seasonal accessibility: Many campgrounds close during winter months. Ricky B. explains about Cimarron Campground, "It doesn't open until the first of July sometime because elk are caving and they don't want people to bother them. The road can be tough if it is raining a bunch, but worth the trip if you have time."
