Silverthorne sits at 9,035 feet elevation in Summit County, where the Blue River meets the upper reaches of the Green Mountain Reservoir. Horse camping opportunities extend beyond Kirby Gulch, with trail networks connecting to the Eagles Nest Wilderness and Gore Range. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, requiring equestrian campers to pack appropriate cold-weather gear for both themselves and their animals.
What to do
Trail connections for equestrians: Access the Colorado Trail from Kenosha Pass Campground, which serves as a strategic basecamp for riders. "Camp here to hike one of Colorado's most climbed 14ers, Mt. BIERSTADT. This pass can get CROWDED so plan to leave Denver early on a Friday," notes Mikaela R., highlighting the popularity of the area's trail systems.
Fishing between rides: Spend mornings or evenings fishing in nearby creeks. At South Fork Rustic Campground, David B. explains, "For those with a restless spirit of adventure, trout fishing, hiking, and Geocaching are available in the Southfork area." The trout populations are primarily brook and brown trout, making this a worthwhile addition to equestrian camping trips.
Wildlife observation: Look for moose and other wildlife during early morning rides. At York Gulch Road, one camper reported, "We saw a moose!" The area around Silverthorne provides frequent wildlife encounters, especially in meadow areas at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Many sites offer the soothing sounds of flowing water. At Guanella Pass, Cynthia W. shares, "We LOVED Guanella Pass Campground! It was surrounded by beauty that was breathtaking! Our site was near a creek that was fun to explore and the woods all around also held adventure."
Weekday availability: Most dispersed camping areas near Silverthorne are significantly less crowded mid-week. Karl G. notes about Guanella Pass dispersed camping, "There's a few sites beside the road but those fill up quickly. If you've got a high clearance 4x4 vehicle, turn onto Leavenworth Creek Rd (352) from Guanella Pass," suggesting alternatives when main areas are full.
Meadow access for horses: The open meadow sites at Kirby Gulch provide ample space for equestrian activities. Katie H. explains, "My partner and I have used Sugarloaf as a kind of rendezvous for my Colorado trail hike. We've had packages sent here and stayed multiple times," showing how the area serves as a useful supply point for longer trail excursions.
What you should know
High-clearance vehicle requirements: Many roads leading to horse-friendly camping areas demand appropriate vehicles. At Kirby Gulch, Katelyn W. warns, "Super bumpy roads - must have an SUV or truck. As you drive in, you're met with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains."
Site selection strategy: Arrive early on weekends to secure suitable equestrian sites. A Kirby Gulch camper advises, "We got to the start of camp spots early on a Friday and it was already like Disney land. We thought we could drive up a ways to escape people but after an hour of driving there was not a single spot available."
Water access limitations: Many dispersed sites lack potable water, requiring campers to bring sufficient supplies. Daniel S. shares about South Fork, "There is no potable water on site, so bring plenty of water for your stay. The 18 sites are on a first come basis and can't be reserved."
Tips for camping with families
Best times for less crowded experiences: Plan your equestrian camping trip for weekdays if possible. At Sugarloaf Campground, David B. reports, "The good news is that it's uncrowded and easy to secure a first come, first served site, and the trees are growing back," indicating improving conditions and manageable crowds.
Kid-friendly exploration areas: Find sites with safe creek access for both children and horses. Hayley K. mentions that at Kirby Gulch, "The hiking is great, it heads through treelines and along the creek up to a marshy meadow with beautiful views of snowy mountain peaks," offering activities beyond horseback riding.
Site spacing considerations: Choose sites with adequate distance from neighbors when bringing horses and children. A camper at Golden Gate Canyon State Park notes, "Plenty of space between sites, electricity. Wooded and scenic," which is important for families with horses who need more room.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most equestrian-friendly sites have limitations on RV size. At Lodgepole-Jefferson, Sarah F. advises, "Trailer sites are small for sure- I wouldn't trust anything over 29ish feet in here," which applies to horse trailers with living quarters as well.
Road condition updates: Check recent visitor reports about access roads before bringing large rigs. Jim W. shares about Guanella Pass, "Guanella pass was my families favorite place to camp for years. We finally had to stop going due to the road through the campground was rotted out due to water and drainage. You almost needed a four wheel drive just to drive through the campground."
Turn-around space: Scout potential sites for adequate space to maneuver horse trailers. Melanie S. warns about York Gulch Road, "It is a pretty steep ascent. There were a few spots that would have been ideal but were already taken. We looked a little further ahead and the road got rough. A lot of off road vehicles and the road is narrow in spots."
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