Dispersed camping areas with equestrian access near Snowmass Village operate primarily during summer and early fall, with most sites closing after the first heavy snowfall in October. The region sits at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet, requiring proper acclimatization for both humans and horses. Water sources vary significantly between sites, with some locations providing natural creek access while others require campers to bring all water needed for their stay.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Horse Ranch Park offers direct access to multiple backcountry routes in White River National Forest. "The hiking trails are amazing. The views of the mountain ranges though are a bit limited based upon the location. We are here in late September and it was full but we were lucky enough to get a space after a couple people left," notes a visitor to Lost Lake Campground.
Overnight pack trips: Riders can access multi-day routes from several trailheads near Snowmass Village. "We stayed in this area, did not stay in the lost lake camping sites as everything was full but along the road there are loads of places to pull off and camp! Secluded and really a peaceful place!" reports a camper about dispersed camping near Lost Lake.
Fishing near camp: Many horse-friendly sites offer fishing opportunities within walking distance. "The campground's location on the hillside allows for an excellent view of Twin Lakes and the surrounding mountains. Also close to the South Mt Elbert and Colorado Trail for easy hiking," explains a visitor at Lakeview Campground.
What campers like
Natural water sources: Several dispersed horse camps offer creekside locations. At Musician's Camp, "This was a free first come first serve site with about 5 RV spots and a few tents spots. Epic views, river running through, a ton of cows. Really enjoyed. Only amenity is a bathroom."
Privacy between sites: Unlike many developed campgrounds, horse-friendly dispersed sites typically offer more separation. "Keep going up and up and up along the road to an amazing epic view of the mountains...I turned around at a pull off and settled for a pull off campsite on a corner. It was alright but not as good as river campsite," reports a camper at Deep Creek Trailhead Camp.
Convenient trailhead access: Most equestrian campsites connect directly to trail systems. "Avalanche campground is a gorgeous campground. There's no camping fee, however, the site is relatively small/has limited spaces so their first come first serve policy can be problematic in finding a spot. Bear proof storage boxes and fire pits are available for each space as well," shares a visitor to Avalanche Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access roads to horse-friendly dispersed sites can be challenging. "For those without AWD/4WD vehicles I would use caution/advise against since the drive to get into the actual grounds requires a bit of off roading including crossing a creek," cautions an Avalanche Campground visitor.
Limited facilities: Most equestrian sites lack amenities. A camper at Four Mile Road Dispersed notes: "This is all primitive camping and heavily used by 4x4 ATVs. There are no facilities ie: Toilets, power, water or fire pits. The road was easy no need for high clearance or 4wheel drive."
Early arrival recommended: Horse-friendly sites fill quickly in peak season. "Showed up late on a Saturday evening, so no surprise that a majority of the sites were full. Ended up camping at the very first turn off after the parking lot. The sites were beautiful and well separated," explains a Four Mile Road Dispersed camper.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for temperature swings: Mountain elevations mean significant day-night temperature differences. At Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping, one camper reports: "Great dispersed camping, easy to get to only a short way off the main road. We arrived 4pm on a Friday and all the spots with the best views were taken. The Colorado trail/CDT passes close by and was a great evening hike from our camp."
Wildlife awareness: Train children on proper food storage procedures. "No issues with wildlife though bear are active in the area and there's bear boxes at each site," notes an Avalanche Campground visitor.
Natural entertainment options: Kids can enjoy creek exploration at many sites. "We ended up staying at one of the first 3 sites and no one bothered us... If you sleep in a tend the pads are filled with chunky gravel-so bring extra padding!" shares another Avalanche visitor.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Large horse trailers face challenges at certain sites. "The road to get in is bumpy and fun and not too long-the campground is in a valley with a gorgeous creek. We didn't see the camp host but you can tell they take care of the facilities," notes an Avalanche Campground visitor describing access conditions.
Horse containment requirements: Without dedicated corrals, prepare alternative containment solutions. "If drive farther back though shaded campsites and river can be seen (larger vehicles can get father back as well just remained more up front during our stay). Our camp site was right next to the water and shaded," reports a camper at Clear Creek Reservoir.
Water availability concerns: Plan water needs carefully. "Lots of spots and gorgeous views! If you go up 24 toward the South Elbert trailhead, you'll find lots of dispersed camping options for everything from RVs to tent camping," notes a Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping visitor.
