Equestrian camping near Westcliffe, Colorado offers multiple options within the San Isabel National Forest at elevations ranging from 8,000 to 10,000 feet. The area experiences afternoon thunderstorms during summer months, particularly in July and August, requiring campers to plan accordingly. Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly even in summer, with frost possible at higher elevations.
What to do
Trail riding access: Alvarado Campground connects to several hiking trails that also accommodate riders. "Trail access is great too. Plenty to see and do!" notes one visitor. The campground offers both wooded and open sites that can accommodate various camping setups.
Fishing opportunities: Anglers can try their luck at streams near camping areas. One visitor to Grape Creek - Temple Canyon Park reports, "It's a small stream but it's sure as hells got some trout in it! I've been fishing this stream since I was a kid, and I still have a good time there."
Stargazing sessions: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. A camper at Cotton Creek Trailhead observed, "Once the wind settled, there were more stars than I've ever seen in my life. Endless views and endless stars - can't beat it!"
Photography excursions: The dramatic mountain backdrops and wildlife provide excellent photography opportunities. Sites at Haggards RV Campground offer "beautiful views across the prairie to the mountains and a spectacular sunset to boot," according to one visitor.
What campers like
Mountain vistas: The Sangre de Cristo mountain range creates a dramatic backdrop for campers. "Stunning views from almost every site!" reports a visitor to Alvarado Campground. "But its the spectacular views are what will take your breath away."
Secluded sites: Many areas offer privacy between camping spots. A camper at Willow Creek Trail noted, "Approx 15 or so dispersed camp sites along the forest road up to the parking lot for Willow Lake trail. Easy access to sites, easy access to trail head."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife including pronghorn antelope. One Haggards RV Campground visitor mentioned it was "so neat to see pronghorn in nearby fields as we sat drinking coffee."
Creek-side options: Some sites offer the relaxing sound of running water. "They are large spots with fire rings. Three of them are on the creek," notes a Cotton Creek Trailhead camper.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require cautious driving. "The road is very rocky & very rough, so you'll want to have decent clearance and be prepared to take it slow," warns a Cotton Creek Trailhead visitor.
Site variations: Campground quality and amenities vary significantly. At Alvarado Campground, "Lower sites are larger, more open, and more recently updated. Sites further uphill are in a mixed state of dilapidation."
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes rapidly. Pack layers and rain gear. "The night sky was amazing after the rain passed through and the clouds cleared," notes an Alvarado camper.
Elevation challenges: High elevations affect visitors unaccustomed to altitude. A Cripple Creek KOA visitor cautioned, "The air is thin up here- real thin. That also means that it's pure, clean blissfully light oxygen so breathe deep and enjoy it."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated recreation areas. At Cripple Creek KOA, "There is a dog park area. Hummingbirds enjoyed the area as well. Board games were able to be checked out, there was a game room where the kids spent most of their time."
Site selection strategies: Choose sites that accommodate your specific setup. At Huerfano State Wildlife Area, "There are group sites and individual ones, scattered bathrooms, and a few picnic tables."
Supply planning: Limited services require bringing essentials. Alvarado Campground has "Firewood available for purchase at the host, but we were allowed to gather our own as well."
Quiet zone enforcement: Some campgrounds have inconsistent noise management. "There was a group at a lower loop that was playing really loud music until well after quiet time. I do wish the host had put an end to that," reported an Alvarado visitor.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Verify your RV can fit at your chosen site. A visitor to Alvarado Campground cautioned, "The campground won't accommodate fifth wheels only horse and rv up to 30 or so. Many of the sites in the 30s up are useless other than a van."
Parking recommendations: Level sites are available but limited. "We easily got our 40' coach into a very level site," noted one Alvarado Campground visitor.
Utility considerations: Water quality varies by location. At Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA, "Water system needs work; well water has rust and sediment, be prepared!"
Access road navigation: Some roads present challenges for larger rigs. At Hermit Pass OHV, "Your vehicle will prob need new brakes after this trip. Super beautiful but the road never eases up."
