Equestrian camping near Thornton, Colorado offers access to mountain trails and foothills terrain within an hour's drive. The region sits at elevations ranging from 5,200 to 8,500 feet, with camping areas experiencing temperature swings of up to 30°F between day and night. Most horse-friendly sites require advance reservations during peak season (May-September), with many campgrounds closing facilities during winter months.
What to do
Trail riding at Kruger Rock: The 4-mile trail near Hermits Hollow Campground provides moderate terrain with views of Estes Park and surrounding mountains. "The Kruger Rock Trailhead is inside the campground, and it is a nice hike with an amazing view of the Rockies and Estes at the top. Bring your crayons - there are two trailmarkers on the trail that you can do rubbings of," notes Erin K. at Hermits Hollow Campground.
Water recreation access: Cherry Creek State Park offers multiple water activities when not riding. "Nice Swim Beach with brand new Bldg. Many covered Picnic sites, but again, you MUST arrive at the break of day to secure one," advises Kay S. at Cherry Creek State Park Campground.
Mountain biking options: Golden Gate Canyon's trail system accommodates both horses and bikes on designated paths. "This park has great trails for hiking and mountain biking. There is also a high elevation lake as well as fantastic views of the continental divide," writes Mike M. from Golden Gate Canyon State Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many equestrian campers appreciate the layout at certain parks. "Not close to anyone. Road up is 2wd. Keep heading up the small road to get to all the secluded camp grounds," reports Heather P. about York Gulch Road dispersed camping areas.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk provide optimal animal sighting times near camp. "Mule deer came through every evening right by our camper to eat grass. One morning 3 large Bull Elk and a young bull came through the valley and up through the campground," shares Jennifer G. at East Portal Campground.
Proximity to attractions: Some horse camping areas offer convenient access to urban amenities. "It's a beautiful park just minutes south of Denver. With decent facilities and a playground for kiddos," notes Jessica V. about Chatfield State Park Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Campgrounds fill quickly during summer months. "Campground is usually fully booked all season. Reservations can be made six months out. Two week limit," explains Kay S. about Cherry Creek State Park.
Trail access logistics: Some campsites require short drives to reach equestrian trailheads. "There is a fee upon entry. You have to pay for the nights you plan to stay and you have to pay for your vehicle to have a permit to be there," notes Daisee Mae S. about Hermits Hollow Campground.
Bear safety protocols: Proper food storage is mandatory at most sites. "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. Sprays, lotions, deodorants… etc," warns Daisee Mae S.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with amenities: Look for sites with clean facilities for younger riders. "Clean bathrooms. Very friendly attendant. Level primitive spots," recommends Christa C. about Chatfield State Park Campground.
Consider cabin options: Several parks offer alternative lodging for families with horses. "Have stayed in the cabins in years past, they are nice with gas fireplace for heat, and gas cookers in the cabin. No bedding, but beds are large and soft," shares Aliy L. about Hermit Park.
Plan for weather changes: Mountain conditions can shift rapidly at higher elevations. "It was a bit chilly so we were basically the only people out there tent camping. There were a few RV's already in the loop but the majority of the sites filled up Saturday," notes Jennifer G. about East Portal Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV campers with horses need sufficient space. "Every campsite is a pull thru allowing you to situate anywhere along the paved area to best suit your needs. Mostly level, fire rings, and very large metal picnic tables. Enormous amount of room," shares Dennis G. about Reverend's Ridge at Golden Gate Canyon.
Arrival timing: Popular equestrian areas fill quickly during peak times. "If you want to get into the Park, suggest you go EARLY, EARLY, EARLY in the day. Traffic backs up all the way from the Entrance on Parker Rd to the Entrance Booth on weekends and holidays. Plan on an hour OR MORE to just get to the booth," warns Kay S. about Cherry Creek State Park.
Utility availability: Not all horse-friendly campgrounds offer full hookups. "Good location downtown Denver, near the hospital we needed to go to, it served its purpose, then we headed to the mountains," explains Bill S. about Cherry Creek State Park Campground's utility options.
