Horse Corrals Group Area in Sugarite Canyon State Park offers specialized facilities for equestrian camping near Trinidad, Colorado. Located in the foothills at approximately 7,000 ft elevation, the area experiences moderate summer temperatures ranging from 50-85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. Unlike typical camping areas, these sites provide corrals directly adjacent to camping spots, creating convenient access for horse owners.
What to do
Equestrian trail riding: Connect to multiple trail systems throughout Sugarite Canyon State Park that showcase diverse terrain and wildlife. "The area is absolutely beautiful. This little park has something for everyone. Highland trails, lakes and streams, primitive and car-camping sites. Plenty of wildlife to see, birds and other critters everywhere," notes George C.
Fishing opportunities: Fish for trout at Lake Maloya, a 120-acre reservoir just minutes from the equestrian campground. "The lake itself is gorgeous, there are plenty of hiking trails. We brought kayaks and had a great time," reports Shannon H.
Historical exploration: Visit the remnants of the 1920s coal mining town within the park boundaries. "Hiking trails from the Ranger Headquarters offer a history lesson with the remnants of the 1920's coal mining town that prospered in this canyon. Rangers Scott and Bob were knowledgeable, helpful and knew the history thoroughly."
What campers like
Separation from traffic: Unlike Lake Alice Campground, the Horse Corrals sites maintain distance from busy park roads. "Sites 15 and 16 are great. Site 13 and 14 are ON THE ROAD and the accessible site near the bathroom is literally a couple of feet away so beware!" explains Shannon H. about Lake Alice.
Covered facilities: Soda Pocket Campground offers protected picnic areas that benefit equestrian campers during summer storms. "Nice spots, covered picnic table, fire ring. Clean vault Johns. Hiking trail up to the observation area is short, but a good challenge to get some sweat on the forehead," says Lords C.
Clean shower facilities: The state park maintains excellent bathing facilities for riders to use after trail excursions. "Showers were very nice for a campground. They were actual showers, not just concrete or dirty tile, and had plenty of room and hooks for clothing. Two showers per side for Men's and Women's," reports Dare To Everywhere.
What you should know
Bear precautions required: Secure food storage is essential when horse camping in this region. "Bear boxes provided, deer walked through campground often. I did see bear tracks while hiking but host said they've never been a human issue," notes Callie C.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging with horse trailers. At Purgatoire Campground, "The 4 mile dirt road was a bit rough bringing my camper," reports Greg K., though most roads to Sugarite Canyon's equestrian areas are maintained for trailer access.
Water availability: Water hookups are available at Horse Corrals Group Area, but other nearby campgrounds require you to bring your own. "Soda Pocket has no water, so bring plenty for a stay!" advises Lords C., which is important to know when planning for both human and equine needs.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: The ranger station provides educational programs perfect for children. "The ranger came by one night and showed a group of kids a mountain lion pelt and a bear pelt," shares Matt B. from Soda Pocket Campground.
Kid-friendly fishing: Special fishing areas are designated specifically for children. "The smaller [pond] was reserved for kids's fishing. Both are classied as 'Green Chile' waters so only flies or artificial lures with a single, barbless hook are allowed. 2 fish limit," explains Stephen K.
Raised tent platforms: For families tent camping, some sites offer more comfortable sleeping arrangements. "The tent sites had raised platforms to put your tent on and the ground underneath was softer, so it wasn't that uncomfortable to sleep on," recommends Madeline B.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for views: Cimarron Campground offers RV sites with scenic vistas. "We stayed at #24 which had a nice partial overlook to the opposing valley, mountainside," says Jen M.
Hookup access: When selecting an RV site at Lake Alice Campground, verify utility placement. "On top of that, the utility hookups for Site 06 are on the *Wrong* (i.e. the passenger) side of the rig, given the orientation of the driveway for backing in," cautions Jeff T.
Alternative locations: If staying at Horse Corrals isn't available, consider nearby options. "The view from Site 23 was incredible of the canyon below... The campground was quiet and mostly clean. There are pit toilets on site and well maintained. Level spots with good separation," reports Ken M. from McCrystal Campground.
