Equestrian campgrounds near Red Lodge, Montana provide specialized facilities with direct trail access to Forest Service lands. Elevations range from 5,600 to 7,200 feet with summer temperatures averaging 75°F during the day and 45°F at night. Most horse-friendly sites in this region require advance reservations and are typically open from late May through September depending on snowpack conditions.
What to do
Trail riding to alpine lakes: Emerald Lake campground serves as an excellent base for riders seeking mountain trails. "The lakes around the campground are amazing for fishing and any other light water sports. I mostly fly fish and the streams feeding the lakes are great to fish," notes Rayne M. about Emerald Lake Campground. The nearby Mystic Lake trailhead provides additional riding opportunities.
Explore multiple trail systems: At Pilot Creek, equestrians can access several interconnected trail networks. "We ended up near the horse coral/bathroom (vaulted toilet), not ideal but worked in a pinch. Lots of mosquitos. Some sites have bear boxes," explains Lauren C. about Pilot Creek Dispersed Camping. The area features both wooded and open terrain suitable for different riding experiences.
Fish mountain streams: Riders can access remote fishing spots via horseback from several campgrounds. "The area is spectacular. The property is immaculate. The reservoir is perfect for fishing, floating and cooling off after a hike," reports Lia T. about opportunities near the campgrounds.
What campers like
Spacious horse facilities: Many equestrians appreciate the dedicated horse infrastructure. "This is one of my favorite places to camp with horses. There is a 40 acre pasture fenced to turn horses in with a creek running through it," notes Kathi F. about West Bridger Cabin. Multiple corrals provide options for horses that need separation.
Multi-day ride planning: The concentration of horse facilities allows for extended trips. "If you go a few miles up the road you can go to the trailhead that allows you to go on up to Deer Creek cabin. We rent the two cabins often park at the lower cabin and ride our horses up to the Deer Creek cabin and stay," explains a regular visitor to the area.
Varied terrain options: Riders appreciate the diverse landscapes available. "Like most people, we had hoped to stay across the street along the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River. That area has 2 pretty shaded spots, and both were taken. We headed over to Pilot and we were pleasantly surprised," explains Rebecca B. The region offers both wooded and open areas for different riding preferences.
What you should know
Access limitations: Many trails have vehicle restrictions. "Getting from the main road into the cabin can be a bit tricky for vehicles over 30 feet," notes Kristin K. about Meyers Creek Cabin. Some areas require parking at lower elevations and riding up to facilities.
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect trail conditions significantly. "Stayed one night late March. The road in wasn't terrible, a little rutted past the gate up to the cabin, but easy enough to manage," reports Kristin about spring conditions at cabins in the area.
Water management: Water access varies by location. "If you have horses bring long hose. The hydrant is located about 115 away, no water tanks," advises a visitor about facilities. Some sites feature natural water sources while others require bringing water.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities for children: Families appreciate the swimming and fishing opportunities. "We loved it here. It rained a few of the days, but it was nice to get out of the heat in town. We still got to try out our new paddle boards on the lake," shares Danae P. about Emerald Lake Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The areas surrounding Red Lodge offer excellent wildlife watching. "I watched cows grazing down the power line clearing through the trees and at one point watched eight cows walking by single file right by my site," describes Ron D. about his experience at Pilot Creek.
Busy periods to avoid: Family campers should note peak usage times. "I got there on Saturday at 3 pm and there were only 2 spots open. With the final gone within 30 minutes," explains Callie B. about weekend crowds. Mid-week visits typically offer more availability.
Tips from RVers
Smaller rigs recommended: Most horse camping areas have limited space for larger vehicles. "There are Lots of campsites most in the woods with only a few next to the creek between the two lakes," notes a camper about site distribution at Hogan Reservoir BLM Campground.
Generator restrictions: Several areas limit generator use to protect the natural soundscape. "We got to the campground on Thursday, by Friday evening all the RV spots seemed to be taken. It cleared out almost completely by Sunday," advises Danae P. about timing visits for RV spots.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require planning. "The cabin is quite drafty and we struggled to keep it warm. We pinned a sheet up in the doorway to keep the heat contained in the sleeping area, and that helped considerably," recommends Kristin regarding cold-weather camping strategies.
