Equestrian camping near Aztec, New Mexico positions visitors within a high-desert region averaging 5,600 feet in elevation with dramatic temperature changes between day and night. Most dedicated horse camping facilities require travel to surrounding areas in Colorado, as local options are limited. Winter snow can affect access to higher-elevation camping areas from November through April.
What to do
Trail riding access: Target Tree Campground serves as a strategic base for riders exploring the San Juan National Forest trail systems. "There are lots of hiking trails nearby. Stars are fantastic at night," notes hannah, highlighting the natural attractions beyond horseback riding.
Swimming and cooling off: During summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, riders can enjoy post-ride swimming at Echo Basin Cabin and RV Resort which offers a welcome respite. "There is a pool!" notes Amy S., making it an ideal stop after dusty trail rides when temperatures climb.
Off-site excursions: Day trips to Mesa Verde National Park offer archaeological explorations just 25 miles from some camping areas. "Target Tree is an excellent RV campground with large sites and plenty of room. It sits between Mesa Verde and Durango and is a perfect launch for this area," explains Dave, highlighting the strategic location for side trips.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Transfer Campground provides well-spaced sites ideal for those traveling with horses and larger rigs. "Great campsite in the aspens. Access point for good hikes," says Donitza I., appreciating the natural setting and trail connections.
Clean facilities: Riders appreciate well-maintained facilities after long days on dusty trails. "The bathrooms are currently open and super clean!" reports Sydneu B. about Lower Hermosa Campground, adding "It's also a great spot to set up base and go straight to the trails for hiking and dirt biking."
Helpful hosts: Campground hosts often provide valuable local trail information and assistance. "Host B is in his 2nd yr here and is a peach of a guy. All campsites are carefully raked and put in good shape - no ashes left in rings," notes ED K. about Target Tree Campground, mentioning that "Host sells .75 sq ft of firewood for $7/bundle or 3 for $20."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer thunderstorms typically occur in afternoons from July through September. Winter camping requires preparation for below-freezing temperatures. "It was a little chilly at night in early May. High elevation and lots of shade," warns Toni K. about Lower Hermosa Campground.
Road conditions: Some horse-accessible camping areas require navigating unpaved roads. "Access to campground is on a rock dirt road that goes from single to double lane off and on. I drove a 21foot bus with a 16x7 tandem axle trailer," reports David A. about Lower Hermosa Campground.
Highway noise: Several campgrounds near Aztec experience traffic noise due to proximity to major roads. "Road noise is not awesome. Try to get the sites furthest back," advises J.B. about Target Tree Campground, while another camper notes: "All-day highway noise in an acoustically perfect valley keeps this place's popularity limited."
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly options: Most campgrounds welcome four-legged family members alongside horses. "We came on July 4th, and although many activities were going on, this place was quite like a mouse by Sunday. This place has everything: a massive field for dogs to play off-leash (they must be on in the park)," shares Soren B. about Cherry Creek Gravel Lot.
Activities beyond riding: Horse camping trips can include multiple recreation options. "There are lots of things to do and the sites are good sized with plenty of shade. The restraunt/bar has a great atmosphere!" says Sarah L. about Echo Basin Cabin and RV Resort.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide optimal wildlife viewing times throughout the region. "Elk views," reports Chris S. simply about Cherry Creek Gravel Lot, indicating the presence of large mammals in the area.
Tips from RVers
Electric access options: Most equestrian camping areas have limited hookups. La Plata County Fairgrounds offers one of the few sites with electrical connections. "You can't beat the central location and access to bike trail. Sites back up to the maintenance department," notes Goldnbullet.
Leveling considerations: Some sites require additional leveling equipment. "The sites are gravel and pretty level. Our Verizon and AT&T hotspots both worked well and cell service was good," Steve W. shares about La Plata County Fairgrounds.
Accessibility challenges: Not all horse-friendly camping options accommodate larger rigs. "Getting up there was not possible in my Travato (in my opinion). I've got some Falken Wildpeaks so traction was not so much the issue as the uneven path up," warns Adam S. about Cherry Creek Gravel Lot's rugged access road.
