Best Equestrian Camping near Gila National Forest
Gila Hot Springs Ranch accommodates horse enthusiasts within Gila National Forest, offering campground options for equestrians with trailer parking. The ranch features direct access to backcountry areas where visitors can arrange pack trips on horseback to explore remote sections of the national forest. Several reviewers observed horses roaming freely through the campground, adding to the authentic ranch experience. While the campground doesn't have designated horse corrals, the ranch maintains horses on the property and provides options for guided trail rides suitable for riders of various experience levels. Access requires navigating steep grade roads with switchbacks, which may present challenges for larger horse trailers. The campground offers tent sites, RV spaces with hookups, and cabin options with clean restroom facilities and hot springs access.
Trail riding opportunities extend throughout the surrounding Gila National Forest, with multiple routes accessible directly from the ranch property. The forest contains numerous backcountry trails suitable for day rides and overnight pack trips. Visitors witness wildlife including deer and sheep while riding the mountain terrain. Pack trips can be arranged through the ranch for those wanting guided backcountry exploration on horseback. The campground's mountain location at higher elevation means temperature variations with cooler mornings in the 30°F range that warm quickly during daylight hours. Water access for horses includes natural streams near the property. The area's natural hot springs provide a relaxing soaking option after a day of trail riding, with both natural riverside springs and a more developed hot tub facility available to campers.
