Horse camping near Navajo Dam, New Mexico can be challenging due to limited dedicated equestrian facilities in the immediate area. Most camping options lie within an hour's drive, primarily in Colorado. The region sits at elevations between 6,000-8,000 feet with pine forests dominating the landscape and summer temperatures typically ranging from 50-85°F.
What to do
Trail riding near San Juan National Forest: Riders staying at Target Tree Campground can access multiple trail systems suitable for horses. "It sits between Mesa Verde and Durango and is a perfect launch for this area. All kinds of activities are nearby. Spectacular Colorado mountains and scenery," notes reviewer Dave.
Fishing access with horse trailer parking: Several areas permit horse trailer parking near fishing spots. "Beautiful well kept campground. Nearby highway is a little noisy. Friendly campground host," mentions David R. about Target Tree, which provides access to nearby fishing opportunities.
Day riding from base camps: Lower Hermosa Campground offers trails directly from camp. "Right next to Hermosa Creek trail. Such a beautiful place," writes Thanh H., making it convenient for riders wanting immediate trail access without trailering.
What campers like
Spacious sites for trailers: Cherry Creek Gravel Lot provides ample space for horse trailers on relatively flat ground. "Beautiful place! It's pretty easy to get into, there are more secluded places up the hill a ways but it gets kinda rough," reports taren C., noting the accessible terrain.
Natural water sources: Camps near water features help with horse care. "We had access to the trails by the river," shares marine J. about La Plata County Fairgrounds, which offers riverside trail access convenient for both horses and riders.
Clean facilities: Maintaining sanitation matters for extended stays with horses. "Sparkling clean bathrooms. Great camp host. Firewood and water. Lots of hiking nearby," writes Lauren about Target Tree Campground, providing amenities that benefit both riders and their animals.
What you should know
Limited dedicated corrals: Bring portable containment systems as permanent stalls are rare. "Sites have picnic table and fire pit with grill. Access to camp ground 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," notes David A. about Lower Hermosa Campground.
Terrain challenges: Some access roads require careful navigation with trailers. "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.
Water availability varies: Mountain Meadow Camp offers drinking water for horses. "A hidden gem with close accessability to trails, lake and rivers. Supplies are nearby. Spectacular views of the Vallecito Valley," notes Rudi W., highlighting the water access points.
Tips for camping with families
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some camps. "Handy, pretty, clean, loud. All-day highway noise in an acoustically perfect valley keeps this place's popularity limited," mentions Ben F. about Target Tree, suggesting families select sites furthest from roads.
Shade availability: Look for camps with natural cooling. "I got a spot with shade all day, so that was awesome," shares taren C. about Cherry Creek Gravel Lot, important when camping with children and horses during summer months.
Activity options: Camps with varied recreation suit families. "It's a very simple campground but just what we wanted. Pack in pack out, clean and well maintained sites, the only sound birdsong. Helpful camp host," writes Sarah about Lower Hermosa.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Most horse-friendly areas have minimal services. "You can't beat the central location and access to bike trail. Sites back up to the maintenance department and they are in and out on ATVs and bulldozers a lot!!" notes Goldnbullet about La Plata County Fairgrounds.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain when parking horse trailers. "Gravel lot near stadium for Rodri events. Can be mucky if it rains. Hard to get a site as lots of events happening here," warns Dallas W. about La Plata County Fairgrounds.
Space requirements: Plan for adequate room between rigs. "Not a spectacular view, but 6 large spots close to the free shuttle, bike path and rec center (totally worth the day pass). Great for the price to spend a few days in durango or take the scenic train," recommends mark F.
