Best Equestrian Camping near Sunspot, NM
Upper Karr Canyon Campground accommodates horse campers in a primitive setting with options for dispersed trail camping off established sites. The free campground permits horse trailers in the parking area, with plenty of trails and campsites accessible in the surrounding trees. Horses can be highlined at dispersed sites throughout the area with room for portable corrals. Campers frequently encounter wildlife including deer and elk while exploring with their horses. The area features beautiful pine forest terrain with good shade coverage and natural meadows. Dispersed sites throughout the forest offer privacy and solitude with space to separate horses from the camping area.
Trail access from Upper Karr includes old logging roads that lead to meadows and small ponds, creating excellent day ride opportunities. The campground sits at higher elevation, providing cooler temperatures during summer months when basin areas reach 95+ degrees. Winter camping is possible but temperatures drop below freezing with occasional snow. No drinking water is available for horses or humans, so all water must be brought in. The pit toilets near the parking area provide basic facilities, but riders should practice leave-no-trace principles with manure management. The surrounding national forest land offers extensive trail riding with varied terrain suitable for different experience levels. Several meadow areas connected by trails provide good grazing spots for supervised horses during rest breaks.
