Beaver, Utah sits at approximately 5,900 feet elevation in the high desert region where the Great Basin meets the Colorado Plateau. The surrounding Tushar Mountains and Fishlake National Forest provide equestrian camping opportunities with temperature swings of 30-40°F between day and night common in summer months. Most horse-friendly campsites in this region are accessible from mid-April through October, with trails typically clear of snow by late May.
What to do
Trail riding in Dixie National Forest: Access numerous riding trails from the Losee Canyon area, with routes suitable for various skill levels. "Lots of sites, great views trails for hiking and horseback near by," notes Dave B., who appreciated the easy access to riding paths.
Explore Tom's Best Spring Road: The FS #117 Rd Dispersed Camping area provides excellent riding opportunities through red rock terrain. Greg L. explains, "This listing is in error, this site is not in Bryce Canyon NP as there is no vehicle dispersed camping in the park. This is on Dixie NF about 5 miles to west of Bryce Canyon City an is actually the Tom Best Spring FS #117 road dispersed camping area at MP 7.5 on hwy 12."
Reservoir fishing access: Pack fishing gear when camping at Koosharem Reservoir, which offers shoreline access for riders. Brad B. confirms, "This is a very easy place to throw a tent up or park an RV close to lake and good fishing. In some beautiful country." Becky J. adds, "Great fishing spot I highly recommend. Picnic areas and tent areas too."
What campers like
Spacious sites for horse trailers: At FR3623 Dispersed, the wide camping areas accommodate horse trailers with room to set up temporary containment. Greg I. notes, "Lots of sites, widely spaced, no crowding. Some are in juniper forest, some are more open. Some are sloped, some are more flat. Plenty to choose from in our early-May visit."
Privacy between camp areas: Horse campers appreciate the distance between sites at Big John Flat. Gary E. shares, "Very large open camping area with open meadows and large trees. Great place to camp if you are planning to drive the Tushar road to Fremont. Saw a few larger trailers there. Road in is fairly smooth an occasional bump to slow down for. A lot of room between campsites."
Cell service for emergency contact: Many equestrian camping areas maintain decent connectivity. At Tom's Best Spring Road, The Wandering Shores notes, "Great for rigs of any size, with thousands of acres to choose from." Adam B. confirms, "Cell reception is great Verizon and Att. Nice bike path through red canyon and up to Bryce. Lots of dirt trails in the Dixie Forest."
What you should know
Road conditions affect access: Forest roads to horse camping areas vary in quality throughout the season. At Coyote Hollow Equestrian Campground, Shaun D. reports, "Easy in and out road to site only one other family using location during this time. Very close to Bryson canyon. Great view from site."
Limited water sources: Most equestrian campsites require bringing your own water for horses. Greg L. explains about Coyote Hollow, "Vault toilet but no garbage or potable water. Livestock water in season, but not potable to drink for humans."
Seasonal closures affect planning: Many forest roads close during winter months. Caitlin H. warns about certain areas, "All roads that lead to dispersed camping sites in the Bryce Canyon area are closed by the NPS." Plan horse camping trips accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly riding areas: Big John Flat offers terrain suitable for novice riders and children. Courtney S. notes, "If you want to camp alone, this is a great place. Lots of shade and places to explore. Can get busy during hunting season."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can observe local animals from safe distances at several horse camps. Adam B. shares, "Pronghorn deer come every day morning and afternoon" at Tom's Best Spring Road.
Night sky education: Many equestrian camping areas offer exceptional stargazing. Leah B. reports about Tom's Best Spring Road, "The stars were beautiful at night - even got some photos with my phone. There were some cows but they mostly stayed clear of the road."
Tips from RVers
Horse trailer parking strategy: When bringing horses and an RV, look for level sites with adequate turn-around space. Tom W. advises about FS #117 Rd, "Plenty of available sites, many drive through. Many could accommodate our 35' motorhome. Among the tall pines yet enough sunlight for solar panels."
Self-contained camping necessities: Susan D. shares about Tom's Best Spring Road, "Great dispersed area! Roads in are good if you take it slow. Dozens of places. Good for any size rig. Close to Bryce, Cedar Breaks, and Zion. We camp in a 33' fifth wheel - no problem. We were there in early- mid October and it did get cold at night - 20's."
Access for larger horse trailers: Sites with pull-through access work best for combined RV and horse trailer setups. Nicholas A. notes about Casto Canyon Views, "The road is pretty smooth and easy to navigate so lower clearance is fine. It's a beautiful spot with the mountains on one side and an enormous plain facing the other direction."
