The Uinta Mountains near Duchesne, Utah provide equestrian camping options in high alpine settings, with elevations ranging from 7,000-10,000 feet. Riders can access trails through forests of lodgepole pine, spruce, and aspen groves. Summer temperatures typically reach 70-85°F during the day but drop to 40-50°F at night.
What to do
Trail exploration with horses: Shingle Creek ATV Campground offers access to trails for both horse riders and ATV enthusiasts. "The shingle creek trailhead was close and the hiking is beautiful. We saw a moose about 30 feet from our campsite drinking from the creek," notes camper Kristy M.
Alpine lake fishing: Several campgrounds provide access to alpine lakes stocked with trout. Currant Creek offers good fishing opportunities, as one camper explains: "Good fishing especially if you can get out on any kind of watercraft. FireWood available at host."
Backpacking access: For equestrians seeking multi-day adventures, use campgrounds as starting points for longer backcountry journeys. "From here we set off on the Swift Creek trail that ascends quickly. The Yellowstone trail however goes through a dense tunnel of forest for quite a few miles," shares Alan B. about his experience at Swift Creek campground.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: Horse campgrounds near Duchesne, Utah provide relief from summer heat due to their elevation. "Higher elevation so you escape some of the summer heat," notes Charles W. about Currant Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The Uinta mountains offer excellent wildlife spotting opportunities for equestrians. "I've seen plenty of chipmunks and even had two elk run past my campsite," reports Belinda H., who frequents the dispersed camping areas near Mill Hollow.
Night skies: The remote location of many equestrian campgrounds results in exceptional stargazing. "From what I've seen and experienced, most if not all spots are accessible by truck/suv/towing a trailer. My favorite part of this spot is the beautiful views and the breathtaking sunsets. And of course the stars," shares connor P. about his experience at Mill Hollow dispersed camping.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many horse-friendly campsites require traveling on rough roads. "The dirt road in is kinda brutal so be patient. It seems to deter some of the crowd which is great," explains Mike D. about accessing Currant Creek.
Reservation planning: For established campgrounds with designated equestrian sites, early reservations are crucial. "Got lucky!! As the most popular campsite in the area, I was a little worried we wouldn't be able to snag a spot. But we went up on a Tuesday and there was plenty of room!" reports Casey M. about their experience at Mirror Lake.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed horse camping areas lack amenities. "This is LNT (leave no trace) camping so be sure to pack out what you pack in. There are no amenities but you are along a water source so if you have a filter, you have water," explains Jenny R. about the Mill Hollow area.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Dollar Lake Campsites provide family-friendly spaces for camping with horses. "We stayed here while backpacking king's peak. It's the best camping spot to do so. It's a beautiful area and you have access to shade and water," notes Connor O.
Wildlife education: Teach children about respecting wildlife while camping with horses. "I've heard bears pulsing...didn't see them though. I carry my bear spray at all times and I hope I never have to use it," shares Belinda H. about dispersed camping at Mill Hollow.
Plan for variable weather: Even in summer, the high elevation means temperature fluctuations. "Great fishing and clean camping sites. Super cold at night so pack warm clothes!" advises LaDell G. about their stay at Currant Creek.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: When bringing horses and RVs, look for adequate parking space. "Our sites (62) were really nice. Plenty of space for parking and tents, and every spot had a picnic table and fire pit," mentions Julie A. about Soapstone Basin Dispersed Camping areas.
Water access planning: Many equestrian campgrounds have limited or no water hookups. "There is a couple of miles with pretty rocky roads so I wouldn't risk a low clearance car. It was extremely busy when we went, but managed to find a spot mostly to ourselves. No bathrooms, primitive and huge families with atvs and dirt bikes everywhere nearby," reports Taylor I. about Soapstone Basin.
Elevation considerations: Horse trailers and RVs may struggle with steep mountain roads. "The main road is dirt, was there on 6/28 weekend. No stop traffic!!! I'm full time rv'er. Never seen anything even close to this," warns Rick W. about the busy conditions at Currant Creek dispersed camping areas during peak season.
