Equestrian campgrounds near Thompson, Utah provide access to diverse terrain across Bureau of Land Management lands. The area lies within the Colorado Plateau at approximately 5,000 feet elevation, characterized by sandstone formations, desert valleys, and expansive mesas. Weather fluctuates dramatically with summer temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F during daytime hours and dropping significantly at night.
What to do
Trail riding near Courthouse Rock: Courthouse Rock offers direct access to ATV and horse trails with multiple route options for varying skill levels. "There is a paddock for those who brought horses. Dinosaur prints within an easy hike. Great access to bridle and ATV trails," notes Elizabeth S. from Courthouse Rock.
Canyon exploration with horses: Salt Valley provides trail connections to numerous backcountry routes for riders seeking solitude. "If you have high clearance and 4WD, there are fantastic spots on top of the hills that will keep you isolated," writes Luke L. about his experience at Salt Valley Dispersed Camping.
Archaeological viewing opportunities: Several areas feature ancient rock art accessible via short rides from camp. The Black Dragon Pictograph Panel area provides both riding routes and cultural sites. "In the Black Dragon you'll find a lot of Indian Petroglyphs. It's pretty easy hike to them or a high clearance vehicle," explains Reid from Black Dragon Pictograph Panel Dispersed.
What campers like
Wide open spaces for horse trailers: Camping areas near Thompson typically provide substantial room for equestrian setups. "We found a campsite that was wide open, flat and had incredible views at night," reports Spencer B. about Cotter Mine Road Dispersed Sites.
Night sky visibility: Limited light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions after riding activities end. "Absolute show during sunset as the light and shadows danced around the canyon walls. The night sky is well visible and didn't disappoint once the clouds cleared," describes Ben B. regarding his stay at Labyrinth Backcountry Campsites.
Easy access to multiple riding destinations: The strategic location provides options for day trips to different terrain types. "Location is key with this site. You are 10 minutes from Arches National Park," writes Tom G. about Cotter Mine Road, noting its proximity to major landmarks.
What you should know
Water requirements: No reliable water sources exist at most dispersed camping locations. All water for riders and horses must be transported to the site.
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads to horse-friendly campsites often require careful navigation. "The road coming in is gravel and washboard rough/bumpy. I drove a 29 foot class C in at about three or 4 mile an hour. Took me about 15 minutes to go the half mile," cautions Jo H. from Courthouse Rock.
Seasonal temperature fluctuations: Summers bring extreme heat during daylight hours while winter temperatures can drop below freezing. Limited natural shade exists at most sites, requiring portable shade solutions for horses during summer months.
Permit considerations: Some areas have specific usage restrictions or permit requirements, particularly for overnight stays. "You go through BLM land then on to Canyon Lands Property, which if you camp on that land without a permit is heavy fines," warns Ashley M. about boundary awareness.
Tips for camping with families
Space considerations: Select sites with adequate room for both camping equipment and horse containment systems. "There are some great spots that can be reached by most trailers/vans/cars," mentions Luke L. from Salt Valley Dispersed Camping.
Access to easier riding routes: For families with younger riders, choose areas with gentler terrain options. "Devils Garden Campground has a fun little trail connected to it. The grounds were crowded, but we felt like our site was really secluded and private," shares David S.
Safety awareness: Educate family members about potential hazards including flash flood risks in canyon areas. "Watch out for rain. The dry wash beds will flood and I'm lucky I left when I did," reports Ben M. from Black Dragon Pictograph Panel.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential wildlife interactions common to the area. "Coyotes and antelope all around!" notes Stavros M. about his Salt Valley experience.
Tips from RVers
Trailer positioning: Horse trailer owners should scout potential sites before committing to parking. "There are tons of spots to choose from. Trash must be packed out, a few portable bathrooms throughout if you need it," explains Alex P. about dispersed camping options outside Moab.
Size limitations: Larger horse trailers with living quarters face access challenges on certain roads. "NOT for bigger rigs! We knew better. Should not have been on that road in our fifth wheel. No turnarounds once we started on a steep, bumpy road with sharp turns. Broke a leaf spring," warns Kinnard from Salt Valley Dispersed Camping.
Surface conditions: Uneven or soft terrain can create difficulty for larger rigs. "Road was a bit bumpy, we got one of the first few spots with our 2wd camper van," reports Heidi K. about Cotter Mine Road, suggesting limiting how far you travel down rougher roads with horse trailers.
Traveler
