Looking for a place to camp near Encampment with your horse? Equestrian camping is the best way to experience nature. These scenic and easy-to-reach Wyoming campsites are perfect for your horse camping excursion.
The popular Big Creek Lakes Campground offers a peaceful, scenic setting in the heart of the Rocky Mountains of northern Colorado. The campground is located in Routt National Forest at an elevation of 9,000-ft., and is adjacent to Big Creek Lake, where fishing, boating and hiking are available.
This campground offers boating and fishing on Colorado's second largest natural lake, hiking in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness and ATV trails nearby. There are also ample opportunities for viewing wildlife, including moose. Fishing for trout, muskie, grayling and Kokanee salmon is available in the lake. Anglers also have access to a creek. Non-motorized boats are allowed on the upper section of the lake and motorized boats are permitted on the lower section.
Big Creek lies among Lodgepole pine and fir trees. Some previously forested areas of the campground have been thinned due to pests and now provide more sun. The campground offers beautiful views of the surrounding wilderness. The wetlands around the lake are prime moose territory. Black bear, bobcat, coyote, elk, mule deer and moose are just some of the many animals that inhabit these rich and diverse lands. The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, encompass nearly 3 million acres from central and northeastern Wyoming to north-central Colorado.
The closest town is Walden, Colorado, about 35 miles from the campsite. Many more outdoor recreation opportunities exist in the surrounding national forests and grasslands, including hiking, biking, camping, horseback riding, OHV riding, fishing, hunting, sightseeing and winter sports.
$20 / night
Battle Creek Dispersed Campsite is located in the Sierra Madre Range and is managed by the Brush Creek/Ranger District. There are no service or fees. Maximum stay is 16 days. This is a pack in, pack out site.
Walden Reservoir is a picturesque lake full of wildlife outside of Walden, Colorado. The Walden Reservoir is an easily accessible destination in a seldom seen portion of northern Colorado for birders, hunters, and those looking for a free, isolated place to rest.
Seedhouse Group Site provides a private setting for group gatherings of up to 100 guests. Located near the Elk River, just miles from Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Seedhouse is a retreat for fishing, hiking, biking, off highway vehicles, and horseback riding in the mountains of the Park Range. At an elevation of 8,000 feet, the area is set near the Mount Zirkel Wilderness, which provides for excellent backcountry hiking and camping. The facility provides eight primitive tent sites with campfire rings and picnic tables, as well as a large picnic shelter that can accommodate 20 guests. Water is available via a hand pump well system. Bear-proof food storage lockers and trash receptacles are provided for visitor safety. Campers can access the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail via a connector trail within a short drive from the campground.
The group campsite is a great central location for wilderness hiking and mountain biking, trout fishing in the nearby Elk River and picnicking amidst beautiful mountain scenery. Campers can access the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail via a connector trail within a short drive from the campground.
Seedhouse lies in the Rocky Mountains in the heart of the Routt National Forest near the Elk River. The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland encompass nearly three million acres from central and northeastern Wyoming to north-central Colorado. Black bear, bobcat, coyote, elk, mule deer and moose are just some of the many animals that inhabit these rich and diverse lands.
Visitors might also enjoy stopping by Steamboat Lake State Park, only a short drive from the campground. Many more outdoor opportunities exist in the surrounding national forests and grasslands, including hiking, biking, camping, horseback and off-road vehicle riding, fishing, hunting, sightseeing and winter sports.
$150 / night
Freeman Reservoir Campground has 18 campsites near Freeman Reservoir which is located at the picnic area and boat ramp, and is separate from the campground. Fishing is available on Freeman Reservoir but no motor-propelled water craft, including electric or internal combustion engines are permitted on Freeman Reservoir. Campground has a combination of pull-though and back-in sites, vault toilets, potable water and garbage services. Corrals and horse trailer parking are available at the campground. This area accesses several mountain bike, horse and hiking trails. No motorized trails are accessible from this campground. It is managed by the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District and is located in the California Park/Black Mountain area. For more information: Stop in or call the Ranger Station / Visitor Center located in Steamboat Springs 925 Weiss Drive Steamboat Springs, CO 970-870-2299
Dry Lake Trailhead is located off County Road 60 (Buffalo Pass Road) and is near the Dry Lake Campground. This trailhead provides access to both non-motorized and motorized trails. Access for dirt bikes and other recreational vehicles on Buffalo Pass Road. This is a very high-use year-round trailhead and a gateway to exploring the aspens, sub-alpine firs, and wildflowers of the mountains of the Park Range. A vault toilet is provided at the Trailhead. Dry Lake Trailhead is managed by the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District in Steamboat Springs. In the summer and shoulder seasons, there is access to multiple hiking trails which are also beginner through advanced mountain bike trails (Panorama, Fiddlehead, Flash of Gold, Spring Creek, Spring Roll, BTR, Soda, Buffalo Billy's, and several others) and single-track dirt-bike trails (Great White Buffalo and upper Flash of Gold). Continental Divide Trail heading south from the top of Buffalo Pass is open to ATC 50 or less. Heading north from the top of the pass users almost immediately enter Mount Zirkel Wilderness. In the winter, Dry Lake Trailhead is the primary access to the Buffalo Pass Winter Backcountry Permit Area. This area has special regulations to ensure the enjoyment of both non-motorized and motorized user. Winter users especially motorized users please pay attention to access regulations and information.
Dry Lake campground provides a great gateway for hiking and biking.
At an elevation of 8,277 feet, Dry lake lies in the Rocky Mountains in the heart of the Routt National Forest. The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland encompass nearly three million acres from central and northeastern Wyoming to north-central Colorado. Black bear, bobcat, coyote, elk, mule deer and moose are just some of the many animals that inhabit these rich and diverse lands.
For facility specific information, please call (970) 870-2299.
There are many attractions with Steamboat Springs only a short drive away. Many more outdoor opportunities exist in the surrounding national forests and grasslands, including hiking, biking, camping, horseback and off-road vehicle riding, fishing, hunting, sightseeing and winter sports.
$26 / night
Teal Lake Group Campground is set along a small yet scenic lake in north central Colorado in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Located in the Routt National Forest at an elevation of 9,000-ft., the lake is popular for trout fishing and lies close to a wilderness area with a variety of hiking and off-highway vehicle trails.
Trout fishing and boating are popular activities in the clear, calm waters of Teal Lake. Only electric boats and non-motorized boats are permitted. Off-road vehicle enthusiasts have easy access to the Grizzly-Helena Trail nearby. Hiking is great in the nearby Mount Zirkel wilderness, though hikers must drive to the trailheads.
Teal Lake is a 50-acre lake surrounded by a rocky shoreline and pine-fir forest. Some previously forested areas of the campground have been thinned due to pests and thus have more sun than others. Black bear, bobcat, coyote, elk, mule deer and moose are just some of the many animals that inhabit the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland. The area is generally snow-free from Memorial Day to Labor Day, but visitors should come prepared for anything, including freezing temperatures and snow during summer.
The closest town is Walden, Colorado. Many more outdoor opportunities exist in the nearly 3 million acres of surrounding national forests and grasslands, including hiking, biking, camping, horseback riding, OHV riding, fishing, hunting, sightseeing and winter sports.
$60 - $80 / night
Scout
We showed up at night and it was very quiet, no problem finding a spot to camp. However, during the day the gnats, bugs, and ants were everywhere. Literally crawled up our boots and bodies. Great place to over night, but terrible place to hang out during the day unless you have a bug net.
Scoutsimple, and easy place to get to… flat awesome sunset
Scout
We hit this place coming from the northern Colorado border with Wyoming on a Sunday night. I've grown up and camped in Colorado my whole life, this place was 10/10, and one of my favorite spots ever! With hiking, biking, and fishing, you could spend some time here!
Guide
This was our first stop on a week long road trip from Colorado Springs to the Oregon Coast and, honestly, we could have just hung out there and saved all the miles.
It was a such a beautiful area mid September. All the leaves were changing, it was cool and misty, the view was spectacular, yes it was rough as hell to get there, but totally worth it if you’ve got the rig for it.
My only note for the area was that there were a lot hunters walking through and around our camp, but everyone was polite and respectful.
TravelerJust to update this since the last review had it closed. The road leading up to the summit is back open, but it is ROUGH. I had just done Rock Creek's drive up to dispersed near Dillon and thought that was bad, but this was worse.
You will not be able to get anything low clearance or anything you're towing that does not have independent suspension + high clearance (I dropped my 18' TT at Walmart and went to scout - glad I did) While I was 1/4 up into the climb, a Sprinter Van was stopped at what is probably the worst portion of the road. If you can make it past that first choke point, you'll pass a park then walk-in camp site on the left and then shortly after another camp spot on the right that is more van friendly. Both are not good for trailers. It is after those two sites the road goes from bad to worse.
If you have a Camper on a F350 or high clearance + tent, it has some of the best views I've seen at a park spot. It's worth the drive up there for pictures if you're curious, but I would unhook anything you're carrying before doing so.
ScoutRoad closed right by buffalo Pass campground. No way of getting through to spots and no sign of when the road will open
ScoutThe forest road was a bit washed out in some places and required decent clearance but outside of a few big bumps the road was a fun ride! Campsites were many but pretty full upon my late arrival. Would recommend daylight arrival if possible as many spots didn’t appear obvious in the night!
TravelerThe drive up Buffalo Pass is tricky, and definitely requires clearance the further up you go. We found an amazing spot over Labor Day weekend with wildflowers and great views. The spot was at a bit of an angle. The rain paid off with incredible rainbows!
RangerYes, the road is rough, especially the higher up you go - take your time and have an appropriate vehicle. But it's worth it. So many options - spots with overlooks, tree-covered spots, open field spots. Something for everyone. It was hard to pick! I pulled off and found a place behind some rocks with nice grass and a fire ring, and several more grass/fire rings, but pitched my tent on some rocks. It was stunning. Didn't hear a single person or noise. I wish I had had more time. I will be back!!
TravelerAmazing views but lacks tree coverage. Tons of ants but I nothin bit me. Smells like sage and fresh air. Quiet as can be. Relatively flat land.
Scoutrough road up, in a sprinter 4x4, not a lot of great options. seems better for tent camping. did see one or two RVs up, shocked they made it.
ScoutThis was an awesome little diamond in the rough! We had a blast and it was absolutely beautiful. Totally worth the drive to find this place!!!! Camping spots were kind of close but it wasn't at all packed and what a beautiful little lake!! Lots of trees and a bunch of wild flowers. It was just a great family place!! The lady running the campground was super friendly and helpful. We would absolutely stay there again!!
RangerThe entrance GPS took us was super rocky but a Lexus RX350 got through it super quiet and remote spot. The back way out was a lot smoother and easily accessible by RV or travel trailer.
Traveler
The area is beautiful, we had the greatest time hiking and fishing. There were many other campers, everyone was mostly respectful. Spot 23 is where we stayed and the pull through drive way is on a wicked hill. Made it tricky getting the camper level. I was surprised to see so much litter down at the lake. Lots of cigarette butts at the day use areas. Really sad to see in such a perfect example of nature.
ScoutBetter for campers/cans as there isn’t much privacy for tent campers. Not enough trees for bathrooms so you may want to bring a hide-able set up. SO many mosquitoes and biting ants but the sunsets are gorgeous and make it worth it. Sites aren’t really marked/but are right next to the reservoir. No fires/water pumps.
TravelerRoad is rough but very doable if you go slow. 2wd might struggle in couple sections. It took me 40 min from town until my spot, where it gets flat, but there’s several other spots along the road. Awesome views! Lots of loud dirt bikes. Lots of mosquitoes. BRING SPRAY AND CITRONELA.
TravelerI wanted to do a quick getaway out to Steamboat Springs and this fit the bill. The road is rough, but there are a bunch of dispersed campsites along the roads. I went on July 4-5 and it was pretty busy, but the sites are far enough away that I didn’t hear/see my neighbors. Fire pits are provided at each site. My dog and I hiked just a bit up a trail connected to our site and had gorgeous sunset views of the mountains. If I’m ever out that way again, I’ll definitely be staying here.
TravelerWe took our 3/4-ton diesel truck with a heavy slidein, let’s just say it’s bumpy.
There are plenty of spots, trails and trees, but we won’t be leaving camp while here (even with the camper off) to drive that road more than necessary.
Cell service was great though and we were able to work remotely throughout the week here.
Scout
Definitely a great place to visit. Everything has been provided.
Ranger
This campsite is a dream. The lake is incredible and the panoramic view is out of this world. I was fortunate to drive in right around sunset and the whole valley was lit with a glorious red light. Some campsites are right on the water and others are near the road but all have beautiful views.
TravelerWe went up in Mid-sept with our dogs to photograph fall color change and were not disappointed. There is a short trail around the reservoir and we even got pictures of a couple beavers. The campground itself is decent and I've never seen it crowded. Road is impassable in winter.
GuideGood camping right close to the road. Secluded and private with beautiful views. Currently a stage 2 fire ban so no campfires allowed.
TravelerThis spot is extremely private and very rugged to access do not attempt after a rain as its impossible to pass then...
GuideDrove a long ways to find out the gate isn’t open like prior post of members and will not open until June 15 on the steamboat side as posted at gate. We drove to the east side from Walden to find out you can’t even make it to the gate as the road has way too much snow cover yet even with a 4 wheel drive . That side isn’t expected to open until mid July . But plenty of camping on the east side leading up to the pass .
RangerGreat free spot if you’re looking for somewhere not too far from the town. Awesome bike trails not very far. No bathroom or water it is dispersed. Not too hard of a road to get up either got up in a RWD Tacoma no problem.
ScoutBuff pass gate is open and you can mob over it if you have high clearance, 4wd, and definitely winter tires. It gets sketchy at some points, but you have your pick of camp sites.
RangerHeading north out of Steamboat towards Strawberry Park, you can peel off on to 38 and start heading up. Lots of opportunities to find a spot far from everyone else. It takes quite a bit of time to get to town or Strawberry Park, so the lower you are the better for that. At the top of Buffalo Pass are a number of good little lakes. They were quite buggy when I was there. Good hiking and mountain biking throughout the forest. A few motorcycles to watch for.
The road up got rough and really did a number on my top mounted bike racks. I wouldn't take anything more than a teardrop or Airstream Basecamp up.
Leave no trace.
Horse camping in Wyoming offers a unique experience for equestrian enthusiasts, combining stunning landscapes with ample opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Encampment, WY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Encampment, WY is Medicine Bow with a 4.3-star rating from 3 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Encampment, WY?
TheDyrt.com has all 9 equestrian camping locations near Encampment, WY, with real photos and reviews from campers.
