RV camping in Colorado with horseback riding

Enjoy year-round recreation and a wild diversity of landscapes in this colorful state.

93% (6226 reviews)

United States
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Colorado

93% (6226 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Colorado

Star Hosts in Colorado

Rustic Creek Ranch

32 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · Bailey, CO

The 160 acre ranch was homesteaded by my grandfather over 100 years ago. He was an engineer. The plan was to use this property as summer grazing for his cattle. The cattle were wintered at the other ranch about 10 miles away, which was homesteaded by my great grandfather. Because my grandfather could survey, he made sure the property lines zigzaged up the valley so the small creek was in the middle to provide water for the animals. He chose well. It is a beautiful, quiet place with elk, deer and wild turkeys. There are tons of wild flowers in the summer. Columbines, the Colorado state flower, wild roses, paintbrushes and lots of wild chokecherries. With nice views of nearby mountains, open pastures, evergreen forests and aspen groves, it looks like it did 100 years ago. Plus, there are a couple of ponds for your dogs to cool off in. Since the first cattle, the ranch has also been home to goats, chickens, horses, and now alpacas and llamas. And of course the Great Pyrenees ranch dogs. I had a house built a few years ago and live on the property full time. The ranch is surrounded by Pike National Forest with the Colorado Trail connecting the property in a number of places. Some of the highest ranked mountain bike trails are nearby. There are lots of places on and off the property to hike, mountain bike and ride your horse. On a clear night you can see thousands of stars and hear coyotes howl. For a drone video of the ranch check out: YouTube's Midsummer 2020 Flyover. Elevation 8,000 feet, Average Summer Temperatures: Days 60-80 f, Nights 45-60 f, Sunshine Average 73-80%, Colorado Trail Segment 3, USGS Maps: Windy Peak & Green Mountain quadrangles. This is the official info. Basically, the weather is usually similar to the Denver area - just 10 degrees cooler. About 8 miles away is the small town of Bailey. It has just about everything you might need: small grocery store, coffee shops, gas, laundry, art gallery, a dollar store, hardware store, camping and sports equipment, brew pub, winery, a few restaurants, potable water station and more.

High Peaks Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO

Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the highest Alpine Valley in the world! This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. You can also see the San Juan mountain range to the east in the distance. San Juans are part of the NW rim of the Continental Divide. Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, Meteor showers!!! Previously known as High Desert Ranch Campground, this land was originally part of a large ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years. In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing! My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all! You will be surrounded by ranch land and state land with Wildlife Refuge just two miles away. Accommodations for those with livestock, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message. Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes. We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!

Creekside Chalets

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Salida, CO

Welcome to Creekside Chalets Escape from the stresses of everyday life with a rejuvenating mountain vacation. Here you can revel in the beauty of the mountains, relax to the sounds of the river, and experience an unforgettable trip. Our cozy and charming cabins & campsites offer stunning views, wonderful amenities, and an unbeatable location. Nestled among picturesque peaks, there is no shortage of lovely sights when you stay in our campsites & cabins. Every season is equally lovely. From snow-capped peaks in the winter to bright gold aspen leaves in the fall, you’ll never be left wanting when it comes to picture-perfect surroundings. We are just minutes from Monarch Mountain, which boasts 800 ski-able acres and an annual average snowfall of over 350 inches. Just a short drive east of our cabins is Salida, Colorado known as the ‘Gem of the Rockies’. This small but vibrant town offers a number of restaurants and shops as well as festivals and events throughout the year. New for 2023 Creekside Chalets has added 3 Creekside Camping spots all with access to the North Fork of the South Arkansas creek that flows through the property. The sites are located in an aspen grove along the creek with a picnic table provided and room to park one vehicle up to 20 feet long and space for a tent. 30 amp power is provided to each site, a porta-potty within 250 feet and water from a camp spigot. The campsites are pet friendly, $30 per pet per stay, max 2 pets.

Resort Vallley Ranch

7 sites · RVs, Tents3600 acres · Conifer, CO

Historic Ranch Resort Valley Ranch was homesteaded mainly by the Corbin family starting.in 1884 They had moved their cattle here from nearby Pleasent Park during a particularly hard winter, as a "last resort", leading to the creeks being named Last Resort and West Resort. Hard times in the 1930's and drought conditions, convinced the Corbin's to sell out and move to lusher climes. Tom’s father, Dr. O.J. Butterfield was another doctor that invested his spare money in cattle ranching. Purchased mainly before. 1945, Tom's older brother Rupert tried to make a living raising trout on the Resort Creek property in the late '40's. Otherwise, the place was occupied by various old-timers who caretook the place until 1955, when Barbara and Tom moved here to oversee the cattle business. The second slope of the driveway frequently had to be dug out by hand for access. The years of drought had left the place overgrazed and barren. Times were hard, and the horses needed to work the cattle ate plenty. The opportunity arose to lease them out in nearby Foxton--Foxton Stables was born. An old livery and other outbuildings provided the facilities needed. Mutual benefit was derived from the business as customers to the general store also would take advantage of the riding horses just across the bridge. Workers and helpers came from off-duty air force boys, as well as volunteer children from the local summer cabins. Guided rides were offered, as well as moonlight rides when appropriate and by appointment. There were also "Chuck Wagon" cookouts which included a horse-drawn hay ride to and from. Tom and Barbara also put on a Trail Horse Trials which was an annual competition over obstacles, judged, set up to simulate obstacles a horse might encounter while out riding. This became more widely attended the second year, coming to the notice of horse breeders like Mary Woolverton, who competed in it for the first time in 1963. (That's when Nan first fell in love with Prince of Pride, a golden palomino Morgan stallion who always looked like the perfect horse showing how to do it perfectly.) 1963 is the last year this event, and the stable business, was held in Foxton. From then on, the stable was run from the barn at the ranch, and the Trail Horse Trials was not put on again until 1966, when it was sponsored by the 4-H Trail Dusters and put on in conjunction with the first annual Top of the World Competitive Trail ride which was head-quartered on the west end of the property. As the stable became busier, more horses were purchased or leased to meet the need. Many of these horse were grade individuals from known breeds. The better mares did double duty by raising foals each year, that would be sold or auctioned off. Some of the mares were bred to our Shetland pony stallion, Tarzan, he was called a chocolate-dapple. Several years we had Appaloosa offspring from a friend's stallion. For a short time, a Moroccan Paint stallion was used, but he tended to throw the lethal white gene, as well as breaking Tom Butterfield's knee with his bad behavior. He soon found his way back to auction! A couple of the leased mares were Morgans. They proved to be easy to work with as well as hardy individuals that kept well, and the foals proved easier to halter break than the other horses. They made a good enough impression that a young gelding was purchased, and one nice mare was bred to the Morgan stallion Julio--descended from Juzan. The resulting colt, Julian, was kept as stallion until age eight, before being gelded and living out his years as a family favorite. Julian did a lovely running walk. Unfortunately, none of his offspring were kept, including the two from the half Shetland mares kept for the family. It may seem that the cattle operation got dropped by the wayside. In actuality, that's not far from the truth. The fact that the registered Herefords purchased by Tom and Barbara, turned out to carry dwarf genes, which soon became apparent each calving season. This rather limited the value and productivity of the herd. Financial concerns brought on by Dr. Butterfield's death in 1967, subsequently led to the dispersal of the cattle herd. It was fortunate that the Stable had become established enough to become one of the mainstays of the family fortunes. Diversification was always a necessity. Horses were leased to the Forest Service when they needed them. The entire string would be utilized for company picnics, with the horses being brought to the site. Churches were sent flyers promoting group rides and hayrides. Boy Scout troops were welcomed to camp, ride and work on both Horsemanship and Conservation Merit Badges--which benefited in valuable erosion control work. Many times, ranch hands were obtained from these sources, both for fencing and Christmas tree cutting. There were many winters that the place carried over a hundred head of horses, as several camps in the area would winter their horses here. Dad would haul them back and forth, pull their shoes, etc. Our pinto line originated with Barbara's mare Calico, a pinto mare of unknown breeding, though Tennessee Walker was suspected due to her gaits. Having been diagnosed with Navicular disease, she was bred to the Shetland, Tarzan, a chocolate-dapple--producing the mare Feather (Nan's pony). This line has been bred only to Morgans since '66, when Feather was bred to General James, producing the mare Calico Doll, granddam to our stallion RV Eagle Feather. Doll was only 14.2, but she had heart, stamina and intelligence. Having learned much at the knee of the Shetland, Feather, Nan began training Doll in 1970. This mare was just four years old when she took the High Point Champion in the '71 Trail Horse Trials, over some tough competition, including Mary Woolverton's Prince of Pride. She could side-pass, two track, drag a log, pull a cart without blinders, open gates, work livestock and run all day. She also would gait occasionally, a trait that skipped a generation. Calico Doll was bred to Prince of Pride five different times, prior to his death in 1973(?). She would get in foal but never carried to term. Nan did some riding for Mary in exchange for these breedings, working Victory Vagabond. Finally the arrangement was settled by getting Calico Doll in foal to her stallion, Great Hills Richmond. Calico Doll's brown colt from this cross was sold on to the Tumbling River Ranch for cattle work. In the 1970's, a local breeder came to our attention with her stallion, Topside Midnight, when she competed him in the Top of the World Competitive Trail Ride. The crossing of Calico Doll with Midnight produced the black 3/4 Morgan stallion, Jaspar, in 1974. He was used for breeding four or five years, overlapping the transition to pureblooded Morgans in 1977. I always thought it unfortunate that he wasn't pure-blooded as he had wonderful manners, was very solid and typey and a generous sire. We sold his offspring until 1985 and still have a great-granddaughter. He was gelded in '81, and sold in '82. A few of the solid colored part-bloods come down from this line of the family. One of his daughters has competed as a grade horse in Competitive Trail riding for the past ten years. Three major land sales were required for operating expenses during the late '60's and early '70's. The Indian Park Ranch was decreased to 280 acres, Resort Valley Ranch decreased from 5,000 acres to its present 4,000. The Camp Fire Girls purchased the property adjacent to the driveway, leading to their utilizing horses from our string for their horse program. As the Camp increased its horse program, the public stables was gradually phased out. This freed up the Butterfield's lifestyle enough for them to focus on starting raising the pure-blooded Morgans, beginning with their purchase of SH Crescent in 1976.

Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents35 acres · Hotchkiss, CO

The House where we live is the corner stone of the Bruce Property and is on the Colorado Register of Historic Houses.The residence was constructed between 1905 and 1912, using red bricks made on the site. John and Sophia Bruce, early pioneers in the North Fork Valley, were first involved in cattle raising. The family later became successful fruit growers. Located along the West Elk Loop, a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway, the large two-story residence features a steeply pitched hipped roof with prominent attic dormers.As a guest of Riverwalk you will have full access to the river during your stay. In addition, there is the Riverwalk Trail System that skirts the North Fork of the Gunnison River from the top of the property, by the Riverwalk Yurt, (available on this site) meandering downstream past the Riverwalk TIPI (available on the site) passing the Grove Yurt (available on this site) and terminating at the bottom of the property with the sandy Riverwalk Beach. There is a trial that zigs through the Cottonwood Grove and zags back along the gentle Monitor Ditch skirting a newly planted grove of young trees.For RV Campers we provide 2- 30amp,1-50 amp and 1- 110-amp electrical services and potable water. There is a dump station available. There is also access to our heated shower house with running water and bathroom amenities (<3 min. walk, may be shared with other guests). The property is perfectly geared to groups of friends gathering in a central location between the onset of the Rockies and the termination high desert to the west. Friends or family will reserve both Yurts and the RV Site for a perfect reunion setting!

Dog-friendly getaways

Resort Vallley Ranch

7 sites · RVs, Tents3600 acres · Conifer, CO

Historic Ranch Resort Valley Ranch was homesteaded mainly by the Corbin family starting.in 1884 They had moved their cattle here from nearby Pleasent Park during a particularly hard winter, as a "last resort", leading to the creeks being named Last Resort and West Resort. Hard times in the 1930's and drought conditions, convinced the Corbin's to sell out and move to lusher climes. Tom’s father, Dr. O.J. Butterfield was another doctor that invested his spare money in cattle ranching. Purchased mainly before. 1945, Tom's older brother Rupert tried to make a living raising trout on the Resort Creek property in the late '40's. Otherwise, the place was occupied by various old-timers who caretook the place until 1955, when Barbara and Tom moved here to oversee the cattle business. The second slope of the driveway frequently had to be dug out by hand for access. The years of drought had left the place overgrazed and barren. Times were hard, and the horses needed to work the cattle ate plenty. The opportunity arose to lease them out in nearby Foxton--Foxton Stables was born. An old livery and other outbuildings provided the facilities needed. Mutual benefit was derived from the business as customers to the general store also would take advantage of the riding horses just across the bridge. Workers and helpers came from off-duty air force boys, as well as volunteer children from the local summer cabins. Guided rides were offered, as well as moonlight rides when appropriate and by appointment. There were also "Chuck Wagon" cookouts which included a horse-drawn hay ride to and from. Tom and Barbara also put on a Trail Horse Trials which was an annual competition over obstacles, judged, set up to simulate obstacles a horse might encounter while out riding. This became more widely attended the second year, coming to the notice of horse breeders like Mary Woolverton, who competed in it for the first time in 1963. (That's when Nan first fell in love with Prince of Pride, a golden palomino Morgan stallion who always looked like the perfect horse showing how to do it perfectly.) 1963 is the last year this event, and the stable business, was held in Foxton. From then on, the stable was run from the barn at the ranch, and the Trail Horse Trials was not put on again until 1966, when it was sponsored by the 4-H Trail Dusters and put on in conjunction with the first annual Top of the World Competitive Trail ride which was head-quartered on the west end of the property. As the stable became busier, more horses were purchased or leased to meet the need. Many of these horse were grade individuals from known breeds. The better mares did double duty by raising foals each year, that would be sold or auctioned off. Some of the mares were bred to our Shetland pony stallion, Tarzan, he was called a chocolate-dapple. Several years we had Appaloosa offspring from a friend's stallion. For a short time, a Moroccan Paint stallion was used, but he tended to throw the lethal white gene, as well as breaking Tom Butterfield's knee with his bad behavior. He soon found his way back to auction! A couple of the leased mares were Morgans. They proved to be easy to work with as well as hardy individuals that kept well, and the foals proved easier to halter break than the other horses. They made a good enough impression that a young gelding was purchased, and one nice mare was bred to the Morgan stallion Julio--descended from Juzan. The resulting colt, Julian, was kept as stallion until age eight, before being gelded and living out his years as a family favorite. Julian did a lovely running walk. Unfortunately, none of his offspring were kept, including the two from the half Shetland mares kept for the family. It may seem that the cattle operation got dropped by the wayside. In actuality, that's not far from the truth. The fact that the registered Herefords purchased by Tom and Barbara, turned out to carry dwarf genes, which soon became apparent each calving season. This rather limited the value and productivity of the herd. Financial concerns brought on by Dr. Butterfield's death in 1967, subsequently led to the dispersal of the cattle herd. It was fortunate that the Stable had become established enough to become one of the mainstays of the family fortunes. Diversification was always a necessity. Horses were leased to the Forest Service when they needed them. The entire string would be utilized for company picnics, with the horses being brought to the site. Churches were sent flyers promoting group rides and hayrides. Boy Scout troops were welcomed to camp, ride and work on both Horsemanship and Conservation Merit Badges--which benefited in valuable erosion control work. Many times, ranch hands were obtained from these sources, both for fencing and Christmas tree cutting. There were many winters that the place carried over a hundred head of horses, as several camps in the area would winter their horses here. Dad would haul them back and forth, pull their shoes, etc. Our pinto line originated with Barbara's mare Calico, a pinto mare of unknown breeding, though Tennessee Walker was suspected due to her gaits. Having been diagnosed with Navicular disease, she was bred to the Shetland, Tarzan, a chocolate-dapple--producing the mare Feather (Nan's pony). This line has been bred only to Morgans since '66, when Feather was bred to General James, producing the mare Calico Doll, granddam to our stallion RV Eagle Feather. Doll was only 14.2, but she had heart, stamina and intelligence. Having learned much at the knee of the Shetland, Feather, Nan began training Doll in 1970. This mare was just four years old when she took the High Point Champion in the '71 Trail Horse Trials, over some tough competition, including Mary Woolverton's Prince of Pride. She could side-pass, two track, drag a log, pull a cart without blinders, open gates, work livestock and run all day. She also would gait occasionally, a trait that skipped a generation. Calico Doll was bred to Prince of Pride five different times, prior to his death in 1973(?). She would get in foal but never carried to term. Nan did some riding for Mary in exchange for these breedings, working Victory Vagabond. Finally the arrangement was settled by getting Calico Doll in foal to her stallion, Great Hills Richmond. Calico Doll's brown colt from this cross was sold on to the Tumbling River Ranch for cattle work. In the 1970's, a local breeder came to our attention with her stallion, Topside Midnight, when she competed him in the Top of the World Competitive Trail Ride. The crossing of Calico Doll with Midnight produced the black 3/4 Morgan stallion, Jaspar, in 1974. He was used for breeding four or five years, overlapping the transition to pureblooded Morgans in 1977. I always thought it unfortunate that he wasn't pure-blooded as he had wonderful manners, was very solid and typey and a generous sire. We sold his offspring until 1985 and still have a great-granddaughter. He was gelded in '81, and sold in '82. A few of the solid colored part-bloods come down from this line of the family. One of his daughters has competed as a grade horse in Competitive Trail riding for the past ten years. Three major land sales were required for operating expenses during the late '60's and early '70's. The Indian Park Ranch was decreased to 280 acres, Resort Valley Ranch decreased from 5,000 acres to its present 4,000. The Camp Fire Girls purchased the property adjacent to the driveway, leading to their utilizing horses from our string for their horse program. As the Camp increased its horse program, the public stables was gradually phased out. This freed up the Butterfield's lifestyle enough for them to focus on starting raising the pure-blooded Morgans, beginning with their purchase of SH Crescent in 1976.

Little Scraggy Camp

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents95 acres · Pine, CO

Little Scraggy Camp is located on 95 acres of an historic 160-acre ranch that was homesteaded by our family in the 1890’s, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. This totally off-grid ranch is surrounded by Pike National Forest, yet has easy access from a paved road. We offer several accommodations and glamping sites, as well as sites for moderate sized RVs, travel trailers, tents, and hammocks. Additionally, we have sites for small groups (up to 14 people) and large groups (35-200 people). Potable drinking water is available from onsite 270-gallon water tanks. Portable toilets are only a short walk away from sites. Friendly dogs are welcome to enjoy your campsite off leash, but please clean up after your dog. If your pet has any aggressive tendencies, it must be leashed. Recently added is a 4 hole disc golf putting course for you to practice your shots or try your hand, with 4 sets of discs provided. We also have a cornhole toss game at both the glamping/rv camp area and tent/rv area. We are an ideal basecamp for the casual or dedicated trail enthusiast. The ranch itself has several trails and easy trail loops to explore within and just outside of the ranch’s fence lines, with direct access to the 9.5-mile Little Scraggy Trail and Segment #3 of the Colorado Trail. Just 3.5 miles away is the Little Scraggy Trailhead, where you will find easy access for biking, hiking, or horseback riding on the many other trails of the Buffalo Creek area. Additionally, we have an extensive network of hiking and horse trails that avoid conflicts with mountain bikers. You might prefer rock climbing Little Scraggy or fishing the gold-medal waters of the South Platte River canyon below Cheesman Dam and the waters near Deckers. For a day trip, Wellington Lake is only 30 minutes away for no-wake water sports. Many people enjoy kayaking on the North Fork of the South Platte downstream from nearby Buffalo Creek. This is a working ranch where we raise and train horses and ponies. Our particular interest is in carriage driving, and we offer driving experiences upon request. Our site called Mountain Horse Camp, provides 3 individual porta-panel horse corrals. There is limited cell service.

Creekside Chalets

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Salida, CO

Welcome to Creekside Chalets Escape from the stresses of everyday life with a rejuvenating mountain vacation. Here you can revel in the beauty of the mountains, relax to the sounds of the river, and experience an unforgettable trip. Our cozy and charming cabins & campsites offer stunning views, wonderful amenities, and an unbeatable location. Nestled among picturesque peaks, there is no shortage of lovely sights when you stay in our campsites & cabins. Every season is equally lovely. From snow-capped peaks in the winter to bright gold aspen leaves in the fall, you’ll never be left wanting when it comes to picture-perfect surroundings. We are just minutes from Monarch Mountain, which boasts 800 ski-able acres and an annual average snowfall of over 350 inches. Just a short drive east of our cabins is Salida, Colorado known as the ‘Gem of the Rockies’. This small but vibrant town offers a number of restaurants and shops as well as festivals and events throughout the year. New for 2023 Creekside Chalets has added 3 Creekside Camping spots all with access to the North Fork of the South Arkansas creek that flows through the property. The sites are located in an aspen grove along the creek with a picnic table provided and room to park one vehicle up to 20 feet long and space for a tent. 30 amp power is provided to each site, a porta-potty within 250 feet and water from a camp spigot. The campsites are pet friendly, $30 per pet per stay, max 2 pets.

High Peaks Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO

Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the highest Alpine Valley in the world! This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. You can also see the San Juan mountain range to the east in the distance. San Juans are part of the NW rim of the Continental Divide. Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, Meteor showers!!! Previously known as High Desert Ranch Campground, this land was originally part of a large ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years. In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing! My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all! You will be surrounded by ranch land and state land with Wildlife Refuge just two miles away. Accommodations for those with livestock, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message. Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes. We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!

Campe Diem!

54 sites · RVs, Tents72 acres · CO

Do you want a large, private, uniquely situated, pet friendly CampSpot™ to yourselves or family with a BATHHOUSE where it can be so quiet and some days there are stars for as deep as you can see? We have about 300 of those days and nights. Usually can stay longer on Sundays! We are 72 acres of piñon trees, some small animal life and crickets tucked against a mesa just a few minutes from town. Bring your shoe prints! We have sandboards! $15 per day! We are approximately a 35 minute beautiful drive from the National Sand Dunes around Mt. Blanca. (14'r). 5 minutes from the Mountain Home State Wildlife Park and reservoir where you can fish swim chill cookout etc. You can bike, hike, Swim, jet ski or fish at the newly stocked reservoir. Firewood must be purchased at the campsite. Pet friendly!

12 top RV sites in Colorado with horseback riding

High Peaks Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO

Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the highest Alpine Valley in the world! This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. You can also see the San Juan mountain range to the east in the distance. San Juans are part of the NW rim of the Continental Divide. Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, Meteor showers!!! Previously known as High Desert Ranch Campground, this land was originally part of a large ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years. In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing! My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all! You will be surrounded by ranch land and state land with Wildlife Refuge just two miles away. Accommodations for those with livestock, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message. Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes. We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!

Campe Diem!

54 sites · RVs, Tents72 acres · CO

Do you want a large, private, uniquely situated, pet friendly CampSpot™ to yourselves or family with a BATHHOUSE where it can be so quiet and some days there are stars for as deep as you can see? We have about 300 of those days and nights. Usually can stay longer on Sundays! We are 72 acres of piñon trees, some small animal life and crickets tucked against a mesa just a few minutes from town. Bring your shoe prints! We have sandboards! $15 per day! We are approximately a 35 minute beautiful drive from the National Sand Dunes around Mt. Blanca. (14'r). 5 minutes from the Mountain Home State Wildlife Park and reservoir where you can fish swim chill cookout etc. You can bike, hike, Swim, jet ski or fish at the newly stocked reservoir. Firewood must be purchased at the campsite. Pet friendly!

Resort Vallley Ranch

7 sites · RVs, Tents3600 acres · Conifer, CO

Historic Ranch Resort Valley Ranch was homesteaded mainly by the Corbin family starting.in 1884 They had moved their cattle here from nearby Pleasent Park during a particularly hard winter, as a "last resort", leading to the creeks being named Last Resort and West Resort. Hard times in the 1930's and drought conditions, convinced the Corbin's to sell out and move to lusher climes. Tom’s father, Dr. O.J. Butterfield was another doctor that invested his spare money in cattle ranching. Purchased mainly before. 1945, Tom's older brother Rupert tried to make a living raising trout on the Resort Creek property in the late '40's. Otherwise, the place was occupied by various old-timers who caretook the place until 1955, when Barbara and Tom moved here to oversee the cattle business. The second slope of the driveway frequently had to be dug out by hand for access. The years of drought had left the place overgrazed and barren. Times were hard, and the horses needed to work the cattle ate plenty. The opportunity arose to lease them out in nearby Foxton--Foxton Stables was born. An old livery and other outbuildings provided the facilities needed. Mutual benefit was derived from the business as customers to the general store also would take advantage of the riding horses just across the bridge. Workers and helpers came from off-duty air force boys, as well as volunteer children from the local summer cabins. Guided rides were offered, as well as moonlight rides when appropriate and by appointment. There were also "Chuck Wagon" cookouts which included a horse-drawn hay ride to and from. Tom and Barbara also put on a Trail Horse Trials which was an annual competition over obstacles, judged, set up to simulate obstacles a horse might encounter while out riding. This became more widely attended the second year, coming to the notice of horse breeders like Mary Woolverton, who competed in it for the first time in 1963. (That's when Nan first fell in love with Prince of Pride, a golden palomino Morgan stallion who always looked like the perfect horse showing how to do it perfectly.) 1963 is the last year this event, and the stable business, was held in Foxton. From then on, the stable was run from the barn at the ranch, and the Trail Horse Trials was not put on again until 1966, when it was sponsored by the 4-H Trail Dusters and put on in conjunction with the first annual Top of the World Competitive Trail ride which was head-quartered on the west end of the property. As the stable became busier, more horses were purchased or leased to meet the need. Many of these horse were grade individuals from known breeds. The better mares did double duty by raising foals each year, that would be sold or auctioned off. Some of the mares were bred to our Shetland pony stallion, Tarzan, he was called a chocolate-dapple. Several years we had Appaloosa offspring from a friend's stallion. For a short time, a Moroccan Paint stallion was used, but he tended to throw the lethal white gene, as well as breaking Tom Butterfield's knee with his bad behavior. He soon found his way back to auction! A couple of the leased mares were Morgans. They proved to be easy to work with as well as hardy individuals that kept well, and the foals proved easier to halter break than the other horses. They made a good enough impression that a young gelding was purchased, and one nice mare was bred to the Morgan stallion Julio--descended from Juzan. The resulting colt, Julian, was kept as stallion until age eight, before being gelded and living out his years as a family favorite. Julian did a lovely running walk. Unfortunately, none of his offspring were kept, including the two from the half Shetland mares kept for the family. It may seem that the cattle operation got dropped by the wayside. In actuality, that's not far from the truth. The fact that the registered Herefords purchased by Tom and Barbara, turned out to carry dwarf genes, which soon became apparent each calving season. This rather limited the value and productivity of the herd. Financial concerns brought on by Dr. Butterfield's death in 1967, subsequently led to the dispersal of the cattle herd. It was fortunate that the Stable had become established enough to become one of the mainstays of the family fortunes. Diversification was always a necessity. Horses were leased to the Forest Service when they needed them. The entire string would be utilized for company picnics, with the horses being brought to the site. Churches were sent flyers promoting group rides and hayrides. Boy Scout troops were welcomed to camp, ride and work on both Horsemanship and Conservation Merit Badges--which benefited in valuable erosion control work. Many times, ranch hands were obtained from these sources, both for fencing and Christmas tree cutting. There were many winters that the place carried over a hundred head of horses, as several camps in the area would winter their horses here. Dad would haul them back and forth, pull their shoes, etc. Our pinto line originated with Barbara's mare Calico, a pinto mare of unknown breeding, though Tennessee Walker was suspected due to her gaits. Having been diagnosed with Navicular disease, she was bred to the Shetland, Tarzan, a chocolate-dapple--producing the mare Feather (Nan's pony). This line has been bred only to Morgans since '66, when Feather was bred to General James, producing the mare Calico Doll, granddam to our stallion RV Eagle Feather. Doll was only 14.2, but she had heart, stamina and intelligence. Having learned much at the knee of the Shetland, Feather, Nan began training Doll in 1970. This mare was just four years old when she took the High Point Champion in the '71 Trail Horse Trials, over some tough competition, including Mary Woolverton's Prince of Pride. She could side-pass, two track, drag a log, pull a cart without blinders, open gates, work livestock and run all day. She also would gait occasionally, a trait that skipped a generation. Calico Doll was bred to Prince of Pride five different times, prior to his death in 1973(?). She would get in foal but never carried to term. Nan did some riding for Mary in exchange for these breedings, working Victory Vagabond. Finally the arrangement was settled by getting Calico Doll in foal to her stallion, Great Hills Richmond. Calico Doll's brown colt from this cross was sold on to the Tumbling River Ranch for cattle work. In the 1970's, a local breeder came to our attention with her stallion, Topside Midnight, when she competed him in the Top of the World Competitive Trail Ride. The crossing of Calico Doll with Midnight produced the black 3/4 Morgan stallion, Jaspar, in 1974. He was used for breeding four or five years, overlapping the transition to pureblooded Morgans in 1977. I always thought it unfortunate that he wasn't pure-blooded as he had wonderful manners, was very solid and typey and a generous sire. We sold his offspring until 1985 and still have a great-granddaughter. He was gelded in '81, and sold in '82. A few of the solid colored part-bloods come down from this line of the family. One of his daughters has competed as a grade horse in Competitive Trail riding for the past ten years. Three major land sales were required for operating expenses during the late '60's and early '70's. The Indian Park Ranch was decreased to 280 acres, Resort Valley Ranch decreased from 5,000 acres to its present 4,000. The Camp Fire Girls purchased the property adjacent to the driveway, leading to their utilizing horses from our string for their horse program. As the Camp increased its horse program, the public stables was gradually phased out. This freed up the Butterfield's lifestyle enough for them to focus on starting raising the pure-blooded Morgans, beginning with their purchase of SH Crescent in 1976.

Little Scraggy Camp

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents95 acres · Pine, CO

Little Scraggy Camp is located on 95 acres of an historic 160-acre ranch that was homesteaded by our family in the 1890’s, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. This totally off-grid ranch is surrounded by Pike National Forest, yet has easy access from a paved road. We offer several accommodations and glamping sites, as well as sites for moderate sized RVs, travel trailers, tents, and hammocks. Additionally, we have sites for small groups (up to 14 people) and large groups (35-200 people). Potable drinking water is available from onsite 270-gallon water tanks. Portable toilets are only a short walk away from sites. Friendly dogs are welcome to enjoy your campsite off leash, but please clean up after your dog. If your pet has any aggressive tendencies, it must be leashed. Recently added is a 4 hole disc golf putting course for you to practice your shots or try your hand, with 4 sets of discs provided. We also have a cornhole toss game at both the glamping/rv camp area and tent/rv area. We are an ideal basecamp for the casual or dedicated trail enthusiast. The ranch itself has several trails and easy trail loops to explore within and just outside of the ranch’s fence lines, with direct access to the 9.5-mile Little Scraggy Trail and Segment #3 of the Colorado Trail. Just 3.5 miles away is the Little Scraggy Trailhead, where you will find easy access for biking, hiking, or horseback riding on the many other trails of the Buffalo Creek area. Additionally, we have an extensive network of hiking and horse trails that avoid conflicts with mountain bikers. You might prefer rock climbing Little Scraggy or fishing the gold-medal waters of the South Platte River canyon below Cheesman Dam and the waters near Deckers. For a day trip, Wellington Lake is only 30 minutes away for no-wake water sports. Many people enjoy kayaking on the North Fork of the South Platte downstream from nearby Buffalo Creek. This is a working ranch where we raise and train horses and ponies. Our particular interest is in carriage driving, and we offer driving experiences upon request. Our site called Mountain Horse Camp, provides 3 individual porta-panel horse corrals. There is limited cell service.

Creekside Chalets

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Salida, CO

Welcome to Creekside Chalets Escape from the stresses of everyday life with a rejuvenating mountain vacation. Here you can revel in the beauty of the mountains, relax to the sounds of the river, and experience an unforgettable trip. Our cozy and charming cabins & campsites offer stunning views, wonderful amenities, and an unbeatable location. Nestled among picturesque peaks, there is no shortage of lovely sights when you stay in our campsites & cabins. Every season is equally lovely. From snow-capped peaks in the winter to bright gold aspen leaves in the fall, you’ll never be left wanting when it comes to picture-perfect surroundings. We are just minutes from Monarch Mountain, which boasts 800 ski-able acres and an annual average snowfall of over 350 inches. Just a short drive east of our cabins is Salida, Colorado known as the ‘Gem of the Rockies’. This small but vibrant town offers a number of restaurants and shops as well as festivals and events throughout the year. New for 2023 Creekside Chalets has added 3 Creekside Camping spots all with access to the North Fork of the South Arkansas creek that flows through the property. The sites are located in an aspen grove along the creek with a picnic table provided and room to park one vehicle up to 20 feet long and space for a tent. 30 amp power is provided to each site, a porta-potty within 250 feet and water from a camp spigot. The campsites are pet friendly, $30 per pet per stay, max 2 pets.

Rustic Creek Ranch

32 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · Bailey, CO

The 160 acre ranch was homesteaded by my grandfather over 100 years ago. He was an engineer. The plan was to use this property as summer grazing for his cattle. The cattle were wintered at the other ranch about 10 miles away, which was homesteaded by my great grandfather. Because my grandfather could survey, he made sure the property lines zigzaged up the valley so the small creek was in the middle to provide water for the animals. He chose well. It is a beautiful, quiet place with elk, deer and wild turkeys. There are tons of wild flowers in the summer. Columbines, the Colorado state flower, wild roses, paintbrushes and lots of wild chokecherries. With nice views of nearby mountains, open pastures, evergreen forests and aspen groves, it looks like it did 100 years ago. Plus, there are a couple of ponds for your dogs to cool off in. Since the first cattle, the ranch has also been home to goats, chickens, horses, and now alpacas and llamas. And of course the Great Pyrenees ranch dogs. I had a house built a few years ago and live on the property full time. The ranch is surrounded by Pike National Forest with the Colorado Trail connecting the property in a number of places. Some of the highest ranked mountain bike trails are nearby. There are lots of places on and off the property to hike, mountain bike and ride your horse. On a clear night you can see thousands of stars and hear coyotes howl. For a drone video of the ranch check out: YouTube's Midsummer 2020 Flyover. Elevation 8,000 feet, Average Summer Temperatures: Days 60-80 f, Nights 45-60 f, Sunshine Average 73-80%, Colorado Trail Segment 3, USGS Maps: Windy Peak & Green Mountain quadrangles. This is the official info. Basically, the weather is usually similar to the Denver area - just 10 degrees cooler. About 8 miles away is the small town of Bailey. It has just about everything you might need: small grocery store, coffee shops, gas, laundry, art gallery, a dollar store, hardware store, camping and sports equipment, brew pub, winery, a few restaurants, potable water station and more.

Armstrong Highlands

8 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Woodland Park, CO

Nestled at a breathtaking elevation of 8500 ft above sea level, just a stone's throw away from the picturesque town of Woodland Park, CO, our property offers unparalleled views of majestic Pikes Peak. Situated on 10 sprawling acres along Hwy 67, our charming retreat boasts rolling pastures, serene Aspen groves, and enchanting pine forests. With easy access to local amenities and activities, guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding landscape while enjoying the convenience of nearby attractions. Whether you're traveling with an RV, pitching a tent, or seeking a unique accommodation experience, we have ample space to accommodate your needs. As dedicated pet lovers ourselves, we welcome furry companions of all kinds, including horses, dogs, and cats. Our pet-friendly facilities, complete with stables and kennels, ensure that every member of your family can enjoy a comfortable stay. We kindly ask that all pets be well-socialized and under control during their visit, and we appreciate responsible pet ownership, including the proper disposal of pet waste. For those with special requests or specific accommodation needs, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. As flexible hosts, we are committed to ensuring that your stay with us is tailored to your preferences and requirements. Experience the beauty of Woodland Park and Pikes Peak from our idyllic retreat, where nature's wonders await at every turn. Join us for a memorable stay filled with tranquility, adventure, and the warm hospitality that defines our property. PLEASE NOTE: We are at 8,500

Rabbit Hole Ranch

102 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Alamosa East, CO

The Rabbit Hole Ranch offers beautiful unobstructed views of the majestic Blanca Massif and the Great Sand Dunes and is just a (gorgeous) 35 minute drive from both to include Zapata Falls. The Great Sand Dunes National Park is a must-see, and I am grateful for the opportunity to offer you a place nearby to set up camp and go exploring. Alamosa, the largest town in the SLV, is just 20 minutes away. With a population of around 9,800 Alamosa has that small town feel and has the goods and services you will need. Camping here at the Rabbit Hole Ranch is primitive and dispersed (no numbered sites) and there 30 acres available for you to use. Typically, you will experience a rare kind of solitude and silence that feels…. other-worldly, with incredible sunrises and sunsets filling the enormous skies. On holidays, however, expect it to be busy. Our two Great Pyrenees are here to help keep you and your pets (and our chickens) safe. Please help make their jobs easier by not leaving any food or trash in or around tents. Please keep your pets on leash or under control until you’re comfortably certain they get along with all four of our dogs. This year we have a new Great Pyrenees to greet you, his name is TheoVon and he is huge! Returning this season is KayLee also a GP and and Finn, who is a little Benji lookin rescue from Alaska who just LOVES everybody. And then we have our latest addition, Kya, Shes a rescue as well and spent way too much time in an apartment before coming to stay with us, This will be her first season with us and she is 1 1/2 years old. A more energetic dog than what were used to around here but so far so good! Hopefully you happy campers can help us socialize the new dogs! Quiet time begins at 10:00 pm. Note: Holidays still offer the excellent location and spectacular views, but are likely to be less quiet and far more busy. We do not strictly enforce quiet time during holidays.

Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents35 acres · Hotchkiss, CO

The House where we live is the corner stone of the Bruce Property and is on the Colorado Register of Historic Houses.The residence was constructed between 1905 and 1912, using red bricks made on the site. John and Sophia Bruce, early pioneers in the North Fork Valley, were first involved in cattle raising. The family later became successful fruit growers. Located along the West Elk Loop, a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway, the large two-story residence features a steeply pitched hipped roof with prominent attic dormers.As a guest of Riverwalk you will have full access to the river during your stay. In addition, there is the Riverwalk Trail System that skirts the North Fork of the Gunnison River from the top of the property, by the Riverwalk Yurt, (available on this site) meandering downstream past the Riverwalk TIPI (available on the site) passing the Grove Yurt (available on this site) and terminating at the bottom of the property with the sandy Riverwalk Beach. There is a trial that zigs through the Cottonwood Grove and zags back along the gentle Monitor Ditch skirting a newly planted grove of young trees.For RV Campers we provide 2- 30amp,1-50 amp and 1- 110-amp electrical services and potable water. There is a dump station available. There is also access to our heated shower house with running water and bathroom amenities (<3 min. walk, may be shared with other guests). The property is perfectly geared to groups of friends gathering in a central location between the onset of the Rockies and the termination high desert to the west. Friends or family will reserve both Yurts and the RV Site for a perfect reunion setting!

Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

7 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Clifton, CO

We moved here in 1997 The home has had major remodels done on it. The lake is an old gravel pit to make road base for local road construction. The buoys in the lake are scuba projects from the local college CMU, and hold lots of fish. Other nesting platforms are for our local Geese and they hatch out in April-June. We airbnb 2 rooms in our home as a shared facility and have airbnbs in Northern Ca and Baja. Our home is off limits for campers as we need to respect the space for our other airbnb guests. But in an emergence please call, cell service works fine. port-a potty is gone for the winter November-April. port-a potty is clean and works great, May- Oct. If you here in the winter you may use the trees or Mavericks gas station in 1.5 miles away.

Twin Bridges Campground

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Coaldale, CO

Camp alongside the Arkansas River (considered Gold Medal for the quality of trout per acre) with white water rafting May-Labor Day. We accommodate tents, vans, or RV's or we can provide an RV or tent. Restrooms and showers are easily accessible. We also have camping by the pond with easy access to the river. We offer bank fishing, fly fishing lessons, and guided fishing on the property or will arrange guided tours for fishing the Arkansas River, white water rafting, horseback riding, or having a zipline adventure. When fishing from the bank, no lures or or treble hooks and catch and release only. Pictures welcome! There are several Colorado mountains (fourteeners) to hike/climb in the vicinity. We have 4 acres on the waters of the Arkansas River. Our pond will be accessible next year. We will create the adventure you deserve - from guided fishing, fly fishing lessons, (children and adults) or fishing from the bank. Zipline, jeep, and horseback tours are not far from the campground. We can recommend several white water rafting companies based on your specific needs.

Bright Star Campground

33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Cortez, CO

We have COMPLIMENTARY Wifi, Drinking Water, Ice, Hot Showers, Bathrooms, Shade, and an equipped Camper's Kitchen for our guests to enjoy from April 15 - Oct 15! There are TIPIS, CAMPING CABINS, TENT and BOONDOCK SITES. WE ALSO HAVE A NAVAJO HOGAN (wood yurt) OPEN-YEAR ROUND. All of our sites are not listed here. We can also accommodate groups and small events but not public events. We have a private covered group site as well. Bright Star Campground: Once used as a church camp, it is now a Campground for all to enjoy! We are a perfectly located vacation campground on 40 acres with amenities and wide-open spaces. Amenities include hot showers, an equipped community kitchen, a pavilion with hammocks, tables, ping pong, etc. Enjoy complimentary coffee, eggs, filtered drinking water and more. Bright Star Campground is located in the Great Sage Plain in the shadow of Mesa Verde National Park with panoramic mountain/mesa views of the Four Corners region, all only 5 miles southeast of Cortez. We are in an arid desert climate. Water is scarce, stored in cisterns for use in camp. Because of this we ask that you be conservative with water use in camp. We are a cannabis-friendly destination but ask that Cannabis use stay at your campsite, cabin or tipi. There are many things to do/see nearby: Mesa Verde National Park, Canyons of the Ancients, Hovenweep National Monument and Phil's World Mountain Biking. Raft down the Dolores river, maybe rent a SUP or kayak and chill on a quiet reservoir. There are museums and cultural centers in the area as well. Durango is 45 min, Telluride is 1.5 hrs away, and Moab is about 2.5 hours away-including Arches and Canyonlands National parks. The best/nearest airport is in Durango. Cortez has Denver Air (Key Lime Air) with connections to Denver and Phoenix. The nearest large international airport is in Salt Lake City or Albuquerque.

Under $50

Little Scraggy Camp

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents95 acres · Pine, CO

Little Scraggy Camp is located on 95 acres of an historic 160-acre ranch that was homesteaded by our family in the 1890’s, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. This totally off-grid ranch is surrounded by Pike National Forest, yet has easy access from a paved road. We offer several accommodations and glamping sites, as well as sites for moderate sized RVs, travel trailers, tents, and hammocks. Additionally, we have sites for small groups (up to 14 people) and large groups (35-200 people). Potable drinking water is available from onsite 270-gallon water tanks. Portable toilets are only a short walk away from sites. Friendly dogs are welcome to enjoy your campsite off leash, but please clean up after your dog. If your pet has any aggressive tendencies, it must be leashed. Recently added is a 4 hole disc golf putting course for you to practice your shots or try your hand, with 4 sets of discs provided. We also have a cornhole toss game at both the glamping/rv camp area and tent/rv area. We are an ideal basecamp for the casual or dedicated trail enthusiast. The ranch itself has several trails and easy trail loops to explore within and just outside of the ranch’s fence lines, with direct access to the 9.5-mile Little Scraggy Trail and Segment #3 of the Colorado Trail. Just 3.5 miles away is the Little Scraggy Trailhead, where you will find easy access for biking, hiking, or horseback riding on the many other trails of the Buffalo Creek area. Additionally, we have an extensive network of hiking and horse trails that avoid conflicts with mountain bikers. You might prefer rock climbing Little Scraggy or fishing the gold-medal waters of the South Platte River canyon below Cheesman Dam and the waters near Deckers. For a day trip, Wellington Lake is only 30 minutes away for no-wake water sports. Many people enjoy kayaking on the North Fork of the South Platte downstream from nearby Buffalo Creek. This is a working ranch where we raise and train horses and ponies. Our particular interest is in carriage driving, and we offer driving experiences upon request. Our site called Mountain Horse Camp, provides 3 individual porta-panel horse corrals. There is limited cell service.

Creekside Chalets

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Salida, CO

Welcome to Creekside Chalets Escape from the stresses of everyday life with a rejuvenating mountain vacation. Here you can revel in the beauty of the mountains, relax to the sounds of the river, and experience an unforgettable trip. Our cozy and charming cabins & campsites offer stunning views, wonderful amenities, and an unbeatable location. Nestled among picturesque peaks, there is no shortage of lovely sights when you stay in our campsites & cabins. Every season is equally lovely. From snow-capped peaks in the winter to bright gold aspen leaves in the fall, you’ll never be left wanting when it comes to picture-perfect surroundings. We are just minutes from Monarch Mountain, which boasts 800 ski-able acres and an annual average snowfall of over 350 inches. Just a short drive east of our cabins is Salida, Colorado known as the ‘Gem of the Rockies’. This small but vibrant town offers a number of restaurants and shops as well as festivals and events throughout the year. New for 2023 Creekside Chalets has added 3 Creekside Camping spots all with access to the North Fork of the South Arkansas creek that flows through the property. The sites are located in an aspen grove along the creek with a picnic table provided and room to park one vehicle up to 20 feet long and space for a tent. 30 amp power is provided to each site, a porta-potty within 250 feet and water from a camp spigot. The campsites are pet friendly, $30 per pet per stay, max 2 pets.

Resort Vallley Ranch

7 sites · RVs, Tents3600 acres · Conifer, CO

Historic Ranch Resort Valley Ranch was homesteaded mainly by the Corbin family starting.in 1884 They had moved their cattle here from nearby Pleasent Park during a particularly hard winter, as a "last resort", leading to the creeks being named Last Resort and West Resort. Hard times in the 1930's and drought conditions, convinced the Corbin's to sell out and move to lusher climes. Tom’s father, Dr. O.J. Butterfield was another doctor that invested his spare money in cattle ranching. Purchased mainly before. 1945, Tom's older brother Rupert tried to make a living raising trout on the Resort Creek property in the late '40's. Otherwise, the place was occupied by various old-timers who caretook the place until 1955, when Barbara and Tom moved here to oversee the cattle business. The second slope of the driveway frequently had to be dug out by hand for access. The years of drought had left the place overgrazed and barren. Times were hard, and the horses needed to work the cattle ate plenty. The opportunity arose to lease them out in nearby Foxton--Foxton Stables was born. An old livery and other outbuildings provided the facilities needed. Mutual benefit was derived from the business as customers to the general store also would take advantage of the riding horses just across the bridge. Workers and helpers came from off-duty air force boys, as well as volunteer children from the local summer cabins. Guided rides were offered, as well as moonlight rides when appropriate and by appointment. There were also "Chuck Wagon" cookouts which included a horse-drawn hay ride to and from. Tom and Barbara also put on a Trail Horse Trials which was an annual competition over obstacles, judged, set up to simulate obstacles a horse might encounter while out riding. This became more widely attended the second year, coming to the notice of horse breeders like Mary Woolverton, who competed in it for the first time in 1963. (That's when Nan first fell in love with Prince of Pride, a golden palomino Morgan stallion who always looked like the perfect horse showing how to do it perfectly.) 1963 is the last year this event, and the stable business, was held in Foxton. From then on, the stable was run from the barn at the ranch, and the Trail Horse Trials was not put on again until 1966, when it was sponsored by the 4-H Trail Dusters and put on in conjunction with the first annual Top of the World Competitive Trail ride which was head-quartered on the west end of the property. As the stable became busier, more horses were purchased or leased to meet the need. Many of these horse were grade individuals from known breeds. The better mares did double duty by raising foals each year, that would be sold or auctioned off. Some of the mares were bred to our Shetland pony stallion, Tarzan, he was called a chocolate-dapple. Several years we had Appaloosa offspring from a friend's stallion. For a short time, a Moroccan Paint stallion was used, but he tended to throw the lethal white gene, as well as breaking Tom Butterfield's knee with his bad behavior. He soon found his way back to auction! A couple of the leased mares were Morgans. They proved to be easy to work with as well as hardy individuals that kept well, and the foals proved easier to halter break than the other horses. They made a good enough impression that a young gelding was purchased, and one nice mare was bred to the Morgan stallion Julio--descended from Juzan. The resulting colt, Julian, was kept as stallion until age eight, before being gelded and living out his years as a family favorite. Julian did a lovely running walk. Unfortunately, none of his offspring were kept, including the two from the half Shetland mares kept for the family. It may seem that the cattle operation got dropped by the wayside. In actuality, that's not far from the truth. The fact that the registered Herefords purchased by Tom and Barbara, turned out to carry dwarf genes, which soon became apparent each calving season. This rather limited the value and productivity of the herd. Financial concerns brought on by Dr. Butterfield's death in 1967, subsequently led to the dispersal of the cattle herd. It was fortunate that the Stable had become established enough to become one of the mainstays of the family fortunes. Diversification was always a necessity. Horses were leased to the Forest Service when they needed them. The entire string would be utilized for company picnics, with the horses being brought to the site. Churches were sent flyers promoting group rides and hayrides. Boy Scout troops were welcomed to camp, ride and work on both Horsemanship and Conservation Merit Badges--which benefited in valuable erosion control work. Many times, ranch hands were obtained from these sources, both for fencing and Christmas tree cutting. There were many winters that the place carried over a hundred head of horses, as several camps in the area would winter their horses here. Dad would haul them back and forth, pull their shoes, etc. Our pinto line originated with Barbara's mare Calico, a pinto mare of unknown breeding, though Tennessee Walker was suspected due to her gaits. Having been diagnosed with Navicular disease, she was bred to the Shetland, Tarzan, a chocolate-dapple--producing the mare Feather (Nan's pony). This line has been bred only to Morgans since '66, when Feather was bred to General James, producing the mare Calico Doll, granddam to our stallion RV Eagle Feather. Doll was only 14.2, but she had heart, stamina and intelligence. Having learned much at the knee of the Shetland, Feather, Nan began training Doll in 1970. This mare was just four years old when she took the High Point Champion in the '71 Trail Horse Trials, over some tough competition, including Mary Woolverton's Prince of Pride. She could side-pass, two track, drag a log, pull a cart without blinders, open gates, work livestock and run all day. She also would gait occasionally, a trait that skipped a generation. Calico Doll was bred to Prince of Pride five different times, prior to his death in 1973(?). She would get in foal but never carried to term. Nan did some riding for Mary in exchange for these breedings, working Victory Vagabond. Finally the arrangement was settled by getting Calico Doll in foal to her stallion, Great Hills Richmond. Calico Doll's brown colt from this cross was sold on to the Tumbling River Ranch for cattle work. In the 1970's, a local breeder came to our attention with her stallion, Topside Midnight, when she competed him in the Top of the World Competitive Trail Ride. The crossing of Calico Doll with Midnight produced the black 3/4 Morgan stallion, Jaspar, in 1974. He was used for breeding four or five years, overlapping the transition to pureblooded Morgans in 1977. I always thought it unfortunate that he wasn't pure-blooded as he had wonderful manners, was very solid and typey and a generous sire. We sold his offspring until 1985 and still have a great-granddaughter. He was gelded in '81, and sold in '82. A few of the solid colored part-bloods come down from this line of the family. One of his daughters has competed as a grade horse in Competitive Trail riding for the past ten years. Three major land sales were required for operating expenses during the late '60's and early '70's. The Indian Park Ranch was decreased to 280 acres, Resort Valley Ranch decreased from 5,000 acres to its present 4,000. The Camp Fire Girls purchased the property adjacent to the driveway, leading to their utilizing horses from our string for their horse program. As the Camp increased its horse program, the public stables was gradually phased out. This freed up the Butterfield's lifestyle enough for them to focus on starting raising the pure-blooded Morgans, beginning with their purchase of SH Crescent in 1976.

Campe Diem!

54 sites · RVs, Tents72 acres · CO

Do you want a large, private, uniquely situated, pet friendly CampSpot™ to yourselves or family with a BATHHOUSE where it can be so quiet and some days there are stars for as deep as you can see? We have about 300 of those days and nights. Usually can stay longer on Sundays! We are 72 acres of piñon trees, some small animal life and crickets tucked against a mesa just a few minutes from town. Bring your shoe prints! We have sandboards! $15 per day! We are approximately a 35 minute beautiful drive from the National Sand Dunes around Mt. Blanca. (14'r). 5 minutes from the Mountain Home State Wildlife Park and reservoir where you can fish swim chill cookout etc. You can bike, hike, Swim, jet ski or fish at the newly stocked reservoir. Firewood must be purchased at the campsite. Pet friendly!

High Peaks Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO

Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the highest Alpine Valley in the world! This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. You can also see the San Juan mountain range to the east in the distance. San Juans are part of the NW rim of the Continental Divide. Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, Meteor showers!!! Previously known as High Desert Ranch Campground, this land was originally part of a large ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years. In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing! My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all! You will be surrounded by ranch land and state land with Wildlife Refuge just two miles away. Accommodations for those with livestock, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message. Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes. We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!

Available this weekend

Bright Star Campground

33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Cortez, CO

We have COMPLIMENTARY Wifi, Drinking Water, Ice, Hot Showers, Bathrooms, Shade, and an equipped Camper's Kitchen for our guests to enjoy from April 15 - Oct 15! There are TIPIS, CAMPING CABINS, TENT and BOONDOCK SITES. WE ALSO HAVE A NAVAJO HOGAN (wood yurt) OPEN-YEAR ROUND. All of our sites are not listed here. We can also accommodate groups and small events but not public events. We have a private covered group site as well. Bright Star Campground: Once used as a church camp, it is now a Campground for all to enjoy! We are a perfectly located vacation campground on 40 acres with amenities and wide-open spaces. Amenities include hot showers, an equipped community kitchen, a pavilion with hammocks, tables, ping pong, etc. Enjoy complimentary coffee, eggs, filtered drinking water and more. Bright Star Campground is located in the Great Sage Plain in the shadow of Mesa Verde National Park with panoramic mountain/mesa views of the Four Corners region, all only 5 miles southeast of Cortez. We are in an arid desert climate. Water is scarce, stored in cisterns for use in camp. Because of this we ask that you be conservative with water use in camp. We are a cannabis-friendly destination but ask that Cannabis use stay at your campsite, cabin or tipi. There are many things to do/see nearby: Mesa Verde National Park, Canyons of the Ancients, Hovenweep National Monument and Phil's World Mountain Biking. Raft down the Dolores river, maybe rent a SUP or kayak and chill on a quiet reservoir. There are museums and cultural centers in the area as well. Durango is 45 min, Telluride is 1.5 hrs away, and Moab is about 2.5 hours away-including Arches and Canyonlands National parks. The best/nearest airport is in Durango. Cortez has Denver Air (Key Lime Air) with connections to Denver and Phoenix. The nearest large international airport is in Salt Lake City or Albuquerque.

Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents35 acres · Hotchkiss, CO

The House where we live is the corner stone of the Bruce Property and is on the Colorado Register of Historic Houses.The residence was constructed between 1905 and 1912, using red bricks made on the site. John and Sophia Bruce, early pioneers in the North Fork Valley, were first involved in cattle raising. The family later became successful fruit growers. Located along the West Elk Loop, a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway, the large two-story residence features a steeply pitched hipped roof with prominent attic dormers.As a guest of Riverwalk you will have full access to the river during your stay. In addition, there is the Riverwalk Trail System that skirts the North Fork of the Gunnison River from the top of the property, by the Riverwalk Yurt, (available on this site) meandering downstream past the Riverwalk TIPI (available on the site) passing the Grove Yurt (available on this site) and terminating at the bottom of the property with the sandy Riverwalk Beach. There is a trial that zigs through the Cottonwood Grove and zags back along the gentle Monitor Ditch skirting a newly planted grove of young trees.For RV Campers we provide 2- 30amp,1-50 amp and 1- 110-amp electrical services and potable water. There is a dump station available. There is also access to our heated shower house with running water and bathroom amenities (<3 min. walk, may be shared with other guests). The property is perfectly geared to groups of friends gathering in a central location between the onset of the Rockies and the termination high desert to the west. Friends or family will reserve both Yurts and the RV Site for a perfect reunion setting!

High Peaks Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO

Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the highest Alpine Valley in the world! This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. You can also see the San Juan mountain range to the east in the distance. San Juans are part of the NW rim of the Continental Divide. Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, Meteor showers!!! Previously known as High Desert Ranch Campground, this land was originally part of a large ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years. In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing! My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all! You will be surrounded by ranch land and state land with Wildlife Refuge just two miles away. Accommodations for those with livestock, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message. Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes. We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!

Rabbit Hole Ranch

102 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Alamosa East, CO

The Rabbit Hole Ranch offers beautiful unobstructed views of the majestic Blanca Massif and the Great Sand Dunes and is just a (gorgeous) 35 minute drive from both to include Zapata Falls. The Great Sand Dunes National Park is a must-see, and I am grateful for the opportunity to offer you a place nearby to set up camp and go exploring. Alamosa, the largest town in the SLV, is just 20 minutes away. With a population of around 9,800 Alamosa has that small town feel and has the goods and services you will need. Camping here at the Rabbit Hole Ranch is primitive and dispersed (no numbered sites) and there 30 acres available for you to use. Typically, you will experience a rare kind of solitude and silence that feels…. other-worldly, with incredible sunrises and sunsets filling the enormous skies. On holidays, however, expect it to be busy. Our two Great Pyrenees are here to help keep you and your pets (and our chickens) safe. Please help make their jobs easier by not leaving any food or trash in or around tents. Please keep your pets on leash or under control until you’re comfortably certain they get along with all four of our dogs. This year we have a new Great Pyrenees to greet you, his name is TheoVon and he is huge! Returning this season is KayLee also a GP and and Finn, who is a little Benji lookin rescue from Alaska who just LOVES everybody. And then we have our latest addition, Kya, Shes a rescue as well and spent way too much time in an apartment before coming to stay with us, This will be her first season with us and she is 1 1/2 years old. A more energetic dog than what were used to around here but so far so good! Hopefully you happy campers can help us socialize the new dogs! Quiet time begins at 10:00 pm. Note: Holidays still offer the excellent location and spectacular views, but are likely to be less quiet and far more busy. We do not strictly enforce quiet time during holidays.

Campe Diem!

54 sites · RVs, Tents72 acres · CO

Do you want a large, private, uniquely situated, pet friendly CampSpot™ to yourselves or family with a BATHHOUSE where it can be so quiet and some days there are stars for as deep as you can see? We have about 300 of those days and nights. Usually can stay longer on Sundays! We are 72 acres of piñon trees, some small animal life and crickets tucked against a mesa just a few minutes from town. Bring your shoe prints! We have sandboards! $15 per day! We are approximately a 35 minute beautiful drive from the National Sand Dunes around Mt. Blanca. (14'r). 5 minutes from the Mountain Home State Wildlife Park and reservoir where you can fish swim chill cookout etc. You can bike, hike, Swim, jet ski or fish at the newly stocked reservoir. Firewood must be purchased at the campsite. Pet friendly!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

White River National Forest

White River National Forest

Fulford, Colorado

San Isabel National Forest

San Isabel National Forest

Smeltertown, Colorado

Rio Grande National Forest

Rio Grande National Forest

Alpine, Colorado

San Juan National Forest

San Juan National Forest

Roosevelt National Forest

Roosevelt National Forest

Red Feather Lakes, Colorado

Gunnison National Forest

Gunnison National Forest

Crested Butte, Colorado

Arapaho National Forest

Arapaho National Forest

Tabernash, Colorado

One of the Snowbird campsites, along the Timber Lake trail. It was very well maintained. A bull moose walked through my campsite, twice! This is the closest campground to Timber Lake (1/4 mile up the trail) and is very convenient for a dayhike up Mount Ida.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Grand Lake, Colorado

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Montrose, Colorado

Trinidad Lake State Park

Trinidad Lake State Park

Jansen, Colorado

Value Prop

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RV camping in Colorado with horseback riding guide

Overview

Looking to go camping in Colorado with your RV and horseback-riding in tow? Hipcamp provides over 4700 options that fit your preferences. With an average price of $37 per night and options as low as $4, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your budget. Some of the top campsites include Glen Isle Resort (461 reviews), Rustic Creek Ranch (363 reviews), and Serenity in the Foothills (295 reviews). Popular amenities include pets, showers, and campfires, while activities like wildlife watching, paddling, and climbing are sure to keep you entertained.

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