Browns Creek
There are several areas to choose from when setting up camp, so you can find a spot that works well for your rig and horses. Some areas have trees that provide shade for the horses and work well if you want to set up a hot-wire enclosure. Browns Creek is also close by, providing a convenient water source.
The area was very quiet during our stay. We encountered very few four-wheelers or motorcycles and heard no shooting. The mountain views are beautiful, and once the sun goes down, the area offers some fantastic stargazing.
One of the highlights of camping here is the variety of riding. The trails we rode were very well maintained, with options ranging from designated trails and the Colorado Trail to bushwhacking and exploring on your own. You can ride mountain trails that climb to elevations over 11,000 feet, with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife along the way.
The road getting into the area is rough and washboarded, but once you’re there, the peaceful setting, mountain views, access to water, and fantastic variety of riding make it a great place to horse camp.
The Google Maps pin will show exactly where we camped. Once you turn left onto 272, the washboard road gets an attitude. It’s very doable, but take your time.
You’ll notice several potential locations along the way where you could set up camp. We felt our location was great, with easy access to the Browns Creek Trailhead and a shortcut over to the Colorado Trail.
There’s great access to Browns Creek just south of the trailhead, where you can pump water into containers. Our site had plenty of room for numerous rigs, with trees that provided shade for the horses.
There are no permanent horse facilities, so you’ll need to bring portable pens or set up a hot-wire enclosure for your horses. Depending on where you choose to camp, you may also be able to find a suitable location for a high line. With several camping areas to choose from and trees throughout the area, you should be able to find a spot that provides some shade for the horses.
From where we camped, we had easy access to the Browns Creek Trailhead, along with a shortcut that takes you over to the Colorado Trail. This gives you great access to a variety of riding right from camp without having to trailer out.
Bring your own water for the horses. If you need additional water during your stay, Browns Creek is nearby and can be used to refill your containers.
If you ride the Browns Creek Trail, expect several creek crossings along the way, giving the horses additional opportunities for water while out on the trail. We highly recommend hoof boots or other appropriate hoof protection, as the trails can be very rocky in places.
This is a first-come, first-served dispersed camping area with no camping fee, so you cannot reserve a spot ahead of time. There are several areas to choose from, but availability will depend on when you arrive.
Come prepared to be self-sufficient. Bring plenty of water for both you and your horses. Browns Creek is nearby if you need additional water, but you’ll need containers and a way to pump or carry it back to camp.
Hoof protection is highly recommended. Some sections of the trails are very rocky, so boots or other appropriate hoof protection can make a big difference for your horse.
There are no permanent horse facilities, so bring portable pens, hot-wire equipment, or plan on using a high line if you can find a suitable location.
The road into the camping area is rough and washboarded. It’s very doable with a horse trailer, but take your time.
Since this is dispersed camping with no facilities, bring everything you’ll need and follow Leave No Trace practices to help keep the area clean and enjoyable for everyone.