The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Horse Pasture Site allows for convenient fishing access right on the Colorado River. There's a community boat ramp and campground located upstream. You're welcome to enjoy the beautiful wilderness of Colorado while hiking through the area. This site is maintained and preserved by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), a federal organization that gives visitors access to the country's gorgeous natural lands. Visiting the Horse Pasture Site allows for fishing, birding, camping, and wildlife viewing. You can even travel to nearby Dotsero, an inactive volcanic crater, to check out the lava flow.
Rocky Mountain National Park is 176 miles away while Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is 182 miles south. The White River National Forest is less than 15 minutes to the west. You'll be able to easily stock up on supplies in smaller towns like Gypsum and Eagle. The largest city in the area is Glenwood Springs, which is about a half hour away.
This popular trail boasts stunning views of local wildflowers and wildlife. While you're welcome to hike it, many prefer to bike along its rough terrain. Be sure to keep an eye out for this trail's rest areas and picnic tables.
Length: 15.9 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This is a great trail for hiking, off-road vehicles, and even snowmobiles during the winter. Feel free to stick to the main trail or head off on one of the many side paths. Don't forget to bring a lot of water if you're hiking here in the summer.
Length: 21.4 miles
Intensity: Easy
The Horse Pasture Site is a designated fishing spot perfect for fly-fishing at any time of year. The clear waters here make it easy to catch trout. If you're interested in boating, kayaking, or canoeing, you can head upriver toward the community boat ramp. Whitewater rafting is popular further east near the city of Wolcott.
White River National Forest spans more than two million acres of Colorado wilderness. You'll find 10 peaks here that tower more than 14,000 feet high. Visitors are welcome to hike, rock climb, and explore the eight distinct wilderness areas. Don't forget to check out Conundrum Hot Springs and the 11 nearby ski resorts.
Common wildlife spotted in the area include beavers, raccoons, white-tailed deer, bighorn sheep, and elk. You'll often see eagles, ducks, geese, blue herons, belted kingfishers, and lark buntings. Bigger mammals like black bears and mountain lions are uncommon but also occasionally spotted. Always be aware of alerts put out by the local parks and wildlife department.
Picnic tables and grills are available in Gypsum Campground. Feel free to rest and picnic as you're fishing or exploring the land. You can even picnic beside your RV before you continue your camping adventure. Avoid feeding any local wildlife or leaving debris behind. Campers should always practice "Leave No Trace" principles when on BLM lands.
Many hunters visit White River National Forest to find mule deer, elk, moose, and black bears. You're also welcome to hunt red squirrels, cottontail rabbits, dusky grouse, and other waterfowl. All hunters must have a valid Colorado hunting license. If you want to hunt or set traps on private land within White River National Forest, you need permission from the landowner.
When planning your RV camping trip to Colorado, consider staying at Bureau of Land Management campgrounds. Sites like Gypsum Campground offer premium access to fishing spots, boat launches, and hiking trails. This seasonal campground can be accessed via Interstate 70 and provides spots on a first-come, first-served basis. Lyons Gulch Boat Launch is another great BLM RV camping site with a toilet and five campsites.
Those looking for a more modern camping experience can stay at sites like Ami's Acres Campgrounds. They're at the base of Storm King Mountain and have full RV hookups and tent sites. The Carbondale / Crystal River KOA has cabins, tent pads, and RV spots. They provide recreational opportunities like horseback riding, jeep tours, whitewater rafting, and golfing.
As you're perusing BLM camping near me, take a look at the Bureau of Land Management free camping options. Dispersed camping is allowed in Colorado on BLM lands as long as it doesn't intrude on private lands or closed camping areas. You're allowed to camp for up to 14 days in one spot in a 28-day period. Don't leave your property unattended at your campsite for more than 10 days. Great dispersed camping spots can be found in the forests, hills, and valleys around Horse Pasture Site.
The best way to prepare for your Colorado trip is to plan all excursions ahead of time. If you want to take part in seasonal events or festivals, book your tickets in advance. Bring other campers with you for improved safety and fun. Remember to bring enough water, food, bug repellant, sunscreen, and clothes. Sturdy hiking boots and gear are necessary if you plan to venture out into the rough Colorado wilderness. Keep a constant eye on the weather, especially if you're climbing or ATVing. Dirt roads can quickly become too muddy for camping and biking.
Colorado has more than 8 million acres of public land full of trails, campsites, fishing spots, and more. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Travel and camp on durable surfaces like gravel, sand, or rock. Leave all plants and natural objects as you found them. Don't build new structures or dig trenches that may impact the local environment. Be respectful toward wildlife and any visitors you come across. Doing your part to maintain the environment ensures future explorers will be able to enjoy the Colorado landscape.
From Gypsum, head west on Interstate 70. Turn south at Exit 140. You'll then turn right on Frontage Road and drive 2.5 miles. After passing Gypsum Campground, the site will be on the left.
Address: 2300 River Frontage Road, Silt, CO 81652
Ready to visit the Horse Pasture Site? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night, where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
