Horsetooth Mountain Open Space Backcountry
00 review4200 West County Road 38 E, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80526, United States
Horsetooth Mountain Open Space Backcountry
$9.00 - $9.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Entrance permits are required for access to Horsetooth Mountain Open Space and cost $9.
About this campground
Escape into the rugged beauty of Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, where three secluded backcountry sites (HM1, HM2, HM3) await adventurous souls seeking an authentic wilderness experience. These tent-only havens serve as your gateway to an impressive 29.5-mile trail network that winds through dramatic terrain, welcoming hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians alike. While fresh drinking water awaits at the trailhead parking area, the backcountry beckons with a true Leave No Trace adventure—pack in your dreams and pack out everything else for an immersive connection with Colorado's untamed landscape.
The campground offers primitive backcountry tent camping at three designated sites (HM1, HM2, HM3), each accommodating up to two tents and six people.
Historical SignificanceRising from the plains like an ancient sentinel, Horsetooth Rock has served as a navigational landmark for centuries, its distinctive profile resembling a molar tooth that gives this magical place its name. The seasonal cascade of Horsetooth Falls adds another layer of natural wonder to this storied landscape, where geological forces have sculpted formations that have captured imaginations and guided travelers since time immemorial.
Weather and SeasonsFour distinct seasons paint this mountain sanctuary in ever-changing hues. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland with light dustings of snow and crisp, freezing air that makes every breath visible. Summer arrives with sun-soaked days and comfortable temperatures, punctuated by refreshing afternoon showers that bring the scent of pine and sage. Spring and fall emerge as the crown jewels for outdoor enthusiasts, offering goldilocks conditions—mild temperatures meet bluebird skies, creating perfect windows for exploration when wildflowers bloom or aspens turn to gold.
ElevationYour adventure unfolds across a dramatic vertical playground, ascending from 5,430 feet to a breathtaking 7,255 feet. This remarkable elevation gain rewards intrepid campers with ever-changing ecosystems and perspectives—from sun-drenched foothills to cooler alpine environments where the air grows thin and views stretch endlessly across the Colorado landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched within this magnificent open space, your campsite becomes a front-row seat to nature's amphitheater. The iconic Horsetooth Rock dominates the skyline, while seasonal Horsetooth Falls creates a thundering spectacle each spring as snowmelt cascades down ancient granite. Panoramic vistas sweep across the Front Range mountains and down to the twinkling lights of Fort Collins below, offering sunrise and sunset displays that transform the landscape into a canvas of gold, purple, and crimson.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of the Larimer Region, this geological wonderland spans from 5,430 to 7,255 feet, where ancient forces have carved a landscape of stunning contrasts. The Front Range unfolds in sweeping panoramas before you, while the iconic Horsetooth Rock stands as a testament to millions of years of geological artistry. Spring awakens the ephemeral Horsetooth Falls, adding the music of rushing water to this diverse ecological tapestry where prairie meets mountain in spectacular fashion.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not mentioned. The backcountry setting implies limited accessibility accommodations.
Sites SizeEach site accommodates up to two tents and a maximum of six people.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy of sites is not explicitly described, but backcountry sites generally offer a degree of seclusion compared to developed campgrounds.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesHM2 was specifically praised by a user who described it as "beautiful to say the least."
Best CampsitesSites HM1, HM2, and HM3 are the only campsite options available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Noon
Check-out
11 AM
Stay Limit
Reservations allow for up to 6 people per site, with a maximum of two tents.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 people per site are allowed.
Groups
Group sites are not available. Each site has a maximum capacity of six people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of three dispersed, tent-only backcountry sites within the open space.
Open and Closed SeasonHorsetooth Mountain Open Space is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservation platform is not explicitly mentioned, though park entrance permits are required.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are "first come, first serve," as emphasized in user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not detailed in the available sources.
Amenities available
Potable water
Activities you can enjoy
Horsetooth Mountain Open Space is known for a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The trails connect to nearby parks, offering a wide range of options for outdoor enthusiasts. Scenic features like Horsetooth Rock and Horsetooth Falls are highlights, with great opportunities for viewing wildlife and stunning vistas of the Front Range and Fort Collins.
Hiking
"This is a great hike for all skill levels, with great views all around" (Adam Lum). The area offers 29.5 miles of trails, linking to adjacent parks like Lory State Park and the Blue Sky Trail. Highlights include Horsetooth Rock and Horsetooth Falls, though the falls may dry up in summer.Biking
"The trail system is ideal for trail running as well with trails that link up to adjacent Lory State Park (north) and the Blue Sky trail (south)" (Adam Lum). The area is suitable for both mountain biking endurance enthusiasts and beginners.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are inherent to the backcountry setting. A user review mentions encountering a prairie rattler near the trail (Jay Wyatt).Winter Activities
The trails are also "a really nice hike in the winter" (Adam Lum), suggesting that the area supports activities like winter hiking and potentially snowshoeing.Water Sports
Not applicable to the camping area itself, though nearby Horsetooth Reservoir may offer water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are strictly prohibited, and violations result in eviction.
- Quiet hours are Specific quiet hours are not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters, such as Prairie Rattlers, and dehydration due to the lack of water sources beyond the trailhead. One user review emphasized caution regarding Prairie Rattlers spotted close to trails.
Active alertsCurrent warnings highlight that gates close at 11 PM for entry, and fires are strictly prohibited.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station - Contact number: 9704985610. Further emergency service details unavailable.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpecific peak season dates are not provided. However, spring and fall seasons are recommended for hiking and camping.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available at the campsite. Campers must pack out all waste as part of Leave No Trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresHorsetooth Reservoir is nearby and provides opportunities for water-based recreation.
Common complaintsSome users noted long waits for boat rentals at Horsetooth Reservoir and overcrowding due to bicyclists and hikers. The sparse shade on trails during summer was also mentioned as a minor inconvenience.
HostHost information is not available.
Campground Map
4200 West County Road 38 E, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80526, United States
Driving directionsFrom Denver: Take I-25 north to the Harmony Road/Timnath exit (#265). Turn left (west) continuing on Harmony Road for 7 miles where it becomes County Road 38E at the Taft Hill Road intersection. Continue west on County Road 38E approximately 8 more miles until you reach the entrance for Horsetooth Mountain Open Space which will be on your right hand side (north).
Road access is paved and generally accessible year-round. Seasonal closures or restrictions are not mentioned for this route.Nearby places
Fort Collins - 4 miles
Loveland - 12 miles northwest
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries, are likely found in Fort Collins (4 miles away). Additional specific locations are not detailed.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Horsetooth Mountain Open Space Backcountry has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mostly positive, highlighting the scenic beauty, trail connectivity, and recreational opportunities at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. Some reviewers emphasize the importance of preparation, such as carrying enough water and being cautious of wildlife like rattlesnakes.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
The trails are praised for their connectivity and views. "This is a great hike for all skill levels, with great views all around" (Adam Lum). "We hiked up and stayed a couple nights at HM2, a...
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Common Concerns
Some users complain about seasonal issues, such as the drying up of Horsetooth Falls in the summer or the lack of shade on hot days. "Too many bicyclists. The Horsetooth Falls was a trickle and I...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Start hikes early in the morning during warmer months, carry ample water, and check out Horsetooth Rock for its panoramic views. "Make sure to check out horsetooth falls if it's not dried up!"...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer sees high activity but also challenges like dried-up waterfalls and hot temperatures. Spring and fall may offer more comfortable weather and flowing waterfalls. Winter activities such as...
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Camper Quotes
"This is a great hike for all skill levels, with great views all around" (Adam Lum). "We hiked up and stayed a couple nights at HM2, a dispersed campsite. It was beautiful to say the least!" (E...
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Site-Specific Reviews
HM2 receives specific mention as a beautiful dispersed campsite. No reviews indicate significant issues with any particular site.
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
Dogs are permitted but must be on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and natural resources.
Last updated August 10, 2025