Little Elden Springs Horsecamp sits in the high-elevation alpine country of Coconino National Forest, operated by the Forest Service with seasonal availability during peak months. The small campground caters to equestrians with spacious pull-through sites and direct access to more than 30 miles of horse-friendly trails. Visitors come for multi-day riding loops through ponderosa pine and gambel oak, with vault toilets and potable water on-site.
Little Elden Springs Horse Camp is exclusively for equestrian campers and caters specifically to their needs. It features pull-through sites designed for easy access by vehicles with horse trailers.
Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of cool, stable weather and spectacular high-country color—daytime highs typically range from the mid-50s to low 70s°F with crisp nights often dropping into the 20s–40s°F. Trails are dry and dust-free after the summer monsoon, making the more than 30 miles of horse-friendly routes ideal for long rides and multi-day loops, and gambel oak and ponderosa color peaks add exceptional scenery. Crowds are moderate to low compared with peak summer weekends, so you’ll have
Peak months: September, October, May, June
Avoid: November, December, January, February
Elevation8143 ft above sea level
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a transition zone where ponderosa pine forests meet groves of gambel oak. San Francisco Peaks provide views to the north, their summits rising above the surrounding terrain of ancient lava flows, limestone formations, and volcanic cinder cones. Sites are large and level with moderate shade from pines. Mule deer move through camp at dawn, and elk bugle in the valleys during fall.
Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available; facilities are tailored for equestrian camping only.