The best star host campgrounds near Crested Butte, Colorado

Surrounded by wilderness and mountains, Crested Butte is often called “Colorado’s last great ski town,” renowned for both downhill and Nordic skiing. It also shines in summer, with a wide range of outdoor recreational activities that include hundreds of miles of epic mountain bike trails, hiking, fishing, rafting, and more. It’s home to a registered historic district and a lively festival scene. Numerous areas near Crested Butte and Mount Crested Butte offer camping, including private campgrounds and RV parks, developed forest service campgrounds, and primitive wilderness sites.

99% (1.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Surrounded by wilderness and mountains, Crested Butte is often called “Colorado’s last great ski town,” renowned for both downhill and Nordic skiing. It also shines in summer, with a wide range of outdoor recreational activities that include hundreds of miles of epic mountain bike trails, hiking, fishing, rafting, and more. It’s home to a registered historic district and a lively festival scene. Numerous areas near Crested Butte and Mount Crested Butte offer camping, including private campgrounds and RV parks, developed forest service campgrounds, and primitive wilderness sites.

99% (1.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

100%

(133)

47mi from Crested Butte · 52 sites · Tents, RVs · Salida, CO

Nestled in a small valley in the San Isabel National Forest along the south fork of the Arkansas River, Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground is at 8,620 feet above sea level – literally in the Heart of the Rockies. We offer free Wi-Fi access, clean laundry and shower facilities, and a camp store with last-minute supplies and snacks. Our RV guests can enjoy 60-foot+, pull-thru sites with full hook-ups, including 20, 30 and 50 amps of power. We also have tent campsites with the south fork of the Arkansas river close by.

2. Riverfront Mountain Ranch

98%

(102)

47mi from Crested Butte · 10 sites · Lodging · Buena Vista, CO

Welcome to our geographic phenomenon! Here at the continental divide; we are lucky to have it all for the Outdoor Enthusiast. Our 5 acre Campground sits right along the Arkansas River. There are (2) 1 Min trails that lead you straight to River Access. Not wanting to get that close? No worries; watch the paddlers and rafters float by all summer long. If the Arkansas River is not enough of a playground for you, you will be happy to know that you have an uninterrupted view of Mount Princeton and the Rocky Mountain Collegiate Peaks. We are also located 1/2 mile from some of the most famous mountain biking trails the USA offers. Mount Princeton Hot Springs are a beautiful 10.5 mile (15 min) drive away. Our campground offers a dreamy Bathhouse with 5 glamoured showers and 5 bathrooms. We have (14) Yurt glamping sites and (2) Riverfront studio cabins. All sites have electricity (heaters included), parking, fire pits (unless we are facing a fire ban), and picnic table. In addition, we have a large community bonfire location and there is access to outdoor grilling. We are excited to have you!

3. Shanahan Goat Ranch

100%

(10)

47mi from Crested Butte · 1 site · Tent, RV · Johnson Village, CO

Enjoy the privacy of this wonderful goat farm situated just northwest of the Overlook Campground in Buena Vista, Colorado. It sits at 8500 feet with spectacular views of the Collegiate Peaks, 10 minutes from downtown Main Street, countless hiking trails, and rafting companies! This property backs up to BLM and connects with the Midland bike trail system. This property is unique due to the close proximity to dairy goats, and the ability to tour the farm if you so choose. The camping spot is in a secluded area of the property with easy access parking, and away from the main house. There is a 6-person tent set up near an old loading shed with a queen sized cot, an available metal fire pit, wood, and plenty of space to spread out or pitch additional tents. Plenty of rock outcroppings surround the space to give you your own private retreat. Please note that our road does include passing our neighbor on your way up. Directional rock cairns lead the way to this fun space! Goat tours are available upon request. On occasion the goats free range on the property and may pass by this space. If you want to camp in privacy and enjoy the idea of staying near a working goat farm, with chickens, guinea fowl & a rooster you will likely hear, the ability to quickly get into BLM and hike the many trails then this is place for you!

4. Creekside Chalets

98%

(109)

48mi from Crested Butte · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

Stories from the community

Kansas

October 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Creekside Chalets

Very clean well maintained campground. It's very near hiway but the creek is strong and loud enough to drown out any traffic. There is only a porta potty available if you are tent or RV camping. But it's clean and maintained. Very nice propane fire pit that is very warm and no need to wood are worth the fee.

Mary

October 2025

17 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Creekside Chalets

Our camping space amongst the beautiful aspen trees and the creek made our adventure all the more enjoyable. Hiking trails were close by too.

A

Alexis

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Had the BEST time tent camping here over the weekend! The staff onsite was friendly and helpful. The sites and bathrooms were clean and well managed. I was shocked to see there was laundry on site as well which was so nice to have after coming back from the hot springs. Definitely recommend 10/10 will stay again.

R

Roman

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Magnificent place with incredible views, privacy and a lot of tranquility, the boys enjoyed all the outdoor activities offered and fishing in the lake was the icing on the cake

Whitney

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Creekside Chalets

Absolutely loved this spot! Peaceful and beautiful. We could hear the creek all night which was so peaceful! Host was very kind and courteous.

A

Amalie

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Creekside Chalets

Absolute gem of a spot to camp. The Ouray site has a small set of stairs down to an area perfect for a few chairs or a hammock right by the flowing creek! We were able to really enjoy the sounds of the water and scenery. You can definitely still hear cars/semis passing on the road, but the white noise of the water mutes most of it out! and ZERO bugs! The porta-potty is decorated with fake flowers and twinkly lights - its those little things that made our trip feel extra cozy and cared for. We will be back!!

Angel

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Creekside Chalets

Spacious, super clean and inviting campsites with creek beside. The grounds are beautiful and well kept! Lovely to have well water available. There is traffic noise but it was mostly drowned out by creek sounds Also felt very safe. Owners are kind and accommodating if there is a problem. Easy drive to downtown Salida. Thank you for the pleasant stay!

A

Amy

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

We had a beautiful secluded camp spot right on the river. It’s next to the road but the river is so loud you don’t hear it. Great accommodations, lovely staff and great location!

G

GARIEN

September 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Very clean and everyone was friendly. Plenty of fun stuff for the kids! Communication was great.

J

Jeff

September 2025

12 ft campervan

2 nights at Creekside Chalets

Best campsite ever. Landscaped are clean and green. Bathroom is clean . Jillian and husband Jayson best of the best.

B

Beth

September 2025

20 ft campervan

1 night at Creekside Chalets

Really please with our overnight stay at Creekside. The location worked very well for us was easy to find and our site worked great for our camper van nice and level and CLEAN! It was great to have Port-a-Potty was clean and well stocked. Fresh water was super close to fill our tank

J

Jordan

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Amazing experience every time , great spot near Salida

M

Marti

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Great site right on the creek! Fall colors were popping too.

S

Sydnee

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

This was our second time camping at tent site 5, and it was amazing both times! Right on the river so we could hear the water running all night, which helped drown out the noise of the road. The only downside was they removed the Porta potty, but otherwise we will be back for sure!

Scott

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

The campground has lots of great spots and amenities (bathrooms, showers washer/dryer and kids stuff). Spot 6 is beautiful!

L

Lauren

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Creekside Chalets

The campground was great and the amenities were clean. The campground was quiet and beautiful and the grounds people were very friendly and kind.

j

jim

September 2025

Tent

3 nights at Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

comfortable spot with all the basics like restrooms with showers and an office with basic items. Friendly folks checked me in. Highly recommended.

C

Colin

September 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Perfect secluded site Great fishing. amazing owners. highly recommend!!!!

J

Jackie

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Site was great! Really beautiful to hear the water the whole night. Was helpful that they sold firewood for us to purchase. And the sites weren’t too close to each other so you had perfect privacy

L

Lindsey

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

What a wonderful spot! My favorite campground in Colorado so far! Can’t wait to come back.

Star Hosts in Crested Butte

Creekside Chalets

98%

(109)

48mi from Crested Butte · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

Shanahan Goat Ranch

100%

(10)

47mi from Crested Butte · 1 site · Tent, RV · Johnson Village, CO

Enjoy the privacy of this wonderful goat farm situated just northwest of the Overlook Campground in Buena Vista, Colorado. It sits at 8500 feet with spectacular views of the Collegiate Peaks, 10 minutes from downtown Main Street, countless hiking trails, and rafting companies! This property backs up to BLM and connects with the Midland bike trail system. This property is unique due to the close proximity to dairy goats, and the ability to tour the farm if you so choose. The camping spot is in a secluded area of the property with easy access parking, and away from the main house. There is a 6-person tent set up near an old loading shed with a queen sized cot, an available metal fire pit, wood, and plenty of space to spread out or pitch additional tents. Plenty of rock outcroppings surround the space to give you your own private retreat. Please note that our road does include passing our neighbor on your way up. Directional rock cairns lead the way to this fun space! Goat tours are available upon request. On occasion the goats free range on the property and may pass by this space. If you want to camp in privacy and enjoy the idea of staying near a working goat farm, with chickens, guinea fowl & a rooster you will likely hear, the ability to quickly get into BLM and hike the many trails then this is place for you!

Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

100%

(133)

47mi from Crested Butte · 52 sites · Tents, RVs · Salida, CO

Nestled in a small valley in the San Isabel National Forest along the south fork of the Arkansas River, Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground is at 8,620 feet above sea level – literally in the Heart of the Rockies. We offer free Wi-Fi access, clean laundry and shower facilities, and a camp store with last-minute supplies and snacks. Our RV guests can enjoy 60-foot+, pull-thru sites with full hook-ups, including 20, 30 and 50 amps of power. We also have tent campsites with the south fork of the Arkansas river close by.

Riverfront Mountain Ranch

98%

(102)

47mi from Crested Butte · 10 sites · Lodging · Buena Vista, CO

Welcome to our geographic phenomenon! Here at the continental divide; we are lucky to have it all for the Outdoor Enthusiast. Our 5 acre Campground sits right along the Arkansas River. There are (2) 1 Min trails that lead you straight to River Access. Not wanting to get that close? No worries; watch the paddlers and rafters float by all summer long. If the Arkansas River is not enough of a playground for you, you will be happy to know that you have an uninterrupted view of Mount Princeton and the Rocky Mountain Collegiate Peaks. We are also located 1/2 mile from some of the most famous mountain biking trails the USA offers. Mount Princeton Hot Springs are a beautiful 10.5 mile (15 min) drive away. Our campground offers a dreamy Bathhouse with 5 glamoured showers and 5 bathrooms. We have (14) Yurt glamping sites and (2) Riverfront studio cabins. All sites have electricity (heaters included), parking, fire pits (unless we are facing a fire ban), and picnic table. In addition, we have a large community bonfire location and there is access to outdoor grilling. We are excited to have you!

Dog-friendly getaways

Frenchman's Creek Ranch

100%

(324)

43mi from Crested Butte · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Buena Vista, CO

We have a 100+ acre working ranch with access to the Arkansas river for fishing, kayaking or just dipping your feet in. We have great views of the Collegiate Peaks 14ers and the Harvard trail is just up the hill. Frenchman's creek runs through the ranch which has hay fields, aspens, cottonwoods, pinons, cows, chickens, sheep and pigs. Deer, elk, coyotes and bobcats also wander through. We are 15 minutes from BV, 10 minutes from Clear Creek Reservoir, 20 minutes from Twin Lakes and 30 minutes from Leadville.

Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

97%

(487)

37mi from Crested Butte · 7 sites · Lodging · Hotchkiss, CO

Formerly known as the North Fork Tipi Haven, this 22 acres is now home to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven. This property offers spectacular views, a large grass field for activities and games, a short hike up Mandala Mountain (behind the solar panels), and relaxion by Love Gulch in the many hammocks. Two mile drive from Big B's and even closer to the nearest winery (Storm Cellar). Tipi camping offers an authentic camping experience, complete with possible bugs and other critters one would expect to find in nature.

Tater's Black Canyon Campground

97%

(281)

37mi from Crested Butte · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Crawford, CO

North Rim of Black Canyon National Park has re-opened. Hot showers and toilets! Tater's was voted a 2024 top runner up as 'Best Hipcamp in Colorado'. 35 acres of bliss shared with 2 humans, 2 dogs, 2 cats, 3 horses and 4 chickens [Eggs may be available upon request]. Black Canyon National Park is a short drive to the west. Conveniently located to Crawford and the North Fork Valley to wineries, music fests and local eateries.  Incredible views and dark skies make the perfect respite for just hanging out, climbing in the Black, foodie time in the North Fork Valley or pretty much whatever you like to do. Hunters are welcome as this is a perfect base camp to Unit 63.

Darbywoods RV Mountain Lot

98%

(28)

42mi from Crested Butte · 1 site · Tent, RV · Cimarron, CO

This is a one acre lot for just one RV located at 9500ft in the Colorado mountains between Montrose and Gunnison. Located half way between and six miles up the Alpine Plateau road this area is surrounded by BLM land and National Forest. The lot is located with full hook ups and wifi in a neighborhood with cabins and rv lots. Please ask about deep discounts for long term rentals.

Marble Mountain Yurt

100%

(131)

19mi from Crested Butte · 1 site · Lodging · Marble, CO

Enjoy hut-style glamping at its finest in our modern mountain yurt. Bask in the sun and take in the stunning panoramic mountain views on our one-acre property above the quirky town of Marble, CO. With immediate access to public lands and some of the best backcountry skiing, hiking, biking, lakes, rivers, and BBQ in Colorado, there is truly something for everyone to love! The heated bathhouse features a toilet and foot pump sink. Purified drinking water is available from May - September. You must bring your own water from October - April. The kitchen features an oven/range and basic cooking and serving supplies. There is no refrigerator, so please bring your own cooler and ice. Campfires are allowed, but it is your responsibility to determine if there is a fire ban in effect. Firewood may be available or dead wood can be collected on the property. There is a picnic table nestled in the scrub oaks. We only rent one side and the entire property is private to you! We do have neighbors, but the property is pretty well tucked away. You may see the occasional vehicle or hiker on the road or hear someone doing some yard work, but it is generally very quiet and secluded at the yurt. Our neighbors have chosen to live in Marble for its privacy and tranquillity. Please show them respect by keeping the noise down and leaving them be. If you have questions or need help, call us from the yurt landline. Winter camping experience/equipment and a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle with severe snow-rated tires and chains may be required to access the yurt Oct-April. During large snow events, driving to the yurt may be impossible in any vehicle. Skiing to the yurt may be an option Dec - Feb. Gear sleds are available at the yurt for your use.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best star host camping near Crested Butte guide

Where to go

South

Take the West Elk Loop Scenic Byway south to Gunnison. Camp with your boat or lakeside at Blue Mesa Reservoir, part of the Curecanti National Recreation Area. Colorado’s largest body of water is known for excellent fishing and plenty of watersports. Continue south to remote Lake City, nestled in the San Juan Mountains. Enjoy ice climbing, go off-roading, or enjoy the waters of Lake San Cristobal. Stay in a private campground in town, dispersed camping on USFS land, free BLM riverside campsites, primitive sites in La Garita Wilderness Area, or in a network of backcountry yurts.

West

Take the West Elk Loop over Kebler Pass to Somerset for hiking, boating, and camping at Paonia State Park. Go fishing and sample wines near Hotchkiss. Just outside of Delta, enjoy boating and birdwatching at Sweitzer Lake State Park, look for dinosaur bones at Dry Mesa Quarry, and explore the red rock canyons and bluffs of Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area. Montrose is a great base for exploring the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Camping options can be found at state parks, wilderness areas, and national parks, and include sites for tents and RVs.

East

Head east to Taylor Park for camping, fishing, and rafting. Further south, Sargents offers dirt biking, mountain biking, and off-roading. Explore state wildlife areas and ghost towns, then soak in the hot springs and history of Poncha Springs or the arts scene in Salida. Bag a 14er in the Sawatch Range. There are plenty of campground options, whether you prefer the forest riverside, lakeside, or the backcountry. Gunnison National Forest also offers more than 30 developed campgrounds, with tent sites, RV sites, and cabins.

When to go

Winter and summer are the most popular times to visit Crested Butte and nearby Mount Crested Butte. Several popular festivals are held over the summer. The area is known for abundant wildflowers over the summer, and golden aspens in the fall. Crested Butte Mountain Resort offers lift-assisted activities over the summer and winter. In the winter, the area is a top skiing and snowboarding destination. Several mountain passes close over the winter.

Know before you go

Crested Butte is situated at nearly 9,000 feet. Other recreation areas and campsites in the region are at even higher elevations. Be aware of potential altitude issues.
A free shuttle bus takes passengers around the town of Crested Butte and Mount Crested Butte year-round. A vehicle will be required to explore outside of the area.
Backcountry camping near Crested Butte is restricted to designated dispersed camping sites.
Be bear aware, especially when camping. Store food and other attractants in a bear-proof container away from your tent.
Permits are required for state and national wilderness areas.