Camping near Mount Crested Butte with wildlife watching
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97% (1505 reviews)
- Mount Crested Butte
97% (1505 reviews)
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12 top campgrounds near Mount Crested Butte with wildlife watching
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Campfire Ranch on the Taylor
2 sites · Tents10 acres · CO
We believe campgrounds should be more fun, more accessible and more inclusive for all kinds of campers - that's why we started Campfire Ranch to make camping easier. Our campground is nestled between the granite walls of Taylor Canyon alongside the Taylor River in central Colorado, halfway between Gunnison and Crested Butte, CO. If you've never been to the area, get ready to be amazed, with over 2,500 square miles of public land, 700+ miles of singletrack trail and countless rivers, creeks and lakes to explore. We'll see y'all in the woods!
Learn more about this land:
*We will open May 19th for the 2023 season!*
Camp and adventure in the Gunnison-Crested Butte valley at Campfire Ranch on the Taylor. Book now on our website for additional availability and site details at: Campfireranch.co - we feature walk-in tent only campsites, convenient amenities, demo camping equipment and a full Adventure Concierge service!
Please contact us before booking if you are seeking a family focused experience - we do not have a kids area or playground and require that children under the age of 16 be in the company of an adult at all times due to our proximity to Co Rd 742 and the Taylor River. No multi-room tents are allowed at camp, we simply don't have the room, the largest tent size we can accommodate is 12'x12' - please inquire if you have specific tent questions.
You can check-in with us anytime after 3pm the day of your reservation, please message us if you need to check-in after 8pm. All campers will be required to sign our release of liability waiver before camping (parents/guardians will have to sign for minors in your group) - you can review these terms and rules on our website: CampfireRanch.co
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$78
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Frenchman's Creek Ranch
4 sites · Lodging, RVs100 acres · 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.
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$55
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Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river
7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents35 acres · Hotchkiss, CO
The House where we live is the corner stone of the Bruce Property and is on the Colorado Register of Historic Houses.The residence was constructed between 1905 and 1912, using red bricks made on the site. John and Sophia Bruce, early pioneers in the North Fork Valley, were first involved in cattle raising. The family later became successful fruit growers. Located along the West Elk Loop, a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway, the large two-story residence features a steeply pitched hipped roof with prominent attic dormers.As a guest of Riverwalk you will have full access to the river during your stay. In addition, there is the Riverwalk Trail System that skirts the North Fork of the Gunnison River from the top of the property, by the Riverwalk Yurt, (available on this site) meandering downstream past the Riverwalk TIPI (available on the site) passing the Grove Yurt (available on this site) and terminating at the bottom of the property with the sandy Riverwalk Beach. There is a trial that zigs through the Cottonwood Grove and zags back along the gentle Monitor Ditch skirting a newly planted grove of young trees.For RV Campers we provide 2- 30amp,1-50 amp and 1- 110-amp electrical services and potable water. There is a dump station available. There is also access to our heated shower house with running water and bathroom amenities (<3 min. walk, may be shared with other guests). The property is perfectly geared to groups of friends gathering in a central location between the onset of the Rockies and the termination high desert to the west. Friends or family will reserve both Yurts and the RV Site for a perfect reunion setting!
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$35
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Creekside Chalets
13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · 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.
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$50
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95%
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Tater's Black Canyon Campground
3 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Crawford, CO
Hot showers and toilets are now available! Tater's was voted a 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.
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$33
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(11)
Basalt Mountain Oasis
1 site · Lodging35 acres · Basalt, CO
Basalt Mountain Oasis is perched on a south facing mountainside with incredible views of 3 14ers including Capitol Peak. It is a completely private location in the middle of nature yet only two miles from Basalt, and 20 miles from Aspen and Carbondale.
We have produce growing in the gardens and greenhouse and herbal products for sale and will email you what is available before you check in and can have it stocked in the fridge.
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$175
/ night
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(114)
Marble Mountain Yurt
1 site · Lodging1 acre · Marble, CO
NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS FOR THE 2024 SEASON (May-October)!
A little about our reservation process. We accept two group reservations per week:
1) A discounted mid-week booking (Checking-in Tuesday or Wednesday) for 1-2 nights minimum (depending on the season)
2) A weekend booking starting Thursday, Friday, or Saturday weekly with a 2-3 night minimum.
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.
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$235
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Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven
7 sites · Lodging22 acres · Paonia, CO
Formerly known as the North Fork Tipi Haven, this 22 acres was once owned by International sculptor Lincoln Fox, and built by Mr. Wooten in the early 1900's as an apple orchard, Old Moon Acres is now home to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven.
The North Fork Valley of the Gunnison River, encompassing Crawford, Hotchkiss and Paonia, was an important fruit orchard area in the late 1800's and well into the early 1900's. The valley's climate is a banana belt, perfect for fruit with the cold air coming down from the mountains at night and the heat from the mesas warming up the valley during the day. Coal mines up the road in Bowie and Somerset paid better, so many of the orchards languished over the years. Since the closing of all the mines but one, today the NFV is home to the largest concentration of organic farms in the state of Colorado as well as becoming a state Creative District serving the multitudes of artist and creatives that call the valley home.
There are many pick-your-own peaches, cherries, apples, pears, nectarines and if we are lucky, apricots, in the valley. Delicious Orchards, 1 mile down Hwy 133, is an excellent place to pick your own, drink local hard cider and listen to live music on the weekend over a wonderful brunch. It is all about the farms, cattle, art, music, outdoor adventure, fun and relaxation here in the North Fork Valley.
The tipis are custom made by the Colorado Yurt Company in Montrose, Colorado where they have been making yurts, tents and tipis since 1976. The tipis are expertly designed and made with custom paintings invoking the animal spirits that inhabit our land. These are a Sioux design tipi as the Ute's mainly lived in wiki-ups until they were introduced to the tipi in the 1800's. The Ute's appropriated the tipi design from the Sioux or Plains Natives.
We have solar showers (solar bags of water heated by the sun during the day) available for free.
Showers are also available at the local laundromat in Hotchkiss.
Our goal is to awaken your sense of wonder by sleeping out in nature and waking up to the Colorado blue sky in clean, clear air at 5500 ft. You can visit the many high altitude wineries, fruit orchards, organic farms, farm-to-table restaurants, great music, interesting movies at the community owned Paradise Theater, art at the Creamery Arts Center in Hotchkiss, stand-up paddle boarding, WSSUP, at Crawford reservoir, mountain biking in Grand Mesa, hiking in the West Elks, rafting down the Gunnison river in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, fishing up canyon in the coolness of the forest or relaxing in one of many hot springs within an hour of us.
Colorado Detours is highly recommended by us to take you and yours on a hiking, farm, wine, or geology tour of the area.
Aspen, Crested Butte (over Kebler Pass), Glenwood Springs, Gunnison, Ouray, Grand Junction, Ridgeway
and Telluride all are about an hour or two
away by car.
Welcome to Colorado.
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$65
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Sage View Ranch
24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Paonia, CO
After traveling the US in our motorhome for almost 5 years my husband Scott and I know the value of a smiling face and a helping hand after a day (or week) of travel. Exploring and experiencing this amazing country, its diversity and incredible people enhanced our lives in so many ways.
In mid 2017 we found out our first grandchild was on the way. Long story short we parked the RV and parked ourselves here in Paonia, CO. In December of that year, we moved onto this amazing property full time and started the long list of fix ups (the list is still long). lol
We are blessed to have our two adult sons and (aforementioned) grandson living on this property with us. Our philosophy is to live in the moment as the present is the gift. Whether enjoying a sunrise or a sunset or anytime in between you’ll likely find us outside most days.
In that, we love all that nature has to offer including fresh fruits and veggies, animals, beauty and fragrances.
Sage View Ranch is being created with the desire to have people experience the natural rustic beauty and magic of Paonia.
Scott and I look forward to meeting you :)
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$30
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Wild Abandon Ranch
1 site · RV, Tent50 acres · Paonia, CO
Wild Abandon Ranch is a gorgeous 50 acre property that we just acquired in March of 2023. Sadly, the property had been abandoned and neglected for over 20 years and we are doing our best to breath some new life into her. We are chasing those land dreams! This property has a wild amount of potential and an endless story of labor and we hope to bring a new vision and purpose to this very special place.
The Hipcamp site is located down by the creek (on the SOUTH side of Minnesota Creek Rd) where you'll have total privacy and room to relax and explore. The deer trails are a great way to get lost amongst the trees and the rhythm of the creek.
Just down the road further on Minnesota Creek Road is direct access to National Forest. Our property is only 3.5 miles from the town of Paonia so you're oh-so-close yet so far away from it all. Paonia is central to the abundant North Fork Valley and there is so much to experience in this area. From hiking, biking, camping, or swimming to touring the many vibrant vineyards or galleries.
Your visit is directly contributing to this land's second chance. We hope you'll visit again and follow along in the evolution of Wild Abandon Ranch. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you!
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$35
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Zenzen Gardens
33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Paonia, CO
Zenzen Gardens is now the official tasting room for Alfred Eames Cellars, a local winery located 3 miles south of Paonia. Come enjoy some local wines in the garden with a beautiful mountain view. Our tasting room is open May to October from 12 PM - 6 PM.
Every Thursday evening, from June to October, we host Tapas events from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM, featuring our local guest chef. Please note that there will be no Tapas events in August due to our Pickin' in the Park festivities!
The property is also a music venue with two performance sites in the barn and a stage by the pond. We also offer farm-to-table dinners throughout the summer, and tapas on Thursdays. Check out our calendar for concerts and dinner dates at www.zenzengardens.com
There is veranda seating to enjoy the beautiful flower gardens and where you can access the internet.
At the turn of the century, this farm was a dairy operation with its huge old red barn built in the 1880's. The property is pastoral, relaxing, rural and beautiful! It is surrounded by hay and alfalfa fields. It is very quiet with wide open spaces. You might see deer, fox, Golden Eagles, Bald Eagles, Red Tail Hawks and Red Wing Blackbirds, just to name a few.
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$35
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Rain Crow Farm
10 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Paonia, CO
Rain Crow Farm is a small, organic farm located in the pristine North Fork Valley on Colorado’s Western Slope. The campsites here are right along the river, surrounded by tall cottonwoods and stunning Mountain View’s. There is a shallow swimming hole and plenty of riverbank hangout spots. The farm is walking distance from Paonia and hiking, biking, fishing, wine tours and ATV tracks are all within a few miles reach. Campers who stay with us with have access to produce from the farm, including eggs, goat milk, and loads of fresh salad greens. Wake up to sound of birds and rivers’ flow.
Because of our diverse livestock, dogs must be on a leash at all times here. Thank you!
Potable water
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$30
/ night
Available this weekend
Under $50
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Camping near Mount Crested Butte with wildlife watching guide
Overview
Looking for an unforgettable camping experience near Mount Crested Butte, Colorado? Look no further than Hipcamp, the ultimate resource for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 1,965 options tailored specifically to wildlife watching in this stunning location, you're sure to find the perfect accommodation. Whether you prefer a cozy cabin, a rustic campground, or a secluded spot for your tent, Hipcamp has got you covered. Want to stay within budget? No problem. With options starting as low as $15 per night, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. And to make your decision even easier, we've gathered the top campsites with rave reviews: Glen Isle Resort (461 reviews), Rustic Creek Ranch (363 reviews), and Serenity in the Foothills (295 reviews). Plus, you can enjoy popular amenities like campfires, showers, and toilets, and engage in exciting activities such as fishing, horseback riding, and off-roading. So, why wait? Start planning your wildlife adventure today with Hipcamp!
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