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It shouldn't come as much of a surprise that White River National Forest is the most visited national forest in the United States. Spread out over 2.3 million acres, this wild expanse is home to thousands of miles of trails and eight protected wilderness areas. Popular attractions within the park include the Hanging Lake National Natural Landmark, the oft-photographed Crystal Mill (an old wooden powerhouse dating to 1892), and the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. There are also a number of celebrated ski areas in the state, including the Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area and the Vail Ski Resort.
It shouldn't come as much of a surprise that White River National Forest is the most visited national forest in the United States. Spread out over 2.3 million acres, this wild expanse is home to thousands of miles of trails and eight protected wilderness areas. Popular attractions within the park include the Hanging Lake National Natural Landmark, the oft-photographed Crystal Mill (an old wooden powerhouse dating to 1892), and the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. There are also a number of celebrated ski areas in the state, including the Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area and the Vail Ski Resort.
Literally camp on the side of a mountain at Lincoln Gulch Campground. Just a stop off of Independence Pass, Lincoln Gulch is a small flat clearing on the Lincoln Creek. A great site for those wild enough to try it–yeah, we’re lookin’ at you. Read more...
Amongst sparse young aspen, spruce and fir trees sits Fulford Cave Campground. From over 9,500 feet of elevation you can catch some primo views of Yeoman Park and scope out an active beaver pond. Fulford Cave itself is only a mile from camp and nearby trails let you enter the Holy Cross Wilderness. These are small sites with only one that can acco Read more...
Hoisted 9,000 feet skyward above sea level, Yeoman Park Campground is located on the edge of a wetland meadow and mature spruce forest. Peep a pretty view of Craig Peak or turn your attention to the animal kingdom to watch an active beaver colony or red-tailed hawk. Two campsites have been modified to make them more accessible for the disabled and Read more...
A well-hidden gem within White Lake National Park, Gold Park Campground is shimmering with wildlife. And, accessible by both foot and horseback, you’ll be treated to a stateside safari, if you will. That being said, be mindful of your food waste; the park’s been recently trafficked by sweet-toothed bears. Lock up your Hostess and Little Debbie sna Read more...
Hiking through the Holy Cross Wilderness? Then Halfmoon Campground is the perfect base camp for you. The seven campsites here are shaded by thick forest and are super close to several major trailheads. The campground is popular with Mount of the Holy Cross hikers, so maybe you’ll make a new buddy or two who’ll travel the trails with you!Read more...
Where our pro anglers at? Fryingpan River is classified as "Gold Medal Waters," which means it offers just about some of the best and baddest fishing around. Where better to set up tent than a river-bordering campground? It’s all good if you just came for some outdoor serenity—nestled at the base of a wide valley surrounded by pines, this spot is Read more...
Enjoy divine, can’t-miss views of White River National Forest and the Rockies from your own private nook in Redstone Campground, one of the posher overnight options in the area. You’ll have access to stellar trout fishing and awesome wildlife viewing (with bighorn sheep and bull elk around) as well as a basketball court and playground for some rit Read more...
Located along its namesake, forested Gore Creek Campground is neighborinos with the Eagle’s Nest Wilderness and hosts many traditional camping activities. There is one handicapped accessible site along with four handicapped accessible bathrooms, plus food storage lockers. While we’re on the subject, remember to take those lockers seriously since a Read more...
Round up the crew for a weekend away in the great outdoors. At Camp Hale East Fork Group Campground, you can fit all 200 of your closest peeps in this wide open rustic beauty. Pack ‘em in! The valley is speckled with lodgepole pines and is hugged by the pebbly East Fork Eagle River, adding a scenic beauty that is hard to beat. You can try your luc Read more...
A misnomer in comparison to driving over Independence Pass and navigating the 2. 4-million acre White River National Forest, Difficult Campground is a natural haven for wildlife lovers. Standing tall at about 8,100 ft elevation Difficult stays chill by the hands of the Roaring Fork River that run alongside. Read more...
For its enviable location right on the Crystal River, Bogan Flats Campground is a favorite among fishers and those who know the value of a striking waterside location. With most of the parking spurs spread out along a single line, sites are fairly private, and some of them have front-row views of the river! This popular campground also offers a gr Read more...
Fun fact: Aspens in a grove all share the same roots–they’re all one tree! Explore this natural phenomena at Silver Bell Campground. Expert tip: set up a hammock and listen to the wind rustle the Aspens’ leaves–at 8,500’ elevation the sound is mighty. Read more...
Life is all about gives and takes. For instance, at Heaton Bay Campground, there may not be much shade, but because of it, you get spectacular views of the reservoir and mountain ranges all around. With 26. 8 miles of shoreline, the Dillon Reservoir boasts the most downright picturesque lake hang for fishing and boating. For the landlubbers--the O Read more...
Prospects at Prospector Campground? You betcha. This campground is the perfect blend of sea and sky. The Dillion Reservoir has options for zipping around on a boat, trying to catch the variety of fish, and showing off your knot tying skills. Imagine waking up to the breathtaking views of the babbling water and several mountain ranges surrounding. Read more...
Come on down to Hornsilver Campground, where the creek runs cold and the campfire burns hot. Fish for trout in Homestake Creek, which is directly across the road from the campground, and then explore the various trails that jut off from nearby Homestake Road #703. This seven-site campground is a lightly-treaded spot, perfect for a quiet weekend in Read more...
Postcard-perfect, the Silver Bar Campground is just down the road from the Snowmass-Maroon Bells Wilderness area. Full disclosure: this alpine pitstop could change your life. Yea, it’s that beautiful. Set next to the Maroon Creek, hiking trails, near the legendary Snowmass Mountain Silver Bar is bar none magnificent. Read more...
Full disclosure: if you camp at Silver Queen Campground it is required that you also check out the Maroon Bells–a sight worthy of a top ten spot on the bucket list. Silver Bells is perfect for visitors who need to set up a solid home base but also want to explore around the area. With a five-day stay limit, choose your activities wisely and breath Read more...
Not only will you find some of the best fishing (Gold Medal Waters!) at Dearhamer Campground, but you’ll also be surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the rugged Rocky Mountains and sturdy pines. Set right alongside Fryingpan River, you are in the prime spot for all the outdoor adventuring your little heart desires. If you're an avid hiker or m Read more...
Bring out the boat for sunny times at Ruedi Reservoir or try your hand at fishing in the renowned waters of Fryingpan River--either way, Mollie B Campground will keep you plenty busy. This girl is quite the beauty, no exaggeration. Lakeside setting, dreamy star-filled nights, and sweet smelling pines are her finer points. She is always up for the Read more...
Two miles east of an old mining-turned-ghost town, Lost Man Campground is sheltered by tall lodgepole pine trees and ideal for telling spooky ghost stories. Across the road find access to Lost Man Trail and the Hunter-Frying Pan Wilderness area. Shhh. Hear that? That is the sound of the rushing Roaring Fork River due west… or so we think. Read more...
Of all the campgrounds to stay near Aspen, Weller Campground is clutch for climbers. Butting up to a rocky slope, Weller is hidden within an aspen grove and close to a giant handful of climbing and bouldering spots. The infamous granite Grotto Wall and its landmark Cryogenics route are just a short drive away--and an impressive notch in the belt. Read more...
Elk Wallow Campground is best suited for campers looking for quiet getaways, but there’s certainly no reason to wallow in despair. Camp the way you wanna and make use of most major amenities. Just be sure to pack your own water and supplies, which you can find nearby at the gas station, grocery store or drug store. Anglers, cast away at nearby Nor Read more...
16 miles east of Basalt on the Ruedi Reservoir, Little Mattie Campground is a scenic spot with recreational activities galore. The location near water gives campers an opportunity to swim, boat, fish or sailboard to their heart’s desire. You may even want to budget some time in Basalt itself. It’s well known for its mountain biking, world-class cr Read more...
Avalanche Campground is a prime destination for enjoying the intense natural beauty of White River National Forest. With the bonus of being creekside and further fishing options 3 miles away in the Crystal River, plus easy access to hiking in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness (trying saying that ten times fast!), it’s one of those first-come, f Read more...
A stay at Piney Guard Station instantly transports guests to 1930s Colorado, when this postcard-worthy log cabin was built as a workstation for Forest Service Crews. Situated about an hour north of Vail in the White River National Forest, it can sleep up to four guests and offers the perfect base camp for high adventure. Summertime finds visitors Read more...
Peak One? This place should be called Peak Plenty because with views of the hypnotic Tenmile & Gore ranges, this place has got peaks for days. It also has a super reservoir to check out. You can’t stick your body in it, but there sure is some good fishin’ and boatin’ to be had. No lake legs? Not to worry, there are 7 miles of paved trails perf Read more...
What better spot to bring that French press of yours to impress the ladies or gents with? Coffee Pot Spring Campground is the perfect outdoor haven for your fresh brew lovers. Nestled on a slope surrounded by aspen, spruce, and fir, you’ll enjoy sights of an open meadow and snowcapped mountain ranges as you sip those fruity Ethiopian blends. You c Read more...
Get in touch with nature and pay respect to our troops at Camp Hale Memorial Campground. Used as a WWII training camp, Camp Hale Memorial is now a celebrated camping ground geared toward bringing family and friends together. With fishing and biking, hiking and animal scoping, there is a ton of activities to do! Explore the historical sites and win Read more...
Rev’ up the engines the terrain here is EPIC. At an elevation of 9,400 feet, Portal Campground is the big leagues attracting motorcyclists, bikers, ATV, and horseback riders. Small and lightly treaded, Portal can be tricky to access–high clearance required. Read more...
John Denver knew what he was talking about when he sang “Rocky Mountain High. ” Actually he probably stayed a night at Lowry Campground. Wildlife is all over the place: from rainbow trout (get your fish on) to bighorn sheep, there’s always something to marvel at. The rocky trails aren’t the easiest to navigate but you’ll reap some serious benefit Read more...
In true ColoRADo fashion, Shepard’s Rim Campground offers up the very best of the outdoors on a silver platter. Come for the fishing, stay for the elk bugles and relax at your picturesque site surrounded by mountains. You’ll feel cuddled by the forest in your site and there’s plenty of room for your tent, RV, and all the fun you can handle. Shepar Read more...
Sweetwater Campground will hit just the spot any time of year. Located right on the 72 acre lake, you are surrounded by shimmering beauty and forested greens and towering limestone cliffs. You can take the canoe out and fish for rainbow trout or kokanee salmon on the lake or hit up one of the trails that fits just right. Go with Cross Creek Trail Read more...
Take in the beauty of White Owl Lake from right outside your tent when you crash here. This is the perfect spot for some secluded lakeside chillaxing with a cold beer in hand. One lake not enough for you? You can take one of the trails from White Owl Lake Campground to the other nearby lakes for scenic viewing and exploration. There are even great Read more...
Talk about teeny tiny! Cataract Creek Campground only has five sites, so even if the campground is full it'll still feel like you have the place to yourself. With access to tons of trails, Green Mountain Reservoir and Eagles Nest Wilderness, this spot is primo for a solo getaway or romantic retreat for two. You’ll have to bring in your own water, Read more...
Wake up next to the majestic beauty of Deep Lake and the smell of the fragrant spruce and fir forest and you’ll be hooked. With that nature goodness running through your veins, Deep Lake Campground will become your new go to spot. Expansive meadows right outside camp open up to the start of Deep Creek Canyon, which is quite the sight to behold and Read more...
Marvine Campground is your gateway to the Flat Top Wilderness! And if you’ve got a fleet of horses to hit the trails with, even better! There are both standard sites for your tent or RV and horse campsites complete with corrals so your stallion doesn’t run amuck! You’re welcome to water your livestock in the stream too. With access to the town of Read more...
At over 8,000 feet elevation on the west end of the Green Mountain Reservoir, Elliott Creek Campground is a supa dupa fly place to get away for the weekend. This camp’s real close to Heeney, which has the marina, boat ramp and fishing supply shop you'll hit up to make the most of your time here!Read more...
Bucks Campground at Trapper Lake offers you a pretty place to rest your head and offers the lake at your fingertips! If you came to catch trout, you’re gonna be mighty pleased that you’ve only got a short trip to the lake; there's no wasti
White River National Forest
Unspoiled scenery and year-round recreation abound in the nation’s most visited national forest.
It shouldn't come as much of a surprise that White River National Forest is the most visited national forest in the United States. Spread out over 2.3 million acres, this wild expanse is home to thousands of miles of trails and eight protected wilderness areas. Popular attractions within the park include the Hanging Lake National Natural Landmark, the oft-photographed Crystal Mill (an old wooden powerhouse dating to 1892), and the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. There are also a number of celebrated ski areas in the state, including the Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area and the Vail Ski Resort.
It shouldn't come as much of a surprise that White River National Forest is the most visited national forest in the United States. Spread out over 2.3 million acres, this wild expanse is home to thousands of miles of trails and eight protected wilderness areas. Popular attractions within the park include the Hanging Lake National Natural Landmark, the oft-photographed Crystal Mill (an old wooden powerhouse dating to 1892), and the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. There are also a number of celebrated ski areas in the state, including the Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area and the Vail Ski Resort.
Activities in the park
56 campgrounds in White River National Forest
Read more...
Literally camp on the side of a mountain at Lincoln Gulch Campground. Just a stop off of Independence Pass, Lincoln Gulch is a small flat clearing on the Lincoln Creek. A great site for those wild enough to try it–yeah, we’re lookin’ at you. Read more...
Amongst sparse young aspen, spruce and fir trees sits Fulford Cave Campground. From over 9,500 feet of elevation you can catch some primo views of Yeoman Park and scope out an active beaver pond. Fulford Cave itself is only a mile from camp and nearby trails let you enter the Holy Cross Wilderness. These are small sites with only one that can acco Read more...
Hoisted 9,000 feet skyward above sea level, Yeoman Park Campground is located on the edge of a wetland meadow and mature spruce forest. Peep a pretty view of Craig Peak or turn your attention to the animal kingdom to watch an active beaver colony or red-tailed hawk. Two campsites have been modified to make them more accessible for the disabled and Read more...
A well-hidden gem within White Lake National Park, Gold Park Campground is shimmering with wildlife. And, accessible by both foot and horseback, you’ll be treated to a stateside safari, if you will. That being said, be mindful of your food waste; the park’s been recently trafficked by sweet-toothed bears. Lock up your Hostess and Little Debbie sna Read more...
Hiking through the Holy Cross Wilderness? Then Halfmoon Campground is the perfect base camp for you. The seven campsites here are shaded by thick forest and are super close to several major trailheads. The campground is popular with Mount of the Holy Cross hikers, so maybe you’ll make a new buddy or two who’ll travel the trails with you!Read more...
Where our pro anglers at? Fryingpan River is classified as "Gold Medal Waters," which means it offers just about some of the best and baddest fishing around. Where better to set up tent than a river-bordering campground? It’s all good if you just came for some outdoor serenity—nestled at the base of a wide valley surrounded by pines, this spot is Read more...
Enjoy divine, can’t-miss views of White River National Forest and the Rockies from your own private nook in Redstone Campground, one of the posher overnight options in the area. You’ll have access to stellar trout fishing and awesome wildlife viewing (with bighorn sheep and bull elk around) as well as a basketball court and playground for some rit Read more...
Located along its namesake, forested Gore Creek Campground is neighborinos with the Eagle’s Nest Wilderness and hosts many traditional camping activities. There is one handicapped accessible site along with four handicapped accessible bathrooms, plus food storage lockers. While we’re on the subject, remember to take those lockers seriously since a Read more...
Round up the crew for a weekend away in the great outdoors. At Camp Hale East Fork Group Campground, you can fit all 200 of your closest peeps in this wide open rustic beauty. Pack ‘em in! The valley is speckled with lodgepole pines and is hugged by the pebbly East Fork Eagle River, adding a scenic beauty that is hard to beat. You can try your luc Read more...
A misnomer in comparison to driving over Independence Pass and navigating the 2. 4-million acre White River National Forest, Difficult Campground is a natural haven for wildlife lovers. Standing tall at about 8,100 ft elevation Difficult stays chill by the hands of the Roaring Fork River that run alongside. Read more...
For its enviable location right on the Crystal River, Bogan Flats Campground is a favorite among fishers and those who know the value of a striking waterside location. With most of the parking spurs spread out along a single line, sites are fairly private, and some of them have front-row views of the river! This popular campground also offers a gr Read more...
Fun fact: Aspens in a grove all share the same roots–they’re all one tree! Explore this natural phenomena at Silver Bell Campground. Expert tip: set up a hammock and listen to the wind rustle the Aspens’ leaves–at 8,500’ elevation the sound is mighty. Read more...
Life is all about gives and takes. For instance, at Heaton Bay Campground, there may not be much shade, but because of it, you get spectacular views of the reservoir and mountain ranges all around. With 26. 8 miles of shoreline, the Dillon Reservoir boasts the most downright picturesque lake hang for fishing and boating. For the landlubbers--the O Read more...
Prospects at Prospector Campground? You betcha. This campground is the perfect blend of sea and sky. The Dillion Reservoir has options for zipping around on a boat, trying to catch the variety of fish, and showing off your knot tying skills. Imagine waking up to the breathtaking views of the babbling water and several mountain ranges surrounding. Read more...
Come on down to Hornsilver Campground, where the creek runs cold and the campfire burns hot. Fish for trout in Homestake Creek, which is directly across the road from the campground, and then explore the various trails that jut off from nearby Homestake Road #703. This seven-site campground is a lightly-treaded spot, perfect for a quiet weekend in Read more...
Postcard-perfect, the Silver Bar Campground is just down the road from the Snowmass-Maroon Bells Wilderness area. Full disclosure: this alpine pitstop could change your life. Yea, it’s that beautiful. Set next to the Maroon Creek, hiking trails, near the legendary Snowmass Mountain Silver Bar is bar none magnificent. Read more...
Full disclosure: if you camp at Silver Queen Campground it is required that you also check out the Maroon Bells–a sight worthy of a top ten spot on the bucket list. Silver Bells is perfect for visitors who need to set up a solid home base but also want to explore around the area. With a five-day stay limit, choose your activities wisely and breath Read more...
Not only will you find some of the best fishing (Gold Medal Waters!) at Dearhamer Campground, but you’ll also be surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the rugged Rocky Mountains and sturdy pines. Set right alongside Fryingpan River, you are in the prime spot for all the outdoor adventuring your little heart desires. If you're an avid hiker or m Read more...
Bring out the boat for sunny times at Ruedi Reservoir or try your hand at fishing in the renowned waters of Fryingpan River--either way, Mollie B Campground will keep you plenty busy. This girl is quite the beauty, no exaggeration. Lakeside setting, dreamy star-filled nights, and sweet smelling pines are her finer points. She is always up for the Read more...
Two miles east of an old mining-turned-ghost town, Lost Man Campground is sheltered by tall lodgepole pine trees and ideal for telling spooky ghost stories. Across the road find access to Lost Man Trail and the Hunter-Frying Pan Wilderness area. Shhh. Hear that? That is the sound of the rushing Roaring Fork River due west… or so we think. Read more...
Of all the campgrounds to stay near Aspen, Weller Campground is clutch for climbers. Butting up to a rocky slope, Weller is hidden within an aspen grove and close to a giant handful of climbing and bouldering spots. The infamous granite Grotto Wall and its landmark Cryogenics route are just a short drive away--and an impressive notch in the belt. Read more...
Elk Wallow Campground is best suited for campers looking for quiet getaways, but there’s certainly no reason to wallow in despair. Camp the way you wanna and make use of most major amenities. Just be sure to pack your own water and supplies, which you can find nearby at the gas station, grocery store or drug store. Anglers, cast away at nearby Nor Read more...
16 miles east of Basalt on the Ruedi Reservoir, Little Mattie Campground is a scenic spot with recreational activities galore. The location near water gives campers an opportunity to swim, boat, fish or sailboard to their heart’s desire. You may even want to budget some time in Basalt itself. It’s well known for its mountain biking, world-class cr Read more...
Avalanche Campground is a prime destination for enjoying the intense natural beauty of White River National Forest. With the bonus of being creekside and further fishing options 3 miles away in the Crystal River, plus easy access to hiking in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness (trying saying that ten times fast!), it’s one of those first-come, f Read more...
A stay at Piney Guard Station instantly transports guests to 1930s Colorado, when this postcard-worthy log cabin was built as a workstation for Forest Service Crews. Situated about an hour north of Vail in the White River National Forest, it can sleep up to four guests and offers the perfect base camp for high adventure. Summertime finds visitors Read more...
Peak One? This place should be called Peak Plenty because with views of the hypnotic Tenmile & Gore ranges, this place has got peaks for days. It also has a super reservoir to check out. You can’t stick your body in it, but there sure is some good fishin’ and boatin’ to be had. No lake legs? Not to worry, there are 7 miles of paved trails perf Read more...
What better spot to bring that French press of yours to impress the ladies or gents with? Coffee Pot Spring Campground is the perfect outdoor haven for your fresh brew lovers. Nestled on a slope surrounded by aspen, spruce, and fir, you’ll enjoy sights of an open meadow and snowcapped mountain ranges as you sip those fruity Ethiopian blends. You c Read more...
Get in touch with nature and pay respect to our troops at Camp Hale Memorial Campground. Used as a WWII training camp, Camp Hale Memorial is now a celebrated camping ground geared toward bringing family and friends together. With fishing and biking, hiking and animal scoping, there is a ton of activities to do! Explore the historical sites and win Read more...
Rev’ up the engines the terrain here is EPIC. At an elevation of 9,400 feet, Portal Campground is the big leagues attracting motorcyclists, bikers, ATV, and horseback riders. Small and lightly treaded, Portal can be tricky to access–high clearance required. Read more...
John Denver knew what he was talking about when he sang “Rocky Mountain High. ” Actually he probably stayed a night at Lowry Campground. Wildlife is all over the place: from rainbow trout (get your fish on) to bighorn sheep, there’s always something to marvel at. The rocky trails aren’t the easiest to navigate but you’ll reap some serious benefit Read more...
In true ColoRADo fashion, Shepard’s Rim Campground offers up the very best of the outdoors on a silver platter. Come for the fishing, stay for the elk bugles and relax at your picturesque site surrounded by mountains. You’ll feel cuddled by the forest in your site and there’s plenty of room for your tent, RV, and all the fun you can handle. Shepar Read more...
Sweetwater Campground will hit just the spot any time of year. Located right on the 72 acre lake, you are surrounded by shimmering beauty and forested greens and towering limestone cliffs. You can take the canoe out and fish for rainbow trout or kokanee salmon on the lake or hit up one of the trails that fits just right. Go with Cross Creek Trail Read more...
Take in the beauty of White Owl Lake from right outside your tent when you crash here. This is the perfect spot for some secluded lakeside chillaxing with a cold beer in hand. One lake not enough for you? You can take one of the trails from White Owl Lake Campground to the other nearby lakes for scenic viewing and exploration. There are even great Read more...
Talk about teeny tiny! Cataract Creek Campground only has five sites, so even if the campground is full it'll still feel like you have the place to yourself. With access to tons of trails, Green Mountain Reservoir and Eagles Nest Wilderness, this spot is primo for a solo getaway or romantic retreat for two. You’ll have to bring in your own water, Read more...
Wake up next to the majestic beauty of Deep Lake and the smell of the fragrant spruce and fir forest and you’ll be hooked. With that nature goodness running through your veins, Deep Lake Campground will become your new go to spot. Expansive meadows right outside camp open up to the start of Deep Creek Canyon, which is quite the sight to behold and Read more...
Marvine Campground is your gateway to the Flat Top Wilderness! And if you’ve got a fleet of horses to hit the trails with, even better! There are both standard sites for your tent or RV and horse campsites complete with corrals so your stallion doesn’t run amuck! You’re welcome to water your livestock in the stream too. With access to the town of Read more...
At over 8,000 feet elevation on the west end of the Green Mountain Reservoir, Elliott Creek Campground is a supa dupa fly place to get away for the weekend. This camp’s real close to Heeney, which has the marina, boat ramp and fishing supply shop you'll hit up to make the most of your time here!Read more...
Bucks Campground at Trapper Lake offers you a pretty place to rest your head and offers the lake at your fingertips! If you came to catch trout, you’re gonna be mighty pleased that you’ve only got a short trip to the lake; there's no wasti