The best camping in White River National Forest, CO

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.

• Best for history buffs: Lost Man Campground provides easy access to the ghost town of Independence, two-miles away.
• Best for weekend campers: Willows Campground has reservable sites, ideal for campers who can’t show up early to nab a first-come, first-served (FCFS) spot.
• Best for RV camping: Deep Lake Campground has 37 FCFS sites that can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet long.

1. Most campsites in White River National Forest are available on a FCFS basis. Arrive in the morning for the best selection.
2. Some campgrounds have reservable campsites and all cabins can be pre-booked. Reservations open up at 8am Mountain Time, six months in advance. Cabins and popular sites fill up quickly, so try to book as early as you can.
3. Choose harder-to-reach campgrounds for the best chances of scoring a campsite, particularly if you’re camping on a summer weekend.
4. Free dispersed camping is available throughout the forest and is a good alternative for those having troubles securing a campsite.

White River National Forest attracts visitors throughout the year. Summer is the best time to camp here, when the weather is cool and dry, though you’ll have to deal with far more crowds in July and August than you will if you plan your trip for just after Labor Day Weekend. Winter sports are a big draw for many people, though it’s wise to avoid backcountry trips in the snow unless you really know what you’re doing.

• Cell phone service can be spotty in the forest. Make sure to bring a paper map or download offline maps before you set out.
• Check ahead with the forest service for up-to-date details on road closures, particularly if you’re visiting outside of the summer months, when snow can be an issue.
• Fire bans are common in the summer months due to elevated wildfire risks. Check ahead before building a campfire.
• Black bears can put a damper on your camping plans. To mitigate the risk of a visit, store all food, cosmetics, cookware, and garbage in a bear-proof container or in a secure, hard-sided vehicle.

Camping near Taylor Park Reservoir promises an idyllic setting with ample fishing and boating. Surrounded by Colorado's majestic peaks, it's a haven for nature lovers seeking lakeside tranquility and outdoor adventure.