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Frenchman's Creek Ranch

Hosted by Belinda · Buena Vista, Colorado
5 sites · RV, Tent, Lodging · 100 acres
100%
·
244 reviews
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Best Hipcamps in Colorado
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2025.
Amazing views
Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.
Family-friendly
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
Best in Colorado: Finalist
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024.
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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RV/tent sites

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No Frills in the Cottonwoods

100%
(44)
RV/tent site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 20 ft
A few frills like a shaded spot with a picnic table, a gas fire pit and a couple chairs. Mountain and field views. The bathrooms are nearby. No electric, water or sewer. Campervans, popups or tents work here. Leisurely walk to the Arkansas river.
No campfires
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
No electrical hookup
No water hookup
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RV-only sites

2 sites
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Site 2 - Cottonwood Shaded RV Spot

100%
(73)
Vehicle site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 24 ft
The trailer spaces have water, sewer and electric hookups. There is a picnic table and views of hay fields across the wooden fence to the east and mountains to the west. Large cottonwood trees surround the area.  There is a gas firepit and a couple Adirondack chairs nearby to sit and relax or roast some marshmallows.  Antique farm equipment is scattered around, and the barnyard is so close the rooster may wake you up in the morning. The hike to the river is about a quarter mile on the road that goes through the ranch.  This was one of the first ranches established in this valley. In 1863 a French man named Francois Mayol, hence "Frenchman's Creek", homesteaded here where the creek runs into the river. He raised beef, pigs, potatoes and other produce that he sold to the miners living at Cache Creek. His place was also a stop for stagecoaches heading to Leadville. He, his first wife and a child are buried in a small gravesite by the creek.
No campfires
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
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Site 1 - Cottonwood Shaded RV Spot

100%
(45)
Vehicle site · Sleeps 4 · Vehicles under 24 ft
The trailer spaces have water, sewer and electric hookups. There is a picnic table and views of hay fields across the wooden fence to the east and mountains to the west. Large cottonwood trees surround the area.  There is a gas firepit and a couple Adirondack chairs nearby to sit and relax or roast some marshmallows.  Antique farm equipment is scattered around, and the barnyard is so close the rooster may wake you up in the morning. The hike to the river is about a quarter mile on the road that goes through the ranch.  This was one of the first ranches established in this valley. In 1863 a French man named Francois Mayol, hence "Frenchman's Creek", homesteaded here where the creek runs into the river. He raised beef, pigs, potatoes and other produce that he sold to the miners living at Cache Creek. His place was also a stop for stagecoaches heading to Leadville. He, his first wife and a child are buried in a small gravesite by the creek.
No campfires
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from
$60
/ night
for NaN guests

Lodging

2 sites
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Canvas Tent in the Aspen Grove

100%
(71)
Canvas tent · Sleeps 3
We have a 10 x 12 canvas tent on a wooden platform. The tent has a screened window and front door. There is a small bistro table and a couple folding camp chairs inside and two Adirondack chairs on the deck outside. There is a picnic table and the firepit.  For an extra charge we can provide a queen or twin cot with an air mattress, a cooler, a propane grill and a camp cook stove. It is very private and tucked away in the aspen trees. There is a bathroom with flush toilets and a shower nearby. There is access to the Arkansas river within a short walking distance. Various wildlife wander through every day. Hay fields and pastures on one side and mountains on the other. Nights are cool so be sure to bring warm bedding and clothing. We are at 8600 feet.
No campfires
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Showers
Picnic table
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$75
/ night
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Medium Canvas Tent in the Aspens

99%
(67)
Canvas tent · Sleeps 6
Medium size (12 x 14) canvas tent situated on a wooden platform tucked in our Aspen grove. Private but still near the bathrooms!  Flush toilets, showers with hot and cold water.  Inside the tent is a bistro table, some camp chairs and a battery operated Coleman lantern.  Outside is a picnic table, fire pit and a couple Adirondack chairs on the deck.  For an extra charge we can supply queen or twin cots with an air mattress, a camp cook stove, a propane grill and a cooler.  Enough room for 4 adults or a family.  Relax by the fire or on the deck. Bird and wildlife watch or go for a hike to the Arkansas river.  Hay fields and pastures on one side and mountains on the other.   Listen to the owls and quaking aspens as you fall asleep. Nights are cool so be sure to bring warm bedding and clothing.  We are at 8600 feet. 
No campfires
Toilet
Potable water
Pets allowed
Showers
Picnic table
from
$80
/ night
for NaN guests
from
$55
/ night
5 sites

Reviews

100% Recommend324 ratings · 244 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Amazing!
With pets ·
Canvas Tent in the Aspen Grove
We had the absolute best time at the canvas tents! The animals were the highlight of our stay, the walk to the river was amazing as well. While we were there, a momma cow actually had her baby, which was such a special and unforgettable experience. The setting is peaceful, the tents are cozy, and you really feel connected to nature. Todd and Belinda are truly wonderful hosts. They made us feel so welcome and went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable and memorable. If you’re looking for a unique getaway with a touch of magic, this is it. We can’t wait to come back!
J
Jesse B.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2025
Pastoral setting with full hookups
16 ft travel trailer ·
Site 1 - Cottonwood Shaded RV Spot
Beautiful property, super friendly and interesting hosts. I hope to spend an extra day or two next year if they’re available/ willing to host me again. Definitely a great spot to relax.
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Jeff W.
4 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
21 ft travel trailer · With pets ·
Site 2 - Cottonwood Shaded RV Spot
This is a hidden gem in BV. The facility is great and they have river access.
K
Katy S.
4 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
8 ft campervan ·
Site 1 - Cottonwood Shaded RV Spot
This was my first time car camping and it should be called “GLAMPING” because of all of the extra amenities! We loved the gas fire pit and string lights at our site. Having electricity and water at the site helped us stay warm in the car, as we plugged in 2 heated throws. Both Belinda and Todd greeted us separately and provided us with helpful information. We loved interacting with the farm animals, especially the Jacob Sheep and turkeys! The bathhouse was very clean. The shower was especially modern and nice to have during our stay. We enjoyed our stay very much!
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Kathy W.
6 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2025
Sweet Ranch Dreams :)
19 ft campervan ·
No Frills in the Cottonwoods
No Frills in the Cottonwoods was the perfect mix of remote and convenient. You can see the adorable highland cows, from the site and it’s also a short walk to the bathroom. Belinda introduced us to some animals and gave east instructions for exploring the ranch on foot. We walked down to the river for amazing views! Will definitely return.
D
Danielle K.
10 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
Wow Great
15 ft travel trailer · With pets ·
Site 2 - Cottonwood Shaded RV Spot
Wow - we absolutely loved Frenchman’s Creek Ranch… magnificent views, lovely hosts, welcoming and deeply relaxing. Can’t wait to head back in 2026.
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Ned B.
3 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2025
16 ft campervan ·
No Frills in the Cottonwoods
Friendly hosts. Beautiful setting. Cool working ranch. Good fishing
T
Tres P.
2 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
Moms First Camping Trip
Tent ·
No Frills in the Cottonwoods
Absolutely beautiful campsite. Hosts were very accommodating. The bathroom and shower were a huge plus for my mother who I took camping for the first time. We will definitely be back!
R
Rebecca W.
2 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
Great 1 Night Stay!
14 ft pop-up camper · With kids ·
No Frills in the Cottonwoods
I recently spent an evening in the "No Frills" camping spot at the ranch with my 7 year-old son, and we had a sweet time. The natural setting, with beautiful woods bordering on pastures on a working ranch was beautiful. The property is clean, the camp spots are well spaced apart, and the bathroom facilities were nice & clean. Access to trails and river made for fun adventures. We'd definitely stay again.
S
Stephen C.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2025
With pets ·
Medium Canvas Tent in the Aspens
Belinda and Todd's place is great!! Our medium tent was ample enough for 2 adults, a 1yro and our 2 dogs. We walked down to the river to pass the time. Our tent was a short walk to the bathroom/showers, so that was a plus. One notable thing is the camp is right off a busy road, so there is noticeable car noise, but we still had a great time! We will definitely be back 😊
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Joyce C.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
With kids ·
Medium Canvas Tent in the Aspens
Very clean, cozy, and lovely setting. Showers were nice and convenient.
J
Jennifer N.
2 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
Perfect Slice of Ranch Living
23 ft travel trailer ·
Site 2 - Cottonwood Shaded RV Spot
We had such a wonderful stay at Frenchman Ranch in Buena Vista! Belinda and Todd’s property is absolutely beautiful, everywhere you look feels like a postcard. We found ourselves constantly stopping to take photos of the ranch, the vintage equipment, and of course the cows we got to watch every day. The animals added so much charm to our experience, handsome George (the pig) kept us company, and the sassy sheep strutted around like they owned the place (and honestly, we loved it). It felt like a true slice of Colorado ranch life. The location is also perfect, peaceful and scenic, yet just a short drive to downtown Buena Vista, where you can enjoy shops, dining, and the charm of town. We couldn’t have asked for a better stay, and we’re so grateful to Belinda and Todd for sharing their special property with us. Highly recommend!!!
J
Jagoda K.
5 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
With kids ·
Medium Canvas Tent in the Aspens
We had such a great time here! Tent was spacious, campsite was great, and the mattress pad we rented was super comfortable. Made for a perfect first camping experience with our toddler. Visiting the cows and playing by the river made this such a fun experience. Would highly recommend if you’re looking for an easy and comfortable camping set up with fun nearby!
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Laura G.
2 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
Canvas Tent in the Aspen Grove
Wonderful place. As others have said, Todd and Belinda are fantastic hosts.
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Chad B.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
Tent ·
No Frills in the Cottonwoods
Outstanding hospitality from Belinda and Todd. Well-maintained spot with farm animal friends and great views. The best bath house amenities ever(and I’ve camped/traveled here and there)!!!!! The hot shower and nap after hiking to Mt Elbert was priceless! Stay here!
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Shawna T.
7 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
With pets ·
Canvas Tent in the Aspen Grove
My family and I had a great time at Frenchman’s Creek! Our tent was spacious for the three of us and kept us shielded from the nightly showers. We enjoyed seeing the animals and the clean bathrooms/showers. I will definitely be staying here again when I am need of camping in the Buena Vista area!
S
Sophia S.
2 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
10/10 camp trip!
Group trip ·
Medium Canvas Tent in the Aspens
We loved camping at Frenchman’s. The tent was awesome! Location 10/10. Belinda and Todd were so friendly and helpful. The river by their property is amazing and we just regret not having more time there to enjoy it. They provided an awesome propane fire pit. And the restrooms and shower were super clean, and really nice! Another 10/10. Well def be back here to camp
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Jose G.
5 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
Group trip ·
Medium Canvas Tent in the Aspens
Spacious tent and lights in tent and site were appreciated. Enjoyed quick walk to river and watching animals. Hosts were excellent. Thanks!
K
Kristin M.
2 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
15 ft pop-up camper · With pets ·
Site 2 - Cottonwood Shaded RV Spot
Great spot! Beautiful location, super friendly host, and amazing scenery. Highly recommend!
H
Haley S.
3 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
20 ft travel trailer ·
Site 1 - Cottonwood Shaded RV Spot
Beautiful place. Bathrooms immaculate. We will be back
N
Nancy S.
11 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
Canvas Tent in the Aspen Grove
We loved our stay, thank you Belinda and Todd! Such a gem, from the propine fire pit, to the convenient bathroom, to the accessible river front, 10/10. Also loved being closed to BV.
S
Sophia B.
2 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
With pets ·
Medium Canvas Tent in the Aspens
Awesome shady relaxing spot in the aspens with no one too close by. A really good jumping off point for many trails and adventures in the Arkansas River valley
S
Scott G.
5 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
Perfect Spot to Camp
24 ft travel trailer ·
Site 2 - Cottonwood Shaded RV Spot
Perfect spot to camp!! Excellent, conscientious, friendly hosts made us feel welcomed like we were their family. Highly recommend!!
J
Jason D.
10 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
Fantastic BV campground
Tent ·
No Frills in the Cottonwoods
Todd and Belinda were wonderful hosts, and this site was great! Very secluded, not too buggy, full of animals, and the amenities were great (propane fire, flush toilet, potable water, and a shower room!). One FYI - this is very close to the road and you can see/hear traffic.
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Chelsea S.
5 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
All we needed
20 ft pop-up camper · With pets ·
No Frills in the Cottonwoods
This was the prefect add-on to our extended stay! Our 20’ travel trailer fit perfectly (pull-through site) and the morning view of the meadow and aspen grove was stunning! Close to the bathroom and very clean shower house, and fresh water pump. No hook ups but again, it’s “no-frills”. Propane fire pit, chairs and table, made for a nice one night stay for us!
D
Diane A.
6 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
Another perfect BV stay!
20 ft travel trailer ·
Site 2 - Cottonwood Shaded RV Spot
This was our second year coming to Belinda and Todd’s amazing property! What a gift it was to explore again and settle in such a perfect camp spot with our pup and 20’ travel trailer. Highly recommend. Close to town. Such great hospitality and touches (and super clean shower house!!) loved the propane fire pits - no need for firewood. Our river time was priceless (a beautiful 3/4 mile walk) for some of the best views of the Arkansas! Goats cows and rooster an added touch. Thank you, we will be back!
D
Diane A.
6 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
Canvas Tent in the Aspen Grove
I appreciated how well the hosts communicated with me and the cleanliness of the facilities. The site provided great access to several hiking trails in the area, plus quick access to downtown Leadville and Buena Vista. I'd definitely stay with Belinda and Todd again.
P
Paul B.
2 reviews
Recommends
· August 2025
Definitely recommend!
Tent · With pets ·
No Frills in the Cottonwoods
It was lovely! This site was very private and had so much shade. It was also very spacious! It is a working farm so you will see people out feeding animals, etc. Negative - Close to the highway so you can hear the vehicles pass by but we found it easy to tune that out.
C
Candice H.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
Canvas Tent in the Aspen Grove
Beautiful area with cows next door! Clean, quiet, and private.
M
Marie G.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
Exactly as listed
Canvas Tent in the Aspen Grove
The tent was a perfect size and it was nice having it be on a platform so it wasn’t right on the ground. There were chairs inside and outside with a small table inside and a picnic table outside just like in the pictures. The listing says no fires but there is a propane fire but it didn’t work for us. I noticed one of their tent sites did have a functioning propane fire going so I’m not sure if they’re not allowed or if it was just out. Otherwise the site was beautiful, well kept and cool to see the cows right next to us! Bathrooms were clean and a short 2 min. walk away. They were communicative and recommended some restaurants in town for us!
J
Jada A.
2 reviews

Location

Buena Vista, Chaffee, Colorado, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by Belinda And Todd T.

Joined in June 2022

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