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The best camping in Billy Creek State Wildlife Area, CO

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Discover the natural allure of Billy Creek State Wildlife Area. 

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Billy Creek State Wildlife Area adventure.

Top-rated campsites near Billy Creek State Wildlife Area

The Hop Yard Hideaway

1. The Hop Yard Hideaway

98%
(164)
8.2mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Wake up to the fresh aroma of hops, enjoys beers made with the hops grown next to your sleeping bag, have a campfire with an incredible view of the San Juan Mountains and open night sky, take a tour and learn about the unique world of hops, walk around an 18-foot tall, 32-acre hop trellis, and adventure in all that the Western Slope of Colorado has to offer. We also have 'Fridays on the Farm' every Friday from May 22nd until October 2nd from 4-9pm serving beer with our hops, a local food truck, live music, and yard games. Check our website for more details! We can open the beer barn on other days by request, as well as offer tours! And our neighbors happen to be LaNoue DuBois Winery... This is a perfect basecamp for adventure! The attractions are endless: Exploring Black Canyon NP, Curecanti NRA, and Gunnison Gorge NCA; fly fishing in gold metal waters; hunting; hiking, climbing, and traversing the Via Ferrata in the San Juan Mountains; rafting, kayaking, or SUPing on three different rivers, including a wave park right in town, as well as on reservoirs and lakes; relaxing in mineral-rich hot springs; shopping for unique souvenirs and gifts; and enjoying the activities, restaurants, and shopping of nearby Ouray and Telluride! If we're booked out, message us and we may have some backup spots! ; )
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Coworking Space with Mountain Views

2. Coworking Space with Mountain Views

99%
(74)
10mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Our sites have a tent pad and 20-amp electric service. The main building, which we have converted into a coworking space, is available for our guests to use from 9 AM to 6 PM. Unfortunately, we are on old agricultural land, so the sites are in the direct sun during the day. Please be aware that it gets hot out here in the summer, and consider this when booking your stay with us. Please note that only one camping structure is allowed per site (one tent, one RV, one van, etc.). Our property is also on a bike trail that connects to 70 miles of (mostly paved) bike trails across the town of Montrose. Please reach out with any questions. We look forward to hosting you!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfire Dreamers (4WD or AWD)

3. Campfire Dreamers (4WD or AWD)

95%
(10)
14mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
This location is 4WD only and no trailers. Access to the site requires going down a 12% grade. Beautiful location on the side of a mountain with great views. Fire ring, firewood and water for extinguish your fire are provided.
Pets
Cedar Creek Lodging & RV Park

4. Cedar Creek Lodging & RV Park

90%
(10)
15mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 46 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Cedar Creek stands out as a unique destination near downtown Montrose, offering a serene and well-shaded RV park that caters to a variety of accommodation preferences. Whether you choose to stay in one of our charming tiny homes, park your own RV or van, indulge in glamping, or set up your tent right by the creek, you’ll find a perfect spot to unwind in nature. Our campground provides essential amenities to enhance your stay, including access to a bathhouse, laundry facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi. With the beautiful surroundings, you can explore nearby natural features, enjoy swimming holes, and partake in various outdoor activities. Plus, you’ll be just a short distance from local restaurants and shops, making it easy to experience the best of Montrose. We look forward to welcoming you to Cedar Creek for a memorable getaway!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Hartwork Ranch

5. Hartwork Ranch

94%
(43)
21mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
We have fresh DUCK EGGS!! This is a beautiful 40 acre ranch on Hastings Mesa with views of Alder Canyon and Hayden’s Peak. You can hear Alder Creek flowing through the canyon from the comfort of your campsite. Many nearby options for bicycling, hiking, kayaking and skiing… even backcountry, in the area. Once you pull out the driveway you are a few minutes from Last Dollar Ranch Road (hike, bike, or 4x4) where True Grit was filmed, and about a 25 minute (weather depending) drive to Telluride, 35 minutes to Ridgway, and 35 minutes to Norwood. Just outside of Ridgway is Orvis Hot Springs, and more hot springs and a vapor cave can be found in Ouray. The property offers access to Alder Creek and our beaver ponds down in the canyon. The fields are blanketed with Iris and clematis flowers in May and June and other wild flowers throughout the summer including pentstemon, larkspur, and wild roses. There are patches of scrub oak and fields with cinquefoil bushes in the camping areas, and as you go down in the canyon there are aspen groves, blue spruce, and ponderosa pines. The backside of the property is up against BLM land, which everyone is welcome to.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Darbywoods RV Mountain Lot

6. Darbywoods RV Mountain Lot

99%
(34)
22mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
This is a one acre lot for just one RV located at 9500ft in the Colorado mountains located halfway between Montrose and Gunnison off Hwy 50. The lot is 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.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Balsam Bliss

7. Balsam Bliss

95%
(10)
22mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 1 site
Natural RV site at 9500 feet within Arrowhead Ranch. Electric (50 amp RV and 2 - 20 amp circuits), water, and septic on site. Enjoy nature on this primitive site. No WiFi provided and Cell Service is not ideal. No unapproved fire pits allowed. No firewood provided. Speed limit in Arrowhead is 20 mph. Arrowhead Mountain Lodge is a mile from the site. The lodge has a small convenience store and an excellent restaurant. In the summers, they offer musical groups on the weekends. Long Term Stays are available in Spring, Summer and early Fall. No winter camping allowed. Other things to note Hwy 867 is a gravel road. All roads within Arrowhead are gravel. Sorry no Fifth Wheels, they do not fit.
Pets
Full hookups
Arrowhead Getaway

8. Arrowhead Getaway

91%
(23)
22mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
Come to a private camping space with great scenery and access to lakes. This space provides access to water, a tent, fire pit/grill with an additional tent pad and rv pad. There is also an additional shower and bathroom tent on the premise. Arrowhead lodge has live entertainment throughout the summer as well as dining and additional housing if needed.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Poplar Place

9. Poplar Place

94%
(16)
26mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Locally owned, this large tree grove with over 100 trees, was planted in 1979 for privacy and shade between 2 homes. Learn more about this land: Pitch a tent, sleep in a hammock or park your RV at the Poplar Place. Several campsites within a large grove of trees which provide privacy & shade. Enjoy the sounds of nature including but not limited to: woodpeckers, owls, hawks, farm animals, frogs, crickets & much more. Hammocks, local area maps & yard games available at our check-in station and don’t forget to carve your initials in the totem pole before you leave. You can enjoy visiting with friends around the fire pit, play a game of tic-tac-toe, have an axe throwing contest or hide out in the Tee-Pee, whatever your heart desires. **Pets are welcome, however, they MUST BE ON LEASHES AT ALL TIMES & PROPER DISPOSAL OF ANIMAL WASTE IS A MUST* Thank you
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
Tater's Black Canyon Campground

10. Tater's Black Canyon Campground

97%
(314)
28mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
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Showers
Double Rose Ranch

11. Double Rose Ranch

98%
(25)
32mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 5 sites
The only and closest Hipcamp under the steady majesty of Needlerock! You need to arrive in daylight! This area was Ute land first and Needlerock was ceremonial ground. We have lots of large fields (110 acres) A river running through to dip into and secluded areas to be at one with the magical beauty here. Once a working sheep ranch we are now taking time to dream into this magical place and it’s next incarnation. Come pitch a tent or there are a couple spots to car camp and share in this ranch paradise. We limit each camping spot to two adults or a family with children are fine. Please do not come with 4+ people and one tent. Book accordingly and respectfully. There are mosquitos down by the creek at certain times in the summer in the evening, so we recommend bringing some bug spray. There is a fridge in the barn to keep small things cold and tables to use to sit and enjoy the rustic lux surroundings. We provide a porta potty so please only #1 (pee) outdoors. The land is big although we have 7 camping spots listed, and they are mowed all summer, there is plenty of room to usually be able to choose your own exact spot. This is a cut above basic camping with some nice amenities! We have very friendly dogs, horses and goats. The dogs are out and about and will want to greet you and possible hang out a little. It’s their home too:) We often have a friends yaks grazing here and the next door neighbors cows are always there.
Potable water
Picnic table
Delta Hobby Farm

12. Delta Hobby Farm

98%
(43)
35mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
We are a working hobby farm, complete with orchard, goats, pasture, and yurts. We love this slice of Western Colorado beauty... so close to the Grand Mesa, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, and the Uncompaghre Plateau. So many outdoor possibilities! We build a brand new shower house with flushing toilet to share between all guests as we also have 2 yurts. We also welcome pets that don't chase the free range chickens and are on a leash when out n about. We have recently installed a Pergola for shade! Tent camping is in side the square (if you'd like!) as its lined with peegravel. There is a gate at the entrance of the field and there is a horse fence around the field is twine, so please use the gate! The share shower and bath house has on-demand hot water and a flushing toilet. We encourage all guests to be tidy and efficient as the yurts also share the same bath house.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Tongue Creek Ranch

13. Tongue Creek Ranch

100%
(16)
38mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 1 site
Tongue Creek Ranch is beautifully situated at the base of the Adobe Buttes on the southern side of the Grand Mesa in Austin, Colorado. The 70-acre ranch has over 40 acres in hay and alfalfa with seasonal cattle grazing in the fall and winter months. Whether you come to stay at one of the rental properties, get married or host a special event, we welcome you to enjoy the beautiful setting of Tongue Creek Ranch and the incredible sites of the Western Slope! David and Barb Cocetti purchased the ranch in June 2019 to embark on a new life where they could cultivate the land and be more self-sustaining. By following Biblical guidelines for work and agriculture, this land has come to life! It is proving to be an oasis where people find peace while enjoying the serenity of the surroundings. The clamping Cabin sits behind the horse arena and in front of Tongue Creek. It's the cutest little cabin and we mean little, more like an expertly finished big shed. It is 10x14 with a 3x14 covered porch but finished inside like a 5 star hotel. AC, TV, Wifi, fireplace, comfortable queen size bed. Beetle kill tongue and groove ceiling, cultured barn wood wanes coating. It's super nice. The ranch itself may be the reason for the "glamp" booking. The yard is manicured and the 25 house, goats and chickens are fun to see. The big plus is we are only 20 minutes away from the Grand Mesa outdoorsman mecca. This is probably the cheapest base camp to the Mesa. The ranch is a great base camp to wineries, Moab, Telluride, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, fishing, boating, hiking, trails and hundreds of open BLM land for Razor riding. Check us out.
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Toilets
Campfires
Oasis RV Resort

14. Oasis RV Resort

90%
(39)
38mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 53 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled beside Colorado’s expansive Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest body of water in the state, our location offers unparalleled access to serene waters and breathtaking views. Our Gunnison Lakeside Oasis Vacation Cottages offer a range of sizes and sleeping capacities, with a two-night minimum stay requirement. Each cottage includes restroom facilities, including a shower. Options include two-bedroom cottages, 12×12 and 12×16 cottages with or without covered porches, and even a 1960 Retro Trailer. Enjoy your stay close to the beautiful Blue Mesa Reservoir! Discover the exceptional amenities at Oasis RV Resort and Cottages where modern comforts meet the tranquility of nature. Equiped with fiber optic internet, stay connected to the world while surrounded by the serene beauty of our natural surroundings.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Zenzen Gardens

15. Zenzen Gardens

94%
(225)
39mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 4 sites
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 1st to November 1st from 12 PM - 6 PM. We will be hosting several Farm to Table Dinners along with a Summer Concert Series, Water Lantern Festival, Masquerade Ball, and Murder Mystery Night There is veranda seating to enjoy the beautiful flower gardens and where you can access the internet. Wine tastings are offered daily 12-6:00pm. The veranda is open from 9:00 am till 8:00 pm. 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.
Pets
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Showers
Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

16. Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

97%
(498)
39mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 5 sites
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.
Pets
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Showers
Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

17. Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

99%
(395)
40mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Secluded Property with All Hookups,

18. Secluded Property with All Hookups,

98%
(25)
41mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
We have a lovely, shady, and quiet property about a mile outside of Paonia- just a 20 minute walk, or a few minutes bike ride into town. The camping spot is shaded and secluded with hookups on site, as well as a flush toilet and sink in rustic out house and is about 150 feet from the main house. There are a lot of birds, squirrels, chipmunks, and foxes around, and we do our best to respect them! The Entrance has been widened substantially to improve backing in and a deck, flushing toilet and sink have been added to the sight You can relax on the deck of the Dry Gulch Saloon mockup, or soak in one of the cool tubs while enjoying the serenity. Bathroom on site. Pets are welcome as long as they are well behaved and diligently picked up after :)
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Dark Sky Paradise

19. Dark Sky Paradise

95%
(21)
41mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Did you know the Milky Way has color? Come experience night skies like you have never seen them before! Look up when the next meteor shower is and reserve your spot. Most visitors love the serene atmosphere and want to get away from it all. You can explore 45 of our acres and access 45 acres of land locked BLM lands. A quick 5 min drive away is endless BLM and public lands. The land is around 10 miles from the town of Naturita which has a restaurant, atv rentals, a bar, a grocery store, thrift store, library, consignment store, dispensaries and gas stations. Naturita is an amazing place for Dark Sky viewing, hiking, camping, biking, and scenic drives. The outdoor recreation opportunities are endless. It is very close (driving) to the Dolores River. The land is surrounded by BLM and near the Uncompahge National Forest. The Dark Sky campsite is also close to the Unaweep/Tabegauche Scenic and Historic Byway. We are about 2 hours from Moab, UT! We go to Moab to get sushi. Come here to get away from it all! The land itself offers incredible mountain views. You park at the tree line with desert Sage brush views to the East, Pinion and Juniper trees with a private canyon and beautiful rock formations to the West. Just North is 45 acres of landlocked BLM public land walking distance from the campsite. Unit 70 for the hunters who know how legendary this area is. Our land has an obstacle course, private paintball/gel blaster/nerf field, seasonal lake, trails, canyon, elevation gains and drops. Pets are encouraged to join you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sage View Ranch

20. Sage View Ranch

98%
(223)
42mi from Billy Creek State Wildlife Area · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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 :)
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Showers

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Billy Creek State Wildlife Area camping guide

Overview

About

If you've ever dreamt of camping near Billy Creek State Wildlife Area, this might just be your call to adventure. For campers with a keen interest in nature and a sense of exploration, Billy Creek presents an eclectic mix of terrain and wildlife. It is divided into distinct sections of land, each possessing a unique allure. The low, shrub-covered hills beckon for exploration and bird-watching adventures.

Perhaps the most intriguing section is the riparian forest along the stream bottom, a haven for the Western Screech-Owl. This wildlife area doesn't stop at birdlife, though. Campers can expect encounters with elk and deer amidst the oaks, and if you're lucky, you may even spot the vibrant Colorado Hairstreak butterfly, a true spectacle of nature.

Ready for some aquatic fun? Billy Creek State Wildlife Area offers public access to the Uncompahgre River, where flows from Cow Creek have recently cleared up, making it an excellent spot for fishing. Anglers, pack your gear and cast your line to try your luck with the big stonefly nymphs and attractor nymphs, known to lure fish in these parts.

Please note, everyone aged 16 or older will need a valid hunting or fishing license or an SWA pass to access this unique state wildlife area. Remember, as campers, we respect and preserve nature while enjoying its abundance. Spice up yuour next expedition with a Billy Creek State Wildlife Area camping trip – nature is calling, and the adventure awaits.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Billy Creek State Wildlife Area is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural world is vibrant with activity. Summer brings warmth and an abundance of life, but also the peak of visitor numbers. Winter can be harsh, with some areas less accessible, offering a tranquil solitude for the hardy adventurer.

Know before you go

  • Check the latest updates on area closures or restrictions before planning your visit.
  • Ensure you have the necessary permits for fishing or hunting activities.
  • Be prepared for changing weather conditions and dress accordingly.
  • Respect wildlife habitats by observing from a distance and following Leave No Trace principles.
  • Accessibility information can be obtained by contacting the park's management prior to your visit.

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