Map showing campground location near Grand Lake, Colorado

Camper submitted image from Roaring Fork Campground

Roaring Fork Campground

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Roaring Fork Campground sits along the eastern shore of Lake Granby in Arapaho National Forest, roughly nine miles down a gravel road that reviewers describe as bumpy but manageable. The campground is part of a larger complex that also includes Arapaho Bay-Moraine Loop and other adjacent sections, though Roaring Fork sits directly on the water. RVs up to 40 feet are welcome, and reservations are available, which matters here since the area draws consistent crowds in summer.

Sites have open sightlines toward the lake and surrounding mountains, but shade is minimal. Reviewers consistently flag this, and it's worth planning accordingly, especially for afternoon sun. A nearby waterfall provides a steady background sound throughout the day. Moose sightings have been reported on the access road, and chipmunks are active enough around camp that food storage requires attention. The camp host presence is noted positively across multiple reviews, and pit toilets are kept clean.

Mirror Lake via Monarch Lake Trailhead is a short distance southeast, and the campground itself sits near a trailhead with lake access and waterfall routes. Anglers and paddlers have easy reach of the water, and a marina nearby supports boat launches. Matt M. sums up the site conditions well: "lots of trails in the area and a nearby waterfall gives it a nice soundtrack." Colorado mountain weather shifts fast, and reviewers emphasize bringing layers and a storm-ready tent. Roaring Fork is a good match for water-focused campers who don't mind exposed sites and a gravel approach road.

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Map & DirectionsRoaring Fork Campground is located in Colorado near Grand Lake

Public Campground

Coordinates

40.144379019999995 N
105.76531299999999 W

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Hike-In
Backcountry sites.
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Phone Service
Reservable
Drinking Water
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Reservations

+18774446777

Drive Time

2 hrs 13 min from Denver, CO
2 hrs 23 min from Boulder, CO
2 hrs 55 min from Greeley, CO
2 hrs 59 min from Fort Collins, CO

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Reviews8 Camper Reviews - Roaring Fork Campground

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

4.5

out of 5

8 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the stunning lake and mountain views along with exceptionally clean facilities and friendly hosts. Several guests observed limited shade at most sites and close spacing, though natural waterfall sounds and respectful campers kept the atmosphere pleasant.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

lana

Guide

Reviewed Jul. 13, 2021

Busy but beautiful!

It is very busy and the campgrounds are close together, other campers seemed to have respected quiet hours so it was peaceful and gorgeous!

Month of VisitJuly

(7) View All

S. Kevin O.

Traveler

Reviewed Jun. 26, 2021

Beautiful

We stayed at site #60 which you had to walk down a little hill but easily doable for all we had. We were very close to a stream that flows into Lake Granby which was very close by. You could see the lake and the mountains and the trail going along the lake was right behind us. Also just a short ride to Monarch Lake. People were so nice and respectful. The Camp host, Jeff was very nice. I wish we could have stayed longer.

Scottie C.

Traveler

Reviewed Oct. 28, 2020

Great campsite; no shade

This is a good campground; clean, easy access, but the sites are pretty close together. It's essentially split into 3 sections (Arapaho Bay Big Rock, Morraine, and Roaring Fork). They're all essentially the same campground but they are run by different hosts. Roaring Fork and Morraine are right on the lake but have NO shade. Arapaho Bay- Big Rock is fully shaded and still only minute drive (probably a 20 minute walk) to the water. This is definitely the best of the 3 if all you're wanting to do is be on the lake or if you're bringing a boat though.

Please be aware that CO weather(especially in the mountains) is very prone to quick changes. Come prepared with lots of layers, weather-proof clothing, and tents that can withstand a storm.

Month of VisitJuly

Matt M.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 26, 2020

Pretty Nice CG on Granby Lake

We saw a moose on our way into the campground! There’s about 9 miles to drive on gravel that’s not the best but worth it. Sites are fairly exposed with little shade. Lots of trails in the area and a nearby waterfall gives it a nice soundtrack.

Campground host runs a generator that sounds like it had a hemi in it.

Pit toilets seem fine, for a pit toilet.

Niki S.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 25, 2019

Beautiful

My best friend and I stayed 2 nights at campsite 63, no shade at all so bring an easy up. It's on top of a little hill in the middle of everything with an amazing view of the lake and surrounding mountains. We absolutely loved it. Not far from a trailhead leading up to the waterfall you'll hear as soon as you arrive. The bathroom's are very clean and actually smell good. The camp host were wicked nice people. Chipmunks are every where, I had one jump on my back scary the crap out of me lol and my friend had one jump on his lap scarying him. So make sure you watch the little creatures and protect your food haha

(4) View All

Kayla A.

Traveler

Reviewed May. 24, 2018

My go-to place for a weekend escape

Easy access to hiking and fishing, well-kept and dog friendly

Month of VisitJune

Brian B.

Guide

Reviewed Jul. 3, 2016

Tent Camping

We reserved a spot last second and managed to get a great tent site that was situated on hill that overlooked the lake. Campsite was nice with a good fire pit, picnic table, and a good spot for the tents and shade canopy. The views there are spectacular, there are nice hiking trails, and the rive running into the lake provide some nice gentle noise while you sleep. While there are numerous rvs and campers the noise level was not too bad at all. Our family had a great time.

Julia B.

Guide

Reviewed Jul. 3, 2016

Beautiful Location

The campground was easy to navigate and some spots are fairly private. The bathrooms were very well taken care of. There's a marina for easy boat launches and views, views, views! You can hear a nearby waterfall from the campground, and there were many trails to hike and explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Arapaho Bay Roaring Fork Campground?

Arapaho Bay Roaring Fork Campground offers well-maintained campsites with fire pits and picnic tables. The campground features clean bathrooms and is situated near Lake Granby with a marina for boat launches. You'll find hiking trails accessible directly from the campground, including a trail that runs along the lake. Many sites offer spectacular mountain and lake views, and you can hear a nearby waterfall from the camping area. The campground is dog-friendly and provides easy access to fishing opportunities. Note that some sites have little shade, so bringing your own shelter is recommended.

What do visitor reviews say about Arapaho Bay Roaring Fork Campground?

Arapaho Bay Roaring Fork Campground is praised for its stunning views of Lake Granby and surrounding mountains. Campers highlight the well-maintained facilities, clean bathrooms, and easy access to hiking trails and fishing opportunities. The sound of a nearby waterfall creates a peaceful atmosphere that many appreciate. While some note that campsites can be close together with limited privacy and shade, the spectacular scenery and outdoor recreation options more than compensate. The campground is accessible via 9 miles of gravel road that, while not in perfect condition, is considered worth the journey. Most visitors report a peaceful experience despite the campground being busy during peak times.

How do I make reservations for Arapaho Bay Roaring Fork Campground?

Reservations for Arapaho Bay Roaring Fork Campground can be made through the federal recreation reservation system at Recreation.gov. The campground does accept last-minute reservations when sites are available. For the best selection of campsites, especially during peak summer months, it's advisable to book well in advance. Roaring Fork is one of three sections within the larger Arapaho Bay camping area (along with Big Rock and Morraine), each with its own host, so be sure to specify Roaring Fork when making your reservation.

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