Established Camping
Big Creek Lakes Campground
Big Creek Lakes Campground, near the Colorado-Wyoming border, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature at a high elevation. With its stunning mountain views and proximity to beautiful lakes, it’s a prime location for hiking, fishing, and simply soaking in the scenery.
This campground is known for its spacious sites, many of which offer direct access to the water. Visitors have noted that the sites are well-maintained, featuring sturdy picnic tables and fire pits, perfect for evening gatherings. As one camper shared, “The area is beautiful, we had the greatest time hiking and fishing.”
While you won’t find showers or electric hookups here, the fresh drinking water is a highlight, tasting like melted snow. The campground is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along for the adventure. Just be prepared for a bit of a trek to get here; the drive involves navigating some rough gravel roads, but the breathtaking views at the end make it worthwhile.
For those who enjoy wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for chipmunks, deer, and even moose during your stay. With plenty of trails to explore and a serene atmosphere, Big Creek Lakes Campground is a solid choice for a memorable outdoor experience.
Description
Overview
The popular Big Creek Lakes Campground offers a peaceful, scenic setting in the heart of the Rocky Mountains of northern Colorado. The campground is located in Routt National Forest at an elevation of 9,000-ft., and is adjacent to Big Creek Lake, where fishing, boating and hiking are available.
Recreation
This campground offers boating and fishing on Colorado's second largest natural lake, hiking in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness and ATV trails nearby. There are also ample opportunities for viewing wildlife, including moose. Fishing for trout, muskie, grayling and Kokanee salmon is available in the lake. Anglers also have access to a creek. Non-motorized boats are allowed on the upper section of the lake and motorized boats are permitted on the lower section.
Facilities
This facility has a campground and day use area. There are 24 reservable campsites and 30 first-come, first-served campsites, all of which are near Big Creek Lake. Two boat ramps are provided for the convenience of boaters and anglers. A campground host is on-site for visitor assistance.
Natural Features
Big Creek lies among Lodgepole pine and fir trees. Some previously forested areas of the campground have been thinned due to pests and now provide more sun. The campground offers beautiful views of the surrounding wilderness. The wetlands around the lake are prime moose territory. Black bear, bobcat, coyote, elk, mule deer and moose are just some of the many animals that inhabit these rich and diverse lands. The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, encompass nearly 3 million acres from central and northeastern Wyoming to north-central Colorado.
Nearby Attractions
The closest town is Walden, Colorado, about 35 miles from the campsite. Many more outdoor recreation opportunities exist in the surrounding national forests and grasslands, including hiking, biking, camping, horseback riding, OHV riding, fishing, hunting, sightseeing and winter sports.
Location
Big Creek Lakes Campground is located in Colorado
Directions
From Walden, follow Route 125 north for 9 miles into Cowdrey. Turn left (west) onto CR 6W and travel 18 miles to Pearl. Turn onto Forest Road 600 and drive for 6 miles, following signs to campground.
Address
PARKS RANGER DISTRICT
CO
Coordinates
40.9363889 N
106.6116667 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Detours Nearby
Routt National Forest Hahns Peak Lake Campground
1 hr 49 min away
Middle Fork Elk River Camp
2 hrs 53 min away
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 15 min from Cheyenne, WY
- 2 hrs 35 min from Fort Collins, CO
- 3 hrs from Greeley, CO
- 3 hrs 23 min from Boulder, CO
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
