Routt National Forest's Big Creek Lakes Campground sits at over 9,000 feet in elevation near the Colorado-Wyoming border, managed by the US Forest Service and open from early June through mid-September. Getting there takes commitment. Roughly 30 miles of gravel and dirt road separate the campground from paved access, and sections of that road are heavily washboarded, so plan for more than an hour of slow driving regardless of vehicle type. Zero cell service awaits on arrival, and there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups at individual sites.
The sites themselves are large, mostly pull-through, and gravel-surfaced. Many face Big Creek Lakes directly, with informal trails leading from campsites down to the water. Pit toilets are distributed throughout and, based on multiple reviews, are kept in good condition. Potable water is available at spigots around the campground. Fishing draws a consistent share of visitors, and the campground includes a boat dock. Two trailheads sit within the campground boundary. Bear-proof dumpsters are on site, and campers have reported chipmunks, moose, elk, and deer in and around the area.
The campground costs $20 per night, accepts RVs up to 50 feet, and reservations are available. Pets are permitted. Reviewers note that summer weather at this elevation can shift quickly, with thunderstorms, strong winds, and even snow possible in any month the campground is open. Anglers, paddlers, and families with older children who can handle the drive and the altitude tend to get the most out of a stay here. For a sense of what else is available in the broader area, campgrounds around Routt National Forest include options such as Beaver Creek Campground about a mile to the west.
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. Trails and one corral are available for the Equestrians.
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 (When available) is on-site for visitor assistance and one horse corral, located near site 17, is provided on a first come first served availability.
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.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsBig Creek Lakes Campground is located in Colorado near Cowdrey
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
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
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
