Established Camping
Dearhamer Campground
Closed For the Season
This campground is closed for the season from October 2, 2024 through May 12, 2025.
Warning 4 Alerts are In Effect
There are 4 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Closed For the Season
This campground is closed for the season from October 2, 2024 through May 12, 2025.
Warning 4 Alerts are In Effect
There are 4 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
ATTENTION BE BEAR AWARE Bears are active in all campgrounds, It is important that you store all food (dry, fresh, frozen, packaged, etc.), all beverages (canned, bottled, fresh, frozen etc.), all pet food and any product that has an odor in a locked food storage locker at the site, locked vehicle (windows and door must be locked), or in your locked camper with all windows, doors and hatches locked when you are not with it. Help us keep you and bears safe.
Quiet Hours: 10pm - 6am. This means no use of generators during this time.
Dogs are required to be on leash at all times in campgrounds. Not complying can result in loss of campsite and possible fines.
Please bring all the water you and guest will need for cooking, drinking, cleaning and etc
Dearhamer Campground, near Meredith, Colorado, is a cozy spot tucked away in the White River National Forest, perfect for those looking to unwind in nature. With about 13 sites, many right by the stream, it’s a great place to kick back, enjoy the scenery, and maybe even catch some fish.
This campground is known for its friendly atmosphere and clean facilities, including vault toilets and drinking water. Campers appreciate the fire rings and picnic tables at each site, making it easy to gather around the fire after a day of exploring. One visitor noted, “Great small campground with about 13 sites... Easy access to the lake and good fishing.”
If you’re into fishing, you’ll find the nearby river and reservoir are popular spots, though water levels can vary. The campground is also a hit for families, with plenty of space to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Just keep in mind that some sites can feel a bit close together, so if you’re looking for privacy, aim for the stream-side spots.
For those who want to venture out, the surrounding area offers stunning views and easy access to hiking trails. Just remember, there’s no cell service here, so plan ahead if you’re meeting up with friends. Whether you’re camping with family or friends, Dearhamer Campground is a solid choice for a peaceful getaway in the heart of Colorado’s beautiful wilderness.
Description
National Forest
White River National Forest
Overview
Located approximately 22 miles east of Basalt, Colorado, in the White River National Forest, Dearhamer Campground sits adjacent to the Fryingpan River above Ruedi Reservoir at an elevation of 7,800 feet.
Recreation
Renowned for its fly fishing, Fryingpan River flows below Ruedi Dam. Here, large rainbow, brown, cutthroat and brook trout are plentiful in an area nicknamed the "toilet bowl." The fish feed on Mysis shrimp, a small freshwater shrimp stocked in the lake. The stretch of river from the dam down to the confluence of Fryingpan and the Roaring Fork River has been designated as Gold Medal Waters by the Colorado Wildlife Commission. Special regulations in this area include fishing only with artificial flies and lures, and releasing all trout except brown trout, with a limit of 2 fish over 14 inches. For hikers and bikers, the Ruedi Trail, located north of the reservoir, climbs to the top of Red Table Mountain. The trailhead is located 200 feet north of the Jeep trail near the boat ramp and parking lot. This 8-mile trail gains over 3,000 feet in elevation, leading hikers to a spectacular panoramic view of the area. Boating, swimming, and water skiing are all possible in the area.
Natural Features
In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the 2.3 million acre White River National Forest is a place of serenity and adventure, boasting 8 wilderness areas, 4 defined seasons, and 10 peaks surpassing 14,000 feet in elevation. Wildlife in the area abounds. Bighorn sheep navigate rocky ridges and bull elk bugle at dusk. Scenic rivers sustain populations of cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout. Alpine regions provide habitat for pika and ptarmigan. These species, along with many others, depend on surrounding undeveloped wilderness, clean streams, and diverse forests to live.
Nearby Attractions
The nearby town of Aspen is a popular destination for visitors to the area. From downhill skiing and world-class fly fishing, to dining and resorts, there are a multitude of outdoor and indoor opportunities in this resort mountain town.
Charges & Cancellations
Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.
Location
Dearhamer Campground is located in Colorado
Directions
From Basalt, travel east on Frying Pan River Road for approximately 20 miles, just past Ruedi Reservoir to Dearhamer Campground.
Coordinates
39.3608833 N
106.7386861 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiGood
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TGood
- T-MobileFair
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 29 min from Grand Junction
- 3 hrs 43 min from Denver
- 3 hrs 53 min from Boulder
- 4 hrs 31 min from Colorado Springs