Michigan Creek

Off a well-maintained gravel road in Pike National Forest, Michigan Creek operates as a first-come, first-served campground with 12 sites spread across terrain near Michigan Creek and scattered beaver ponds. The Forest Service facility sits accessible from US 285, providing an alternative to the often-crowded reservation campgrounds along nearby Jefferson Creek Road.

Sites offer generous spacing with most tucked under fir and aspen cover, though shade concentrates toward the front of the campground while back sites remain more open. The layout includes two double sites for groups camping together and a loop section that works well for multiple families. Kate S. notes "a creek and beaver ponds scatter the area" with direct hiking access from camp. Road 54 continues past the campground toward French Pass Trailhead, offering dispersed camping options for those seeking more solitude.

The campground provides vault toilets and seasonal drinking water during summer months, though campers should pack out all trash as no collection service operates here. Cell coverage varies by carrier, with T-Mobile reportedly working while other services may be limited. RV length restrictions apply at 25 feet, and the campground prohibits pets. For additional options in the region, campers can explore campgrounds around Jefferson or dispersed sites along the access road.

Reservation Info

Campsites are first-come, first-serve.

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Warning 1 Alert is In Effect

There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!

PIKE-SAN ISABEL NATIONAL FORESTS & CIMARRON AND COMANCHE NATIONAL GRASSLANDS** STAGE 1 FIRE PROHIBITIONS **** PROHIBITIONS**Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 551 and 36 C.F.R. 261.50(a), the following are prohibited on the National Forest System (NFS) in the Leadville, Salida, San Carlos, Pikes Peak, South Park and South Platte Ranger Districts of the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands, described below and shown on the attached map incorporated into this Order as Exhibit A, hereinafter referred to as the Described Area:

  • Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire (including fires fueled by charcoal or briquettes), except if it is in
    • A permanent metal or concrete fire pit or grate that the U.S. Forest Service has installed and maintained at its developed recreation sites (campgrounds and picnic areas);
    • A device solely fueled by liquid or gas that can be turned on and off used in an area barren or cleared of all flammable materials within three feet of the device; or
    • A fully enclosed metal stove with a chimney at least five feet in length and a mesh screen spark arrestor with a screen opening of a inch or less used in an area that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials within 10 feet of the device.36 CFR 261.52(a).
  • Using an explosive. 36 C.F.R. 261.52(b)
  • Smoking is prohibited, except in an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials. 36 CFR 261.52(d)
  • Welding, or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame, except if in a cleared area of at least 10 feet in diameter and a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher (with a minimum 8 oz. capacity and rating of Class 2A) is kept with the operator. 36 CFR 261.52(h) EXEMPTIONS Pursuantto36 C.F.R.261.50(e), thefollowingpersons areexemptfrom thisOrder:
  • Persons with Forest Service Permit No. FS-7700-48 (Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order), specifically exempting them from this Order or a written determination by a Forest Service authorized officer that a permit is not required under 36 C.F.R. 251.50(e)(1) or (2).
  • Any Federal, State, or Local Officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting service in the performance of an official duty. DESCRIBEDAREA All National Forest System lands, roads, and trails within the exterior boundaries of the Pikes Peak, South Platte, South Park, Leadville, Salida and San Carlos Ranger Districts of the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands, as depicted on the map attached as Exhibit A of this Order. PURPOSE Thepurposeof this Order is to protect natural resources and public health and safety. IMPLEMENTATION
  • This Order shall be in effect from August 21, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. through August November 14, 2026, at 11:59 p.m., unless rescinded.

RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsMichigan Creek is located in Colorado near Jefferson

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

39.411563 N
105.88441 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 9/17/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 9/17/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/10/26

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 9/17/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 9/17/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/10/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

Drive Time


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Reviews6 Camper Reviews - Michigan Creek

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5 Stars

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83%
17%
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5.0

out of 5

6 Reviews

Campers regularly cited the clean, spacious sites and peaceful atmosphere at this first-come, first-served campground. Limited amenities and seasonal water availability, but visitors appreciated the uncrowded setting near hiking trails.

Reviewed Aug. 24, 2026

Enjoyed enough-stayed another night

Worth the fort. Numerous open, flat, clean sites to choose from. Took many walks/hikes on trails along the creek. Very peaceful. Heard elk bugle. Stayed an extra night. I will return.

Site11
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Michigan Creek by brickhousegary H., August 24, 2026
  • Review photo of Michigan Creek by brickhousegary H., August 24, 2026
  • Review photo of Michigan Creek by brickhousegary H., August 24, 2026
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Aug. 3, 2022

Nice views and nice and quiet

The campground is clean, has wonderful views and toilets. There are 12 sites and if you cannot find an established one here, there are many dispersed spots along the road. A drive up the mountain leads to a beautiful lookout area.

Site7
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Michigan Creek by paige L., August 3, 2022
Reviewed Aug. 1, 2022

Views for days!

This is hands down my favorite campground. The sites are spaced out, it's off the beaten track, and the views were A-MAZING. There's no trash cans, electric, or running water so make sure you come well stocked with reusable items. It's right off the trail for Georgia Pass. Could not have been happier with my stay. Also, T-Mobile worked there. Double check the location on Google maps. It's hard to add places on this app.

Sitesite 8
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Michigan Creek by Steph C., August 1, 2022
  • Review photo of Michigan Creek by Steph C., August 1, 2022
  • Review photo of Michigan Creek by Steph C., August 1, 2022
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Jan. 1, 2022

An ideal rustic NF campground -- secluded and quiet

This little campground is the antithesis of the often-crowded and overbooked chain of campgrounds on the nearby Jefferson Creek road (County Road 37). It is clean, spacious, mostly shaded, and near a LOT of promising beaver ponds and creeks/rivulets that hold brooks and browns. It is reasonably easy to reach on well-maintained gravel roads off of US 285, not far from Kenosha Pass.  Rarely crowded, the campground is first-come, but also adjacent to dispersed camping from the campground on up Road 54 toward the French Pass Trailhead (per Pike NF website). The campground has water in the summer months.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Michigan Creek by Prof K., January 1, 2022
Reviewed Jun. 24, 2021

The best spot

I’ve been going to this spot for years. It’s a small first come first serve campground. It’s clean, has spacious spots and gorgeous hiking right from camp. A creek and beaver ponds scatter the area. I’m not sure how busy it is on weekends but on a Tuesday, we were one of three groups and couldn’t see anyone from our site.

Site6
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Michigan Creek by Kate S., June 24, 2021
  • Review photo of Michigan Creek by Kate S., June 24, 2021
  • Review photo of Michigan Creek by Kate S., June 24, 2021
Reviewed Oct. 1, 2019

Was lucky to find this cool campground

Jefferson Lake area is really nice but most of the camping in the area is by reservation only. We were very lucky to find this first come first served campground. Two of the sites are double sites so you could camp right next to your family/friends. There's a cool loop at the back that would be great for group camping. Not lots of shade trees(shade at front of campground) but that didn't bother us. Campground is meant for all camping types from tents to rigs as long as your rig is shorter than 25' (we found out after we had squeezed our 29' camper through the entrance). No cell coverage, very clean campground.

Frequently Asked Questions

What dispersed camping options are available near Michigan Creek?

Michigan Creek Road offers numerous dispersed camping spots along the road beyond the established campground. These sites provide a more primitive camping experience with no facilities but beautiful surroundings. The road leading up the mountain also features dispersed options with access to a scenic lookout area. These sites are first-come, first-served, so arriving early, especially on weekends, is recommended. Always practice Leave No Trace principles when using these dispersed sites.

What do reviews say about Michigan Creek Campground?

Michigan Creek Campground is highly regarded for its spacious, well-spaced sites and clean facilities. The campground features 12 sites, including double sites perfect for camping with friends or family. Visitors appreciate the gorgeous hiking trails accessible directly from camp, the nearby beaver ponds that hold brook and brown trout, and the stunning mountain views. It's described as less crowded than nearby Jefferson Lake area campgrounds. The campground has vault toilets but no trash service, running water, or electricity, so campers should come prepared with supplies and reusable items.

How close is Michigan Creek Campground to Breckenridge?

Michigan Creek Campground is located within reasonable driving distance to Breckenridge, making it a good alternative to the often crowded camping options closer to the popular ski town. The campground's location off the beaten track provides a more peaceful experience while still allowing for day trips into Breckenridge. For exact driving times and directions, check current maps or contact the Pike National Forest office, as road conditions in mountainous areas can vary seasonally.

Where is Michigan Creek Campground located in Colorado?

Michigan Creek Campground is located in the Pike National Forest area of Colorado, near Jefferson Creek Road (County Road 37). It sits in a less crowded area compared to the chain of campgrounds along Jefferson Creek. The campground provides access to Georgia Pass trail and features beautiful mountain views. Its somewhat secluded location offers a quieter alternative to more popular nearby camping areas.

Are there photos available of Michigan Creek Campground?

Photos of Michigan Creek Campground are available online that showcase its spacious sites, beautiful mountain views, and natural surroundings. These images highlight the campground's shaded areas, nearby beaver ponds, and the scenic loop at the back of the property. Checking official forest service websites and camping platforms like The Dyrt can provide access to these visual resources before your visit.