Upper Grottos Campground

Upper Grottos Campground is located along the scenic Independence Pass (Highway 82) east of Aspen, Colorado. The campground sits alongside a stream in the White River National Forest, offering a beautiful mountain setting. Access requires navigating a rough road, so high-clearance vehicles are recommended. The location provides convenient access to Aspen while offering a more remote camping experience in the Colorado Rockies.

Dispersed camping is not permitted directly around Upper Grottos Campground. Rangers actively patrol the area, and camping is strictly limited to designated sites within the campground. It's important to note that you cannot simply pull off the road near the campground to camp. For dispersed camping options, you'll need to explore other areas in the White River National Forest away from this developed campground, following forest service regulations for proper dispersed camping practices.

Upper Grottos Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. Since this is a free campground that fills quickly, especially on weekends, plan to arrive early to secure a site. All camping must be in designated sites only, as rangers regularly patrol the area. For the best chance at getting a spot, consider arriving mid-week when there's typically less competition.

The Grottos area offers excellent trout fishing in the adjacent stream, making it popular among anglers. The surrounding area features hiking opportunities along the Grottos Trail, where visitors can explore unique rock formations and natural ice caves depending on the season. The stream also provides cooling spots for wading on hot summer days. The scenic mountain setting is perfect for photography, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Colorado Rockies in a peaceful environment.