Pike National Forest holds Wye Campground, a free, drive-in site managed by the US Forest Service outside Manitou Springs. The campground sits far enough down the access road that through-traffic is minimal, though that same road warrants attention before you commit to the drive. Reservations are available, which is worth noting for a no-cost site.
Bear activity has shaped the campground's recent history. The site has been closed due to bear conflicts, and as of 2022 the US Forest Service listed it as closed until further notice. Campers should verify current status directly with the Forest Service before planning a trip here. It is not open year-round regardless; the season runs mid-May through mid-September when access is permitted.
"Has fire rings and picnic tables," notes reviewer Sawyer H., "far down the road so it's very unlikely you'll be bothered." Those basics, fire rings and picnic tables, reflect a no-frills setup. Pets are allowed, alcohol is permitted, and vault toilets are on-site. Nearby alternatives worth considering include Golden Eagle Campground to the east or Raptor Glenn Campground at Cheyenne Mountain State Park, both of which have more established infrastructure. If Wye reopens, its free rate and forest setting make it worth checking back on.
Description
There are 21 campsites at this primitive campground at the 10,300' elevation. Good for wildlife viewing. Tables, fire pits, an vault-type toilets are provided; however, firewood, shelter, trash dumpsters, and water are not provided.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsWye is located in Colorado near Manitou Springs
Directions
From Colorado Springs, go 8 miles southwest on Old Stage Road and 5 miles on Gold Camp Road. Turn right on FDR 381 for 1/2 mile. The campground is on the left side of the road.
Coordinates
38.73700016 N
104.94000075 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 8/19/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 8/19/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Wye needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 10 min from Colorado Springs, CO
- 1 hr 28 min from Pueblo, CO
- 2 hrs 2 min from Denver, CO
- 2 hrs 25 min from Boulder, CO


