The sound of the Blue River carries through camp at Columbine Landing, a free dispersed site in White River National Forest where the terrain shifts between rocky bluffs and open sage-covered flats along the water's edge. Sites sit close to the river, in some cases within ten feet, and the Gore Range rises to the west. This is not a manicured campground. It is gravel, dirt, and rock, with fire rings scattered throughout and vault toilets that reviewers consistently describe as clean and accessible.
Crowding is a real consideration here. The site holds roughly ten to twelve vehicles, and multiple reviewers note that it fills most evenings, including weekday nights in shoulder season. Tarryn T. puts it plainly: "It's basically larger than a pulloff." Sites have little separation, so neighboring conversations carry. That said, Darwin S. notes that "you can hear the sound of the creek and little else" once camp settles, and the area stays dark enough for decent stargazing, especially without a fire going.
Tent campers should expect a challenge finding flat, soft ground. The rocky surface makes site selection worth the extra time. RVs and vans tend to fare better. The entrance road is bumpy but passable for most vehicles in dry conditions. Cell service is inconsistent: AT&T users report coverage, while Verizon appears to have none in the immediate area. No running water is available, so campers should arrive with enough for the full stay. Firewood is not sold on-site, and the surrounding terrain is rocky and open, so plan to bring your own.
Fall visits in late September bring peak foliage along the river corridor, and daytime temperatures stay warm while nights drop noticeably. Wind picks up through the valley after dark, and dust can be a factor in dry conditions. The site appears to be gated in winter, despite some listings suggesting year-round access, so winter visits are not reliable. For campers staging trips along the Blue River corridor, Blue River Dispersed Camping is immediately adjacent, and Blue River Campground sits a couple of miles south with additional options. Those planning a broader itinerary can browse campgrounds around Silverthorne for a fuller picture of what is available in the area.
Arriving before late afternoon on weekends or during peak summer months gives the best chance of securing a riverside spot.
Description
PLEASE NOTE :: Using US Forest Service Land for extended durations or residential purposes will result in a citation from the US Forest Service. Please adhere to maximum daily camping limits to avoid fines. Campers may stay for a maximum of 14 days. Some areas may have additional special restrictions. Please contact the Ranger station for details on special restrictions. **
There are no hosts available on-site. In addition, there are no electric, fresh water or dumpsters available. Waste bins in the restroom are meant for restroom-related trash only. PLEASE pack out all camp-related trash with you. Help keep these sites clean, open and available for public use.
This is located between Silverthorne and Green Mountain Reservoir along Highway 9. It is used primarily for rafting access (take out) on the Blue River but it does have some dispersed campsites and a vault toilet.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsColumbine Landing Recreation Site is located in Colorado near Silverthorne
Directions
From I-70 take Exit 205, Silverthorne/Dillon, and travel north on HWY 9 for approximately 10 miles. The area will be on your right just before the highway crosses the Blue River.
Coordinates
39.75939943 N
106.13537867 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 7/26/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 7/26/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 7/26/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 7/26/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Columbine Landing Recreation Site needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 23 min from Denver, CO
- 1 hr 33 min from Boulder, CO
- 2 hrs 5 min from Greeley, CO
- 2 hrs 8 min from Fort Collins, CO





















