Map showing campground location near Rollinsville, Colorado

Devils Thumb Lake

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Roosevelt National Forest's Indian Peaks Wilderness is home to Devils Thumb Lake, a hike-in site reached by a roughly 12-mile out-and-back trail that gains significant elevation before reaching the lake. The trail is not easy. Campers should plan to arrive at the trailhead by 6:30 a.m. in summer, when parking fills fast. A wilderness permit is required and costs $5 for up to 14 days; permits can be purchased through the Boulder Ranger District, though they are not required after mid-September. Water is available from streams along the entire trail, so a filter is enough to keep a light pack. Cell service is absent in the valley but returns once campers summit. Those wanting a shorter or lower-commitment alternative can look at Rollins Pass (FSR 149 East), or browse camping near Roosevelt National Forest for additional hike-in and drive-in options across the area.

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Map & DirectionsDevils Thumb Lake is located in Colorado near Rollinsville

Public Campground

Coordinates

39.95152099 N
105.59470018 W

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Access

Hike-In
Backcountry sites.

Site Types

Tent Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

Reservable
Alcohol
Pets

Drive Time

47 min from Boulder, CO
1 hr 11 min from Denver, CO
1 hr 36 min from Greeley, CO
1 hr 37 min from Fort Collins, CO

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Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Devils Thumb Lake

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2 Reviews

Max P.

Guide

Reviewed Nov. 21, 2019

Beautiful backcountry hiking and camping

This area requires a permit which you can buy at the ACE hardware in Nederland. However, after mid-September permits are no longer required or sold, as we found out when we arrived at the hardware store.

We camped about a mile down from Devil's Thumb lake because we got a late start (~4:00pm) and it started getting dark and cold. We made the hike into a two-day loop instead of out-and-back by summiting and then taking King's Lake trail back to the original trailhead. Beautiful sights all along this path! It's about 12-13 miles this way.

Plenty of access to water via various streams. Did not see many other people camping. Passed a few hikers the second day. Once you summit you can see the town of Fraser and also get cell phone service, but we did not have service in the valley before summiting. Note that it got quite cold this night in mid-September, just below freezing.

Month of VisitSeptember

Jake W.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 14, 2019

Devils Thumb Lake-45 min from Denver 12 mile hike out and back

This is a backpacking trip. 12 mile out and back. This is part of the Indian peaks wilderness you must obtain a permit from the boulder forest service. Permits are 5 dollars for up to 14 days. This lake is amazingly beautiful. Lots of places to pitch a tent. The trail is not easy you work for it. But its all worth it when you get to the top. The directions are from the trailhead not directions to the lake. Arrive early to the trail head before 6:30am. Parking is hard during the summer but just get there early. This trail has water available along the entire trail. I only take a 1 liter bottle and filter all my water as needed.

Site6 sites available per night in the Devils Thumb Zone in Indian Peaks

Month of VisitAugust

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Devils Thumb Lake located and how do I access the camping area?

Devils Thumb Lake is located in the Indian Peaks Wilderness area in Colorado. The lake is accessed via a challenging 12-mile out-and-back trail that requires significant elevation gain. The trailhead is near Nederland, Colorado. The hike to the lake is strenuous and typically takes a full day, so plan accordingly if you intend to camp at the lake itself. For those starting late in the day, camping spots can be found about a mile before reaching the lake.

When is the best season to camp at Devils Thumb Lake considering weather and crowds?

Summer (late June through early September) offers the most reliable weather for camping at Devils Thumb Lake, with July and August providing the warmest temperatures. For fewer crowds, consider visiting in mid-September when the weather is still relatively stable but after the permit requirement ends. Fall brings beautiful colors but cooler temperatures. Avoid early season (May to mid-June) when snow may still block trails and create difficult hiking conditions. Winter camping is possible for experienced backcountry adventurers but requires specialized gear and winter navigation skills.

What hiking trails connect to Devils Thumb Lake for day trips while camping?

While camping at Devils Thumb Lake, you can explore several connecting trails. Devils Thumb Pass offers spectacular views and connects to the Continental Divide Trail. From the lake, you can take day hikes to nearby alpine features and neighboring lakes within the Indian Peaks Wilderness. The main trail continues beyond Devils Thumb Lake for those wanting to explore further into the backcountry. These trails range from moderate to difficult, with significant elevation changes, so be prepared with appropriate gear, water, and navigation tools.

What permits or regulations should I know about for camping at Devils Thumb Lake in Colorado?

Devils Thumb Lake requires a wilderness permit since it's part of the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Permits cost $5 and are valid for up to 14 days. They can be obtained from the Boulder Forest Service or at the ACE Hardware store in Nederland. Importantly, permits are no longer required or sold after mid-September. Standard wilderness regulations apply: practice Leave No Trace principles, store food properly to avoid wildlife encounters, and follow any fire restrictions in place. Group size limits and other wilderness regulations should be observed.

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