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Musician's Camp

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Musician's Camp is located in Gunnison National Forest, featuring forested terrain with a mix of trees and open spaces. Temperatures can range from lows in the 30s Fahrenheit during spring and fall to highs in the 70s during summer. Nearby attractions include the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring.

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Location

Musician's Camp is located in Colorado

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

38.93163045 N
107.05061228 W

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Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.


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4 Reviews

Reviewed Feb. 17, 2025

Great for First-time Campers

My boyfriend and I spent our first time camping here! It was early October, we only stayed for 2 nights, and we stayed in a tent.There were other people there, but they stayed near the fire ring and slept in their cars. We wore 6-7 layers and were warm the whole night. Very quiet, very peaceful, and the town of Crested Butte is not too far away, we even caught a movie! Even in the beginning of October, not too hot but not too cold, just right. Heard coyotes at night, no cows came over to our site. Actually got a little lost/going in circles finding this campsite, but it's important to read and understand the signage to get here. Took a Honda SUV, handled the bumpy roads very well!

Site5
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Musician's Camp by el barto , February 17, 2025
  • Review photo of Musician's Camp by el barto , February 17, 2025
  • Review photo of Musician's Camp by el barto , February 17, 2025
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Aug. 17, 2024

Musician’s Campgrounds (Outside of Crested Butt, CO.)

Not too far outside Crested Butt CO. (About 25 mins) The road is ok , but not great getting there.  Campsites and view of the mountain range is great. Peaceful area but some traffic on the road coming in and it free range area for cows. Always a few walking around. Some sites are in open area and some sites are under the trees. Would stay there again. A few disbursed campgrounds in the area.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Musician's Camp by Bob D., August 17, 2024
  • Review photo of Musician's Camp by Bob D., August 17, 2024
  • Review photo of Musician's Camp by Bob D., August 17, 2024
Reviewed Jul. 25, 2021

5* for best sites; GREAT first-come FREE new campground

Crested Butte (wisely) decided to control the previously out-of-control dispersed camping situation around the region. This NFS region was heavily impacted with people cutting trees, trampling region, etc. etc. The NSF decided to take the bull by the horns and convert it into an official campground with 17 sites divided (geographically) into about 7 tent (only) and 10 RV (or tent) sites. The RV sites (#s 4 - 13) are just basically parking lot style in a big circular parking lot without trees near the only two toilets (clean) of the CG. I don't RV and those sites were super basic so i won't review them (they would earn a 2/5 * max if i were to review them… 2* because they are free and no hassle and no reservation… otherwise lame but an important conservation effort for the area).  The tent sites (#s 1,-3; 14-17) are also separated somewhat with sites 1-3 decidedly less impressive than the 14 - 17 ones.  

NOTE: the two tent sections have two distinct drive-ins.  The better sites (14 - 17) require you to enter at the second driveway off slate road and go through the RV section (past the toilets) to the back (creeksite).  

All sites(all) have a fire pit, and designated(although still confusing) parking area and nothing else(no table, bear boxes, no garbage, water, etc.). The creek rushes past(down a steep slope offering water(you can purify) and a great cold-water swimming hole. All have super easy access (simple drive into your spot… no issues). 

Okay, now for the best sites (tent sites 14 - 17). Of these, 17 and 16 are the best with 16 taking the prize by a longshot. Sites 14, 15, and 17 are bit cramped (designed based on previous uncontrolled usage patterns and still under active design and improvement).  15 and 17 are creekside and while 17 is big and you can spread out (room for several tents and tarps) it's firepit feels like you are on top of site 15. 15 is a smaller site with room for about 2 -3 tents… (creekside as well) and is nothing spectacular but, hey, it's free and easy access… and, i think still one of the best front-country options in this valley. 

Site 16 is a "walk-in" site (walking less than 15 seconds) to a wonderful private large knook within the crook of the rushing creek which surrounds the site on the back side. It's got great morning sun (earliest of all the tent sites) and space for many tents … and away from all the others. I wouldn't be surprised if they someday split it into two… but for now (with the CG just starting out)… it's the cream of the crop. 

Lastly, the CG is currently free as the main motivation is to mitigate uncontrolled camping impact rather than generate income. We loved the spot as it felt super rustic and was a quick easy 10 - 15 min to town and 3 - 5 minutes to Oh Be Joyful TH.

We were there late-mid July (2021) and there were a few spots available. However, during our three days there, the place was full (at night) and we had to lend out space to late-arriving folks (raining hard) as no other options existed on the slate-river road.

Site17
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Musician's Camp by Peter S., July 25, 2021
  • Review photo of Musician's Camp by Peter S., July 25, 2021
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Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Musicians Camp in Crested Butte?

Musicians Camp offers basic amenities for a rustic camping experience. The campground features a bathroom facility, but lacks other developed amenities. There are approximately five RV spots and several tent camping areas available. The site operates on a first-come, first-served basis and is free to use. The natural setting includes mountain views and a river running through the area, enhancing the camping experience despite the minimal facilities.

Where is Musicians Camp located in Crested Butte?

Musicians Camp is located approximately 25 minutes outside of Crested Butte, Colorado. It's situated in a National Forest Service area with beautiful mountain views. The access road is passable but not in perfect condition, so some caution is advised when driving in. The camp is set in a scenic area with mountains as a backdrop, making it a picturesque spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking proximity to Crested Butte while enjoying a more natural setting.

How does Musicians Camp compare to other campgrounds near Crested Butte?

Musicians Camp stands out as a more controlled camping option compared to dispersed camping in the Crested Butte area. The National Forest Service established this official campground to help protect the region from environmental impacts. Unlike some more developed campgrounds, Musicians Camp is free and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. It offers a good balance of accessibility (about 25 minutes from town) while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere with spectacular mountain views. The presence of free-range cattle adds a unique element not found at many other local campgrounds. With just a few RV spots and tent sites, it's smaller and more intimate than many alternatives in the region.

Is Musicians Camp near Slate River in Crested Butte?

Yes, Musicians Camp has a river running through the area, which enhances the natural beauty of the campground. The camp is set in a scenic location with water access adding to its appeal. Campers can enjoy the sounds of flowing water while taking in the mountain views. This natural water feature provides both ambiance and a practical water source for visitors enjoying this National Forest Service campground.