Near Avon, Colorado, camping opportunities range from free dispersed sites to established campgrounds at elevations between 7,000-10,000 feet. Most areas open June through October, with snow possible in early fall and late spring. Equestrian facilities are limited but available at select locations for those seeking horse campgrounds near Avon, Colorado.
What to do
Fly fishing access: South Fork Rustic Campground provides good fly fishing opportunities with its location on the banks of the South Fork of the Williams Fork. "The South Fork of the White River runs through the campground affording good fly fishing," notes one camper at this South Fork Rustic Campground.
Mountain hiking: Access popular hiking trails from sites near Twin Lakes. "If you have a 4x4 vehicle and can make your way toward the trailhead for south Mt Elbert, there are some amazing spots. A few spots allow you to pull off and set up a tent with great views. The site we stayed in was about 50 ft from the trailhead," reports a visitor at Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping.
Hot springs access: Several campgrounds provide access to natural hot springs. "The hot spring is definitely the highlight of this campground and a major draw for me. It is a beautiful natural hot spring located at the bottom of a cliff along the banks of the Colorado River. Some call this a warm spring, as it stays around 80-90 degrees," explains a camper at Radium Recreation Site.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Campers consistently praise sites located along water. "This place would be awesome in warmer weather. As of March 3rd, 2021 the lakes are frozen and snow still on the ground. The road is loose gravel, and seems to be maintained well," notes a visitor at Clear Creek Reservoir.
Mountain views: Scenic vistas rank high on camper satisfaction. "We had a blast with this spot, arrived late at night and woke up inside an aspen grove. There is a lot of hiking trails and some cool spots to visit down by the lakes," reports a Twin Lakes visitor.
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate adequate spacing at some campgrounds. "Loved how each site had its own privacy, felt very spaced out and every site had fire pits. Some sites even have waterfront access but I'd suggest getting one with more foliage near the bath houses as they have the most scenic views," states a Clear Creek Reservoir camper.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging. "Road was very easy to find and was very smooth. The first couple sites on the water were already taken so we headed up further. Found a steep, secluded pull-off just past marker #6 that looked like an old off road trailhead," explains a camper at Deep Creek Trailhead Camp.
Site availability: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. "Keep going 7 miles down the road for dispersed camping. Super awesome and spacious sites! We got one right by the creek it was great! No garbage services or restroom services," advises a Clear Creek Reservoir visitor.
Weather variations: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "I have been there numerous times as early as July and as late as September when snow can be expected," explains a South Fork camper.
Tips for camping with families
Fire restrictions: Know current rules before planning activities. "This place is very windy. You can book lakeside or fireside. Lake has composting toilets and a large pavilion. The fire side has vault toilets and a nice group fire pit," explains a visitor at Windy Point Site.
Water activities: Lakes provide recreation opportunities for kids. "Options for paddle boarding or fishing here, desert-like but surrounded by mountains. Also a good amount of shade and cute geese (keep your dogs leashed!) A privy and a lake that is super low right now," notes a Clear Creek visitor.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for encounters. "I was elated to see the wildlife in the area throughout the day which included some very cute prairie dogs, a very curious humming bird who was very impressed with my pink shirt and some beautiful songbirds."
Tips from RVers
Length limits: Check site specifications for larger rigs. "Located in the Arapaho National Forest and administered by the Sulphur Ranger District. Situated on the banks of the South Fork of the Williams Fork of the Colorado River, this campground reminds me of days gone by when reservations were not a 'thing'," says a camper about South Fork, noting that "some spurs are 50'."
Generator policies: Rules vary by location. "The wkends are total chaos and noise of all kinds, unavoidable and self inflicted like loud music and generators. OK I really like my solitude, but it must be clear this place is the EXTREME opposite."
Seasonal amenities: Some facilities change by season. "Lakeview was a great home for a few days of breathtaking views and relaxing nights. Daniel the Host was welcoming and gave some great notes for our trip to the area. Loop E has brand new toilets that were maintenanced at least once a day," reports a visitor at Lakeview Campground.
Traveler
