b
brian B.
Scout
ScoutUpper Colorado River BLM Dispersed
Excellent spot not far from I70
Big gravel lot with lots of space. Almost no road noise, and super easy to find. Exit 133 head north off exit half mile on your right.
Camping near Basalt, CO
323 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
The Basalt, Colorado area encompasses several campgrounds along the Fryingpan River and Ruedi Reservoir within White River National Forest. Little Maud Campground and Mollie B Campground provide developed sites with amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-proof storage lockers. Four Mile Road offers dispersed camping options for those seeking more primitive experiences. The region supports tent camping, RV sites with varying hookup levels, and cabin accommodations at locations like Carbondale-Crystal River KOA, which also features glamping options approximately 10 miles from Basalt.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the camping areas near Basalt. Many campgrounds along Ruedi Reservoir are accessible via paved roads, though some dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles. The camping season typically runs May through September at higher elevations, with some lower sites open year-round. "Zero cell service. You need to drive 25 min into the town of basalt for service. Fly fishing is amazing!" noted one visitor about Mollie B Campground. Campers should prepare for cool nights even in summer, with temperatures dropping to around 30°F in spring and fall. Bear activity is common throughout the region, with most established campgrounds providing bear-proof storage lockers for food and toiletries.
Waterfront access represents a major draw for campers visiting the Basalt area. Several visitors highlighted the proximity to Ruedi Reservoir as a key benefit, with opportunities for fishing, paddleboarding, and boating. The Fryingpan River, recognized as Gold Medal fishing waters, attracts fly fishing enthusiasts. Campgrounds like Little Maud offer sites within walking distance of the reservoir, though some campers noted limited shade at certain locations. While developed campgrounds provide amenities like flush toilets and drinking water, they can become crowded during summer weekends. One camper described the area as having "views over the lake [that are] serene and a great spot for a quiet trip." Wildlife sightings, including deer, fox, and occasionally bears, enhance the camping experience throughout the region.
Best Campgrounds near Basalt (323)
1. Four Mile Road Dispersed
"My first winter camping trip in Colorado."
"To start, we camped with a teardrop trailer, but once you pass the White River National Forest sign and parking lot for the babbish trail head, it’s not easy to turn around unless you find a campsite."
2. Little Maud Campground
"Arrived at campground around 8pm, the site had my name posted on the campsite, did not have to check in. Bear locker on site was helpful to store food, also the fire pit was clutch!"
"The drive from Basalt was stunning as only Colorado can do. The whole area was so scenic and beautiful and the water is a two minute walk away."
from $32 / night
Check Availability3. Carbondale-Crystal River KOA
"This is a nice little campground outside of Carbondale. We stayed here while visiting Glenwood springs, which is only about 25 minute drive away."
"The KOA is next to the highway, and road noise was an issue a few times, but nothing horrible. Staff was very friendly. Would stay here again if in the area."
4. Avalanche Campground
"For those without AWD/4WD vehicles I would use caution/advise against since the drive to get into the actual grounds requires a bit of off roading including crossing a creek."
"Awesome valley with access to the creek. There is also a nice trail up the mountain that forks into two other trails."
5. Difficult Campground
"This Forest Service campground is just outside of Aspen in the White River National Forest."
"So much of Colorado is impressive, let me just start with that."
from $33 - $120 / night
Check Availability6. Basalt Mountain Dispersed
"Got here around 7pm on a Monday night."
"Very remote but easy access, we car camped to be near a trailhead the next morning."
7. Redstone White River National Forest
"Location is great! A mile walk into the quaint town of Redstone, 20min drive to Carbondale or Marble (opposite direction)."
"Not very many trails near by, and starts to get cold early because of the valley. I had no issues with being close to the highway."
from $38 - $91 / night
Check Availability8. Glenwood Canyon Resort
"Perfect river access for paddlers which can take you downtown glenwood or jump on the bike path to go get your car from Grissly rest stop. "
"Loved the location. Right on the Colorado River. Bike path is right out the front. We rode it from Aspen down valley and right back to our campsite. A feature we really liked. The sites were tight."
9. Mollie B_white River
"There's running water, and secure dumpsters around the grounds. Each campsite also has its own secure bear box that was large enough to fit my 50qt cooler."
"The heart of Colorado beats quietly and steadily at this campground."
10. Bogan Flats Campground Grp S
"Every year, my family (+- 10 people) heads somewhere in Colorado to camp over Labor Day. This year we headed up to Marble, CO and stayed at the Bogan Flats campground."
"Lovely quite campground in the woods next to a river. We stayed on the side away from the river and I wish we had stayed on the river side, but it was still fantastic."
from $32 - $166 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 1 hr 41 min from Grand Junction, CO
- 2 hrs 55 min from Denver, CO
- 3 hrs 5 min from Boulder, CO
- 3 hrs 43 min from Colorado Springs, CO
Recent Camping Photos near Basalt, CO
660 Photos of 323 Basalt Campgrounds
Cynthia K.
Carbondale-Crystal River KOA
Erik S.
Avalanche Campground
David N.
Ruedi Marina Campground
Fain H.
Little Maud Campground
Rebeca H.
Mollie B_white River
Rebeca H.
Little Mattie Campground — White River National Forest
Kendra A.
Redstone Campground
Rebeca H.
Redstone White River National Forest
Rachel H.
Four Mile Road Dispersed
Kim L.
Hideout at Glenwood Springs
Allie M.
Silver Bar
Erik S.
White River National Forest Silver Bell Campground
Recent Reviews near Basalt, CO
1645 Reviews of 323 Basalt Campgrounds
Emily T.
TravelerWashington Gulch - Dispersed Camping
Great spot
This was an awesome spot to spend a few days, Our dogs really enjoyed it. The road is a bit rough the further in you go and it seems the spots fill up quick, we camped Sunday-Thursday and there were only a few spots available when we arrived around 3 pm Sunday. Pretty popular and our spot was at the end of a row of 4-5 spots, so not ideal dispersed camping but still enjoyable. Would definitely stay here again though.
- BBarry S.Traveler
Elk Creek Campground
Lovely and SUPER friendly
Nestled in the trees along a creek, with nice facilities and a super-friendly staff. Well-tended flowers in key spots. It's a busy place, and the sites are close together, but we had no trouble with noise or intrusions. We had an RV spot with full services and everything worked fine. There are also tent spots and tiny cabins. There's a central office and store, and a very clean set of bathrooms with hot water, nicely-equipped showers, a laundry area (bring cash), and a big game room. My daughter left her cell phone in the bathroom at night and the next morning we visited the office and there was her phone -- on a charger! Thanks Melissa!
- BBarry S.Traveler
Lottis Creek Campground
Park Cone loop is quiet, friendly
Very friendly hosts on the Park Cone loop. This loop is small and separated from the main campground by Lottis Creek, so it has it's own entrance and hosts. My spot (#2) is closest to the road, but road noise was not an issue at all, and I saw deer each day. There is plenty of shade and the grounds are well-maintained. In fact, the pit toilet was the cleanest I've ever seen, and was even decorated and had an air-freshener (see photo)!
The South Lottis Creek trail is nice. It takes off directly from the campground. It's 'easy' for the first couple miles, then 'moderate' for at least the next 3, until you reach the fork for the Henrys Lake trail, which is reputed to be 'difficult'. (I turned around there). There are opportunities for a dip in small pools along the way. Wear waterproof boots.
- LLawrence S.Traveler
Upper Colorado River BLM Dispersed
Easy access off I-70
DYRT pointed us to a rest stop but signage clearly says no overnight parking. This spot filled the bill for an overnight. Just off freeway I-70, large gravel lot high up over the Colorado River. Beautiful vistas and free to stay on BLM land.
- BBrendan O.Scout
Twin Lakes Dispersed
Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping
Great spot - private but still decent foot traffic for a trail that goes to Twin Lakes. 5 min walk to the lake
Andres P.ScoutForebay Dispersed Campground
Great dispersed campsite
It's a great dispersed campsite! It has an amazing view of Twin Lakes and the nearby mountains. There are many spots near the road but if you have a 4WD you drive a little further and get an amazing spot.
Tends to get crowded in the summer but have always found a spot. Currently in 2026 campfires are no longer allowed during the summer.
- ssusan F.
RangerHideout Cabins and Campground
Convenient, tree cover
We were looking for a place to camp near Glenwood Springs, but far enough off 70 to avoid the freeway noise. This is a sweet little campground located along the edge of the canyon, south of downtown Glenwood Springs. We arrived in a downpour with thunder, lightening and hail! We were grateful for the easy access to water, electricity and clean bathrooms and showers. The storm flooded I-70 near Silt and closed the road - with a detour on route 6.
Although a relatively large campground, there are only a few sites available with hookups or for tent camping. Most sites provide permanent housing for locals. Since many residents get up early for work, it is a quiet place to stay.
There is a dog park, clubhouse with laundry, coffee and other amenities.
NikkiTravelerTwin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 1 West
Gorgeous
Get here early for the 1st come 1st serve spots in g/h or make a reservation. It fills up fast. But it absolutely gorgeous here, quiet and easy to get to.
Guide to Basalt
Dispersed camping options expand significantly beyond the Fryingpan River corridor near Basalt, Colorado. The region sits at elevations ranging from 6,600 feet in town to over 8,000 feet at higher camping areas, creating significant temperature variations between day and night. Four Mile Road offers numerous primitive sites without facilities, requiring campers to pack out all waste and bring their own water supplies.
What to do
Hiking to alpine views: From Difficult Campground, the Difficult Trail provides immediate access to mountain terrain. "The Difficult Trail starts at about 8,000 feet and is not maintained after 3 miles but continues on for 3 miles up to an elevation of more than 10,000 feet," notes Mary S.
Paddleboarding opportunities: The reservoir offers calm waters for paddlers of all skill levels. "If you like water activities, hot days and cool nights this is the place for you! We went for the hiking and fishing but many were there with kayaks, paddle boards and other water toys," shares Rebeca H. about Mollie B Campground.
Winter recreation: When snow blankets the area, camping doesn't stop completely. "My first winter camping trip in Colorado. Just south of Glenwood Springs and west of Carbondale is Sunlight Mountain Resort, an awesome little mountain with great tree skiing and untracked powder," explains Fain H. about camping at Four Mile Road Dispersed during winter months.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Redstone White River National Forest, the campground layout provides ample space. "The sites are large and spaced out, which is great. The campground is beautiful to walk around and we loved exploring the area," explains Carrie R.
River sound for sleeping: Waterfront sites provide natural white noise. "Falling asleep to the sound of the Colorado River literally 3 feet away is just wonderful," writes Kevin A. about tent camping at Glenwood Canyon Resort.
Bear-proof storage: Safety features receive high marks from campers. "Be bear aware: there are great bear-proof storage lockers on each site to use. Keep your toiletries in your car or bear locker too - your toothpaste, sunscreen, all of that, smells like food," advises Jeane L. from her stay at Little Maud Campground.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity disappears quickly outside town. "Zero cell service. You need to drive 25 min into the town of basalt for service," reports Rebeca H. about Mollie B Campground. Another camper at Little Maud noted "No cell service here or on most of the road up after you leave nearby Basalt."
Road access challenges: Some dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. "You have to go a long way up and down Country Road 117 before you start seeing campsites. Would recommend 4wd for the last part of the drive to the sites," advises Lilliana S. about Four Mile Road.
Fire restrictions: Rules change seasonally and must be followed. "No campfires allowed. I am not convinced the coordinates were accurate, navigate to 4 mile road near glenwood springs and continue until you see Sunlight ski resort," shares Morgan about Four Mile Road Dispersed.
Temperature variations: Be prepared for cold nights regardless of season. "It did get coooold during early June, bring a good sleeping bag and warm clothes!!" warns Amy S. after camping at Bogan Flats.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly exploration areas: Some campgrounds offer natural play spaces. "The kids ran around in there a lot, which they loved," notes Ashley R. about a small forest next to site 34 at Bogan Flats Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animal sightings create memorable experiences. "We were totally thrilled that there was a mule eared deer doe who was not shy and casually grazed under the trees at the edge of our campsite, totally ignoring us and allowing our 7 year old grandson to sneak up to get a closer look," shares Tezza G. from Little Maud Campground.
Bathroom cleanliness: Facilities receive regular attention at established sites. "The bathrooms were immaculate and had no odor whatsoever," reports Jon B. about Difficult Campground, while another camper noted, "The vault toilets were very clean and spacious."
Tips from RVers
Site placement challenges: Many campgrounds have specific limitations. "The RV sites are SMALL. We have a 42' fifth wheel, and while we got it backed in perfectly, we didn't have any room for our truck," warns Melody C. about Glenwood Canyon Resort.
Hookup availability: Electric sites are limited near Basalt. "One loop has hookups. One doesn't," notes Ronny D. about Redstone White River National Forest. Carbondale-Crystal River KOA offers more amenities with "cabins that look very retro, actually only 20 RV sites, some of them on the Crystal River."
Dump station access: Plan ahead for waste disposal. Most dispersed camping areas have no facilities, while established campgrounds like Little Maud, Mollie B, and Redstone offer sanitary dump stations, though some charge additional fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is free camping available near Basalt, CO?
Is free camping available near Basalt, CO?
Yes, free camping options exist near Basalt. Four Mile Road Dispersed offers free camping with both drive-in and walk-in access, and it can accommodate larger vehicles. Another option is Twin Peaks Dispersed Campground, which provides peaceful surroundings, great hiking opportunities, and no fees. When choosing a dispersed camping site, remember to follow Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and check current fire restrictions. Most free sites lack amenities like running water or toilets, so come prepared with enough supplies for your stay.
What seasons are best for camping in the Basalt area?
What seasons are best for camping in the Basalt area?
The best camping seasons near Basalt are late spring through early fall (May to October). Summer offers perfect conditions with warm days and cool nights at the area's elevation of around 7,800 feet. Little Maud Campground on Ruedi Reservoir provides excellent summer camping with shade trees and water access. Early fall brings spectacular foliage, especially in areas with aspen groves. Cold Springs Campground offers a wonderful mountain experience even with occasional rain. Winter camping is possible but challenging due to snow and cold temperatures. Always check road conditions and campground seasons, as many facilities close after October.
Where are the best campgrounds near Basalt, Colorado?
Where are the best campgrounds near Basalt, Colorado?
The Basalt area offers several excellent camping options. Mollie B Campground stands out for its exceptionally clean facilities, running water, and secure bear boxes at each site. Just 14 miles east of Basalt, Difficult Campground provides a peaceful Forest Service experience. For those seeking water recreation, campgrounds around Ruedi Reservoir are ideal. Other highly-rated options within driving distance include Oh Be Joyful Campground with its honor system fees and stunning mountain views. Most campgrounds in the region offer fire pits, access to hiking trails, and scenic surroundings typical of Colorado's mountain landscape.
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