Christopher P.
Guide
GuideNew Jack Road
Dispersed camping
Farther down Jack road the road gets a little tougher and fewer sites. Nice trail system. Verizon is one bar good for text or call.
Camping near City of Creede, CO
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Unlike most towns of this size in southern Colorado, Creede sits in a narrow canyon with a distinct geographic character that limits how many campgrounds are within close range. Developed sites along the Rio Grande corridor have water, vault toilets, and defined sites, and the canyon setting means afternoon shade comes earlier than at open-valley locations. The Dyrt check-ins for this area run most heavily in July and August, and The Dyrt reviewers note that sites inside the canyon fill faster than the more open options further out on forest roads. Creede's dispersed camping gives the no-reservation alternative for those willing to drive the forest roads past the developed campground clusters.
South Fork is about 20 miles east and holds additional developed options with better cell service if connectivity matters for your stay.
Best Campgrounds near City of Creede (300)
1. Antlers Rio Grande Lodge and RV Park
"Kids area, river, bridge to trails super close, etc… The town nearby, Creede, was pretty closed down as well. But very fascinating little place."
"Fly fishing on the Rio Grande is just steps away. The restaurant there is very good! Reservations are recommended.
The town of Creed is cute and funky. I will definitely go back. Loved it there."2. North Clear Creek
"It is also about a 5 minute drive to one of the bigger waterfalls in Colorado - North Clear Creek Falls. It has everything you need - picnic table, fire ring with grate, 2 restrooms, and water."
"We have had bears around the campground and even woke up to mama and baby moose walking through the campsite. Down the road are the beautiful North Clear Creek Falls."
3. Mountain Views RV Park
"Only come here if you plan of off-roading. Everybody has a side by side or rent one. Great views but can’t explore without it- great time!"
4. Marshall Park Campground
"Spot #7 was perfect as it has a picnic table and fire ring to the left of where you pull in and the campsite is to the right and gets you close to the river."
"We stayed here 7 nights and explored Creede, Lake City, South Fork It’s a small campground, paved sites, no water, pit toilets In Creede you can get water from the Visitor center hydrant It’s good water"
from $26 - $56 / night
Check Availability5. Forest Road 504.1C
"Positioned trailer to optimize views."
"Great views and close to the mountain town of Creede."
6. Rio Grande Campground
"Every site was nice and had easy access to the river for fishing or a swim. Vault toilets were very clean. Come prepared since no trash or water available."
"A nice little spot near Creede with one of the nicest two seater pit toilet I've experienced. Seven spots total, all first come first serve."
7. Palisade
"Beautiful location on the Rio Grande River. 12 spots, 26$ per night. Flat parking lots for fishing and overflow parking."
8. Rio Grande National Forest Marshall Park Campground
"We were located right across from the vaulted toilets which were clean, sanitary and odorless. The campground is adjacent to the Rio Grand River and several campsites back right up to the river."
"It is next to the Rio Grande River which makes for some beautiful sounds. there are outhouse which are kept very clean. there is a host and are very nice and have some fire wood for sale."
from $26 - $30 / night
Check Availability9. Creede, CO Overlook
"I saw a large 5th wheel and a class A near the beginning. The last spot occupied was a capable Toyota 4Runner. Our 2-wheel drive made it to the top of the bald. 2bar for Verizon."
10. Shallow Creek
"Highway 149 > Miner's Creek Rd > Left on 508 > Left on Shallow Creek Road to end
I got my 25ft Travel Trailer there with no issue. "
Drive Time
- 3 hrs 6 min from Pueblo, CO
- 3 hrs 46 min from Colorado Springs, CO
- 4 hrs 35 min from Farmington, NM
- 4 hrs 35 min from Grand Junction, CO
Recent Camping Photos near City of Creede, CO
361 Photos of 300 City of Creede Campgrounds
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Recent Reviews near City of Creede, CO
1125 Reviews of 300 City of Creede Campgrounds
- Sarah H.
ScoutNew Jack Road
Perfect Spot near Pagosa Springs
This place was perfect for our 4th of July camping trip! We had so much room and found a spot so easily, even on a holiday weekend. Just outside the town of Pagosa with great access to everything in the area. We enjoyed the nearby hikes too!
- AAlysia G.Scout
Del Norte Dispersed Camping
Lots of ATV traffic
This was a beautiful area, lots of great spots right on the river, but the never-ending dust and noise from the ATV traffic from 6am-10pm ruined the experience a bit. If you’re an ATV driver, please don’t do donut at the entrance to other people’s camp sites
Steve M.
LegendEast Fork Campground
Lots of privacy but no hookups. Just Vault toilets and garbage disposal. No cell service of any kind
Beautiful Campground located in a type of Canyon with lots of separation between campsites and very clean with picnic tables and fire pits, which cannot currently be used due to restrictions. Nice but not inexpensive.
- Steve M.Legend
East Fork San Juan River, USFS Road 667 - Dispersed Camping
Many beautiful spots but very rough road
Any vehicle can make it on this road but it's purely washboard and was really rough on my trailer. Many spots along the way to camp and 2 miles in before the road gets worse is a good location. At 3 miles there is a sign recommending no trailers and only high clearance vehicles.
Shaunda B.ScoutRiver Fork Campground
Beware with new ownership
We have stayed here before and had a wonderful experience, which made this visit especially disappointing. Since the property changed ownership, our experience was completely different, and unfortunately we will not be returning. We booked our stay online, accurately disclosed the number of people and pets, and drove more than 800 miles to get there. Our first night was great. The employee who checked us in was friendly, helped us get situated at our site, and answered all of our questions. The following morning, however, the new owner, Christina, approached our campsite in a very confrontational manner. Her first words were,“Oh no, I’m going to have to charge you for two sites.” She then told us we couldn’t have our dogs and became increasingly rude throughout the conversation. She explained that she was trying to set up new glamping tents and had already turned away other campers because, according to her, we were taking up too much space. This was confusing because the site we reserved was advertised as 100’ x 50’, and our setup occupied only a small portion of that area—approximately 20’ x 30’. When I tried to explain that our reservation and site description matched what we had booked, she interrupted me and said she didn’t care because she was the owner and made the rules. At that point, we decided we no longer wanted to stay. We informed her that we would be checking out and requested a refund since we were unable to receive the accommodations we had reserved under the terms presented at booking. She told us she would refund what we had paid and walked away. Given how the interaction had unfolded, I recorded that conversation. Later that day, she sent me a text stating that she would not be issuing a full refund after all. Rather than continue arguing, I filed a chargeback with my credit card company. It’s unfortunate because we genuinely enjoyed this campground under its previous ownership. Based on this experience, however, I cannot recommend it. If you’re considering staying here, be aware that your experience may be very different than reviews from before the ownership change.
- Steve M.Legend
West Fork Campground
Decent separation from Neighbors but just your basic Campground
Clean Vault toilets and garbage service available but no electric or water hookups and only fair cell phone reception. Most Neighbors polite but one was noisy as possible until 10:00 p.m. when camp host told them to quiet down
- Steve M.Legend
Forest Road 37
Some great views but a very windy and narrow road
5 Mi to go on the road to reach more dispersed camping spots so I stayed at the first pull out on the left which had nice views although it was very close to the road
- Steve M.Legend
West Fork Dispersed
Cannot get there. Road past official Campground is blocked off
There are a couple of spots on the way to the campground that are technically good for tents if you park your car in a pullout. The campground is pretty nice but it is paid. Again, cannot make it to the second bridge because Road right after the campground is closed off.
Guide to City of Creede
Creede, Colorado sits at 8,852 feet elevation in the San Juan Mountains, offering camping experiences in dense pine forests and alpine terrain. The Rio Grande River flows through this former mining community, providing natural boundaries for many camping areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 40-75°F with afternoon thunderstorms common from July through August.
What to do
Fishing the Rio Grande: Access prime fishing spots directly from Marshall Park Campground, where campsites back up to the river. "Marshall park campground is a nice out of the way place to stay. It is dry camping. It is next to the Rio Grande River which makes for some beautiful sounds," notes reviewer Robin K.
Waterfall viewing: North Clear Creek Falls, one of Colorado's largest waterfalls, is just minutes from North Clear Creek Campground. "It is also about a 5 minute drive to one of the bigger waterfalls in Colorado - North Clear Creek Falls," shares Karl G., adding that "What's great about this campground is that it is not crowded and quiet!"
Off-road exploring: The mountains around Creede contain numerous forest service roads for OHV enthusiasts. "Only come here if you plan of off-roading. Everybody has a side by side or rent one. Great views but can't explore without it," advises Jared T. about Mountain Views RV Park.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Many campers choose spots along the Rio Grande for natural white noise and easy fishing access. "Have camped here for almost 2 weeks now with the river about 10 paces from our rig. End spots of the 7 along the river here are most spacious," notes Michele A. about Rio Grande Campground.
Elevated views: The dispersed camping areas on Forest Road 504.1C provide panoramic vistas. "We took FR504-1D to the top of the hill and it was really worth the effort. Wide open area with room for 4 to 6 camps... Outstanding views of Creede and the long valley towards Lake City," reports John H. from Forest Road 504.1C.
Wildlife encounters: The forests around Creede offer regular wildlife sightings. "We have had bears around the campground and even woke up to mama and baby moose walking through the campsite," shares Jennifer C. about North Clear Creek Campground.
What you should know
Weather variability: Mountain conditions change quickly year-round. "It rained each day but, only for a short time and watching the storms move across the peaks and valleys was definitely cool. Nights were in the low 40's and daytime highs of 75-ish," observes John H. about camping near Creede.
Pit toilets only: Most forest service campgrounds offer basic amenities. "Vault toilets were very clean. Come prepared since no trash or water available," advises Karin S. about Rio Grande Campground.
Seasonal openings: Most campgrounds operate May through September/October. "The gates go this campground were locked!" reports Marilyn S. about Shallow Creek, highlighting the importance of checking seasonal closures.
Road conditions: Some camping areas require higher clearance vehicles. "The access from 504-1C was a moderately steep with a tight squeeze halfway up," notes John H., while PJ M. says about Shallow Creek: "Road is a little tight when it turns at Sawmill Gulch and has a decent incline, but definitely doable."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds: Kids appreciate some basic amenities. "The amenities are really nice. Large community kitchen and dining area for games or eating or just hanging out! Coffee and ice cream shop is also a small are for games or visiting indoors," recommends kathleen R. about Mountain Views RV Park.
Consider riverside sites: The sound of water provides natural entertainment. "Every site was nice and had easy access to the river for fishing or a swim," shares Karin S. about Rio Grande Campground.
Plan for variable temperatures: Mountain nights get cold even in summer. "Winter camping works too, but you'll need extra gear for the cold and snow," advises Robin K., noting that families should "bring layers even in summer."
Check site spacing: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. "Absolutely beautiful, quiet and peaceful campground... I would stay at site #1 because it has a more secluded atmosphere because it is separated from the other sites and the trees and vegetation screen it from the other campsites," recommends Leslie N. about North Clear Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service options are limited near Creede. "We prefer boondocking but this was a nice stop for us for a few days. Laundry and showers very clean," notes Brenda about Antlers Rio Grande Lodge and RV Park, one of the few locations with full hookups.
Size limitations: Many forest service roads have tight turns and clearance issues. "I got my 25ft Travel Trailer there with no issue. Road is a little tight when it turns at Sawmill Gulch and has a decent incline, but definitely doable. Significantly larger rigs should scout it first," advises PJ M. about Shallow Creek.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste management. "As a bonus, Creede, just up the road about 6 miles has a dump station with potable water for a donation fee! The dump station is located about 1/4 mile from the visitors center, same side of road," shares Don L.
Route planning: Consider approach roads carefully. "Wish they had warned us to stay on 149 through Creede!" cautions Dana S., who accidentally took a rough dirt road to their destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best season for camping in Creede, Colorado?
What is the best season for camping in Creede, Colorado?
Summer (June through August) is the prime camping season in Creede, with comfortable daytime temperatures typically ranging from 65-75°F. This period offers the most reliable access as snow has melted from most roads and trails. Late spring (May) can be beautiful with wildflowers beginning to bloom, but expect cooler nights and possible lingering snow at higher elevations. West Fork Campground is particularly scenic during this time with easy river access. Early fall (September) brings spectacular color as aspens turn golden, and Buffalo Pass Campground offers a great location to enjoy this spectacle while avoiding weekend crowds. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, typically closing by mid-October as winter weather approaches. Always check current conditions before traveling.
What amenities are available at Creede Colorado campgrounds?
What amenities are available at Creede Colorado campgrounds?
Campgrounds around Creede typically offer a range of amenities to enhance your outdoor experience. Antlers Rio Grande Lodge and RV Park provides comprehensive facilities including reservable sites, water hookups, toilets, and is big-rig friendly. For those seeking a more rustic experience, Rio Grande Campground offers free camping with basic amenities like water and toilets. Most developed campgrounds in the area feature picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Some sites offer river access for fishing and recreation. While cell service can be limited in this mountainous region, many campgrounds are located close enough to Creede for occasional connectivity. Remember that amenities vary by season, with some facilities closing during winter months.
Is North Clear Creek Campground close to the City of Creede?
Is North Clear Creek Campground close to the City of Creede?
Yes, North Clear Creek Campground is conveniently located close to the City of Creede. This drive-in campground sits along the banks of North Clear Creek and provides easy access to Creede's amenities and attractions. The campground offers basic facilities including water and toilets, making it a practical base for exploring the historic mining town. For those seeking alternatives nearby, Rio Grande National Forest Marshall Park Campground is another excellent option within a short distance of Creede. When staying at these campgrounds, you'll be well-positioned to enjoy both the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and the charming downtown area with its shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Where are the best campgrounds near Creede, Colorado?
Where are the best campgrounds near Creede, Colorado?
The Creede area offers excellent camping options for those seeking natural beauty and recreation. North Clear Creek Campground is a top choice with drive-in access and essential amenities including water and toilets. For those preferring more established facilities, Marshall Park Campground offers reservable sites with water, toilets, and big-rig accessibility. If you're looking to avoid crowds, venture a bit further to Park Creek Campground in Rio Grande National Forest, situated at 8,500 feet elevation with beautiful riverside sites. These campgrounds provide convenient access to Creede's charming downtown and the surrounding natural attractions of the Rio Grande National Forest.
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