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.
Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!
Round 1 of 5
"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."
"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."
"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!"
$26 - $56 / night
"Spot #7 was perfect as it has a picnic table and fire ring to the left of where you pull in and the campsite is to the right and gets you close to the river."
"We stayed here 7 nights and explored Creede, Lake City, South Fork It’s a small campground, paved sites, no water, pit toilets In Creede you can get water from the Visitor center hydrant It’s good water"
"Positioned trailer to optimize views."
"Great views and close to the mountain town of Creede."
"Every site was nice and had easy access to the river for fishing or a swim. Vault toilets were very clean. Come prepared since no trash or water available."
"A nice little spot near Creede with one of the nicest two seater pit toilet I've experienced. Seven spots total, all first come first serve."
"Beautiful location on the Rio Grande River. 12 spots, 26$ per night. Flat parking lots for fishing and overflow parking."
$26 - $30 / night
"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."
"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."
"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. "
TravelerThis is a perfect oasis for dispersed camping. Right by the stream and relax to the flowing sound of the water. Perfect Mountain View and sit and listen to the birds. Bathroom available but good to have your own toilet paper. Lots of spaces that are spread-out. Close to Silverton which we hope to explore. It’s been cool in the evening but it’s nice compared to the 90-100 degrees we came from in Utah. We love this area!
ScoutPlenty of shade. Only a handful of sites will accommodate a 30 foot trailer. Near East Fork of San Juan River. There is no water available at campground. Elevation approx. 7800ft.
GuidePeaceful campsite along North Fort Creek stayed here two days. We were the only campers amazing
GuideThe views for this campground are beautiful. Parking was easy and not busy in early June. The camp host was very nice. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire pit. Bathrooms are pretty close by. Showers are $3 and quarters only. Was slightly disingenuous the showers only lukewarm/cool water.
ScoutThis is a no frills location, good host, Saturday is music night. Full service was great both water, electricity and sewer. All services were great.
GuideThis is a beautiful campground just outside of Silverton. It’s right only the creek. If you’re lucky you’ll get one with a creek view or access. Easy parking just a bit bumpy in the campground. Would definitely recommend and I will be coming back!
ScoutNot easy to get up, but you get rewarded with beautiful views and solitude.
TravelerThe area was beautiful! An easy hike to the nearby creek. We had several “visitors”, including several deer and bears. The bears got a little curious, but kept their distance. Definitely keep food and trash away from your site.
GuideThere are a few muddy and grassy spots up the road. This area is being logged. I don’t think I’d stay here again, but we had rain the whole time which didn’t help
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.
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.
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.
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."
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.
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?
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?
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?
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?
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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