Tent campsites near City of Creede, Colorado range from 8,500 to 11,000 feet in elevation across the Rio Grande National Forest. Seasonal closures typically restrict access from late October through early May due to significant snowfall accumulation. Many sites have no cell service, requiring visitors to rely on offline maps and emergency preparedness equipment.
What to do
Explore nearby hiking trails: From Rito Hondo Reservoir, campers can access North Clear Creek Falls trail system. According to Ricky R., the area offers "poor cell service with Verizon 1 bar, but open sky for Starlink" making it ideal for disconnecting while maintaining emergency communication options.
Wildlife observation opportunities: The Pass Creek Road Dispersed Camping area provides access to nearby ponds ideal for wildlife viewing. One camper notes the area is "very clean and maintained, easy access to nearby ponds" with opportunities to spot local wildlife in their natural habitat.
Visit hot springs: Turkey Creek Road serves as an excellent base for hot springs adventures. Misty B. shares, "It was a perfect base camp to spend time at the hot springs in Pagosa Springs and ride some trails." The campground is approximately 30 minutes from developed soaking facilities.
What campers like
Seclusion and privacy: Cebolla Creek Campground offers quieter weekday camping experiences with creek access. Jess B. reports, "Traffic can be heavyish on weekends but a great place for the night on a weekday" with sites positioned along the water for added serenity.
Established dispersed sites: Pass Creek Road features multiple well-maintained sites with existing fire rings. Donald B. notes, "Wide open area with fire pit and some wood gathered. Sufficiently distant from neighboring sites" making it ideal for campers seeking structure without formal facilities.
Seasonal wildlife encounters: Turkey Creek Road campers regularly encounter grazing cattle during summer months. Brandon F. mentions, "Our site was made unique by the herd of cattle that roamed the road and surrounding meadows. Kind of cool until they started mooing incessantly at 6am" adding unexpected character to the camping experience.
What you should know
Limited flat terrain: Many dispersed camping areas near Creede feature uneven ground requiring careful tent placement. At Turkey Creek Road, Ryan T. advises, "Room for a couple cars and several tents. Not PERFECTLY flat for the tent-folk" suggesting campers bring adjustable equipment.
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access roads deteriorate after rainfall, particularly at higher elevations. When comparing nearby options, Aliza N. notes that while Turkey Creek Road is accessible, "Del Norte dispersed area on East Fork Road... IS a rougher road and takes a bit more time to reach."
Weather fluctuations: Temperature changes can be dramatic even in summer. At Ute Creek Trailhead #819, one camper experienced "Woke up with a light dusting of snow but it thawed by 10:30" even during typical camping season, indicating the need for all-weather gear.
Tips for camping with families
Choose designated sites: Hanson's Mill Campground offers primitive tent camping suitable for families seeking nature immersion. Kris M. advises, "If you want to do some primitive camping this is your spot! There is nothing here but nature and plenty of it. While you are here check out Wheeler Geo area."
Plan for limited amenities: Most tent sites require bringing or filtering water. At Turkey Creek Road, plan for total self-sufficiency as Teresa T. notes, "We grabbed a spot with a fire pit even though no fires are allowed right now. So quiet!... We love free camping!!!"
Consider wind protection: Seek naturally sheltered sites in this high-elevation area. Campers at Ute Creek Trailhead appreciate that "High bushes make great wind blocks. Right on the river!" providing natural shelter from frequent afternoon breezes.
Tips from RVers
Small RV accessibility: While many sites accommodate tent camping only, some dispersed areas can handle compact RVs. Tara I. found at Turkey Creek Road, "Climb a gravel hill (doable in my 23ft class b) to get to 5 or so dispersed spots."
Solar opportunities: Pass Creek Road offers good options for RVers using solar power. Izzy T. reports, "Most sites are spaced out with plenty of privacy, some sites are more open with great solar opportunities" allowing for extended stays without hookups.
Consider site location: Balance accessibility with noise levels when selecting RV sites. At Pass Creek Road, Donald B. notes, "Across the valley from the highway so some road noise but nothing terribly annoying" suggesting positions farther from main roads for quieter experiences.
