Camping near Gypsum, Colorado places visitors at elevations ranging from 6,100-8,500 feet, with distinct seasonal conditions affecting accessibility. Lower-elevation sites along the Colorado River remain open year-round while higher spots close by October. Many dispersed camping options require additional preparation due to limited facilities and variable road conditions that change significantly after rainfall.
What to do
Fishing access points: Deep Creek Campground offers sites positioned along a creek where campers can easily set up gear. According to a visitor, "We pulled in with our 31' trailer and had a great spot to park at campsite 3. Can walk right down to the river where you could set up your tent or have a fire (when they're permitted!)."
Hiking from camp: Sylvan Lake State Park features multiple trail options accessible directly from campsites. One camper noted, "There's a trail that follows the lake shore around that is also bike friendly, there's also the West Brush Creek Trail which is in the park and a number of gulch trails in between Sylvan lake and Eagle."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Gypsum area provides habitat for various wildlife species including mule deer, fox, and occasionally bear. At Little Maud Campground, visitors reported, "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, within 20 feet of her."
What campers like
River sounds for sleeping: Many campers appreciate riverside sites for their natural white noise. At Lyons Gulch Campground, a visitor shared, "Awesome views and really nice campsites. Only a few sites and each offers great seclusion right along the river. It was so nice to jump in the water in the morning!"
Late arrival flexibility: For those driving through late, some campgrounds accommodate nighttime check-ins. A Riverdance RV Resort visitor noted, "We arrived late at night after looping down through Fairplay, Breckenridge, and Vail after I-70 was closed. She gave this park a call a quarter-to and a groggy guy picked up and told us to just pull into one of the sites 9-21 and handle the rest with the weekend attendant in the morning."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds with well-maintained restrooms rate consistently higher among visitors. At Little Maud Campground, a camper mentioned, "The bathrooms were impeccable. The campsite is right next to a reservoir which is an added bonus."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access to many dispersed sites requires careful vehicle selection. On Bellyache Road, a visitor warned, "Road was very easy to find but 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."
Bear-aware camping: Food storage precautions are essential throughout the area. A camper at Little Maud Campground advised, "Bear locker on site was helpful to store food. Also saw a bear and a fox on the tree line surrounding the campground but did not have any bear activity on our site!"
Seasonal challenges: Bugs and temperature fluctuations require planning. At Deep Creek Campground, a visitor reported, "Lots of bugs so bring bug spray. Very calming and felt safe. Would recommend!"
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Several sites offer child-friendly water access for hot days. At Deep Creek Trailhead Camp, parents shared, "There's a great pull off area that is pretty level. We stayed one night in our RV. There was some pretty heavy traffic and train tracks on the other side of the river. This area stays pretty busy with rafting and kayaking even during the week."
Protected camping spaces: Sites with natural barriers provide security for children. A visitor at Little Maud Campground noted, "All the spots are a little different, a few in the inner campsites have less shade, but most make the use of trees, tall grasses, and positioning of each site and where you'd park your car, for privacy."
Activity diversity: Campgrounds offering multiple recreation options keep families engaged. At Sylvan Lake State Park, a camper described, "Slyvan Lake offers excellent fishing for trout, Stand up Paddle Boarding and Canoeing; Both which can be rented there. The surrounding area offers hiking and scenic drives."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions matter: Many campgrounds have tight spaces requiring careful maneuvering. At Glenwood Canyon Resort, an RVer cautioned, "We have a 42' fifth wheel, and while we got it backed in perfectly, we didn't have any room for our truck. Thankfully no one was next to us, so we could get creative with parking it."
Dispersed options for larger rigs: Some BLM areas can accommodate bigger vehicles despite rough access. A visitor to Upper Colorado River BLM reported, "Great views overlooking the Colorado River. It is an open area with some flat spots and some areas requiring leveling. Can handle big rigs, but space is limited."
Limited hookup availability: Many campgrounds around Gypsum have partial or no hookups. At Riverdance RV Resort, a camper noted, "Just had some construction and sewers aren't hooked up at sites but there is a dump station. Showers are clean as are the bathrooms."
