11 campgrounds with availability next weekend
Green Mountain Reservoir's shoreline campgrounds include several pet-friendly options in the Heeney area. Cow Creek South Campground permits dogs throughout its spacious sites that offer picnic tables, fire pits, and bear lockers. Pets must be leashed at all times in these established campsites, which are positioned with excellent views of the Gore Mountain range and Eagles Nest Wilderness. Nearby, Rock Creek Designated Dispersed Camping allows tent and RV camping with pets in a more primitive setting without drinking water or facilities. Both McDonald Flats and Elliott Creek campgrounds also welcome pets, with Elliott Creek offering lake access where dogs can swim. The Cow Creek sites provide ample room between campsites, creating privacy while still allowing for multiple vehicles and tents.
Dogs enjoy water access at several campgrounds along Green Mountain Reservoir, though pet owners should be prepared for weather changes that can affect outdoor activities. High winds frequently occur in the area, sometimes reaching up to 70 mph, requiring secure pet containment. The nearby Cataract Lake features a beautiful one-mile loop trail suitable for dog walking, while more ambitious hikers with dogs can explore trails to Eaglesmere lakes, Tipperary lake, and Surprise lake. Wildlife including bears inhabit the surrounding wilderness, necessitating proper food storage in provided bear boxes. The Master Bait and Tackle shop on the other side of the lake offers supplies for extended stays. Limited or no cell service exists throughout the area, so pet owners should research veterinary options in Silverthorne before arrival.
"They take you off of Highway 9 and about 5 minutes you take a left and pass trail head (cant rmemeber the name) and parking lot and you continue on a pretty bumpy ride for about 10 minutes (you start hitting"
"There is a good amount of traffic heading towards the trail head but it was still quiet. Even had a moose run through our camp!"
"Was great to be able to walk with the dog off leash and throw the ball on the beach without having to worry about others"
"An easy drive in from highway 40 in any size rig. This place is great it is FREE plus there are a lot of sites to choose from. "
from $27 / night
"If you are looking for a great boondocking location that is close to great trails and breathtaking views, this just might be the place for you."
"We stayed at the Gore Creek Campground last summer 2017 on a drive from Southern California to Denver, CO. We took highway 15 through Nevada and Utah, and connected to Highway 70 in Utah to Colorado."
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $29 / night
"The more popular Colorado gets, the faster these spots fill up so get up there early to lock it down! Some spots are bigger than others but all can fit groups."
"Camping spots are far away from each other."
"This small campground is located right on the Blue River between Silverthorne and Green Mountain Reservoir on Highway 9. It is about 6 miles from Silverthorne and beautiful Dillon Reservoir."
"Cool campground, not huge on the highway noise but overall the campground is in excellent condition, very clean bathrooms, bear proof storage."
from $25 / night
"Located on Dillon Reservoir, Prospector Campground offers a nice balance of feeling remote while being conveniently near some really neat towns."
"Great views of lake dillon and each spot is tucked into trees so you don’t see neighbors even if you can hear them. Short Hiking trail connected to the campground plus so many trail options close by"
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $27 / night
"You can still hear the highway but it makes up for the location and how you can get to a few spots in less than 30 mins. Liked the distance away from campers."
"Not far off the main interstate and little to no noise from the smaller highway that passes nearby. Had cell service with AT&T, no service with Verizon at all within at least a mile."
"Located right next to the water with a very friendly host. It was all booked up when we drove through but we will definitely stay on our way back through. Clean facilities and virtually zero shade."
"Big sites for campers, right next to lake, trees and wind blocks, great to good fishing. Almost always try to go here when we go. High Country Lake."
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $21 - $42 / night
"The campsites are decently spaced out but not the place to go if you don’t want neighbors, I chose the only single site I could find but could still hear dogs barking and music in the distance(to be fair"
"Closed off road access unfortunately till June 20. Beautiful and the road can get a little wonky but you’re gonna have to hike it up for a bit!"
"We were close to an old boat ramp which ended up being a great spot to park the jet ski. There was no shade, so our pop up tent helped tremendously."
"We were looking for a place to overnight in between stays and stumbled onto McDonald Flats after having no luck at a few other spots along Highway 6."
from $25 / night
Guide# 7 was a sweet spot - You can get three to four tents in this spot if you tent camp.
Tons of deadfall for firewood
I was able to pick up three pieces of trash. I am saying it's a clean spot!
Super quiet - Saw a moose!
Great area! Easy to get to!
ScoutNice easy access right off the highway with nice views… perfect overnight rest stop.
TravelerThis place is incredible. The sound of the river alone will calm your nervous system. Whether you’re camping or staying in one of the cabins, you will not be disappointed.
ScoutThis is not free. $20 and one restroom.
ScoutNice area with lots of spots, and a few that will work for a camper van. Gravel road that’s well maintained on the way up. Some road traffic but not too bad. No major views, but peaceful and easy to get to!
ScoutSmall campground with nice size sites.
RangerThis place was beautiful. The rough road was worth it. There were trails all around the grounds. The lake was beautiful and absolutely a fisherman’s paradise. There was no water available and the main water was turned off, but they had plenty of clean porta-potty’s. There were plenty of spots open and we were able to reserve our spot online after we picked it.
TravelerSo beautiful, dispersed camping at 11,200 feet surrounded by mountains. Area is busy with day hikers, go past the parking lot and set up at one of the handful of spots. Definitely for small rigs or tents, don’t come up here with a non 4x4 vehicle, and trailers would be close to impossible.
GuideNo access as the site is chain-locked.
Green Mountain Reservoir features several dispersed camping areas located between 7,900 and 8,200 feet elevation in the Lower Blue River Valley. The region experiences extreme weather variations with temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night common in summer months. Cell service ranges from limited to non-existent across most campgrounds, with the strongest signals typically found at higher elevation points near the eastern shore.
Fishing the reservoir: Access prime fishing spots at Blue River Campground, where campsites along the water provide convenient locations. "Great spot for fishing (no bait)," notes Natalie S., who adds that this campground is "about 6 miles from Silverthorne and beautiful Dillon Reservoir."
Hiking nearby trails: The Rock Creek Designated Dispersed Camping area offers multiple hiking options. "Trailhead is easy to find at the end of the road and leads to a couple of sweet spots. We stopped by Boulder Lake and it was about 6.5 miles total of a hike," shares Jane W.
Stargazing opportunities: The area's minimal light pollution creates excellent viewing conditions. "Close to town, easy drive in (little bumpy but not a big deal for SUV). Can't hear the road, basically no light pollution. Beautiful scenery, beautiful night sky views," reports Raven S., who particularly recommends the clear views at Rock Creek.
River access sites: Ute Pass Dispersed Camping offers waterfront options that campers consistently rate highly. "Beautiful spots along the river at a first-come, first-serve basis. The more popular Colorado gets, the faster these spots fill up so get up there early to lock it down," advises Jeana P.
Secluded camping options: Many campers value the privacy offered at certain sites. "Fairly remote site considering its proximity to Silverthorne. Rough, rocky road, some clearance is nice to have... Sites are well marked and generally spaced pretty far apart although some sites are clustered together," notes Kevin K. about Rock Creek.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse bird and animal populations. "So many types of birds—great spot for birdwatchers!!!" mentions Raven S. regarding Rock Creek. Another camper reports, "Nice elk tracks in the snow when I was there along the river" at Blue River Campground.
Road conditions: Access roads to several dog-friendly campgrounds near Heeney require careful driving. "Road was REALLY rough. One portion looked like someone had just run around digging random holes in the road; however, once you got past the road, it was everything you'd want in a primitive site," explains Rhonda C. about Red Sandstone.
Weekend crowds: Popularity varies significantly between weekdays and weekends. "By 1 p.m., it felt like a game of musical chairs. Drivers looping, turning around, hoping someone packed up. If you're aiming for a summer weekend, earlier is better—and be ready for company," reports one camper at Rock Creek.
Temperature fluctuations: Prepare for significant day-to-night changes. "It does get pretty cold at night so pack some extra clothes," advises Sean M., who camped at Williams Fork Reservoir. Several campers mention frost even in summer months, particularly at higher elevation sites.
Best sites for children: Williams Fork Reservoir offers family-friendly amenities and beach access. "The lots were spread out and I was fortunate to get one right on the beach. Was great to be able to walk with the dog off leash and throw the ball on the beach without having to worry about others," notes Eric B.
Bug preparation: Several campgrounds report significant insect activity. "SO MANY MOSQUITOS," warns Sara W. about Red Sandstone. Another camper advises, "beware of ticks here and be sure you bring bug spray!" when discussing Williams Fork Reservoir.
Wildlife safety education: Make wildlife awareness part of your family camping routine. "Bear country. Stream running near or by many sites is nice," notes Kevin K., emphasizing the importance of teaching children proper food storage techniques in bear territory.
Site selection for larger vehicles: Columbine Landing Recreation Site accommodates various RV sizes despite its rustic setting. "Big places and fireplaces our 27 fitted vood," reports Michi S., indicating the site can accommodate moderately sized RVs despite the entry road being "bumpy and rocky."
Weather challenges: RV campers must prepare for high winds that frequently sweep through the valley. "Very windy through the valley but very pretty with the gore range to the west," notes one camper at Columbine Landing. Another mentions, "The biggest drawback was the dust and wind at night."
Limited hook-ups: No electrical, sewer or water hookups exist at any campgrounds in the immediate Heeney area. "This is a nice little boondocking location that is close to great trails and breathtaking views," explains Jason F., who successfully camped in a 22' travel trailer at Gore Creek Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Heeney, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Heeney, CO is Rock Creek Designated Dispersed Camping with a 4.5-star rating from 30 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Heeney, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 322 dog-friendly camping locations near Heeney, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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