Tent camping near Basalt, Colorado offers year-round options with varying elevations from 7,000 to over 10,000 feet. Summer nighttime temperatures often drop into the 30s even in July and August at higher elevations, requiring proper cold-weather gear. Many campsites along Independence Pass and Lincoln Creek Road become inaccessible during winter months due to seasonal road closures.
What to do
Mountain biking from camp: Lower Prince Creek Campground provides direct access to popular trails. "Easy access to mountain bike trails and the greater Carbondale area. During our stay in June, the upper loop was overrun by grazing cattle," notes Kate A. about this tent-friendly site.
Fishing in mountain streams: Primitive sites at Lower Prince Creek Campground offer proximity to trout waters. "It is right across a gravel road from the Prince Creek (class 3 trout stream) and surrounded by some great hiking and biking trails," reports Eric B.
Paddle boarding on high alpine lakes: Portal Campground sites provide water access at Grizzly Reservoir. "You can camp literally feet away from the water if you get a good spot. Be aware of the weather moving in here as its at a high elevation," advises one camper, adding, "Bring the paddle boards!"
Winter camping opportunities: Some areas remain accessible for cold-weather tent camping. "Winter Camped here right by the bench. Great little spot, saw a couple coyotes but they were just curious and walked by," shares Taylor B. about East Maroon Portal.
What campers like
Lakeside camping spots: Portal Campground offers prime waterfront tent sites. "This campground is located way out in the wilderness. It has incredible mountain views as well as a view of the close by Grizzly Reservoir," explains Kelly Z., adding "This is a free campground and it has vault toilets."
Secluded forest sites: Bellyache Road dispersed camping provides privacy. "It was forested with a good rock fire ring but some trash left over. Felt secluded enough but had hiking trails around," reports Allison K.
Free camping options: Numerous no-cost tent sites exist throughout the area. "There are about 25 campsites before you get to the portal camp site, but highly recommend driving a bit longer to get to the campground. A phenomenal view of the lake and mountains is unforgettable!" describes Lila L.
Natural hot springs access: Upper Colorado Rec Area provides tent sites near thermal features. "Both of these campgrounds are conveniently located within a 20 minute hike of the hot spring itself, which is a gorgeous natural pool right along the Colorado River," reports Isabelle K.
What you should know
Road conditions require high clearance: Many tent camping areas have difficult access. "Portal campground is a very secluded off the beaten path campground. The road is a high-clearance road that is fairly rutted out with tight turns and very small sections to pass people," warns Connor M.
Altitude considerations for tent campers: Sleeping at elevation requires preparation. "Keep in mind that the campground at Portal is 10,500 feet so if you aren't used to the altitude or familiar with altitude sickness you'll want to do a little research before camping here as it's a long bumpy drive out," advises another camper.
Weather changes rapidly: Afternoon storms are common at higher elevations. "Be aware of the weather moving in here as its at a high elevation," cautions a visitor to Portal Campground.
Backcountry permits required: Four Pass Loop - West Maroon to Buckskin requires advance planning. "We attempted four pass loop in July of 2017, but were unable to get over the first peak because of altitude and just being out of shape," shares Corey B.
Tips for camping with families
Choose lower elevation sites: Tent camping with children works better at campgrounds below 9,000 feet. "The spots by the stream are cooler, more shaded but empty in late August," notes Amanda U. about Thompson Creek.
Prepare for wildlife encounters: Children should know safety protocols. "We saw many mountain goats, mule deer, and other critters," reports Cory D. about Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness.
Find sites with open play spaces: Some locations offer natural areas for children. "We took our new van out for a drive and a brief camping trip. The Portal campground has some beautiful spots that are next to the creek and is very close to hiking," says Tamara S.
Check for seasonal cattle grazing: Certain areas have livestock that can disturb camp. "During our stay in June, the upper loop was overrun by grazing cattle," reports Kate A. about Lower Prince Creek.
Tips from RVers
Avoid narrow mountain roads: Many tent-only areas aren't suitable for RVs. "I wouldn't have started so be ready for 3 miles an hour until you get to the top of the hill," cautions Steve M. about Bellyache Road.
Scout ahead for turnaround points: Forest roads often lack places to maneuver larger vehicles. "Definitely would advise 4x4, and not for travel trailers at all. Bringing one up could lead to a serious situation, since there are no places to turn around whatsoever," warns Adam D.
Find established sites with vault toilets: Portal Campground provides basic amenities accessible to small RVs. "Clean amazing campground... So well taken care of. We were able to book a walk in camp site last minute. Spot was located behind some very clean bathrooms with a shower," notes Christopher R., though larger rigs should avoid this area.
