Searching for the best camping near Nathrop, CO? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Discover great camping spots near Nathrop, reviewed by campers like you.
$20 - $40 / night
"This place is so easy to get to and is very close to the city of Buena Vista. Any type of car can make it to the campsites and there are bathroom facilities available."
"Over 50 sites available, some grouped together, others you can just drive in and have plenty of privacy. There are even public vault toilets available."
$28 / night
"Nestled just south of Buena Vista and right next to Nathrop, this campsite has stunning views and is just a walk away from some great Brown's Canyon trails."
"Here are the positives:
- Great access to the Arkansas River (fishing, put-in/ - take/out access)
- Very well-maintained spaces and clean bathrooms
- Minutes from rafting outfitters (we always go through"
"The hiking is good with several trailheads and easy access to the Colorado Trail."
"Recommend the hike to browns lake nearby. Vault toilets at the trailhead if needed.
Our spot was right off the Colorado trail, lots of thru hikers going by."
$28 / night
"The campground is north of Salida Colorado on the Arkansas River. This is the busy spot at the end of the commercial river rafting run."
"Beautiful in its location, there were site improvements several years ago, which are nice and still hold true in 2023. (level tent pads, delineated sites, etc.)"
"Kinda busy with good access to Browns creek and the Colorado trail, but otherwise quiet if you can squeeze in. Easy for trailers too."
"Close to hiking at browns which is really pretty hike and lots of options. We found a place on Memorial Day without a reservation which never happens in Colorado. It is near the co trail too!"
"Within 20 minutes of driving you have multiple Colorado 14ers to hike, amazing fishing, miles of mountain biking trails and 2 amazing towns with great places to eat or grab a beer. "
"Beautiful surroundings, picnic tables, fire rings. I gave it a 4 because of annoying rig running generator and a little highway noise."
$40 - $180 / night
"Location is great and is close by to Mt Princeton Hot Springs, rafting on the Arkansas River, hiking, and the town of Buena Vista."
"It’s a great location, has hiking and biking trails and some amazing views of the mountains. It is close to all the things Buena Vista has to offer."
$25 / night
"This is probably my family's favorite area to camp in Colorado. Off the beaten path enough that traffic is minimal. But nice and close to some great four wheel and off roading areas."
"This place is beautifully positioned in the trees. Clean facilities, a wonderful camp host and fellow campers were great. 15 minutes from Buena Vista and 30 to Salida. "
"We attended and stayed here for a off road group event in September and was perfect for our large group. The meadow campground area has sites right on the creek!"
"Great location between Buena Vista and Salida. We had a site right on the creek. Easy access to Arkansas River off the highway for fishing and we drove up to St."
$22 / night
"Cottonwood creek and Cottonwood lake are close by. The first come first serve sites are spacious and well laid out. There is a very nice day use picnic and fishing docks on the lake."
"Cottonwood Lake campground near Buena Vista is my favorite campground on this particular road (my other favorite campground in the vicinity is Cascade)."
GuidePearl Pass is nested in a beautiful area between Aspen and Crested Butte. The dirt road is often very rugged, requiring 4WD low and higher clearance even for my Toyota Tacoma TRD driving at a speed safe enough not to air-down or gouge my sidewalls from the sharp rocks. There are 9 well marked dispersed sites. I arrived at dusk, stayed in site 8 (1.1 miles from the paved road), which was the last one at the time and requires a walk-in tent. I would not advice a RV or pull-behind for the upper sites unless you're open to extra work. People ended up camping everywhere (Labor Day), so if you're in a bind, its a good place to get lost, as most casual AWD's and tourists would not go too far up.
TravelerWas drawn to this campsite from the cool photos and proximity to Gunnison. Circled for 45 minutes before leaving to find someplace else before it got dark. Many labeled campsites on the map, such as KH6, were turned into day use areas (no camping allowed) which was confusing. We were able to drive around some of the roads in our 2WD van looking for sites but honestly would not recommend for similar vehicles.
ScoutDrive to this camping area with 24 foot trailer was very rough after first 2 miles but worth the trip to Winfield. Stunning mountain views.
Travelerright off the highway you pull onto a dirt road, path is pretty rutted but my van made it no problem. Bigger rigs would have issues. Some highway noise but to be expected so close to the road. Open space for dogs to roam while at site. Good Mountain Views! Decent place about 10 min from Leadville.
TravelerThe best campsite we have found in a long time. We went up the weekend after Labor Day and we were the only ones at this site. You can see how this site gets very busy during the summer but early September was simply impeccable. Great views, big campsites, and you can have fires. the main camp ground was closed for the season so there wasn't any dumpsters or trashcans so definitely think about that if you do non seasonal camping.
TravelerNumerous dispersed camping sites all along Taylor Park. A big off road vehicle destination so can be dusty and noisy during day if site is near main road. We had beautiful site next to the river with no neighbors. Nearest dump is about 7 miles away. Water and dump available in Gunninson and Crested Butte.
TravelerGreat place to go. Just don’t go to deep.
ScoutGood spot, lots of space, many have fire rings built. Road is a bit bumpy but nothing you’d need 4wd or clearance for.
GuideArrived late as usual amd the road was definitely a bumpy one. Didn't think we were going to find a spot. Found a pull in for the night, then sped out the area the next morning, and thank goodness we found a different spot. It was very spacious and had a pretty view. Took a hike up to Browns Creek falls and it was well worth the 7 mile round trip hike. Would go again.
Camping near Nathrop, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning views, outdoor activities, and a chance to unwind in nature. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot for your next adventure.
Camping near Nathrop, Colorado, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds in Nathrop, Colorado?
Nathrop offers excellent camping options in the scenic Chalk Creek Canyon area. Mount Princeton is one of three National Forest Service campgrounds in the canyon, featuring a camp host and great facilities. For those seeking a more rustic experience, Browns Canyon Dispersed provides quiet camping with breathtaking views of Mt. Princeton. If you prefer RV accommodations, several parks in the area offer riverside sites. The region's campgrounds put you close to hot springs resorts at the base of the canyon, making it an ideal basecamp for exploring the surrounding mountains, ghost towns, and wilderness areas. Most campgrounds in this area are seasonal, typically open from late spring through early fall.
What outdoor activities can you do while camping in Nathrop, Colorado?
Nathrop's spectacular mountain setting offers diverse outdoor activities year-round. The area around Chalk Creek Canyon provides excellent hiking trails, four-wheel-drive adventures, and access to ghost towns like St. Elmo. Water enthusiasts enjoy fishing for trout in mountain lakes and streams or rafting on the nearby Arkansas River. Ohaver Lake Campground is known for incredible trout fishing where many anglers reach their daily limits. The region is also famous for its natural hot springs, perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure. Wildlife viewing, mountain biking, photography, and stargazing are popular activities. During winter months, the surrounding mountains offer snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities when accessible.
What amenities are available at camping sites near Nathrop, CO?
Amenities at camping sites near Nathrop vary widely depending on the type of campground. Mountain Time RV Park & Cabins offers full hookups and is considered one of the most beautiful RV parks in the area. For a more natural experience, Cascade provides basic facilities while being conveniently located near four-wheeling areas. National Forest campgrounds typically offer picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Dispersed camping areas provide few or no amenities but offer more privacy and scenic locations. Some campgrounds have potable water during peak season, while others require you to bring your own. Cell service is limited throughout the region, especially in canyon areas. Most developed campgrounds have a camp host during the summer season who can provide local information.
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