The New Castle area sits at approximately 5,500 feet in elevation where the Colorado River winds through the Roan Plateau region. Camping spots near New Castle, Colorado range from riverside sites to mountain settings with significant elevation differences affecting temperatures. Summer evenings at higher elevation campsites can drop below 50°F even when daytime temperatures exceed 85°F, requiring campers to pack layers regardless of season.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 5 miles from Rifle Falls State Park Campground offers a distinctive three-pronged waterfall formation with caves to explore. "You have to go up and look down on the falls. This place is amazing! The hike also has some great caves and allows you to go up and look down on the falls," notes Billie B.
Reservoir activities: 8 miles north at Rifle Gap State Park Campground provides fishing, boating and kayaking opportunities. "Lots of spots to park a kayak near your camp sites. We had a great time fishing, but they will check fishing licenses, so don't be a poacher," advises Sam W.
Mountain biking access: The paved trail at Glenwood Canyon Resort connects directly to extensive regional trail systems. "The bike path is right out the front. We rode it from Aspen down valley and right back to our campsite. A feature we really liked," shares Patrick J.
What campers like
Creek-side camping spots: Elk Creek Campground provides sites directly along a flowing creek. "We have an amazing campsite next to the river, firewood, all the accommodations you would need while camping and more! The people here are so kind," says Brynn O., highlighting the natural water features.
Reservoir views: Campers at Rifle Gap State Park appreciate the open water vistas. "The view of the reservoir is very nice. The sites are well spaced but since it's wide open, not a lot of privacy," explains Doug W., noting the trade-off between views and privacy.
Dispersed camping with lake access: Harvey Gap BLM Dispersed sites offer free camping with reservoir proximity. "Super fun view of the lake! I was surprised there was space during the 4th of July," reports Kassidy T., indicating its availability even during peak holiday periods.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. At Harvey Gap BLM, Ashley P. warns, "Really pretty spot if you have 4x4 or something that can handle hills and off roading. I tore the back of my rv on a tiny hill entering the area."
Limited services: Most dispersed sites lack amenities. At Four Mile Road Dispersed, "This is all primitive camping and heavily used by 4x4 ATVs. There are no facilities ie: Toilets, power, water or fire pits," according to Matthew V.
Seasonal insects: Creek-side locations experience mosquito activity. At Elk Creek Campground, Martha notes, "The mosquitoes were many. We are tent campers and found it impossible to be outside the tent without a lot of serious bug spray on. We had to use the herbal bug spray but it was useless."
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad access: Glenwood Springs West/Colorado River KOA offers dedicated water play areas. "The splash pad, park, pool, hot tub and shower facility were all new and super clean. Wonderful facilities all around," reports Jennifer H.
Cave exploration: Rifle Falls State Park provides accessible natural features for children. "Be sure to explore the caves by the water fall. The kiddos loved it," suggests Hilary B.
Wheelbarrow assistance: For families with tent equipment, Rifle Falls offers practical solutions. "We camped in the walk-in sites and it was so handy because they provide wheelbarrows to haul your stuff into the sites (which wasn't far)," notes Hilary B.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Ami's Acres Campground, the terrain presents challenges. "The campground is built on the side of a mountain so the individual sites are tiered. I could see it making a few people nervous to back in but it's no big deal," advises Renee G.
Leveling requirements: Uneven terrain is common at dispersed sites. At Harvey Gap BLM, Roger recommends, "Bring lots of leveling blocks. I used all of mine to get my camper fairly level."
Size limitations: Glenwood Canyon Resort has tight spacing constraints. "The RV sites are SMALL. We have a 42' fifth wheel, and while we got it backed in perfectly, we didn't have any room for our truck," cautions Melody C.
