Best Campgrounds near New Castle, CO

Camping in the New Castle, Colorado area includes options ranging from developed campgrounds to dispersed sites on public lands. Elk Creek Campground, located in a forested valley, provides full hookup RV sites, tent camping areas, and cabins along a creek. Other campground options include Harvey Gap BLM dispersed camping across from Harvey Gap State Park and the Glenwood Springs West/Colorado River KOA in nearby Silt. The region includes both established facilities with amenities and primitive dispersed camping on Bureau of Land Management property where campers must be self-sufficient.

Road conditions vary significantly between developed and dispersed camping areas. Harvey Gap BLM dispersed sites require higher clearance vehicles, with one camper noting, "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." Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with many closing during winter months. Elk Creek Campground typically operates from spring through fall, while some BLM dispersed sites remain accessible year-round depending on snow conditions. Cell service is limited in more remote areas, particularly in the national forest lands surrounding New Castle.

The Colorado River provides a scenic backdrop for several camping areas near New Castle. Riverside sites at Elk Creek Campground are particularly popular, with visitors appreciating the natural setting despite being relatively close to town. According to feedback on The Dyrt, "The creek that runs through the campground is a pure delight to dip and play in." Campers frequently mention the convenience of staying near New Castle while having access to outdoor recreation in Glenwood Springs and Rifle. Summer camping may require preparation for mosquitoes, particularly at creek-side locations. Harvey Gap dispersed sites offer views of the reservoir but with minimal amenities, appealing to those seeking a more rustic experience with proximity to fishing and paddleboarding opportunities.

Best Camping Sites Near New Castle, Colorado (185)

    1. Rifle Gap State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    Rifle, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 625-1607

    $20 - $32 / night

    "Loved the site and the location.. easy access to Rifle Falls and the surrounding trails and climbing walls.. close to access for UTV and off-road vehicle areas as well."

    "There is a loop with full hook up but there a little further than the lake but nice. Our site had a nice covered area with the picnic table under it & a great view from it."

    2. Ami's Acres Campground

    28 Reviews
    Glenwood Springs, CO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 945-5340

    "It's super close to the hot springs, downtown area and gondola for the adventure park shopping etc."

    "Being next to the interstate didn’t end up being a problem, still very quiet. Very close to glenwood springs, which is a definite must do if you’re looking for some relaxation and views."

    3. Glenwood Springs West/Colorado River KOA

    24 Reviews
    Silt, CO
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 876-4900

    $45 - $64 / night

    "After a long, long day of driving, this was a true treat to pull into. As soon as we set up we ventured off to “duck island” after crossing their little bridge over the Colorado."

    "After a long, long day of driving, this was a true treat to pull into. As soon as we set up we ventured off to“duck island” after crossing their little bridge over the Colorado."

    4. Rifle Falls State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Silt, CO
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 625-1607

    $28 - $30 / night

    "In Colorado! What a unique place. The camping is reserved for a very small number of spots that are unique."

    "A hidden gem in Colorado! Awesome hike in camp sites along the river, but also drive up spots with camper hook ups. Amazing little hiking trails and a super impressive waterfall!"

    5. Elk Creek Campground

    12 Reviews
    New Castle, CO
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 984-2240

    $50 - $150 / night

    "Close to new castle. Has clean showers, big dumpsters and friendly staff! My third stay as a full-time RVer."

    "The campground is a ways off i70 near a quaint little town called New Castle. The spots themselves are all near the river and in the trees. It has a very forest feel to it."

    6. Glenwood Canyon Resort

    21 Reviews
    Glenwood Springs, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 958-6737

    "Loved the location. Right on the Colorado River. 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. The sites were tight."

    "We’re Van camping in the lower campground, 50’ from the banks of the Colorado River. Electric & Water. Cabins avl. On the River and upper grounds."

    7. Four Mile Road Dispersed

    20 Reviews
    Carbondale, CO
    15 miles
    Website

    "To start, we camped with a teardrop trailer, but once you pass the White River National Forest sign and parking lot for the babbish trail head, it’s not easy to turn around unless you find a campsite."

    "My first winter camping trip in Colorado."

    8. Harvey Gap BLM Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    Silt, CO
    7 miles

    "There are two off-road trails coming off the parking area and you can see the water and people paddle boarding at the beach from the Sites"

    "This is a very nice rest overnight-point but would not be a “destination” location given its adjacency to private property. Good place for a night though!"

    9. Hubbard Mesa OHV East - BLM

    6 Reviews
    Silt, CO
    10 miles
    Website

    "The ground was exceptionally muddy so my subaru forester did some off roading which was a bit of an adventure, but otherwise had a lovely view and a great place to car camp."

    "Don't go through the water crossing unless you have a lifted off road vehicle. The bottom is soft, sandy ground that's easy to sink into. We made it through with our truck, but ripped the bumper off."

    10. Flying J Ranch

    1 Review
    Silt, CO
    8 miles
    +1 (970) 309-8830

    $35 - $45 / night

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Recent Reviews near New Castle, CO

726 Reviews of 185 New Castle Campgrounds


  • T
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Pyramid Rock Camp

    Perfection

    We pulled in at night. Our 4WD 28ft RV had no trouble with the dirt road- even though it was a little soggy in some spots. Big ruts in some sections, but most vehicles shouldn’t have trouble with the climb. When you pull in, there’s 5-6 designated spots, but they were full, so we went further down and found a pulloff to spend the night. Stars were phenomenal! Make sure you check fire restrictions beforehand.

  • L
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Pyramid Rock Camp

    Beautiful spot

    Bumpy road in but the view is incredible. I couldn’t make it all the way in because there was a spot with huge ruts in the road that my impreza couldn’t make it through. Not a lot of people and lots of space to choose from

  • RGR D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Harvey Gap BLM Dispersed

    Quiet and easy to find

    This is a very nice rest overnight-point but would not be a “destination” location given its adjacency to private property. Good place for a night though!

  • H
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Coffee Pot Road Dispersed

    Picked up a Rodent Hitchhiker

    I tried to stay here in Oct 2024.  The marked sites at deep creek seemed taken, so I drove up the hill and checked out the dispersed spots. One of them, a large one on the hill vs. dropoff side of the road, had a large shrine set IP for a suicide victim. I went back down and saw that site 1, on the creek was actually open. Backed in and set up my SUV for sleeping...  As I turned off my light, I heard critter sounds.  It was so loud, I thought it might be a coon on my roof, so I hit the road. Long story short, it was IN my sunroof channel (and actually came down the pillars into my front seat foot well).  Although I did not stay the night, i did finally rid my vehicle of the critter using bright motion sensor lights.  If you stay here, beware of the critters down near the creek.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Pyramid Rock Camp

    Not my favorite

    Do not go past the gravel road if it’s rained or going to rain. Most spots were close together or just out in the open which isn’t what I like personally. I managed to find one a bit farther out up the dirt road which turned to a mud pit on my way out the next morning after some rain. Was kind of fun honestly but would not recommend for 99% of vehicles after/during any rain. Be sure to check the forecast and steer clear if there’s any chance of rain. Also a bit buggy even in October.

  • Connie H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Upper Colorado River BLM Dispersed

    Good Overnight Spot

    Convenient spot right off of I70. It’s really just a dirt parking area, but good enough for an overnight stop! We pulled in after 11:00 PM. It was dark! There were a few other cars spread about. We had our pop up camper, and we were able to find a level spot and set up to get a few hours of sleep. Left around 5:30 AM, and it was still dark out, so didn’t really get to see the view of the river, and didn’t get any pics. The area was fairly quiet, other than the train that went by.

  • Bill R.
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Little Maud Campground

    Nice little campground close to the fishing below the dam on the Fryingpan

    First things first. I was just there September 15-22. The water was on, toilets were flushing and I think the fire ban was discontinued (we had propane fires but neighbors didn't). No cell, no dump stations at any of the three campgrounds here (they were taken out of service sometime in the last 12 years). Two hosts, tho we never had any interaction with either in our week there. Bathroom were super clean and fully functional.

    Cold nights, down to between 29 and 34 the first 4 nights were we there. Reservoir activity winding down, level down 15-20', campground uncrowded during the week. Closing around the end of October. Late closure probably to accommodate hunters.

  • Chris C.
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Red Table Road, White River National Forest

    Vast OHV Area with Scenic Table Top Mountain Views

    I ran across this gem, ripe for OHV, 4WD/AWD and some pull behind trailer use.  

    • Red Table Road is in the White River National Forest (see Map Posting image).  
    • Map Posting Coordinates: Lat: 39.5213888889; Long: -107.1108333333
    • Directions:  From Cotton Wood Pass (paved road) at the Red Table OHV Staging Area (Gypsum, CO 81623) heading East, look right and down for Red Table Mountain Road (Forest Road-FR 514).  From the Map Posting, the road heads up the north side of Basalt Mountain (vis-a-vis Google Maps).  
    • This road is narrow, no turnabouts for about 2 miles (wall-to-wall Manzanita and canyon drop offs), then about 2.2-4.4 there are some areas to turn around (area is maintained for stormwater runoff).  
    • Cellular Service: I had 1-2 bars of service on my T-Mobile at a few different spots with good clearing. 
    • Remote: Over Labor Day Weekend there was limited vehicle pressure and people, so relatively undiscovered in 2025.
    • Camping: Dispersed, a few carved out, most are pull-outs, informal, no postings, crude fire rings, no water, utilities, etc.
    • Views: Wow, look all around and its immense.  

    Enjoy!

  • Chris C.
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Four Mile Road Dispersed

    Big Areas, Long Access Road

    Four Mile Park is in the White River National Park, accessible by AWD/4WD/RVs with easy off-road access using County Road (CR) 300.  It is a big place with many open spaces and turnouts (I went over Labor Day weekend).  

    The Dyrt's coordinates did not work for me, so I'm posting a photo of the Long/Lat I took 5.6 miles off the main paved road at the entry signpost.

    The road is long, so plan to stay without fresh water, utilities, etc. There was a brackish creek this time of year which could be filtered, treated and boiled with some work.

    My campsite was remote and safe for me to do some target practice with my pistol.  (Coordinates for my campsite, 13 miles on the CR are: 39.404077970907224, -107.35463653617066).


Guide to New Castle

Camping near New Castle, Colorado, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Rifle Gap State Park Campground. "This campground is great for a family site. Has a lake to swim/boat in as well as plenty of hiking trails around," says a happy camper.
  • Fishing: The lakes and rivers in the area are perfect for fishing. One visitor at Bogan Flats Campground Grp S mentioned, "Loved having coffee on the creek in the AM and wine in the PM."
  • Sightseeing: Don't miss the stunning views at Rifle Falls State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "Very nice, very scenic, very beautiful. If you are looking for somewhere with waterfalls in Colorado, this is it!"

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Glenwood Springs West/Colorado River KOA said, "Spotless bathrooms and sites!"
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have welcoming hosts. One camper at Ami's Acres Campground shared, "Super friendly hosts and no problem finding a spot without reservation."
  • Scenic Locations: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. A review for Deep Creek Campground mentioned, "There’s a bathroom as you turn the big corner up the hill... I'm guessing there's a lot of locals that know this place as they were FLYING up and down all night."

What you should know:

  • Reservation Process: Some campgrounds have tricky reservation systems. A camper at Rifle Gap State Park Campground noted, "The reservation process is relatively difficult online."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Gypsum Campground pointed out, "The vault toilets were closed off and strong smell of dead body/animal was present around the dumpster."
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise from nearby highways. A camper at Glenwood Canyon Resort mentioned, "The sites are close but they have full hookups."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with activities for kids. One reviewer at Bogan Flats Campground Grp S said, "Kids loved it. Dad loved the fishing access."
  • Pack Extra Cash: Some facilities may charge for showers or other amenities. A camper at Rifle Gap State Park Campground advised, "Turned out that the showers cost extra, so bring cash."
  • Bring Mosquito Repellent: In summer, mosquitoes can be a nuisance. A visitor at Bogan Flats Campground Grp S warned, "This is a very busy campground, with people & mosquitoes!"

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Ami's Acres Campground mentioned, "Pull through site was nice, but some sites would be tricky to back into with a mid to large RV."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need them, check for campgrounds with full hookups. A reviewer at Glenwood Springs West/Colorado River KOA said, "The splash pad, park, pool, hot tub and shower facility were all new and super clean."
  • Be Prepared for Road Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A visitor at Gypsum Campground noted, "The campground is right on the river which is very nice but it's right on 70 so the road noise is pretty loud all night."

Camping around New Castle, Colorado, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just be prepared for the quirks of each campground, and you'll have a great time!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds in New Castle, Colorado?

Elk Creek Campground is a standout option near New Castle, offering clean showers, friendly staff, and scenic riverside sites with a forest feel. For those willing to travel a bit farther, Rifle Gap State Park Campground provides beautiful lakeside camping with easy access to Rifle Falls and surrounding trails. The area around New Castle features numerous camping options within a short drive, ranging from developed campgrounds with amenities to more remote sites in the surrounding national forest. Most campgrounds in the region offer picnic tables and fire rings, with varying levels of additional facilities like restrooms, water access, and hookups.

Can you rent RVs in New Castle, Colorado for camping trips?

While New Castle itself has limited RV rental options, nearby Glenwood Springs and Rifle offer RV rental services that serve the New Castle area. Once you've secured an RV, Gateway RV Park provides full hookup sites with picnic tables and fire rings in a convenient location. Another option for RVers is Ami's Acres Campground near Glenwood Springs, which is big-rig friendly with drive-in access. For the best selection and competitive rates, consider booking your RV rental well in advance, especially during peak summer months. Many online platforms allow you to compare prices and availability from multiple rental companies serving the western Colorado region.

What are the most recent updates to camping options in New Castle, Colorado?

Recent updates to camping options near New Castle include ownership changes at Elk Creek Campground, which was previously a KOA but is now independently operated while maintaining its riverside sites and forest setting. At Jumbo Campground, recent visitor reports highlight the excellent access to two lakes and extensive hiking and mountain biking trail networks. Many campgrounds in the region have implemented reservation systems to manage increased demand, especially during peak season. Additionally, campers should note that some sites in the White River National Forest may have updated fire restrictions depending on seasonal conditions. Always check current regulations before planning your trip, as policies regarding reservations, fees, and usage rules are subject to change.