189 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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.
"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."
from $28 - $41 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
from $45 - $64 / night
Check Availability"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!"
from $28 - $36 / night
Check Availability"Perfect river access for paddlers which can take you downtown glenwood or jump on the bike path to go get your car from Grissly rest stop. "
"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."
"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."
from $50 - $150 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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!"
"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."
"Wanted to be close to the downtown area. I met Erin, the manager, outside the Hideout's office and asked if she had space."
"I stepped on an earwig in the shower I was in & my boyfriend said there was three, huge spiders in the shower he was in. So just double check before you shower that you killed all the bugs."
TravelerWe enjoyed our 2 nights at Hawsapple campground. Unfortunately, water level was too low to access the reservoir. Our camp site was great despite all the mosquitoes. It is located by a road, but noise at night was not bad. It's a clean, well kept campground in a beautiful canyon.
ScoutWe stayed the night on our way back to NY from Utah. The road has been fixed from earlier reviews. It was only a little rutted near the final stretch. The morning sunrise and cool air was fantastic.
GuideLots of different spots in the area—many along the trees, some out in the valley area. We stayed out in the valley bc there was a massive spot available for our group—beautiful views from there! Definitely would return a million times.
Close to Lime Creek for climbing and a couple of hikes around!
About an hour of dirt road driving from Eagle to get there—seemed trailer friendly. We saw a bunch in the sites around the area.
GuideThis place was great. Lots of sites along the way up this mountain. I never saw another vehicle or person the entire time I was at my site. The only downfall is it was the worst mosquito encounter I have ever experienced in CO. Probably migrant mosquitos from Wyoming haha. It was also the first spot I went to that was stage 1 so I could have a fire in the pit.
GuideThis is a pretty incredible spot where you can get away. You will run across or have some off roaders or dirt bikers pass through, but that ceases as it gets later. Unfortunately, the creek was dry when I was there. Cool spot if you like quiet.
TravelerCampground was immaculate! Bathrooms had water and flushing toilets. Beautiful views of the reservoir. If you enjoy fishing, boating or hiking and would prefer to be off the beaten path this is the spot to be. The campground hosts were delightful. The frying pan River is stocked with fish!
TravelerWe visited the falls and stayed at the campground in our 32’ RV for one day. Electrical hookup was appreciated as it was a hot day. 2 vault toilets provided were clean and didn’t smell but there was no sanitiser to clean your hands. Wasn’t too busy on a Wednesday and everyone at the campground was really friendly.
ScoutThe campgrounds are now operated and well maintained by a 3rd party. Costs $23 a night.
If you drive up the dirt road towards the historic fulford, there are some BLM spots that you can pop in.
ScoutSurprisingly empty and quiet.
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.
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.
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.
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."
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.
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.
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.
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