New Castle, CO is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. New Castle is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Colorado camping adventure.
$28 - $41 / 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."
"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."
$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."
$28 - $36 / 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!"
$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."
"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."
"My first winter camping trip in Colorado."
"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."
"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."
"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"
"I was up on the next to the highest spot and wasn’t bothered by any of this activity."
GuideThis is a great spot for free, dispersed camping! As others have stated, it is a bit rough getting into but I saw, regular street cars pulling into the …”parking lot”. Most were simply going over to the reservoir to fish or hike. I was up on the next to the highest spot and wasn’t bothered by any of this activity. The higher spot was too intimidating for me to pull my camper up to but later found there is another road up to it that’s not as steep(still daunting for most! One camper stayed a few nights in the…”parking lot” so If say that’s an option if you don’t want to head up any hills…. Bring lots of leveling blocks. I used all of mine to get my camper fairly level…
GuideStayed with some friends at the upper group site for the weekend. Easy access to mountain bike trails and the greater Carbondale area. During our stay in June, the upper loop was overrun by grazing cattle. Solid choice for those looking to explore the Roaring Fork Valley without breaking the bank. No water. Pit toilet in each loop. FCFS.
GuideThis is an Awesome CG heading down off Kebler Pass! I arrived mid-day Friday and plenty of sites available! It’s a smaller, clean CG right along the river! There’s hiking trails near by also - a great find!
ScoutMy least favorite part about this place is that they strictly forbid EV charging. Why? If I’m in a big camper with two a/c running plus big TV, fridge, etc then I’m pulling just as much power as my EV charger would. Plus it is so much more convenient charging overnight. I won’t be back to this place for this reason alone.
ScoutIt was a great spot once I finally found it. Waze took me through privately owned land. Google had it right. There’s a T in the road just outside of De Beque. Don’t go on the road marked no outlet! Make the right instead.
ScoutHad an amazing time only got 1 night as we were evacuated due to the Crosho forest fire sparking up. If this campsite survives it’s definitely worth a stay. Had the same campsite as the first review and I couldn’t think of a better spot to camp. Lots of downed trees for fire wood, perfect trees for hammocks and a rock circle. The exact campsite is off to the left a few thousand feet before the coordinates tell you to stop. I made it fine in a Mazda cx5 but did see some washed out areas which could cause trouble for lower riding suvs. Unfortunately don’t have any photos.
GuideVisited here back in early season May 2025. There are probably less than 10 spots when you go all the way up the long drive, all with great views, most are on the small side. We ended up making camp in the large open area.
Would recommend 4wd for the last part of the drive to the sites.
GuideI was camping at dispersed sites on south side of lake when i noticed white smoke. I called 911 and helicopters came fast but the fire exploded from an acre to over 30 acres in about 10 minutes. It seems like a camper left an unattended illegal fire camping on north side and caused a massive fire that has burned the entire area now. I made it out safely and i’m glad i got to experience this but it breaks my heart to know some absent minded person started this. I saw the cows fleeing, bears running away and wildlife booking it out. Please don’t start fires during high winds and follow the signs showing fires are not allowed - this was preventable
TravelerWe really liked this campground. Most of the campsites are shady and private. We were the only campers when we were there so we took a more exposed spot with river access. The toilets were clean and the Larry, the camp host, was so friendly!
The campground is next to a trailhead. We stopped at the cave, but didn’t go in and then took the Cliff Lake Trail up a couple of miles. Beautiful views. The trail was a little overgrown so I was glad I had on pants.
Overall, a great place to camp!
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.
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.
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