Camping near Parshall, Colorado offers access to both reservoir settings and riverfront sites at elevations between 7,500-8,300 feet. The camping season typically runs May through September, though higher elevation sites open later due to snowpack. Temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night are common even in summer months, requiring layered clothing for comfort.
What to do
Fishing at multiple locations: Williams Fork Reservoir provides ample fishing opportunities for multiple species. "Beautiful ample views of the water. Very clean pit toilets are available. Some cell service, more spotty in some areas than others," notes Anne M. about Williams Fork Reservoir.
Wildlife viewing: The riverfront camping areas offer chances to observe foxes, deer, and occasionally moose. A visitor to Pioneer Park shares, "We found little clusters of aspen trees, and saw deer and foxes on an evening walk. I got up early the next morning to see if I could photograph any wildlife, and found the foxes again!"
Water recreation beyond fishing: Paddleboarding, kayaking and non-motorized boating are popular at several reservoirs. "We absolutely loved this camp ground! It was absolutely gorgeous, right on the lake, and the campsite was impeccable. It was quiet and not too crowded in mid-June," reports a visitor to Willow Creek Campground.
What campers like
Easy reservoir access: Many campers appreciate the ability to camp near the water. "The lots were spread out and I was fortunate to get one right on the beach. Was great to be able to walk with the dog off leash and throw the ball on the beach without having to worry about others," mentions Eric B. about Williams Fork Reservoir Campground.
Clean facilities despite remote locations: Several campsites maintain clean restroom facilities. "The outhouses were well maintained and plenty through the area," notes Angus B., who stayed at Williams Fork.
Availability without advance planning: Some sites operate on a first-come basis. At Hot Sulphur Springs SWA, a camper reports, "There's usually plenty of spots open and it's right on the water. There's a porta potty there, which was very convenient."
What you should know
New fee structures: Williams Fork Reservoir now requires payment where it was previously free. "The app says this used to be free but now you have to pay a fee that began May 22, I was very disappointed that you have to pay," notes Jess G.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be significant, particularly near water. "Beware of ticks here and be sure you bring bug spray!" adds the same visitor to Williams Fork.
Road and rail noise: Some riverfront camping areas experience train noise. At Ute Pass Dispersed Camping, a camper notes, "The river is loud, but calming, and you can still hear your friends or listen to music. Overall great spot, was also able to hammock right next to the water."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely by location and provider. "There is zero T-Mobile cell signal here at all," reports a visitor to Hot Sulphur Springs SWA, while another mentions, "I was able to get a tiny bit of connection on my AT&T service."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Several reservoir campsites offer shallow beach areas for children. "Our site had an outdoor kitchen area, nice firepit and chairs, and outdoor table and chairs," notes a visitor to Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain.
Noise considerations for sleep schedules: When camping with children, consider site location relative to roads and railroad tracks. "The train was a downside as it went through twice in the night, whistle and all," reports a camper at Pioneer Park.
Entertainment options for rainy days: Some developed campgrounds offer indoor activities. "They have an amazing pool! Bowling alley, arcade, restaurant, bars (yes more than one!) they had live music," shares Kelsey C. about Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain.
Bear safety education: All camping areas require proper food storage. "You ARE in bear country and there were no bear bins in the campground - be bear safe and bear smart, lock all of your food and toiletries inside your car at night," advises a visitor to Willow Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Dump station availability: Several campgrounds offer dump stations, though seasonal closures occur. "There is also a dump station that is free as well but there is NO water (not even rinse water) so bring your own," notes Laura M. about Stillwater Campground.
Generator policies: Policies vary by campground, with some restricting hours or prohibiting use entirely. "We initially started out in the cluster of sites near the boat ramp but moved because of an on-going generator user so we moved to the east side of the reservoir and were much happier!" shares a camper at Williams Fork.
Site leveling challenges: Many dispersed sites require additional preparation. "The dirt road is a bit rough and rocky but not far to get back to the sites by the river," explains a visitor to Ute Pass Dispersed Camping.
Varying electrical hookups: RV campers should verify amperage available. "We stayed in a first come first serve RV site with power and water during early season snow (the day after Labor Day!) with high winds," reports an RVer at Stillwater Campground.
