Best Campgrounds near Pitkin, CO

Are you in need of a campground near Pitkin, CO? Pitkin is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near Pitkin, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Pitkin, Colorado (340)

    1. Lottis Creek Campground

    16 Reviews
    Pitkin, CO
    13 miles
    Website

    $26 - $250 / night

    "Slept right next to the creek. Trailheads walking distance away."

    "Lottis Creek is peaceful and beautiful, and just a great place to relax and enjoy the Colorado air. We stayed here over the weekend and really enjoyed the hosts on Baldy loop."

    2. Cascade (colorado)

    18 Reviews
    Nathrop, CO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 444-6777

    $25 / night

    "This is probably my family's favorite area to camp in Colorado. Off the beaten path enough that traffic is minimal. But nice and close to some great four wheel and off roading areas."

    "This place is beautifully positioned in the trees.  Clean facilities, a wonderful camp host and fellow campers were great.  15 minutes from Buena Vista and 30 to Salida. "

    3. Mirror Lake

    9 Reviews
    Pitkin, CO
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 641-0471

    "This was our first time camping at Mirror Lake, we originally were planning to stay at Gold Creek where we have camped before but decided to try somewhere new."

    "Went in late September and nights were around 35 degrees. Closest town is probably an hour and half out maybe 2 so be ready. Off road vehicles only."

    4. Iron City Campground

    9 Reviews
    Pitkin, CO
    12 miles
    Website

    $22 / night

    "You do have to drive for a while on unpaved roads to get here. The campsites are very spacious and rarely is it full."

    "We were on the tail end of our 10 day camping trip through the mountains of Colorado and spent our last two days here. The camp host Steve is amazing!"

    5. Cottonwood Lake Campground

    16 Reviews
    Buena Vista, CO
    17 miles
    Website

    $22 / night

    "Cottonwood creek and Cottonwood lake are close by. The first come first serve sites are spacious and well laid out. There is a very nice day use picnic and fishing docks on the lake."

    "Cottonwood Lake campground near Buena Vista is my favorite campground on this particular road (my other favorite campground in the vicinity is Cascade)."

    6. Collegiate Peaks

    18 Reviews
    Buena Vista, CO
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 444-6777

    $25 / night

    "I gave this a 4 star because of the crowds.I backpacked to a high alpine lake called Kroenke Lake in the Collegiate Peaks wilderness area near Buena Vista, CO in August to catch some high country Cutthroats"

    "Campground was spacious and had direct access to the river from site. Host was decent but tough to access. Water pump near us was broke so had to get to site 18 for other water spigot."

    7. Road 240 - Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Monarch, CO
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 539-3591

    "This spot is one of the best kept secrets for dispersed camping in Colorado. The road has plenty of camping spots all the way up to the lake. Most spots are wooded and offer plenty of shade."

    "And do not drive up that section to the 3rd if it is already taken (scout ahead here, trust me). You won't be able to turn around and the road gets worse with no where to turn around and no spots."

    8. Browns Creek

    23 Reviews
    Nathrop, CO
    21 miles

    "The hiking is good with several trailheads and easy access to the Colorado Trail."

    "Recommend the hike to browns lake nearby. Vault toilets at the trailhead if needed.

    Our spot was right off the Colorado trail, lots of thru hikers going by."

    9. Gunnison National Forest Pitkin Campground

    3 Reviews
    Pitkin, CO
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (970) 641-0471

    "Walking distance to town of Pitkin. Definitely will be back. No phone service unless you have satellite service"

    "Its proximity to Pitkin was ideal. We would stay here again. Well worth stopping in."

    10. Monarch Park

    7 Reviews
    Monarch, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 444-6777

    $24 / night

    "Sites were sheltered slightly by bushes it looked like and I noticed at the kiosk that there were several trails that ran through or near the site."

    "We stayed in site 34 next to a bubbling creek. Very quiet, only a few other campers. The vegetation is beautiful, the air smells refreshing, and the water is extremely clean."

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Recent Reviews near Pitkin, CO

1666 Reviews of 340 Pitkin Campgrounds


  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Twin Lakes Up Hill Dispersed

    Amazing 👏

    The best campsite we have found in a long time. We went up the weekend after Labor Day and we were the only ones at this site. You can see how this site gets very busy during the summer but early September was simply impeccable. Great views, big campsites, and you can have fires. the main camp ground was closed for the season so there wasn't any dumpsters or trashcans so definitely think about that if you do non seasonal camping.

  • Ricky R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Taylor Park CO

    Taylor Park Dispersed Camping

    Numerous dispersed camping sites all along Taylor Park. A big off road vehicle destination so can be dusty and noisy during day if site is near main road. We had beautiful site next to the river with no neighbors. Nearest dump is about 7 miles away. Water and dump available in Gunninson and Crested Butte.

  • c
    Sep. 8, 2025

    FR 48 Dispersed Camping

    Solid spot

    Good spot, lots of space, many have fire rings built. Road is a bit bumpy but nothing you’d need 4wd or clearance for.

  • Trish M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Horse Ranch Park (dispersed)-paonia Rd

    Stunning & secluded

    Found this place late afternoon and fell in love with Gunnison National Forest! Lost Lake was right across the road from where we camped. Found a beautiful spot with a great view! Most of the other spots were taken so we were blessed. Can't wait to go back again.

  • Trish M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping

    Peaceful

    Arrived late as usual amd the road was definitely a bumpy one. Didn't think we were going to find a spot. Found a pull in for the night, then sped out the area the next morning, and thank goodness we found a different spot. It was very spacious and had a pretty view. Took a hike up to Browns Creek falls and it was well worth the 7 mile round trip hike. Would go again.

  • Trish M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Winfield Camping Area

    Beautiful

    Thanks to Dyrt we found this beautiful place. Every weekend we try to disperse camp in a new location and this one was amazing. Got in on a Friday afternoon and found an amazing large spot. Had 2 fire pits but nobody camped beside us so we had it all to ourselves. Drive up to the trail head for Lake Ann. Friday need some clearance and 4x4. Hikes Lake Ann and wow that last 1.5 miles is a doozy but well worth it!! Will be back for sure to hike Mt. Huron

  • John M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Buffalo Springs Dispersed

    Everything but a view

    There are plenty of spots and plenty of distance between them. The only complaint is that there is no view and nothing to see. Would definitely stay again, though.

  • A
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Musicians Campground

    Amazing views!

    There are very clean vault toilets available and each site has a fire pit

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Dispersed Camping - Turquoise Lake

    Great for group camping

    Over Labor Day weekend, a group from where I work went for the long weekend! Pretty crowded but we stayed through Monday night into Tuesday and most people left Monday. There was a moderate fire warning but we didn’t have any issues! Right next to a running stream from turquoise lake and about a 10-15 minute drive from where we camped. We did have a little issue trying to find a place to dump our trash, but they have a dump site. Multiple recycling bins and one trash bin. But you need one of the yellow bags. Someone told me they were $8 a bag. We ended up carrying all our trash out and back to Denver with us.

    Got cold at night (low 40’s) but shorts and a tank top during the day!


Guide to Pitkin

Camping near Pitkin, Colorado, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails around the campgrounds. Many campers enjoy the nearby hiking opportunities. One reviewer at Turtle Rock Campground mentioned, "There are plenty of places to hike and explore and close to BV as well."
  • Fishing: The lakes and rivers in the area are great for fishing. A visitor at Ruby Mountain Campground noted, "Tent sites are very well maintained and very beautiful," making it a perfect spot for anglers.
  • Mountain Biking: For those who love biking, the trails around Elk Creek Campground are popular. A reviewer shared, "It has cell service and wonderful for mountain biking."

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking scenery. One happy camper at Lincoln Creek Dispersed Campground said, "The spots are far apart and have fire pits and bear boxes."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A visitor at Hecla Junction Campground remarked, "Spacious sites that are magnificently kept."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts often receive high praise. A camper at White Star Campground mentioned, "The camp host and his wife are the nicest people I’ve met in a very long time!"

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, like Browns Creek, do not offer drinking water or electric hookups. A camper noted, "This isn’t one of those horribly loud OHV spots."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A visitor at Elk Creek Campground shared, "We saw moose in the afternoon into evening."
  • Road Conditions: Some roads can be rough. A camper at Portal Campground said, "The drive in was ROUGH, but doable in a Honda CRV."

Tips for camping with families

  • Bring Layers: The weather can change quickly, so pack extra layers. A family camping at Ruby Mountain Campground advised, "Just bring layers and a good sleeping bag."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities planned. A camper at Twin Peaks Dispersed Campground mentioned, "There are great trails within walking distance of the site!"
  • Check for Amenities: Some campgrounds have limited facilities. A visitor at Washington Gulch Dispersed Camping noted, "Absolutely beautiful views but beware of the mosquitos!"

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Colorado Elk Creek mentioned, "The bathrooms are clean and sanitary. No showers."
  • Be Prepared for Rodents: Some campgrounds have rodent issues. A camper at Colorado Elk Creek warned, "This place has a serious rodent issue."
  • Use Leveling Blocks: Some sites can be uneven. A visitor at Hecla Junction Campground suggested, "Some of the RV/trailer sites are uneven. So bring extra leveling blocks!"

Camping near Pitkin, Colorado, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of activities and beautiful scenery. Just be prepared for the unique challenges that come with camping in this stunning area!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the designated campgrounds in Pitkin, Colorado?

The primary designated campground in Pitkin is Gunnison National Forest Pitkin Campground, located about a mile from the east end of town. This first-come, first-serve campground offers well-maintained, level sites with easy access to town. The grounds are frequently used by OHV enthusiasts and provide a convenient base for exploring the area. For those seeking alternatives near Pitkin, Cascade Campground is another option, popular with families looking for a less crowded experience with good access to four-wheeling areas. Additionally, dispersed camping opportunities exist in the surrounding Gunnison National Forest for those seeking a more primitive experience.

What RV parks and facilities are available in Pitkin, Colorado?

RV options in the Pitkin area include Mountain Time RV Park & Cabins, often described as one of the most beautiful RV parks in Colorado and a favorite for annual visitors. For those willing to venture a bit farther from Pitkin, Riverside RV Park near Salida offers sites along the Arkansas River, providing soothing water sounds at night. RV campers should note that many facilities in this region operate seasonally due to the high elevation, and some may have limited hookup options. It's advisable to call ahead for reservations, especially during peak summer months when availability can be limited.

What camping is available near Pitkin, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, Pitkin, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 340 campgrounds and RV parks near Pitkin, CO and 117 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Pitkin, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Pitkin, CO is Lottis Creek Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 16 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Pitkin, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 117 free dispersed camping spots near Pitkin, CO.