Camping opportunities around Pitkin, Colorado range from established sites to backcountry areas across elevations of 8,000-9,000 feet. The region experiences dramatic temperature drops at night, even in summer months when daytime highs reach the 70s. Weather changes rapidly in this mountainous terrain, requiring campers to pack layers and rain gear regardless of season.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Numerous trails connect to camping areas near Turtle Rock Campground. "It is a bit bumpy getting to this point, but most awd cars/suvs should be ok if they go slow. Was kinda crowded this weekend (August 25), but free is great and the views are amazing," shares Stephen T. about Turtle Rock Campground.
Mountain biking opportunities: The trail systems around Buena Vista offer routes for various skill levels. According to Henry K., "Turtle rock is a bit difficult to get to in an RV, but is a great spot with climbing mountain bike and hiking trails."
Fishing spots: Cold Spring Campground provides access to both river and reservoir fishing. "Running Taylor rivers are a walk across the street and the reservoir is about 7 minutes up the county road," notes Stella C. about Cold Spring.
Rock climbing routes: The granite formations near campgrounds offer climbing options. "We climbed up Turtle Rock itself (a bit of scramble so use caution!) for the sunset one night and the views were top notch," explains one visitor.
What campers like
Canyon setting: Spring Creek Campground sits in a narrow canyon with vertical walls. "You are basically camping in the bottom of a canyon next to a fast flowing creek that is so peaceful. The canyon seems to only be about 150ft wide and shoots straight up on both sides," writes Ben in his review of Spring Creek Campground.
Trail connectivity: Direct access to trail systems from campsites ranks high with visitors. "We visited Buena Vista mainly to mountain bike and we loved that you can ride right from the campsite onto the trails," notes Becky M. about BV Overlook.
Yurt camping options: Yurts at BV Overlook provide alternative shelter for those seeking middle ground between tent and cabin camping near Pitkin. The site combines "glamping cabins and yurt rentals with spectacular mountain views," making it popular for visitors wanting more protection from mountain weather without a full RV setup.
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "STARS STARS STARS at night... my goodness," emphasizes Ben about his experience near Spring Creek.
What you should know
Reservation changes: Some previously free camping areas now require reservations. "Turtle Rock used to be free dispersed camping but not anymore. See Recreaction.gov for sites and reservations," advises Brian B.
Weather variability: High elevation means cold nights even in summer. Curtis K. shares about One Mile: "Loved this place! Tent camped in August and woke up one morning at 38 degrees."
Water availability: Water access varies significantly between campgrounds. "For 2021, the campground DOES NOT HAVE WATER so you'll have to fill up elsewhere (we filled up in Gunnison, you can also fill up in surrounding campgrounds or Crested Butte)," reports Sarah N.
Road conditions: Many access roads require careful driving. "This is a great free place to camp and the whole four mile recreation area is great. It is a bit bumpy getting to this point, but most awd cars/suvs should be ok if they go slow," explains Stephen T.
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Several campgrounds have resident animals that children enjoy. "The highlight of the stay was our visit by the resident goats– only two of the three like cauliflower. There's also donkeys in a corral that get constant attention from guests," notes Keith S. about Gunnison KOA.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "This is a great location, has hiking and biking trails and some amazing views of the mountains...A wonderful place for families, a nice playground," shares Linda F.
Stream exploration: Creekside campsites provide natural play areas. "There is a stream on one side of the campground and most of the sites are on that side of the loop. The sound is wonderful to sleep to," describes Steve about Spring Creek Campground.
Seasonal activities: Some campgrounds organize social events. "While we stayed here, the camp hosts had an ice cream social which was also a fundraiser to send kids with cancer to camp," mentions one camper.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: The region offers varied RV site configurations. "All RV spots are full hookups with 30/50 amp power. Water pressure is good," reports Gary G. about his stay at Taylor Park Trading Post.
Temperature protection: Night temperatures require preparation. "The temps were getting below freezing at night. Nice change from the Texas heat. The morning we left it was 23 degrees so protect your water lines," advises Jason S.
Connectivity options: Some sites support remote work needs. "We camped from a Thursday-Sunday and needed a place with WiFi or strong cell reception so we could work remotely on Friday before hitting the trails. BV Overlook has both! AT&T had strong 5G coverage and the starlink internet reached all the way to our campsite," shares Becky M.
Winter preparation: Cold weather camping requires extra precautions. "Most sites are shaded because they're surrounded by aspens, wildflowers, and pines. The views of steep, rocky cliffs across the street are beautiful and it's a great place to stargaze," notes Sarah N.
