The White River National Forest surrounds Silverthorne at elevations between 9,000-12,000 feet, creating a high-alpine environment with distinct challenges and considerations. Temperatures in this region can drop significantly even in summer months, frequently dipping into the 30s overnight. Several access roads to campgrounds remain closed until late May due to snowpack and mud conditions, with some higher elevation sites not opening until mid-June.
What to do
Mountain biking on interconnected trails: Rock Creek Designated Dispersed Camping offers access to numerous trail systems. "We did walk the trail by the lake and it has some great views!! I would come back for an overnight stay," notes one camper at Pine Cove Campground, while another mentions "the camp sites are right along the water and the views are exceptional, even though you're close to all the amenities of Frisco."
Fishing in Blue River: Access prime trout waters near Highway 9. "We stayed at campsite #16, it was right in the river with our own little beach. This site featured 2 pines right next to the water that would have been perfect for a hammock," shares a visitor at Blue River Campground, adding that it's "great for fly fishing."
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Many campgrounds provide direct water access. "Last minute decision to car camp here but worth it. Easy access to lake from camp spot, walked our paddle boards to beach 20 yards from camp site and had great Mountain View's," says a camper at Gore Creek.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: "The sites are spacious, well-maintained, and equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, providing a comfortable setting for both tent campers and RV travelers," explains a visitor to Heaton Bay Campground. Another camper at Peak One notes, "Sites are kind of close together, but you are beside the lake! And some spots have trail access to the lake, so bring your water toys!"
Proximity to towns for supplies: Campers value quick access to towns while maintaining a wilderness feel. "Great campsite, easy 1hr to get here from Denver. Great for beginner campers, since the town of dillon is a short 10 minute drive incase you forget any essential gear," states a visitor to Rock Creek. Another camper adds: "15 mins from town and everything you need."
Night sky viewing: Higher elevation sites provide excellent stargazing. "Close to town, easy drive in (little bumpy but not a big deal for SUV). Can't hear the road, basically no light pollution. Beautiful scenery, beautiful night sky views," shares a camper at Rock Creek Designated Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many dispersed sites require careful driving. "The road up was a bit rough but nothing too bad, if you take it slow you could probably make it up in anything," explains a Rock Creek camper. Another adds, "Rocky road, some clearance is nice to have. Road might be a little difficult if wet as parts of it are pretty steep."
Early arrival recommended: Popular sites fill quickly during peak season. "We arrived late afternoon on a Sunday in July. All 23 spots were taken," notes a visitor at Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping, while another mentions, "By 1 p.m., it felt like a game of musical chairs. Drivers looping, turning around, hoping someone packed up."
Highway noise at some locations: Consider site placement carefully. "Get the right campsite and you'll have great access to Heaton Bay. A nice place for being just off I-70. Only negative is you can hear I-70 through the night," reports a camper. Another notes, "We were far enough away that it was really white noise."
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with beach access: "You can set up camp on the bluff next to the Blue River, and let me tell you, the views were absolutely majestic! Trails every which way. It is a great place to set up a basecamp," recommends a camper at Columbine Landing Recreation Site. Another adds, "Great sunsets and easy access to river."
Consider walk-in tent sites: "I stayed in spot 60 and thought it was lakefront. There's a berm between the spot and the lake, no view," explains a visitor at Peak One Campground. Another camper shares, "I stayed at site 19. It's considered a walk in but it was pretty close to the parking lot so not a big deal for us."
Pack for significant temperature swings: "Nights were very warm," reports a visitor at Columbine Landing, but warns, "It was cold but manageable. Days were very warm." Another camper notes, "The nights can also get chilly, so it's essential to pack warm layers, even in the summer."
Tips from RVers
Reserve electric sites early: "The campground is set in a picturesque location, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy water activities, hiking, and enjoying the serenity of nature," notes a visitor at Gore Creek Campground, adding "We stayed in Site #8, which provided plenty of room for our 22' travel trailer and pickup."
Watch for parking surface variations: "The campground is situated on an asphalt parking lot however the hosts are very nice and it is located right on the lake," explains a Pine Cove camper. Another notes, "Not a bad area but it's just a big parking lot. If your not lakeside it's just a place to park the camper."
Consider clearance needs: "This is one of our favorite campgrounds near Lake Dillon! This was our first time staying in site 105... It is a pull-through site that comfortably fit our 29' Class C, Tow Dolly, and Towed Vehicle with room to spare," shares a Prospector visitor, noting the importance of checking site dimensions and access constraints.
