Best Camping near Crested Butte, CO
Camping near Crested Butte, Colorado
Crested Butte, Colorado, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature. With its stunning mountain views, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife, it's no wonder that camping near Crested Butte is a popular activity. Whether you're an avid hiker, a family looking for a weekend getaway, or an RVer seeking a scenic spot to park, the campgrounds around Crested Butte offer something for everyone.
From established campgrounds with amenities to dispersed camping spots for those who prefer a more rugged experience, the options are plentiful. In this guide, we'll explore what makes camping near Crested Butte special, what campers like and dislike, and provide some helpful tips for families and RVers.
What to do
Camping near Crested Butte offers a plethora of outdoor activities to keep you entertained. Hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching are just a few of the popular pastimes. The Difficult Campground is close to town and offers nice walking trails, making it a great spot for a day hike. The Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area is another excellent choice, with its proximity to the Slate River and beautiful hiking trails.
For those who enjoy water activities, Gunnison National Forest Lake Irwin Campground offers lake access for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. If you're into mountain biking, the trails near Washington Gulch Dispersed Camping are a must-visit.
What campers like
Campers rave about the natural beauty and well-maintained facilities at many of the campgrounds near Crested Butte. The Portal Campground is often praised for its amazing views and clean environment. Kenji G. mentioned, "Awesome views very clean make sure to come early though spots fill up fast." Lottis Creek Campground is another favorite, with Craig W. noting, "The campground was nice and the host was very accommodating."
Privacy and spaciousness are also common themes in the reviews. Becky M. highlighted the Difficult Campground by saying, "There are good amounts of trees between sites for privacy and the hiking trail nearby is great." Similarly, John M. appreciated the large sites at Bogan Flats Campground Grp S, stating, "Sites are huge and have shade all day."
What you should know
While the campgrounds near Crested Butte offer many amenities, there are a few things you should be aware of before you go. Cell service can be spotty or non-existent in some areas. Megan A. pointed out that at Difficult Campground, "No cell service. Close to town and nice walking trails."
Bears are also a common sight, so it's essential to use bear boxes and follow safety guidelines. Megan A. also mentioned, "There was a bear raiding vehicles at night so make sure you lock everything and use the bear boxes provided at each site!"
Some campgrounds have rough roads that may require a vehicle with good clearance. Magdalena O. noted about Portal Campground, "Pretty rough road to get to it but worth it. What a beautiful and peaceful place."
Tips for camping with families
Camping with kids can be a rewarding experience, and the campgrounds near Crested Butte offer plenty of family-friendly options. The Gunnison KOA is a great choice for families, with amenities like a playground and petting zoo. Steve R. shared, "The Staff is very friendly and professional. The campground is very well maintained. They have farm animals that wander the property and are very friendly."
For families looking for spacious sites and activities, Bogan Flats Campground Grp S is a good option. Ashley R. mentioned, "Site 34 ended up being perfect for us because it was right next to a little forest and the kids ran around in there a lot, which they loved."
If you're planning a trip during peak season, it's a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot. Kenji G. advised about Portal Campground, "Make sure to come early though spots fill up fast."
Tips from RVers
RVers will find several campgrounds near Crested Butte that cater to their needs. The Tall Texan RV Park & Cabins offers full hookups and spacious sites. Randy B. noted, "Very friendly and accommodating. Nicely shaded with all the amenities you need."
However, it's essential to be aware of the road conditions leading to some campgrounds. Rudy Z. mentioned about Portal Campground, "The rough terrain was well worth the trek 6 miles back into the middle of nowhere."
For those who need reliable internet, the Tall Texan RV Park & Cabins might not be the best choice. Andy N. shared, "Internet barely worked and Verizon, T-Mobile and AT&T had 1 bar and barely worked to hot spot."
Camping near Crested Butte, Colorado, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and well-maintained campgrounds. Whether you're a family looking for a fun weekend or an RVer seeking a scenic spot, there's something for everyone. Just remember to plan ahead, be prepared for the elements, and enjoy the stunning landscapes that Crested Butte has to offer.