Camp Dick
4.53192 reviewsARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT
Camp Dick
$17.25 - $58.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$29.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary seasonally: Peak season rates for standard nonelectric sites are $29-$58. First-come, first-served (off-peak) rates are $17.25-$34.50. Extra vehicles incur an $8 per night fee, payable to the camp host.
About this campground
Step back in time at Camp Dick, where the echoes of 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps workers still resonate through the towering pines. This historic campground beckons modern adventurers with the gentle murmur of Middle Saint Vrain Creek just steps from your tent. Whether you're lacing up hiking boots for a mountain trail, pumping up bike tires for a scenic ride, or revving engines for backcountry exploration, Camp Dick serves as your gateway to Colorado's wild heart.
Camp Dick caters to both tent and RV camping. Group camping is also available. No primitive or luxury camping options such as glamping are explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceCamp Dick stands as a living monument to America's Great Depression era, when young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps transformed this wilderness into accessible recreation land. In the 1930s, these hardworking crews carved roads, built bridges, and established the very grounds where you'll pitch your tent today. Their legacy lives on in every trail marker and weathered structure, reminding visitors of a time when conservation and public works went hand in hand.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Camp Dick paint the perfect Rocky Mountain picture, with comfortable temperatures hovering in the low 70s°F—ideal for afternoon adventures without the sweltering heat of lower elevations. As evening shadows lengthen across the valley, temperatures dip into the crisp upper 40s°F, perfect for campfire stories and stargazing. Watch for dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that roll through the peaks in summer, and catch the golden aspens before autumn's first frost signals the approaching winter closure.
ElevationNestled within the embrace of an ancient glacial valley, Camp Dick offers that sweet spot of mountain camping—high enough to escape summer's heat but accessible enough for family adventures. The mid-mountain climate delivers crisp mornings that invigorate the soul and mild afternoons perfect for exploration, all while treating visitors to that thin-air clarity unique to Colorado's elevated landscapes.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to sunlight filtering through a cathedral of mixed conifers and quaking aspens, their leaves dancing in the mountain breeze. Camp Dick's glacial valley setting creates a natural amphitheater where wildflower meadows burst with color against the backdrop of evergreen slopes. The star of the show remains Middle Saint Vrain Creek, whose crystal-clear waters provide both a soothing soundtrack and endless opportunities for creekside relaxation or fly-fishing adventures.
Geological RegionCamp Dick occupies a dramatic glacial valley carved by ancient ice flows that sculpted this mountain paradise over millennia. The resulting landscape showcases nature's artistry—where dense stands of spruce, fir, and pine mingle with groves of shimmering aspen trees. Middle Saint Vrain Creek threads through this geological masterpiece, its waters continuing the slow work of shaping the valley floor just as glaciers did thousands of years before.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and some accessible campsites are available. However, trails for those with mobility limitations may require additional maintenance, as noted in some reviews.
Sites SizeCampsites can accommodate both tents and RVs. Specific sites near the creek are described as spacious, while others in the central area may lack shade and privacy.
Sites PrivacyMany sites offer good privacy, especially those on the perimeter. Sites in the central area are more exposed and less secluded.
Total Campsites41 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid interior sites in the middle loop, as they lack shade. Creekside sites are highly recommended for their cooler temperatures and scenic views.
Best CampsitesSite #41 is praised for its proximity to the creek. Users have enjoyed spacious sites like #33 and #35 for their privacy and accessibility.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in times are not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time is 1 PM.
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights, with a total maximum of 14 nights in any 60-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- One vehicle included per site reservation
- $8 fee applies per additional vehicle.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has multiple loops and levels of privacy. Some loops offer creekside sites, while others are more open and exposed.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16th through September 18th for reservations; additional first-come, first-served availability until November 15th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited number of first-come, first-served sites available during off-peak seasons. These are highly sought after, according to user reviews.
Cancellation Policy$10 fee for changes, with additional penalties for late cancellations. First night's fee is forfeited for late cancellations. No refunds for same-day cancellations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Camp Dick offers a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Off-road vehicle trails are available nearby, and guided horseback riding is accessible at Peaceful Valley Lodge, about a mile away.
Hiking
The area features several hiking trails, including the Sourdough and Buchanan Pass trails. The Indian Peaks Wilderness boundary is four miles from the west end of the campground. Trails vary in difficulty, offering options for different skill levels.Fishing
The Middle Saint Vrain Creek is suitable for fly fishing, with rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout being common catches.Biking
Mountain biking is allowed on trails like Buchanan Pass Trail and Sourdough Trail. A loop ride is possible from Camp Dick, incorporating Middle Saint Vrain Road and Coney Creek Roads.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings, including moose, bears, and cougars, are frequently reported. Moose sightings are particularly common, with visitors noting their presence near campsites.Winter Activities
Winter camping and skiing are possible in the off-season. However, water is turned off during this time.Water Sports
The campground does not support non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless fire bans are in effect. Fire restrictions may be implemented during dry periods.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife encounters (bears, moose) are common. The bridge leading to the campground may pose risks for larger vehicles. Seasonal fire bans and restrictions apply.
Active alertsSeasonal fire bans and water shutoffs have been noted by users.
Weather forecast
54
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 86%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are not explicitly detailed; Allenspark may have a clinic, while Estes Park (25 miles away) offers comprehensive medical facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16th - September 18th
Trash and recyclingTrash services are available, with collection occurring early in the morning (around 6:30 AM on Thursdays) near dumpsters. Recycling options are not specifically mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresMiddle Saint Vrain Creek runs through the campground, providing opportunities for fishing and scenic enjoyment.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include noise from off-highway vehicles, insufficient water availability, and occasional issues with campsite cleanliness.
HostCamp hosts are consistently described as friendly and helpful, although some users have noted variability in their interactions.
Campground Map
ARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT
Driving directionsFrom Denver, travel north on Interstate 25 north, to U.S. Highway 36 and continue west through Boulder, to Lyons. From Lyons, take Highway 7 for 12 miles to Highway 72, then continue south for four miles. Watch for signs for Peaceful Valley and Camp Dick Campgrounds. Turn west onto Middle Saint Vrain Road (County Road 92 & National Forest System Road 114) and proceed approximately one mile to Camp Dick.
The route is generally accessible and includes mostly paved roads. Seasonal conditions may impact accessibility, and the bridge leading into the campground is narrow with unspecified weight limits, which may present challenges for larger vehicles.Nearby places
Allenspark (approximately 10 miles north), Estes Park (approximately 25 miles north).
Nearby supplies
Allenspark (approximately 10 miles away) offers basic groceries and a restaurant. Estes Park (approximately 25 miles away) offers a wide range of supplies including fuel, groceries, and camping equipment.
Camper Reviews
4.5
192 reviews
Camp Dick is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Camp Dick is a well-loved campground, appreciated for its beautiful setting, cleanliness, and friendly hosts. However, some reviewers noted issues such as noisy off-road vehicles, inconsistent water availability, and occasional thefts.
Review Summaries
Based on 192 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently mention the campground's cleanliness, scenic views, and the opportunity to see wildlife, including moose and bears. Hosts are often described as friendly and helpful. The...
Based on 192 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include noisy off-road vehicles, water spigots being turned off during certain seasons, and occasional thefts. Some users mentioned issues with campsite reservations and lack of...
Based on 192 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend reserving sites along the perimeter for better shade and privacy. Bringing your water supply during the off-season is advised. Some reviewers suggest avoiding sites near dumpsters...
Based on 192 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is noted as the busiest season, with high popularity and consistent maintenance. Winter camping offers solitude but comes with limited amenities, such as no running water.
Based on 192 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We saw moose every day! Incredible wildlife experience." - Miki Brewington. "The vault toilets were cleaner than I've seen in other campsites, so that was good too!" - Bison. "Don, the camp host,...
Based on 192 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #35 is particularly popular and frequently mentioned as spacious and well-located near the creek. Sites in the central area are described as exposed and less shaded.
Based on 192 reviewsAccessibility Features
Several reviews highlight the campground's accessibility, with features like accessible vault toilets. However, some trails may require additional maintenance to accommodate mobility challenges.
Based on 192 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but must be kept on a hand-held leash at all times. No specific complaints about pet-related issues were noted.
Based on 192 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025