Crow Valley
4.17122 reviewsPAWNEE NATIONAL GRASSLAND PO BOX 386, AULT, CO, 80610, USA
Crow Valley
$17.00 - $339.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$17.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$77.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range based on the type of sites: Individual sites range from $17 to $25 per night. Group picnic areas are $84 for 1-50 people, $169 for 51-100 people, $255 for 101-150 people, and $339 for 151-max people. Group overnight sites are $77 for 1-50 people and $160 for 51+ people. Educational sites are $72 for 1-50 people and $145 for 51-100 people.
About this campground
Welcome to Crow Valley Recreation Area, where the endless Colorado plains transform into a vibrant tapestry of life. Here, more than 200 bird species paint the sky with their presence, making this hidden gem in the Pawnee National Grassland a mecca for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. As daylight fades, the absence of city lights reveals a celestial theater overhead, while well-maintained hiking trails invite exploration through prairie landscapes. Each family campsite comes thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, creating perfect gathering spots for evening stories and stargazing. Group sites and educational areas expand the possibilities for larger gatherings and learning adventures.
Crow Valley Recreation Area offers a mix of camping options including family campsites, group sites, and an educational site.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the Lee and Dorothy Rhoads Farm Implement Museum, where weathered tools tell the stories of pioneers who transformed these wild grasslands into productive homesteads. These artifacts serve as tangible links to the determination and ingenuity of early settlers. Throughout the recreation area, interpretive signage weaves together the ecological and cultural narratives of this land, while guided birding tours connect visitors with both the natural heritage and the ongoing conservation story of the Pawnee National Grassland.
Weather and SeasonsThe high plains climate here dances between extremes, offering visitors a true taste of prairie life. Days can warm your soul while nights remind you to pack that extra layer – a characteristic rhythm of these wide-open spaces. Spring arrives with dramatic flair, occasionally punctuated by hail and refreshing rains that awaken the grasslands. Summer blazes across the landscape with intense sunshine and dry conditions that turn the grasses golden. Throughout it all, the prairie wind serves as a constant companion, particularly vigorous during spring months, carrying the songs of meadowlarks and the scent of sage.
ElevationPerched at 4,800 feet above sea level, Crow Valley occupies a sweet spot where the high plains meet the sky. This elevation creates a fascinating convergence of ecosystems, where prairie grasses mingle with riparian corridors, offering diverse habitats that support the area's remarkable biodiversity. The thin air here adds a crispness to morning adventures and enhances the clarity of those famous prairie sunsets.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine a sea of native shortgrass prairie stretching to the horizon, punctuated by graceful cottonwoods and stately elms that provide welcome shade and shelter. This rare ecosystem showcases the subtle beauty of the American plains – from the delicate wildflowers that dot the landscape to the ribbon of green that marks Crow Creek's passage through the terrain. In the distance, the iconic Pawnee Buttes rise like ancient sentinels, their distinctive profiles serving as landmarks for generations of travelers. The interplay of light and shadow across these vast open spaces creates an ever-changing canvas that photographers and artists find irresistible.
Geological RegionCrow Valley lies nestled within the remarkable Pawnee National Grassland, where millennia of wind and water have sculpted a landscape of surprising diversity. The shortgrass prairie dominates the scene, adapted to survive in this semi-arid environment, while erosion has carved dramatic creek drainages that add texture to the terrain. From the campground's base elevation of 4,800 feet, the surrounding landscape rises to heights of 5,685 feet, creating subtle but important variations in habitat. The family campground benefits from established groves of cottonwood and elm trees that offer cooling shade, while the group sites embrace the authentic prairie experience with their open, sun-drenched settings that connect visitors directly with the vast Colorado sky.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe Steward J. Adams Educational Site is accessible and can accommodate up to 100 people for day-use or overnight stays. Accessible vault toilets are available, and trails offer options for bird watching and hiking.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally spacious with room for vehicles and tents, as noted in user reviews: "Spacious camp sites" and "Sites are far apart."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies across sites. While some offer shade and spacing, others are described as more open: "Sites are spaced well but not overly private" and "Sites not real close together, some have shade, some have lots of sun."
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid site 8 in summer due to exposure and dust. Site 7 is better for privacy and shade.
Best CampsitesSite 9 is commonly praised for its spaciousness and shade. Sites close to trails are also popular.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Campers must occupy sites within 26 hours of reservation start. Official check-in time not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time not specified.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site accommodates a camper and tent, or double sites allow multiple campers.
Groups
Group sites include Hawk, Plover, and Lark, which can be reserved separately or together. These sites feature picnic tables and fire pits in a common area. Sites can accommodate up to 200 people and include tent pads arranged around shared spaces.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 10 individual campsites and three large group sites. Sites are spaced relatively far apart but lack privacy due to minimal vegetation.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 2 to November 8 (peak season). Reservation period starts June 25 in peak seasons.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling their contact center at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are available on a first-come, first-served basis outside the peak reservation season. Availability patterns suggest sites are commonly filled by late afternoon.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be modified or canceled via Recreation.gov. A $10 fee applies for date changes. Cancellation penalties include a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee if canceled late.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Crow Valley Recreation Area offers a rich variety of activities suitable for nature enthusiasts. Bird watching is a signature activity, with over 200 species reported in the area: "The birding was fantastic" and "Lots of bird watching in the trees, and out in the grassland." Star gazing is another popular pastime due to the area's remote location and minimal light pollution: "Beautiful stars at night." Hiking trails provide opportunities to explore the grassland and nearby attractions, like the Pawnee Buttes.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include short trails within the campground and nearby scenic routes. User reviews often mention birding trails and informal paths: "The trails are great for an evening walk" and "Several birding trails going out from the campground."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highlighted, with mentions of antelope, coyotes, and diverse bird species: "Saw antelope, western meadowlarks, mourning doves, and blue jays." Birding trails are excellent for observing wildlife.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Lee and Dorothy Rhoads Farm Implement Museum offers insights into pioneer life, as described: "The collection of tools donated by descendants of homesteaders can help one imagine what life was like in pioneer days." Educational programs are also run at the Steward J. Adams site.Winter Activities
Winter camping may offer unique experiences but details about specific winter activities like skiing or snowshoeing are not available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions are common during hot, dry weather. Charcoal fires and campfires may be prohibited.
- Quiet hours are not strictly enforced, according to user reviews, with occasional noise disturbances from neighboring campers and road traffic.
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal fire bans may limit campfire usage. Wildlife such as rattlesnakes and coyotes are occasionally sighted in the area. User reviews mention bugs, particularly flies, as a common nuisance.
Active alertsRoad closures and seasonal fire restrictions may apply. Check local conditions before traveling.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 60%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Nearest emergency services are located in Briggsdale (about 1 mile away), which includes local water pumps, convenience stores, and a gas station. For more serious emergencies, Ault has a small health facility.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 2 - November 8
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available throughout the campground, but recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned. Some users reported improper disposal of trash by other campers: "Some previous campers left their trash in the bathrooms rather than the dumpsters."
Proximity to water featuresNo running water is available at the campground. Seasonal creek flows may occur depending on upstream dam releases.
Common complaintsUsers frequently cite lack of running water and privacy between sites as drawbacks. Bugs, especially flies, are mentioned frequently. Noise from nearby roads and occasional gunfire has been noted.
HostMixed reviews on campground hosts. Some users found hosts helpful and diligent, while others reported negative interactions.
Campground Map
PAWNEE NATIONAL GRASSLAND PO BOX 386, AULT, CO, 80610, USA
Driving directionsFrom Ault, Colorado, at the intersection of US Hwy 85 and Colorado State Hwy 14, take Colorado State Hwy 14 east for 22.7 miles, then take Weld County Road 77 north for 0.3 mile.
The campground is accessible via paved roads (US Hwy 14 and Weld County Road 77). Certain roads, such as Weld County Road 77, may be closed due to construction; check local road conditions before traveling. Some user reviews mention difficulty navigating rocky roads and unclear signage when approaching the site.Nearby places
Briggsdale (approximately 1 mile away), Grover (approximately 10 miles away)
Nearby supplies
Nearest camping supplies and fuel are available in Briggsdale, located about 1 mile away. Supplies may be limited—campers are advised to bring essentials in advance.
Camper Reviews
4.2
122 reviews
Crow Valley is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Crow Valley are generally positive, emphasizing cleanliness, spacious campsites, and the area's suitability for bird watching and star gazing. However, the lack of water and occasional issues with privacy and noise are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 122 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, well-maintained campsites, birding opportunities, star gazing, spacious sites, and peaceful environment were highly praised.
Based on 122 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of water, occasional noise from roads, limited privacy between sites, and issues with the camp host's behavior.
Based on 122 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing water due to its unavailability, bug spray for flies, and earplugs to address road noise. Several reviews also suggest booking reservations in advance and opting for shaded...
Based on 122 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and summer seasons are preferred for bird watching and star gazing, while fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer bugs. Winter camping is less reviewed but might appeal to those seeking...
Based on 122 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Lovely campground with beautiful stars, birdsong, and sunrises." "Vault toilets were immaculate." "The sites are well maintained, chemical toilets are cleaned daily." "Bring bug spray."
Based on 122 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 9 is noted for its shade and openness. Site 8 is described as exposed and dusty, particularly during summer. Site 7 offers better conditions compared to site 8.
Based on 122 reviewsAccessibility Features
The educational site is accessible and accommodates up to 100 people. Accessible vault toilets are available.
Based on 122 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, with several reviewers mentioning bringing their dogs and enjoying the pet-friendly environment.
Based on 122 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025