Green Ridge

Star4.38
278 reviews
COUNTY RD 66, Granby, CO 80446, USA
Green Ridge
$29.00 - $88.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary depending on site type and capacity. The highest fee ($88) applies to triple-capacity tent sites. Additional charges include $8 per extra...
Show more
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
Total Campsite Fees$29.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
530-529-0578

About this campground

Nestled along the pristine shores of Shadow Mountain Reservoir, Green Ridge Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of mountain adventure and waterfront relaxation. This beloved destination features 79 thoughtfully spaced non-electric sites, including single-family havens and spacious double and triple sites perfect for group gatherings. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, paddling across glassy waters, or exploring scenic hiking trails, every day here promises new discoveries. Modern amenities including flush and vault toilets, fresh drinking water, and bear-proof food lockers ensure comfort meets wilderness, while evening campfires under star-studded skies create memories that last a lifetime.
Green Ridge Campground accommodates a mix of camping preferences, offering tent sites, RV sites, and group sites.
Historical SignificanceGreen Ridge Campground serves as your gateway to one of America's most treasured landscapes, positioned near the western entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. This region has captivated visitors for generations with its untamed beauty and serves as a living testament to the conservation movement that preserved these lands for future generations. The area's rich heritage includes stories of early pioneers, Native American tribes who first called these mountains home, and the visionaries who recognized the importance of protecting this spectacular wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of Colorado's mountain weather at Green Ridge, where summer afternoons often bring spectacular thunderstorms that roll across the peaks before giving way to crystal-clear evenings. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a photographer's paradise with golden aspens painting the hillsides, while crisp nights perfect for campfire gatherings give way to pleasantly warm days. September visitors rave about the ideal camping conditions - cool, refreshing mornings that invite you to wrap your hands around a steaming cup of coffee before the sun warms the landscape to comfortable afternoon temperatures.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 8,300 feet above sea level, Green Ridge Campground offers a true high-country experience that will leave you breathless - literally and figuratively. This elevation brings refreshingly cool nights even in summer, perfect for sleeping under the stars, though visitors should allow time to acclimate to the thinner air. The sparse tree cover at this altitude creates expansive views and incredible stargazing opportunities, while reminding campers to pack layers for the significant temperature swings between day and night that make mountain camping such a unique adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryWhere the shimmering waters of Shadow Mountain Lake meet the winding Colorado River at 8,300 feet, Green Ridge Campground occupies one of Colorado's most scenic crossroads. Though pine beetle impacts have opened up the forest canopy, this natural transformation has created sweeping vistas of surrounding peaks and unobstructed views of spectacular sunrises and sunsets. The exposed landscape allows you to fully appreciate the raw beauty of the Rocky Mountains, from dramatic afternoon thunderheads building over distant peaks to the play of light across the reservoir's surface. This unique setting offers photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers an ever-changing canvas of mountain majesty.
Geological RegionSituated in the heart of north-central Colorado within the stunning Arapaho National Recreation Area, Green Ridge Campground showcases the geological wonders that make the Rocky Mountains legendary. This dramatic landscape, carved by ancient glaciers and shaped by millennia of natural forces, presents a fascinating study in mountain ecology. The campground's unique position between Shadow Mountain Lake and the Colorado River offers visitors a front-row seat to observe the interplay between water and stone that continues to sculpt this high-altitude paradise. Pine forests, alpine meadows, and rugged peaks create a diverse ecosystem that supports abundant wildlife and offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Advertisement

Campsite details

AccessibilitySpecific accessibility features were not detailed in the source materials.
Sites SizeCampsites accommodate various sizes, with RV parking spurs ranging from 25' to 35'. Some sites are noted to be small and may require careful planning for larger setups.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited due to the close proximity of campsites. "Many of the sites have little or no tree cover," (User review - September 2018), and "Campsites are small and very close together." (User review - June 2021).
Total Campsites79 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, choose Loop B sites. Loop A provides quicker lake access but minimal tree cover. Some sites are reported as misrepresented in size and location.
Best CampsitesPopular sites include 69 and 70 for views and proximity to amenities. Sites in Loop A generally offer faster access to the lake.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out required by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 7 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single-family sites accommodate up to 8 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is divided into two loops: Loop A and Loop B. Sites vary in size and proximity, with Loop B offering more privacy and Loop A better access to the lake.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 9th to October 11th annually. Reservations start June 24th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or their app, and also by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is limited and subject to site occupation within 26 hours of reservation start. Some reviews indicate issues with site mismanagement or inaccurate information.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations cost $10 per site. Cancellations made before midnight one calendar day prior to check-in incur a $10 fee plus the forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Green Ridge Campground offers a variety of recreational activities including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Shadow Mountain Lake provides opportunities for water-based activities, while nearby trailheads offer access to hiking and horseback riding.
Hiking
The campground is near the Continental Divide Trail (East Shore Trail), Roaring Fork Trail, and Monarch Lake Trail. "Great trails all around the campground," (User review - June 2021). Trails vary in difficulty and provide scenic views.
Fishing
Fishing is popular in Shadow Mountain Lake and the Colorado River. Species include kokanee salmon, rainbow, brown, mackinaw, and cutthroat trout. "Great place to catch trout in Colorado River below Shadow Mountain Reservoir," (User review - September 2021).
Swimming
Swimming is allowed in Shadow Mountain Lake; however, designated swimming areas or safety measures were not mentioned.
Boating
A boat ramp and dock are available within the campground. "We even rented a boat from the Trail Ridge Marina and were able to pick up our crew right at the docks," (User review - June 2022).
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include moose, deer, and birds like osprey. "Woke up to two moose playing in the distance," (User review - June 2019). Recommended areas are lakeshores and nearby trails.
Winter Activities
The source does not provide specific details on winter activities.
Water Sports
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are common on Shadow Mountain Lake.
Advertisement

Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires allowed unless fire restrictions are imposed during hot, dry weather conditions.
  • Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Hazards

General hazardsThis is bear country, requiring campers to use food storage lockers and maintain clean sites. Sudden weather changes, including strong winds and thunderstorms, pose additional risks.
Active alertsDump station is out of order, affecting RV users. Fire restrictions may be imposed due to dry conditions.

Weather forecast

33
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 27%

Very dry conditions, stay hydrated

Wind: 9.9 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Mainly clear

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Closest emergency services are in Granby: Middle Park Health Hospital (12 miles away), Granby Police Department, and local ranger stations.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 9th to October 11th.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, including bear-resistant dumpsters. "Dumpsters easily accessible and emptied regularly," (User review - July 2020).
Proximity to water featuresNear Shadow Mountain Lake and the Colorado River, offering fishing for kokanee salmon, trout varieties, and opportunities for kayaking and boating.
Common complaintsReviews mention crowded campsites, lack of tree cover, and occasional mismanagement of site reservations. Some campers reported noise issues and generator use during quiet hours.
HostHosts receive consistent praise for their friendliness and support, going out of their way to accommodate campers. Notable hosts include Jeff and Diane, Barb and Rich.

Campground Map

COUNTY RD 66, Granby, CO 80446, USA
Driving directionsFrom the intersection of U.S. Highways 40 and 34 in Granby, travel north for 12 miles on Highway 34 to County Road 66 and go east one mile. Look for the Green Ridge Complex sign.
County Road 66 is accessible via paved roads. Seasonal weather conditions may affect road quality due to snow or rain. No specific seasonal closures mentioned.
Nearby places
Granby (12 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Grand Lake (approximately 5 miles, 10 minutes), Estes Park (approximately 50 miles, 90 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies are available in Granby, about 12 miles away, including groceries, fuel, camping equipment, and restaurants. Grand Lake also offers some amenities.

Camper Reviews

4.4
278 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Green Ridge is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Green Ridge Campground has an average user sentiment rating of 4.165, with positive feedback on cleanliness, scenic views, and host hospitality, but criticisms of campsite spacing and lack of shade.
Review Summaries
Based on 278 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean facilities, friendly and helpful camp hosts, scenic location near Shadow Mountain Lake and Rocky Mountain National Park.
Based on 278 reviews

Common Concerns

Campsites too close together, limited privacy, lack of tree cover and shade, and occasional maintenance issues such as a closed dump station.
Based on 278 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Reserve early to secure better spots, bring shade solutions due to limited natural cover, and pack insect repellent.
Based on 278 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight great weather and outdoor activities but also emphasize the need for shade and insect repellent. Fall reviews mention cooler temperatures and quieter conditions, while spring...
Show more
Based on 278 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Camp hosts are the best. Site is very private." (User review - June 2023) "Bathrooms were very clean and smelled great." (User review - July 2023) "Woke up to two moose playing in the distance."...
Show more
Based on 278 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Reviews suggest Loop A has better tree coverage compared to Loop B. Some users recommend avoiding specific sites like #42 in Loop B due to size constraints.
Based on 278 reviews

Accessibility Features

There were no specific comments on accessibility in the reviews.
Based on 278 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but complaints include issues with unleashed dogs from other campers. "There were six dogs in the neighboring campsite, none of them on a leash." (User review - September 2023).
Based on 278 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
Advertisement

Nearby Campgrounds

Campgrounds you may also like

Popular campgrounds in Colorado

Campgrounds
Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG
Green Ridge