Guanella Pass
4.6381 reviewsArapaho and Roosevelt NF, 101 Highway 103, Clear Creek Ranger District
Guanella Pass
$26.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
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
The nightly rate for all campsite types is $26 during the peak season (June 6 to September 13). Rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges. Senior discount rates are available, priced at $15 per night according to user reviews.
About this campground
Nestled high in the Colorado Rockies, Guanella Pass Campground offers an authentic alpine camping experience at 10,900 feet. The campground's 18 sites are thoughtfully arranged in two intimate loops, separated by the babbling waters of South Clear Creek and a scenic county road. Whether you're arriving with an RV (11 spacious sites accommodate larger rigs) or seeking a more traditional tent camping experience (7 sites perfect for canvas shelters), you'll find yourself immersed in pristine mountain wilderness. Modern vault toilets and fresh water from potable hand pumps ensure comfort without compromising the natural setting, while the crystal-clear creek provides a soothing soundtrack to your mountain retreat.
Guanella Pass Campground supports a variety of camping styles, including tent camping and RV camping for smaller vehicles (large RVs are not recommended).
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure follows in the wheel ruts of history along the Guanella Pass Scenic and Historic Byway. This storied route once echoed with the creak of wagon wheels and the dreams of prospectors, connecting the bustling mining towns of Georgetown and Grant during Colorado's gold rush era. Today, this scenic byway preserves not just spectacular views but also the spirit of adventure that drew fortune-seekers over these challenging mountain passes more than a century ago.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Guanella Pass brings crisp mountain mornings with temperatures dipping into the low to mid-40s—perfect for snuggling in your sleeping bag with a hot cup of coffee. As the sun climbs over the peaks, daytime temperatures warm to a comfortable 60s, ideal for hiking and exploring. The dry mountain air keeps conditions pleasant, though you'll want to bring layers for the dramatic temperature swings. While mosquitoes make their presence known during the warm daylight hours, they retreat as evening shadows lengthen and cool mountain breezes sweep through camp, leaving peaceful nights under star-filled skies.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 10,900 feet above sea level, Guanella Pass Campground places you firmly in the thin air of Colorado's high country. This lofty elevation demands respect—visitors should take time to acclimate and stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness. Even in the heart of summer, nighttime temperatures can plunge dramatically, reminding campers that they're sleeping just shy of treeline. The reward for adapting to these heights? Unparalleled access to alpine adventures and breathtaking vistas that stretch for miles.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Rocky Mountain landscape surrounding Guanella Pass is nothing short of spectacular. Dense spruce forests give way to meadows bursting with summer wildflowers—columbines, Indian paintbrush, and alpine forget-me-nots paint the hillsides in vibrant hues. Crystal-clear mountain streams cascade through the valleys, while the popular Silver Dollar Lake Trail beckons hikers to climb above treeline for panoramic views that seem to touch the sky. This is quintessential Colorado high country, where every turn reveals another postcard-worthy scene of rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and untouched wilderness.
Geological RegionSituated within the majestic Arapaho Roosevelt National Forest, Guanella Pass Campground rests along the backbone of North America—the Continental Divide. This dramatic landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where ancient geological forces thrust these peaks skyward to create the iconic Rocky Mountains. At 10,900 feet, you're camping among dense spruce forests that cling to steep mountainsides, surrounded by glacially-carved valleys dotted with pristine alpine lakes. The terrain here is both rugged and beautiful, offering a true high-altitude wilderness experience in one of Colorado's most scenic regions.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo detailed information about accessibility features for campers with disabilities is provided.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious and can accommodate a variety of setups, including small trailers and large tents.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels. Some sites are secluded among trees, while others are more open. Reviewers noted that tent-only sites are often private and scenic.
Total Campsites18 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #11 "Probably one of the best camp sites we’ve stayed at. The water runs right by your tent." (#12) "We put up hammocks on the other side of the creek." (#8) "Fantastic site next to a stream...a beautiful opening between the trees so you can see the stars at night."
Best CampsitesSites 10, 11, and 12 are praised for proximity to the creek. Site 8 has stargazing opportunities. Site 17 is noted for cleanliness and being family-friendly.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in must occur within 26 hours of the reservation start time.
Check-out
Check-out occurs at the end of the reserved stay period. Specific check-out hours are not provided.
Stay Limit
Visitors are allowed to stay a maximum of 14 nights at the campground within a rolling 60-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite allows one vehicle and additional vehicles are charged $8 per night.
Groups
No specific group camping facilities were described.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two loops, with sites spaced for privacy and some tucked into spruce trees.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open for reservations from June 6 to September 13. Outside of these dates, the facility is not reservable.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, online, and the call center at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited first-come, first-served sites are available. Visitors noted that these spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends or holidays.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before check-in incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (within one day of arrival) incur the first night's fee plus the cancellation fee. Refunds depend on agency policy. Modifications incur a $10 fee if new dates are outside the original reservation period. Reservations cannot be modified after check-in.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of outdoor activities focused on its scenic and remote mountain location. Fishing and hiking are the main attractions, with a number of nearby trails and the South Fork of Clear Creek providing opportunities for trout fishing.
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity, with access to numerous nearby trails like the Silver Dollar Lake Trail. This trail leads hikers above the treeline to a scenic lake. Trail difficulty levels were not specified.Fishing
Trout fishing is available in the South Fork of Clear Creek. No specific details on fish species or fishing quality were provided.Wildlife viewing
The campground area offers opportunities to observe wildlife. Several users reported sightings of big horn sheep and deer during their visits.Winter Activities
No specific information on winter recreation, though the campground is not reservable during winter months.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding were mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire bans may be in place during dry conditions; visitors are advised to check local fire restrictions before arrival.
- Quiet hours are implied by user reviews, but specific times are not stated.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country; campers must store food securely in vehicles. Mosquitoes are noted as highly active during daytime hours. Visitors are advised to exercise caution on rough roads and watch for wildlife such as mountain lions.
Active alertsPotential fire restrictions during dry conditions. Visitors are advised to check local fire ban updates.
Weather forecast
51
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.1 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 likely in Georgetown, approximately 7 miles away. Exact details about hospitals or police stations are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 6 to September 13
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are provided on-site; no specific information about recycling facilities is available.
Proximity to water featuresSites are near South Clear Creek. Silver Dollar Lake Trail, accessible via hiking, offers views of alpine lakes.
Common complaintsComplaints include rough roads, small campsite sizes for RVs, and limited privacy between campsites.
HostHosts are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. "David was the best host I've ever met!" (Rachel Molieri). "Dave, the camp host, was very nice and knowledgeable on the local area." (Matthew Wayne).
Campground Map
Arapaho and Roosevelt NF, 101 Highway 103, Clear Creek Ranger District
Driving directionsFrom I-25 in Denver, take I-70 West to Georgetown Exit 228. Go south on County Road 381 (Guanella Pass Scenic Byway) for 9 miles. From Denver take Highway 285 to Grant. Turn right (north) onto Park County Road 62. Drive approximately 14.5 miles to the campground.
Access to the campground is via gravel roads. Large RVs are not recommended due to road conditions and elevation challenges. Visitors noted the need for four-wheel drive in certain areas. Roads may be rough and uneven, especially in adverse weather conditions.Nearby places
Georgetown (7 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Firewood is sold by the campground hosts. Supplies like groceries and fuel are available in Georgetown, approximately 7 miles away. Specific details about supply stores or fuel locations are not provided.
Camper Reviews
4.6
81 reviews
Guanella Pass is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Guanella Pass Campground are overwhelmingly positive, with an average sentiment rating of 4.48 out of 5. Campers frequently praised the site's natural beauty, cleanliness, and helpful staff.
Review Summaries
Based on 81 reviews
What Campers Love
- 'Cleanest vault toilets I’ve ever experienced.' - 'Spacious and spread out sites make you feel like you have a piece of the woods all to yourself.' - 'The views are unforgettable!' - 'The...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Issues with water pump functionality in some reviews (e.g., 'The water pump did not work, known issue.') - Bright lights disturbing night environment in some areas. - Limited privacy in certain...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Book in advance to secure a good spot. - Be prepared for cold nights (temperatures can drop into the 40s, even in summer). - Bring bug spray to manage mosquitoes during the day. - Consider a...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season for camping at Guanella Pass Campground, with activities like hiking and fishing drawing visitors. Nights can be cold even in summer, and bugs are more active during...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Beautiful streams that you can hear nearby. VERY clean bathrooms that smelled great.' - 'Used this campground as a base camp to ride the Georgetown Railroad. Had some ice cream while in town and...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Sites #10, #11, and #12 are highlighted for being close to the creek. - Site #18 was mentioned as inconvenient due to the picnic table being 30 yards away. - Site #14: 'Very loud and disruptive...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific information about accessibility features or reviews addressing accessibility was provided.
Based on 81 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews about pet-friendly features beyond general leash rules were mentioned.
Based on 81 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025