Idlewild Campground
4.2524 reviewsIdlewild Campground
$22.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
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 camping fee is $22 per night, applicable for first-come, first-served camping. The campground does not require online reservations, and fees must be paid in person.
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About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Colorado's pristine wilderness near Winter Park, Idlewild Campground offers an authentic mountain camping experience across 24 thoughtfully designed non-electric sites. Whether you're pitching a tent under towering pines or parking your RV amidst the serene forest, each spacious site comes equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay: a level tent pad, warming fire grate, sturdy picnic table, and secure bear boxes to protect your provisions from curious wildlife. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with nature here, where clean restrooms, reliable trash service, and fresh drinking water ensure you can focus on what matters most—creating unforgettable memories in the great outdoors.
The campground offers first-come, first-served sites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. It is particularly noted for its proximity to Winter Park, making it a convenient choice for skiers and bikers. 'It's first-come, first-served, although it would be nice to be able to reserve in advance' (Mike Campbell).
Weather and SeasonsThe changing seasons paint Idlewild in dramatically different palettes throughout the year. Summer transforms the campground into a cool mountain retreat where gentle breezes whisper through the pines and afternoon temperatures hover in the comfortable 70s—perfect for hiking, fishing, and stargazing. As autumn approaches, crisp mornings give way to golden afternoons ideal for campfire gatherings. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for the hardy souls who embrace cold-weather camping. Spring brings renewal and wildflowers, though mountain weather can surprise with late snowfalls or sudden afternoon thunderstorms that roll through the peaks.
ElevationPerched high in Colorado's legendary Rocky Mountains, Idlewild Campground sits at an elevation where the air grows crisp and thin, reminding visitors they've truly escaped to the high country. Here, the mountain atmosphere creates cooler temperatures year-round and that distinctive feeling of being closer to the sky. First-time high-altitude visitors should take it easy their first day, drinking plenty of water and allowing their bodies to adjust to the thinner air that makes every breath feel a little lighter and every view seem impossibly clear.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where the Fraser River winds through ancient forests and towering peaks frame every vista. Idlewild's prime location puts you in the heart of Colorado's most spectacular mountain scenery, where morning mist rises from the river valley and eagles soar overhead. Keep your camera ready—majestic moose often wade through nearby meadows at dawn and dusk, while playful chipmunks dart between campsites throughout the day. A network of scenic trails beckons from your tent flap, leading to hidden waterfalls, wildflower meadows, and panoramic viewpoints that showcase the Continental Divide in all its glory.
Geological RegionIdlewild Campground calls the magnificent Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests home, where millions of years of geological forces have sculpted a dramatic landscape of soaring peaks, deep valleys, and pristine alpine ecosystems. This remarkable terrain showcases nature's diversity at its finest—dense stands of engelmann spruce and subalpine fir give way to groves of quaking aspen that shimmer gold each fall. The rugged mountain geology creates a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with granite outcroppings perfect for scrambling, glacial valleys ideal for exploration, and crystal-clear streams born from snowmelt that cascade down from the Continental Divide.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific details about accessibility features were provided.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs. No explicit measurements of individual site sizes provided.
Sites PrivacySites are described as being close to each other, particularly near the highway, which may affect privacy. 'Sites were a little too close to the road' (Stephany Brokaw).
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early to secure a campsite farther away from the highway to reduce noise. Sites along the river are ideal for those seeking serene views and a quieter experience.
Best CampsitesSites near the Fraser River are highly recommended based on user reviews for their scenic views and proximity to water.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No information provided about group-specific sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutIdlewild Campground consists of 24 non-electric sites, organized along a loop. Sites closer to the Fraser River are preferred by visitors for their serene setting.
Walk-in AvailabilityIdlewild Campground operates exclusively on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyIdlewild Campground adheres to a first-come, first-served policy, making cancelation policies inapplicable due to the absence of reservations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Idlewild offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and proximity to Winter Park for additional recreational activities. 'Beautiful area with a nice bike/walk trail that runs through the site' (Courtney Cieminski). This proximity allows for activities such as mountain biking or skiing at Winter Park Resort. 'Perfect for camping after a long day of mountain biking or skiing' (Liam S).
Hiking
A bike/walk trail runs through the campground. No further details about trail lengths or difficulty levels were provided.Biking
The campground is located near trails that can be used for biking. 'Has a nice trail you can bike or walk to get [to the resort]' (Liam S).Wildlife viewing
Wildlife like moose and chipmunks have been observed within the campground: 'Enjoyed the wildlife... moose and chipmunks!' (Jillyn Schmidt).Winter Activities
Camping is suitable in winter, and the campground offers proximity to Winter Park Resort for skiing.Water Sports
No explicit details were provided about non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted but require strict adherence to safety guidelines. Ensure fires are completely extinguished to prevent hazards.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include proximity to the highway and railroad, which may cause noise disturbances. Wildlife interactions, including bear activity, require adherence to food safety storage guidelines.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash services are available. No details on recycling facilities were provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located near the Fraser River, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife observation.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include unpleasant interactions with the camp host, noise issues from the nearby highway and railroad, and occasional lack of clarity regarding water usage rules.
HostUser reviews provide mixed feedback regarding the camp host. Some guests describe them as helpful and knowledgeable, saying, 'Tiffany is willing to accommodate everyone's needs,' while others complain of rude behavior, with one reviewer stating, 'The camp host is rude, offensive, and otherwise has an explosive attitude.'
Campground Map
Driving directionsOne mile south of Winter Park on US Highway 40.
Idlewild Campground is located right off US Highway 40, providing direct access for vehicles. Seasonal conditions may affect accessibility, and it is recommended to check for road conditions during winter months.Camper Reviews
4.3
24 reviews
Idlewild Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Idlewild Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment of 4.25 for general aspects and 3.5 specifically for camping. Positive reviews emphasize the cleanliness of restrooms ('Bathrooms were up kept daily and always clean' - Courtney Cieminski), the proximity to trails and Winter Park, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Negative reviews highlight issues with the camp host's behavior, noise from nearby transportation, and unclear water usage rules.
Review Summaries
Based on 24 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, wildlife sightings, and proximity to Winter Park for recreational activities. 'Great place to relax and camp! The facility has super clean bathrooms and overall is very well taken...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Noise from the highway and railroad, camp host's alleged rudeness, and water spigot rules. 'The campsites are literally next to a highway (40). On the other side of the highway is an active railroad'...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a spot further from the highway. 'Get there earlier to be further from the road!' (Stephany Brokaw).
Based on 24 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is popular in both summer and winter due to its proximity to biking trails and Winter Park Resort. Complaints about noise are consistent across seasons.
Based on 24 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Great place to relax and camp! The facility has super clean bathrooms and overall is very well taken care of.' (Aaron Martinez)
2. 'The campsites are literally next to a highway (40). On the...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites closer to the highway may experience more noise disturbances. 'Our specific site was a little too close to the road... next time we will get there earlier to be further from the road' (Stephany...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were available.
Based on 24 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressing pet policies were found.
Based on 24 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025