Jacks Gulch
4.0922 reviews6515 N. County Rd 63E, Bellvue, CO, 80512, USA
Jacks Gulch
$5.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
An additional fee of $5 per night per unit is charged to use electricity at the group site. Extra vehicles are charged $8 per vehicle per night, collected by the camp host.
About this campground
Escape the crowds and discover Jacks Gulch Recreation Area, a hidden gem nestled 48 miles northwest of Fort Collins, Colorado. This peaceful mountain retreat beckons adventurers with its extensive trail network perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Whether you're seeking solitude in a single-family campsite, planning a memorable group gathering, or bringing your equine companions to the dedicated horse camping facilities, Jacks Gulch offers an authentic Colorado wilderness experience away from the busier recreational areas.
Jacks Gulch features a variety of camping accommodations, including group, equestrian, and single-family sites.
Historical SignificanceJacks Gulch carries the profound story of nature's resilience in its landscape. The devastating Cameron Peak Fire swept through this area in recent years, leaving its mark on the forest and forever changing the character of this mountain sanctuary. Today, visitors witness nature's remarkable recovery process firsthand, as new growth emerges from the ashes and wildlife returns to reclaim their habitat. This living testament to the cycle of destruction and renewal offers a unique perspective on the power and persistence of Colorado's wild places.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic mountain climate that shapes each season at Jacks Gulch. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and rushing snowmelt, while summer brings warm days perfect for exploration—though water availability ends September 30th, so plan accordingly. As the high country can become tinder-dry during peak summer months, fire restrictions may be implemented to protect this precious landscape. Fall transforms the area into a golden tapestry of changing aspens, making it an ideal time for photography and wildlife watching.
ElevationHigh in Colorado's mountain country, Jacks Gulch sits at an elevation that delivers crisp mountain air and cooler temperatures, providing welcome relief from summer heat in the valleys below.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a diverse mountain ecosystem where towering ponderosa pines create a natural cathedral, their vanilla-scented bark and needle-carpeted floor inviting quiet contemplation. Bright patches of quaking aspens dance in the mountain breeze, their leaves creating nature's wind chimes, while sun-drenched meadows burst with seasonal wildflowers and provide grazing grounds for local wildlife. The campground's crown jewel is its scenic nature trail, which rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas of the majestic Mummy Range—those ancient peaks that stand like sentinels against the Colorado sky.
Geological RegionPerched within the transitional zone where dense ponderosa pine forests give way to shimmering aspen groves and rolling meadowlands, Jacks Gulch showcases the geological diversity of Colorado's Front Range foothills. The dramatic backdrop of the Mummy Range reveals millions of years of geological history, from ancient seafloors thrust skyward to create today's magnificent peaks. This unique positioning offers campers a front-row seat to observe how elevation, moisture, and geological forces combine to create distinct ecological zones within a compact area.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe group site is accessible, and accessible vault toilets are available.
Sites SizeGroup sites can accommodate up to 60 people with space for nine RVs and ten 14-by-17 tent pads. Equestrian sites include tent pads and can accommodate horse trailers.
Sites PrivacySome sites are reported to be close together, leading to reduced privacy during busy times. One reviewer noted, 'The sites are very close together and on a busy weekend the campground would definitely be too crowded for my taste.'
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesEquestrian sites 57 and 58 are reserved for those camping with horses.
Best Campsites: null
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is available from the reserved date, but specific times are not listed.
Check-out
Campers must vacate by the reservation end date. Specific times are not listed.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during one visit at the campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
The group site accommodates up to 60 people, nine RVs, and ten 14-by-17 tent pads. It includes electric hookups, a picnic shelter, and central cooking areas.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutIncludes equestrian sites, group sites, and single-family sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Open and Closed SeasonWater availability ends on September 30, and seasonal fire restrictions may be imposed during dry conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available, but fill patterns were not specified.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the check-in date, but fees apply ($10 cancellation fee, plus loss of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations).
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
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Jacks Gulch offers various recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, birding, and wildlife viewing. A nature trail circles the recreation area and provides stunning views of the Mummy Range.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are available, including one that circles the entire area and offers views of the Mummy Range. Additionally, 'there are numerous trails starting right from the campground,' as one reviewer highlights.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available nearby at the south fork of the Poudre River.Biking
Biking opportunities are available, including mountain biking trails.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing and birding are popular activities. However, no specific details about common species are mentioned.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are described.Water Sports
No mention of water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding is included.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may apply during hot, dry weather. Campfires and charcoal fires may be prohibited.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours are mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country. Campers are advised to keep clean campsites and avoid placing food in tents.
Active alertsThe campground has suffered significant damage from the Cameron Peak fire, which destroyed many facilities.
Weather forecast
54
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 96%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Foggy
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
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Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season dates provided.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site, but no information about recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresNo nearby water features are explicitly listed.
Common complaintsNoise from large groups, poorly managed hosts, and traffic are recurring complaints. Dust and poorly maintained vault toilets are also mentioned.
HostCampground hosts manage extra vehicle fees and provide firewood for purchase, but have received mixed reviews regarding their helpfulness and professionalism.
Campground Map
6515 N. County Rd 63E, Bellvue, CO, 80512, USA
Driving directionsFrom Fort Collins, take Highway 14 northwest for 42 miles, then County Road 63 E (Pingree Park Road) south for 6 miles.
The road leading to the campground is generally well-maintained but is described as dusty and tight in places, especially for larger trailers. Seasonal conditions and closures may apply, as water availability ceases after September 30.Nearby places
Fort Collins (48 miles, approximately 1 hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be gathered from Fort Collins, which is 48 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.1
22 reviews
Jacks Gulch is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Jacks Gulch received mixed reviews. Many users praised its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, while others pointed out issues like crowded conditions, poor vault toilet maintenance, and impacts from the Cameron Peak Fire.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes 'great hiking trails,' 'beautiful and far out into the mountains,' and 'well-maintained with a good variety of sites.' The group site and equestrian facilities were also...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes complaints about the stench of the vault toilets ('the stench was obscenely gross') and crowding during busy times ('lots of traffic, dusty RV and automobile traffic...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend arriving early to secure a spot, avoiding weekends if you prefer solitude, and being mindful of fire restrictions. One user suggests coming during the shoulder season for a quieter...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are suggested for quieter visits with fewer crowds. Summer weekends can be very busy, and winter activities are not described.
Based on 22 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'This has always been a fantastic little campground. Clean spaces, lots of trees, and a nice way to enjoy the great outdoors without 100% roughing it.' - Abbey Hadachek
2. 'It’s beautiful and far...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsites 057 received positive reviews for cleanliness and helpful hosts. Equestrian sites are noted for their horse stalls and trails.
Based on 22 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible features include the group site and vault toilets; however, no specific user reviews on accessibility were found.
Based on 22 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no reviews specifically addressing pet experiences are available.
Based on 22 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025