Kelly Flats Campground
4.7022 reviewsKelly Flats Campground
$3.00 - $10.00 / 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
Recreation Use fees vary based on location and activity, ranging from $3 (in person) to $10 (change fees).
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About this campground
Nestled along the rushing waters of the Cache La Poudre River, Kelly Flats Campground offers an authentic Colorado mountain escape where the sound of flowing water becomes your constant companion. This charming first-come, first-served retreat features 29 thoughtfully positioned sites, including four secluded walk-in spots perfect for those seeking a more intimate connection with nature. Each campsite comes fully equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay: a level tent pad, sturdy picnic table, fire grate for evening gatherings, and secure bear storage to keep both you and the local wildlife safe. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear river waters or simply soaking in the peaceful mountain atmosphere, Kelly Flats provides the perfect basecamp for your Cache La Poudre adventure along scenic Colorado Highway 14.
Kelly Flats Campground offers first-come, first-served accommodations for tents and RVs, including 29 campsites with four walk-in tent-specific sites.
Weather and SeasonsKelly Flats enjoys the kind of weather that makes Colorado camping legendary, with remarkably clear skies greeting visitors nearly three-quarters of the time. The campground's prime season offers crisp, invigorating conditions with daytime highs reaching a comfortable 37°F and nighttime temperatures dipping to a refreshing 18°F—perfect for cozy campfire evenings. With minimal precipitation (less than 10% chance on average) and dry mountain air, you'll find ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland, with light dustings of snow averaging just over half an inch, creating picture-perfect scenes while maintaining accessibility for hardy cold-weather campers.
ElevationElevation details are not provided in the source materials.
Natural Features and SceneryKelly Flats showcases the breathtaking beauty of Colorado's montane ecosystem, where towering conifers create a natural cathedral overhead while the Cache La Poudre River carves its ancient path through the landscape. The campground's unique position spans both open conifer forest and lush riparian zones, offering campers a front-row seat to nature's diversity. Morning mist rises from the river as sunlight filters through the pine and fir canopy, while the gentle transition between forest and waterway creates perfect habitat for wildlife viewing. The interplay of rushing water, whispering pines, and dramatic canyon walls provides an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty that captivates photographers and nature lovers alike.
Geological RegionSet within the dramatic Poudre Canyon, Kelly Flats Campground occupies a remarkable geological stage where millions of years of natural forces have sculpted the landscape. The campground's location in this stunning canyon showcases the raw power of the Cache La Poudre River as it has carved through ancient rock formations, creating the spectacular gorge that defines this region. The surrounding open conifer forest thrives in the unique microclimate created by the canyon's protective walls, while the riparian corridor along the river supports a rich tapestry of plant and animal life. This convergence of geological features makes Kelly Flats not just a place to camp, but a window into the dynamic natural processes that continue to shape Colorado's magnificent mountain landscapes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information is provided about accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites accommodate both tents and RVs. Several reviews mention the availability of space for campers, tents, and canopies.
Sites PrivacyReviews suggest a mix of privacy levels. Some sites are described as 'very private,' particularly the four walk-in tent sites, while others are 'close in proximity' but still provide some privacy.
Total Campsites29 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive soon after check-out time (1 PM) to secure a spot as the campground fills quickly, especially on weekends. Sites along the river offer the best views and experience.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight four walk-in tent sites as very private and desirable. Sites near the river are also praised for their ambiance.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 1 PM.
Check-out
1PM.
Guests Allowed Per Site
User reviews suggest most sites accommodate both campers and tents, but exact guest numbers are unspecified.
Groups
No designated group camping areas are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 29 sites, including four walk-in tent sites. Sites are arranged to offer some degree of privacy but are relatively close together.
Reservation PlatformsReservations cannot be made for this first-come, first-served campground.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served, with check-out at 1 PM. Arriving early after check-out time is recommended to secure a spot.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are subject to a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fees if canceled late. No refunds for same-day cancellations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers fishing in the Cache La Poudre River and opportunities to enjoy the river's ambience. Hiking is available nearby, and wildlife viewing is noted. Some reviewers also mentioned wading and soaking feet in the river.
Hiking
Several hiking trails are located nearby, although specific trail names or difficulty levels are not mentioned.Fishing
Fishing is a primary activity at Kelly Flats Campground, with stream fishing in the Cache La Poudre River highlighted in the official description. User reviews frequently mention fishing as a popular pastime.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is available, though specific species or viewing areas are not detailed.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not addressed in the information provided.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are detailed.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed; each site includes a fire grate. Fire safety practices must be observed.
Hazards
General hazardsRattlesnakes are mentioned as a notable hazard in user reviews. Sharp canyon turns may pose challenges for larger RVs during travel.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 75%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.3 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
Nearest emergency services are in Fort Collins, including hospitals and police stations. No specific emergency service details provided for Rustic.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash or recycling facilities are mentioned. However, the campground is described as tidy and well-maintained.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the Cache La Poudre River, offering direct access for fishing, wading, and other water activities.
Common complaintsSome users criticized excessive noise during nighttime hours from neighboring campers. Others were frustrated by delays in campground management implementing policies, such as signage regarding prohibited vehicles (SxS).
HostHosts are frequently praised in user reviews for their friendliness, cleanliness, and proactive management of the campground. Specific hosts mentioned include Michelle.
Campground Map
Driving directionsDrive 10 miles north of Fort Collins on U.S. Highway 287. Turn left (west) onto Highway 14 and drive approximately 25 miles.
The campground is easily accessible via paved roads, including Colorado Highway 14, which connects to U.S. Highway 287. The drive includes sharp turns against canyon walls, which may be challenging for larger rigs, as noted in user reviews.Nearby places
Fort Collins (35 miles, approximately 40 minutes), Rustic (6 miles, approximately 10 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as fuel and groceries are available in Fort Collins. Rustic (6 miles away) offers limited cell service (Verizon).
Camper Reviews
4.7
22 reviews
Kelly Flats Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Kelly Flats Campground is highly rated for its cleanliness, natural beauty, and proximity to the Cache La Poudre River. The camp hosts are praised for their diligence, and the setting is described as peaceful and relaxing.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include clean and well-maintained facilities, friendly camp hosts, beautiful river views, availability of bear-proof lockers, and the peaceful sounds of the...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the proximity to the highway, which may result in traffic noise, and occasional disturbances from noisy campers late at night.
Based on 22 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a site as the campground fills quickly. Bring supplies given the lack of a camp store and limited nearby services. Be prepared for no cell phone service.
Based on 22 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is popular during summer months, with reviews frequently highlighting the pleasant temperatures and the high water levels of the river. No specific mentions of winter usability were...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'This is, by far, our favorite campground in Poudre Canyon.' 2. 'Bathrooms were absolutely clean and smelled great... the camp ground was raked and kept tightly!' 3. 'Veins are OUTSTANDING!' 4....
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The four walk-in tent sites are noted for their privacy. Most sites offer river access and are described as spacious enough for both campers and tents.
Based on 22 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility for individuals with disabilities were found.
Based on 22 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews regarding pet policies or pet-friendly features were found.
Based on 22 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025