Olive Ridge
4.28208 reviews9054 U.S Hwy 285, Morrison, CO 80465
Olive Ridge
$29.00 - $58.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$29.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$58.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates vary based on site type, ranging from $29 to $58 per night. Rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Hidden among the towering pines of Roosevelt National Forest, Olive Ridge Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Colorado mountain experience. This woodland sanctuary sits on the doorstep of Rocky Mountain National Park, where generously spaced campsites offer privacy beneath a canopy of evergreens. Whether you arrive with a tent or RV, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned to explore miles of hiking trails, discover breathtaking vistas, and encounter the remarkable wildlife that call these mountains home.
"The Olive Ridge Campground caters to both RV and tent campers, offering standard non-electric sites, oversized group sites for up to 10 people, and first-come-first-serve options."
Weather and SeasonsSummer afternoons at Olive Ridge often bring dramatic mountain weather, as towering cumulus clouds build over the peaks before releasing refreshing thunderstorms that echo through the forest. Perched at 8,350 feet, the campground enjoys naturally cool temperatures that offer a welcome escape from summer heat, with crisp mornings perfect for coffee by the campfire and pleasantly warm afternoons ideal for exploration.
ElevationAt 8,350 feet above sea level, Olive Ridge offers the authentic high-country experience that defines Colorado camping. This lofty perch rewards visitors with crisp mountain air, spectacular views of surrounding peaks, and temperatures that can be 15-20 degrees cooler than the Front Range cities below—a natural air conditioning that makes summer camping particularly delightful.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of ponderosa pines and quaking aspens creates an enchanting backdrop for your mountain retreat, with golden sunlight filtering through branches and leaves that whisper in the mountain breeze. Summer afternoons often bring nature's own light show as thunderheads build dramatically overhead. Lucky visitors might glimpse the campground's most majestic residents—stately moose browsing through the understory or graceful deer stepping silently between the trees at dawn and dusk.
Geological RegionOlive Ridge occupies a privileged position within the vast Roosevelt National Forest, just moments from the southeastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. This prime location places you in the heart of Colorado's Front Range, where ancient geological forces have created a landscape of soaring peaks and deep valleys. The campground itself is embraced by stands of aromatic ponderosa pine and shimmering aspen groves, creating a quintessential Rocky Mountain forest environment that showcases the region's diverse montane ecosystem.
Campsite details
Accessibility"No specific ADA-compliant features are mentioned, but several reviews highlight the general spaciousness and level terrain of campsites, which may benefit campers with mobility concerns."
Sites Size"Sites are generally spacious, with tent pads measuring 14'x16'. Sites #26 and #39 are oversized, accommodating up to 10 people."
Sites Privacy"Sites are described as well-spaced and surrounded by trees, offering privacy. Perimeter sites tend to be more secluded."
Total Campsites56 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites farther from the road for reduced noise. Perimeter sites offer more seclusion and mountain views. Sites with larger tent pads are recommended for families with children.
Best CampsitesSites #26 and #39 are oversized and accommodate up to 10 people. Pika Loop is quieter and farther from the road, offering more serene camping experiences.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limits include up to 14 consecutive nights per visit and 14 nights total within a rolling 60-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people per single site, with two oversized sites accommodating up to 10 people.
Groups
Sites #26 and #39 are designated for groups, accommodating up to 10 people at an additional fee.
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 loops, with Pika Loop offering reserved sites and quieter surroundings. Snee Loop includes first-come, first-served sites closer to the road.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground's peak season runs from May 16 to September 13. Reservations are available starting June 24, and the facility closes for reservable use after September 13.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling their contact center at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityApproximately one-third of the sites are non-reservable and available on a first-come, first-served basis, filling up quickly on weekends.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before the check-in date incur a $10 fee and the first night's recreation fee may be forfeited for late cancellations after midnight on the day prior to check-in.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
"Activities include hiking, fishing, and mountain climbing. Olive Ridge provides easy access to the Wild Basin area and several trailheads, such as Finch Lake and Sandbeach Lake Trails. Wildlife viewing is common, and nearby towns offer additional recreational opportunities, such as boating and golfing."
Hiking
"Multiple trails are accessible nearby. Wild Basin, Finch Lake, and Sandbeach Lake trails are popular options, and the location is close to RMNP trailheads."Fishing
"Fishing opportunities exist both within the immediate area and at nearby Lake Estes. Fish species and quality of fishing are not detailed."Wildlife viewing
"Campers have reported sightings of moose, deer, and various types of birds. The shaded and wooded nature of the campground makes it a good spot for observing wildlife."Winter Activities
"Winter camping activities are not detailed, but the campground is closed during the off-season."Water Sports
"Non-motorized water sports are not available directly at the campground."Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed in designated fire rings unless fire restrictions are imposed due to dry weather conditions.
- Quiet hours are enforced, but disruptions have been reported during weekends and busy holiday periods.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country. Visitors are encouraged to practice strict food storage and campsite cleanliness. Strong winds can occur and may pose challenges for tents and RVs.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 79%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.5 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 located in Estes Park (15 miles away), which has medical facilities, police, and other essential services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16, 2025 - September 13, 2025
Trash and recycling"Trash services are available on-site, though some reviews note that the dumpsters were occasionally near overflowing. Recycling facilities are not mentioned."
Proximity to water featuresClose to Crystal Springs in Allenspark for water supply. Nearby attractions include Lake Estes and Wild Basin area streams and waterfalls.
Common complaintsLack of potable water on-site is a frequent concern. Vault toilets are noted to be smelly at times, and road conditions within the campground are bumpy and narrow.
HostMultiple reviews praise hosts for being friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the area. Hosts sell firewood and maintain site cleanliness.
Campground Map
9054 U.S Hwy 285, Morrison, CO 80465
Driving directionsThe campground is located on the west side of Colorado Highway 7, between Allenspark and Meeker Park at mile-marker 14. It is approximately six miles north of the intersection of Colorado Highways 7 and 72 (which is 21 miles west-north-west of Lyons), 15 miles south of Estes Park, and 29 miles north of Nederland.
Access to the campground is via Colorado Highway 7, providing paved road access to the entrance. Roads within the campground itself are gravel/dirt and noted to be narrow and bumpy in places with potholes, which may pose challenges for larger RVs.Nearby places
Lyons (21 miles, approximately 30 minutes), Estes Park (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Nederland (29 miles, approximately 40 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Essential supplies including groceries, fuel, and camping equipment can be found in Estes Park, which is a full-service community 15 miles north of the campground. There is also a water source at Crystal Springs in Allenspark, a short drive away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
208 reviews
Olive Ridge is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
"Reviews praise Olive Ridge for its beautiful location, spacious sites, and proximity to RMNP. However, lack of potable water, variable cleanliness of vault toilets, and occasional noise from nearby highways are noted."
Review Summaries
Based on 208 reviews
What Campers Love
"Spacious campsites, proximity to RMNP, good shade, clean vault toilets (at times), and welcoming camp hosts are frequently highlighted."
Based on 208 reviewsCommon Concerns
"Lack of water, inconsistent cleanliness of vault toilets, highway noise, and occasional overcrowding on weekends are common issues."
Based on 208 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
"Bring your own water, as there's none available on-site. Consider arriving early for first-come-first-serve sites. Utilize nearby Crystal Springs in Allenspark for high-quality water."
Based on 208 reviewsSeasonal Insights
"Summer is popular but busy, with afternoon thunderstorms common. Fall is quieter but cooler. Winter camping is not available due to seasonal closures."
Based on 208 reviewsCamper Quotes
- "The sites are spacious and well-shaded." - "Bring your own water as there is none available on site." - "Vault toilets are clean but odor-prone." - "The camp host was incredibly friendly and...
Based on 208 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
"Sites #26 and #39 are group-friendly, allowing up to 10 people. Perimeter sites offer more privacy, such as site #29."
Based on 208 reviewsAccessibility Features
"No specific accessibility features mentioned, but the level terrain and spacious sites might accommodate mobility aids."
Based on 208 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
"Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some users noted responsible pet behavior near their sites."
Based on 208 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025