Pickle Gulch
4.4934 reviewsARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT
Pickle Gulch
$69.00 - $263.00 / 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$69.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates vary by season and are divided based on group sizes. Peak season rates range from $69.00 for Group Walk-To sites to $263.00 for larger group areas accommodating up to 150 people.
About this campground
Nestled along the breathtaking Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (Highway 119), Pickle Gulch beckons adventure seekers with its perfect blend of mountain serenity and outdoor excitement. This cherished group picnic and camping destination serves as your gateway to Colorado's rugged backcountry, where off-road trails wind through stunning alpine landscapes and crystal-clear streams promise memorable fishing expeditions. Whether you're gathering with family for a weekend reunion or seeking a basecamp for mountain exploration, Pickle Gulch delivers the authentic Rocky Mountain experience you've been dreaming of.
Pickle Gulch is primarily a group camping facility designed for large parties. It exclusively offers group walk-to tent camping sites and a group picnic area.
Historical SignificanceJust a short drive from your campsite lies the legendary mining town of Central City, where the echoes of Colorado's gold rush past still resonate through Victorian-era streets. Time your visit to coincide with the renowned Lou Bunch Day celebrations, when the town erupts in frontier festivities, or immerse yourself in world-class performances at the historic Central City Opera. Jazz enthusiasts will find themselves enchanted by the annual jazz festival, where mountain acoustics meet musical mastery in an unforgettable alpine setting.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Pickle Gulch unfolds with brilliant blue skies and comfortable mountain temperatures, perfect for outdoor adventures—though afternoon thundershowers occasionally roll through, adding drama to the landscape. As autumn arrives, crisp mornings give way to warm afternoons, creating ideal hiking conditions amid changing aspens. Winter transforms the area into a snow-covered wonderland, with temperatures that demand cozy campfires and warm sleeping bags. Spring brings its own wild beauty, as the mountains awaken with unpredictable weather patterns that can shift from sunshine to snow in mere hours, reminding visitors of nature's dynamic personality.
ElevationPerched high in Colorado's majestic mountain realm, Pickle Gulch offers that coveted high-altitude camping experience where the air feels crisp and clean, and the stars seem close enough to touch. This elevated sanctuary provides the perfect balance—high enough to escape summer's heat yet accessible enough for comfortable camping adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of lodgepole pines and quaking aspens creates a distinctive mountain forest setting at Pickle Gulch, where nature's resilience is on full display. While pine beetle impacts have opened the canopy in places, this natural transformation has created spectacular viewing corridors to the surrounding peaks and enhanced the wildflower displays in the adjacent meadow. The interplay of forest and open sky offers photographers endless opportunities, especially during golden hour when the mountains glow with alpenglow.
Geological RegionPickle Gulch sits within a dynamic mountain forest ecosystem where lodgepole pines and aspens tell the ongoing story of forest regeneration. The landscape bears witness to nature's cycles, as areas affected by pine beetle activity transition into sun-dappled clearings that attract wildlife and wildflowers. This evolving forest environment showcases the raw beauty of Colorado's montane ecosystem, where every season brings new discoveries and the promise of nature's continuous renewal.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe group campsites are walk-to only, with wheelbarrows available to assist with transporting gear. However, the walk (up to 150 yards over uneven terrain) may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Sites SizeGroup sites are large, with some accommodating up to 10 tent pads. Specific site sizes were noted in reviews, such as Site 5, described as "huge" with 10 tent pads and spacious bear boxes.
Sites PrivacySites offer good privacy, with many tent pads "tucked back in the trees," and significant distances between group sites. Site 4 was highlighted as particularly secluded.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Group Site 4 for maximum privacy and scenic views. Group Site 5 is recommended for larger groups.
Best CampsitesGroup Site 5 is popular for its 10 tent pads and secluded location surrounded by aspens.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is set to 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is set to 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests are limited based on site size.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate significant numbers of campers, with capacities varying by site. For example, Site 5 features 10 tent pads. A group picnic area can host up to 150 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSix group sites are walk-to only, with parking areas and shared facilities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16th through October 10th annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations are mandatory; limited walk-up spots available if sites are not occupied within 26 hours of reservation start time.
Cancellation PolicyReservations require $10 for modifications and cancellations. Late cancellations incur forfeiture of the first recreation night's fee or entire fee for day-use sites.
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
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pickle Gulch offers a variety of recreational options including hiking, biking, fishing, camping, and scenic driving. A dedicated day-use area includes volleyball courts and horseshoe pits. Nearby attractions offer additional activities such as mountain biking, horseback riding, and fishing in Golden Gate Canyon State Park.
Hiking
Many hiking trails are available nearby, including those in Golden Gate Canyon State Park, which offers over 35 miles of trails.Fishing
Numerous creeks, rivers, and lakes in the area provide opportunities for fishing. However, specific details about fish species or fishing quality were not provided.Biking
Biking trails are available nearby, and mountain biking is specifically permitted in Golden Gate Canyon State Park.Wildlife viewing
Opportunities for wildlife viewing are available. One user reported seeing a moose near their campsite.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were mentioned, but the campground is closed during winter.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports were not mentioned in the provided information.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- On-site campfires allowed when restrictions are not in place. Firewood may be gathered or purchased from the host.
- Quiet hours are Set to minimize noise disturbances.
Hazards
General hazards'This is bear country! For bear and human safety, keep a clean campsite.' Flash flooding possible during thunderstorms. Pollen can become a nuisance for allergy sufferers.
Weather forecast
50
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Moderate drizzle
Precipitation: 0.8%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 89%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 11.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (0.80% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Moderate drizzle
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
Gilpin County Sheriff and local emergency services located in Black Hawk (4 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16th - October 10th annually.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details on trash or recycling facilities were provided in the official description or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresCreeks and rivers nearby offer fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsSites are far from parking. Carrying gear uphill is strenuous. Noise from nearby shooting.
HostHosts provide wheelbarrows, sell firewood, and clean facilities regularly. Some users have commented on overly restrictive management.
Campground Map
ARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 25 in Denver, travel west on 6th Avenue to State Highway 6 and continue through Clear Creek Canyon. Turn on State Highway 119 toward Black Hawk and Central City. Follow the highway 4 miles north of Black Hawk, to the campground.
All roads leading to the campground are paved and accessible year-round, but note that RVs are not permitted past the parking area.Nearby places
Black Hawk (4 miles), Denver (approximately 50 miles)
Nearby supplies
The town of Black Hawk is nearby with stores for basic supplies, groceries, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.5
34 reviews
Pickle Gulch is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Pickle Gulch are generally positive, with an average sentiment of 4.32 out of 5. Common themes include site cleanliness, scenic beauty, and thoughtful amenities such as wheelbarrows and bear boxes. Some users, however, expressed concerns about accessibility, noise from nearby gun activity, and interactions with the campground hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include well-maintained vault toilets, spacious group sites, scenic views, and proximity to Denver. Many users appreciated the cleanliness of the facilities and the helpfulness of the...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the walk from parking to campsites being challenging, limited cell service, and noise from nearby shooting. Some users mentioned management being overly strict or unhelpful.
Based on 34 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray to combat mosquitos, and pack a wagon or wheelbarrow to assist with transporting gear. Campers are advised to prepare for mountain weather, including potential cold temperatures even...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is reported as a busy season with occasional noise from nearby activities. The fall season offers quieter stays, but facilities such as water spigots may be turned off in October. Winter...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The bathrooms were spotless and the camp host friendly." "It’s also so easy to get to and only 50 min from Denver." "We saw a couple moose on our second morning while on a trail near the area."
Based on 34 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 5 is highlighted as a large site with 10 tent pads, while Site 4 is noted for its seclusion. Reviews for Site 1 mention ample shade and space for kids to play.
Based on 34 reviewsAccessibility Features
Some users noted the walk to campsites as a challenge, particularly for those with mobility issues.
Based on 34 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times. No additional feedback specific to pets was provided.
Based on 34 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025