Stove Prairie
4.6059 reviews9054 U.S Hwy 285
Stove Prairie
$29.00 - $29.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$29.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$29.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates for camping at Stove Prairie are $29 per night for either standard nonelectric or walk-to tent sites. Fees do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Tucked away 26 miles northwest of Fort Collins, Colorado, Stove Prairie Campground beckons adventurers to discover its hidden riverside retreat. This intimate campground hugs the banks of the legendary Cache la Poudre River, where the gentle rush of water creates a natural soundtrack for your wilderness escape. Whether you're seeking the thrill of whitewater rafting, the patience of fly fishing, or simply a peaceful spot to watch eagles soar overhead, this small but mighty campground delivers an authentic Rocky Mountain experience without the crowds.
The Stove Prairie Campground is designed for tent and RV camping. It features 8 accessible sites, 4 of which are walk-to tent sites. RVs and trailers are allowed, with parking lengths ranging from 30 to 55 feet.
Historical SignificanceStove Prairie Campground sits along the storied Cache la Poudre River, a waterway so pristine and significant it earned the distinction of becoming Colorado's very first National Wild and Scenic River. This designation isn't just a title—it's a testament to the river's untamed beauty and critical role in Colorado's natural heritage. Here, you're camping in the footsteps of early trappers, pioneers, and countless generations who've been drawn to these life-giving waters.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the perfect mountain climate at Stove Prairie, where peak season brings blissfully moderate temperatures hovering around 63°F during sun-drenched days and cooling to a crisp 40°F under star-filled nights. Spring awakens the landscape with emerald meadows and wildflower blooms, while summer bathes the canyon in warm sunshine perfect for river adventures. As autumn arrives, the aspens transform into a golden tapestry against the evergreen pines, creating a photographer's paradise in the cooling mountain air.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await confirmation, Stove Prairie's mountain setting places you in Colorado's breathtaking high country, where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and every breath reminds you why mountain camping is an experience like no other.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking up in a natural cathedral where towering ponderosa pines stretch skyward, their vanilla-scented bark warming in the morning sun. Stove Prairie Campground artfully balances dense forest groves with sun-dappled meadows, creating diverse habitats that attract everything from curious deer to soaring raptors. The star of the show remains the Cache la Poudre River itself—Colorado's first National Wild and Scenic River—whose crystal-clear waters have carved this spectacular canyon over millennia, creating a playground for both adventurers and those seeking tranquil reflection.
Geological RegionCarved by the relentless power of the Cache la Poudre River, this dramatic canyon landscape showcases nature's architectural prowess. Steep mountain walls rise on either side, clothed in aromatic ponderosa pine forests and punctuated by shimmering aspen groves. Between these forested slopes, surprising meadows open like windows to the sky, offering glimpses of the rugged peaks beyond. This is classic Colorado canyon country—where geological forces have sculpted a masterpiece that continues to evolve with each passing season.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAll 8 campsites are accessible. Vault toilets are also noted as accessible.
Sites SizeEach site features a 12-by-15 tent pad. RV users reported fitting 40-ft rigs with no issues.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site; some are more secluded, while walk-to tent sites offer better spacing. 'Sites are spaced out pretty good!' and 'Walk-in sites were not on top of each other.'
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 1 has easy access but requires careful navigation due to nearby ditches. Walk-to tent sites are close to the river and well separated from RV sites.
Best CampsitesSites 3, 4, and 5 are commonly noted as favorites in user reviews for their shade, size, and proximity to the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is required within 26 hours of the beginning of the reservation.
Check-out
Check-out time is not explicitly mentioned.
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum during a single visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people allowed per site.
Groups
No group-specific sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes eight single-family sites, four of which are walk-to tent sites. Sites are spaced out for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is May 2 to October 11, with reservations starting June 25 of the same year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov via website, mobile app, and call center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis before and after the reservation season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations subtract the first night's fee from any refund. Changes to reservations may also incur a $10 fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Stove Prairie offers a rich variety of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy whitewater rafting, fishing for trout, hiking, biking, horseback riding, birding, and wildlife viewing. Notable trails nearby include the Mt. McConnel Trail and Young Gulch Trail, offering opportunities for both leisure and more challenging hikes.
Hiking
Multiple trails are located nearby, such as the Mt. McConnel Trail and Young Gulch Trail. The latter has been rerouted due to past fire and flood damage and features open views with river crossings.Fishing
Fishing is available in the Cache la Poudre River, with anglers targeting brown, cutthroat, and rainbow trout. However, high river levels in late spring may limit fishing opportunities.Biking
Biking trails are available nearby. Specific difficulty levels or trail details are not provided.Boating
Whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular activities on the Cache la Poudre River.Wildlife viewing
Campers have reported seeing deer and hummingbirds. The natural setting offers ample birding and wildlife observation opportunities.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, as the campground primarily operates during warmer months.Water Sports
Popular water sports include whitewater rafting and kayaking.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but may be restricted during dry conditions.
- Quiet hours are observed, and the campground is generally peaceful.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include poison ivy near the river and around campsites, high river flow during spring, and wildlife such as bears in the area.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry weather conditions.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 92%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 9.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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 likely in Fort Collins 26 miles away, including hospitals, police stations, and fire services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 2 - October 11 (Peak Season)
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available. Campers are reminded to use bear-proof storage and keep campsites clean as part of the 'Leave No Trace' principles.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly on the banks of the Cache la Poudre River, providing river access for activities such as fishing and rafting.
Common complaintsSome complaints note infrequent restroom maintenance during busy seasons, and poison ivy can pose issues near the campsites.
HostHosts are described as friendly and responsive, with recent hosts Robert and Beth receiving high praise from campers.
Campground Map
9054 U.S Hwy 285
Driving directionsFrom Fort Collins, take Highway 14 northwest for 26 miles, to the campground.
The campground is accessible via Highway 14, which is paved. No specific mentions of seasonal closures or challenging terrain conditions.Nearby places
Fort Collins (26 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Nearest supplies are in Fort Collins (26 miles away) where groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be obtained.
Camper Reviews
4.6
59 reviews
Stove Prairie is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users frequently praise Stove Prairie for its cleanliness, scenic views, and peaceful atmosphere. The proximity to the river is a standout feature, along with the well-maintained facilities and friendly camp hosts. Seasonal variations in bathroom maintenance were noted, with summer seeing higher traffic impacts.
Review Summaries
Based on 59 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, scenic river views, proximity to hiking trails, and RV-friendly sites. 'The bathrooms were extremely clean,' and 'Lovely river sounds at night' were common praises.
Based on 59 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some campers noted issues with crowded bathrooms during late summer and the presence of poison ivy near the riverbank.
Based on 59 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early in the season to avoid crowds and ensure better bathroom conditions. Campsites closest to the river offer the best experience for peace and scenery.
Based on 59 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring sees quieter conditions and manageable river levels, while summer brings more traffic but a lively atmosphere. Late season may have cleanliness challenges.
Based on 59 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The bathrooms were extremely clean, the campground hosts were very nice.' 2. 'Right on the water. Clean bathrooms. Nice drive around the area.' 3. 'We love site #3, which is mostly in the shade,...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #3 is highly recommended for its size and shade. Sites #2 and #8 were favored for RV accessibility and proximity to the river.
Based on 59 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets and campsites are accessible. No specific complaints or issues with accessibility were noted.
Based on 59 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but must be leashed. No significant issues or standout features for pet owners were mentioned.
Based on 59 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025