Gypsum Campground
4.1917 reviews2300 River Frontage Road, Silt, CO, USA, 81637
Gypsum Campground
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$40.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees are either $10/night per site for individual campsites or $20/night as mentioned in some reports. The group site fee is $4 per person per night with a $40 minimum per night. All sites are first-come, first-serve; no reservations are available.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine waters of the Eagle River, Gypsum Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Colorado wilderness experience. This hidden gem operates on a first-come, first-served basis, offering primitive camping that puts you in direct contact with nature's raw beauty. Whether you're casting a line from the walk-in fishing access points, navigating the river's thrilling rapids, or simply watching golden eagles soar overhead, this riverside retreat serves as your gateway to endless outdoor adventures.
Gypsum Campground is a primitive campground designed to accommodate various camping styles, including RV and tent camping. All sites are first-come, first-serve.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds in the shadow of one of Colorado's most fascinating geological wonders—Dotsero's dormant volcanic crater. This sleeping giant, along with its ancient lava flow, tells a dramatic story of the Earth's fiery past, making your campsite not just a place to rest, but a front-row seat to millions of years of geological history.
Weather and SeasonsTime your visit perfectly to experience the Eagle River at its finest during the prime floating season from late May through July, when snowmelt transforms the waterway into a rafting paradise. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for riverside relaxation, while autumn paints the surrounding landscape in brilliant golds and crimsons. The campground embraces a well-deserved winter slumber from November 15 to May 15, when snow blankets the region in peaceful solitude. Despite the area's reputation for dry winters, occasional snowfall creates a stunning contrast against the rugged terrain.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, the campground's mountain setting promises that crisp, clean air and star-filled skies that make Colorado camping legendary.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Eagle River serves as the campground's liquid lifeline, its gentle murmur providing a natural soundtrack to your stay. Thoughtfully placed native bushes create intimate, semi-private camping spots that blend seamlessly with the landscape. Wildlife enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise—watch for the graceful dance of blue herons along the riverbank, the majestic flight of bald eagles overhead, and the playful antics of ducks and geese in the shallows. The dramatic backdrop of Dotsero's volcanic formations adds an otherworldly element to an already spectacular natural canvas.
Geological RegionGypsum Campground sits at a remarkable geological crossroads where the flowing waters of the Eagle River meet the ancient volcanic legacy of Dotsero. This unique Colorado location showcases the dynamic forces that shaped the American West—from the patient erosion of river valleys to the explosive volcanic activity that left its mark in frozen lava flows. It's a place where every rock tells a story and every vista reveals another chapter in the Earth's ever-evolving narrative.
Campsite details
AccessibilityRestrooms are ADA accessible according to official descriptions.
Sites SizeThe campground offers standard-sized sites that can accommodate up to nine people, two vehicles, and two tents per site.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is variable, with some campsites separated by bushes providing decent privacy, while others are close together and open, as mentioned by users.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites with bushes for more privacy if highway noise is a concern.
Best CampsitesSite 3 is noted for its proximity to Eagle River access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at any time due to the first-come-first-serve policy.
Check-out
Check-out is not explicitly mentioned, but the first-come-first-serve nature implies vacating early to avoid losing a spot.
Stay Limit
- May-August: 7 days
- September-November: 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 9 guests, 2 vehicles, and 2 tents allowed per standard campsite.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate up to 25 people at $4 per person per night, with a minimum total charge of $40 per night.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground contains 10 single overnight sites with additional day-use picnic areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen annually from May 15 to November 15.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable as there is no reservation system.
Walk-in AvailabilityEntirely walk-up; sites are first-come-first-serve with no reservation system.
Cancellation PolicyAs a first-come-first-serve campground, reservations and cancellations are not applicable.
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
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Gypsum Campground offers activities such as fishing, rafting, wildlife viewing, and sightseeing. Visitors can access the Eagle River for fishing or enjoy observing local wildlife such as ducks, geese, blue heron, bald eagles, and other raptors. The nearby Dotsero area provides additional geological sightseeing opportunities like an inactive volcanic crater.
Fishing
The Eagle River offers fishing opportunities, with one user noting trout jumping out of the water late in the evening, although they described the fish as 'a little finicky.'Boating
Rafting is a popular activity during the floating season that typically runs from late May through July.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as ducks, geese, blue heron, bald eagles, and raptors can be observed. One user even reported seeing a moose in their camp.Winter Activities
The campground is closed from November 15 to May 15 annually, limiting winter activity opportunities.Water Sports
Rafting is mentioned as a seasonal activity, particularly during late spring to early summer.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific fire policies mentioned in the source.
- Quiet hours are No official quiet hours; user reviews suggest highway noise persists between 11 PM to 5 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsProximity to Interstate Highway 70 may lead to considerable noise. Wildlife such as moose are occasionally spotted near campsites.
Active alertsThe campground closes for winter between November 15 and May 15.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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 located in Gypsum or Eagle, including hospitals, police stations, and fire departments.
Good to know
Peak season datesFloating season occurs from late May through July, suggesting peak visitor activity.
Trash and recyclingNo details provided about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the Eagle River, and trout are visible jumping out of the water.
Common complaintsNoise from Interstate Highway 70 is a recurring issue, and some users have noted campers parked long-term, reducing the aesthetic.
HostNo onsite staff or service available.
Campground Map
2300 River Frontage Road, Silt, CO, USA, 81637
Driving directionsI-70 Exit 140 at Gypsum and turn south. Turn right on the frontage road (Old Highway 6) and go 1.5 miles past the roundabout. Take a left to the Gypsum Recreation Area.
The campground is readily accessible from Interstate Highway 70, which provides paved roads leading to the site. However, some gravel roads exist within the campground, offering primitive camping and fishing access.Nearby places
Gypsum is the nearest town (approx. 1.5 miles), Vail (approx. 35 miles), and Eagle (approx. 10 miles).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Gypsum, which is approximately 1.5 miles away, providing groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.2
17 reviews
Gypsum Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Gypsum Campground has a mix of positive and negative reviews. While visitors appreciate the natural beauty and affordability, there are complaints about highway noise and long-term parked campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Scenic location along the Eagle River, affordable at $10 per night, clean restrooms, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Based on 17 reviewsCommon Concerns
Highway noise due to proximity to I-70, campsites being too close together, and long-term parked campers detracting from the camping experience.
Based on 17 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring earplugs to mitigate noise from I-70, double up on sleeping bags for colder nights, and visit during the quieter seasons for a more private experience.
Based on 17 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Campground is more crowded during peak seasons, and highway noise was mentioned to quiet down late at night (11 PM - 5 AM).
Based on 17 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Each campsite has a picnic bench. Beautiful views!' - Isabel H. 2. 'Economically priced at $10. Decent privacy with bushes.' - Elizabeth 3. 'Noisiest campground I’ve ever stayed in.' - Terry...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 3 is noted for having a short walk (1-2 minutes) to river access. Day-use areas at the start of the campground also provide river access.
Based on 17 reviewsAccessibility Features
Restrooms are ADA accessible, but no further details on other accessibility features are mentioned in reviews.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific information about pet policies or experiences with pets is provided.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025