Freeman Reservoir Campground
4.248 reviewsnull
Freeman Reservoir Campground
$12.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
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
Fees are $12 per night for single units, and $20 per night for single units during peak periods. Payments accepted are exact cash or check only. No credit card payment is available. Payment instructions are provided at the kiosk.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Colorado's high country, Freeman Reservoir Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic mountain escape. This intimate, county-operated gem wraps around a serene meadow, where two thoughtfully designed camping loops offer your choice of sun-dappled forest sites or expansive meadow views. With the shimmering waters of Freeman Reservoir at your doorstep and the wild expanse of Lost Park and California Park just beyond, you'll find yourself at the crossroads of countless adventures—whether casting a line into pristine waters, exploring hidden trails on foot or horseback, or simply soaking in the raw beauty of the Colorado wilderness.
Freeman Reservoir Campground accommodates a variety of camping types, including equestrian camping and general sites. RV accommodations are limited.
Historical SignificanceJust beyond the campground lies California Park, a place where nature and history intertwine in remarkable ways. This expansive meadowland serves as the summer stage for Colorado's largest gathering of Greater Sandhill Cranes—majestic birds whose ancient calls echo across the landscape. For generations, these lands have drawn hunters and anglers following traditions as old as the mountains themselves, pursuing trophy elk and trout in waters that have sustained both wildlife and human visitors for centuries.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-June through Halloween, Freeman Reservoir transforms with the seasons, each offering its own magic. Summer arrives with gentle mountain breezes and comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures. But it's autumn that truly steals the show—when thousands of aspens burst into flames of gold and amber, creating a natural cathedral that draws photographers and nature lovers from across the region. The campground's seasonal schedule follows nature's rhythm, opening when the last snows melt and closing as winter's first whispers return to the high country.
ElevationPerched at 8,800 feet where the air is crisp and the stars seem close enough to touch, Freeman Reservoir Campground offers that perfect high-altitude experience. At this elevation, you'll feel the authentic rhythm of mountain life—cool mornings that invite a steaming cup of coffee, warm afternoons perfect for exploration, and evenings that call for an extra layer as the alpine chill returns.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where meadows of thick native grasses wave in the mountain breeze, punctuated by splashes of vibrant wildflowers that paint the landscape in summer's palette. Groves of quaking aspen create natural galleries, their white bark and dancing leaves providing endless entertainment. Towering subalpine firs and stately conifers stand sentinel, offering shade and shelter while framing views of the surrounding peaks. It's a place where every sunrise brings new light to ancient landscapes, and every sunset paints the reservoir in shades of gold and rose.
Geological RegionFreeman Reservoir Campground claims its place within the vast Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, where the Rocky Mountains reveal their timeless character. This is terrain shaped by ancient forces—where volcanic activity and glacial carving created today's dramatic peaks and gentle meadows. The landscape tells a story written in stone and soil, from the nutrient-rich understory that supports carpets of grass and wildflowers to the varied elevations that create distinct ecological zones. Here, aspen groves give way to evergreen forests, and hidden springs feed the reservoir that gives the campground its name, all part of a greater wilderness tapestry that stretches across two states.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly vault toilets are present, but other accessibility features are not explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeUser reviews note that campsites are slightly small.
Sites PrivacyMost campsites encircle an open meadow area. The campground layout provides some well-separated sites for privacy.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites overlooking Freeman Reservoir offer better views and water proximity. Open meadow sites provide more privacy.
Best CampsitesA few campsites overlook Freeman Reservoir and are highly preferred by campers.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is composed of two loops encircling an open meadow. Some sites offer privacy, while others are more open.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from mid-June to October 31, subject to weather conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available; all sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservation system is in place.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation rules or policies are mentioned.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Freeman Reservoir Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, fishing, and hiking. The trails are accessible for foot and horse traffic, and the nearby reservoir supports fishing for rainbow and brook trout.
Hiking
Several trails are available, including Cottonwood Creek Trail #1183 (0.8 miles), Black Mountain Trail #1185 (6.4 miles), and Bears Ears Trail #1144 (45 miles). User reviews describe these trails as not overly difficult and surrounded by beautiful scenery.Fishing
Fishing is available at Freeman Reservoir, which spans 40 acres. Notable species include rainbow and brook trout, though one user review mentions that the fish are generally small.Boating
Boating is limited to non-motorized activities. The reservoir is described as small but suitable for kayaking.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as mule deer and elk are commonly seen running through the campground. User reviews highlight the opportunity to observe these animals regularly.Winter Activities
The campground closes in the winter months and does not provide specific winter recreational activities.Water Sports
The reservoir supports non-motorized water sports such as kayaking. No facilities for activities like water skiing or power boating are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No specific fire policies mentioned. Campers should use grills provided at campsites.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is located in bear country; campers are advised to practice safe food storage. Gravel roads to the campground may present driving challenges.
Active alertsNo current alerts or advisories are mentioned.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.5 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
Emergency services are approximately 15 minutes away in Craig, CO. These include a hospital, police stations, and a fire department.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot specified.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned, but proper food storage techniques are advised due to bear activity in the area.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Freeman Reservoir, which spans 40 acres and allows kayaking and non-motorized boating.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight slightly small campsites and limited fishing success with small fish.
HostNo camp host is available at this campground. Campers should bring their own firewood as none is sold on-site.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Craig, CO, take State Rt. 13 north 11.8 miles to Freeman Reservoir sign (County Rt. 11). Turn right at sign onto Rt.11 (gravel) and go 9.9 miles to campground.
The campground is accessible by gravel roads. Travelers need to drive 9.9 miles east on Moffat County Road 11 from Highway 13, which may be uneven or challenging during certain weather conditions.Nearby places
Craig, CO (approximately 12 miles from the campground entrance)
Nearby supplies
The closest location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel is Craig, CO, approximately 15 minutes by car, which offers small shops and general stores.
Camper Reviews
4.2
8 reviews
Freeman Reservoir Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall user reviews describe Freeman Reservoir Campground as a quiet, scenic location surrounded by beautiful nature. Common themes include clean campsites, a lack of cell service, and abundant opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean facilities, abundant wildlife, and scenic trails. Many users appreciate the peace and quiet, as well as the opportunity to camp with horses.
Based on 8 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include small fish in the reservoir, limited cell service, and slightly small campsite sizes.
Based on 8 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing toilet paper and firewood, as these may not be available on-site. Campers should also be prepared for no cell service and plan food storage carefully due to bears.
Based on 8 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Fall is highlighted as an incredible time to visit due to the vibrant aspen trees and cooler weather. Summer months are popular for hiking and fishing.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Beautiful camping area. Lots of trees, flowers, and mushrooms all over. A little reservoir not far." - Dillon Sawyer
2. "Nice little campground. The reservoir is a great way to spend the...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some campsites overlook the reservoir, while most encircle an open meadow area. Specific site numbers are not provided.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available, and the campground is relatively flat and open, which could be beneficial for those with mobility challenges.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash. User reviews mention that dogs enjoyed the campground as much as their owners.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025