Rock Creek Recreation Area
4.6012 reviews300 Roselawn Avenue Yampa, CO 80483
Rock Creek Recreation Area
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping is free as stated in authoritative sources.
About this campground
Escape to the untamed beauty of Rock Creek Recreation Area, where adventurous souls can experience true dispersed camping along the babbling waters of Rock Creek. This back-to-basics destination strips away the typical campground frills—you won't find picnic tables or designated fire rings here. Instead, you'll discover the freedom to choose your own perfect spot along the creek, with only the essential vault toilets provided for convenience. While you'll need to bring your own water supply, the nearby Rock Creek Trailhead beckons mountain bikers with thrilling trails that wind through the spectacular Gore Range terrain.
Rock Creek Recreation Area provides dispersed camping options, suitable for tents and trailers. No specific mention of group sites or cabin lodging.
Historical SignificanceWhile Rock Creek may not boast ancient ruins or historic landmarks, its story is written in the timeless language of wilderness—a place where modern adventurers can disconnect from civilization and reconnect with the raw, authentic spirit of the Colorado high country.
Weather and SeasonsRock Creek's high-country climate delivers a dramatic seasonal symphony, from winter's crystalline blanket of snow to summer's warm, sun-drenched days. Savvy campers mark their calendars for the golden window of weeks 28-30, when Mother Nature typically serves up her finest recipe: brilliant blue skies, perfectly temperate days, and those gloriously dry conditions that make for unforgettable outdoor adventures. Spring and fall offer their own rewards for those willing to pack extra layers and embrace the mountains' moody charm.
ElevationNestled high in Colorado's mountain country, Rock Creek Recreation Area sits at an elevation where the air grows thin and the views grow spectacular. Though specific elevation data isn't documented, visitors should prepare for the typical high-altitude conditions found throughout the Gore Range.
Natural Features and SceneryTucked within the majestic Gore Range, Rock Creek Recreation Area showcases nature's artistry at every turn. Dramatic rock formations rise like ancient sentinels above the landscape, while Rock Creek itself provides a melodic soundtrack as it dances over stones and through quiet pools. Visitors consistently rave about the area's breathtaking natural beauty, where towering peaks frame intimate campsites and the profound silence is broken only by the whisper of wind through pines and the gentle murmur of flowing water. This secluded paradise offers the kind of peaceful ambiance that makes you forget the outside world exists.
Geological RegionRock Creek Recreation Area claims its throne within the spectacular Gore Range, a rugged mountain paradise that forms part of the vast Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland system. This geological wonderland showcases the raw power of ancient mountain-building forces, where dramatic peaks and deep valleys tell the story of millions of years of Earth's sculptural artistry.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are available, but further accessibility information is not provided.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as spacious enough for trailers; exact measurements are unavailable.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are reportedly secluded and nicely spaced, providing a peaceful experience.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSome users recommend sites close to the creek for peaceful ambiance and proximity to water.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsite numbers or ratings are mentioned.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Not explicitly stated by authoritative sources.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated by authoritative sources.
Groups
No group sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutDispersed layout with sites spread along Rock Creek. No loops or sections are described.
Open and Closed SeasonMid-June to Late October.
Reservation PlatformsNo advance reservation platforms, camping is free and first-come-first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-served basis as per authoritative source, but number of sites is not specified.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations available, cancellation policies do not apply.
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Rock Creek Recreation Area offers several outdoor recreational opportunities, including mountain biking, fishing, and OHV road riding. The presence of hiking trails and a creek provides additional nature-oriented activities.
Hiking
User reviews and authoritative sources mention hiking trails located a bit up the road. No specifics on trail length or difficulty are provided.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the nearby river/stream. No details about fish species or quality of fishing are provided.Biking
Mountain biking opportunities are available near the Rock Creek Trailhead. The nearby Gore Pass Bike Trails Map is referenced.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is implied through the site's natural setting, but specific species and areas are not detailed.Winter Activities
This campground is open mid-June through late October, implying limited winter recreation opportunities.Water Sports
Water-based sports like kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire guidelines are not provided.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated, but some users reported quiet conditions during weekdays.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are prevalent according to user reviews. Vault toilets may have odors. Road conditions described as washboardy. No potable water available.
Active alertsOne user reported closure of the campground but this appears to contradict authoritative open-season data.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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 at Yampa Ranger District Office. Local medical emergency service or hospital details are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly stated, but likely aligns with open season (summer to early fall).
Trash and recyclingNo garbage pickup services are available; campers need to pack out their trash. Recycling information is not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresCampsites are located on Rock Creek, providing a delightful sound of water flow as described by a user.
Common complaintsMosquito issues, pit toilet odor, road conditions, lack of water or garbage services. One user described an unpleasant experience with law enforcement.
HostNo campground host is available.
Campground Map
300 Roselawn Avenue Yampa, CO 80483
Driving directionsFrom Yampa, follow State HWY 131 South 10.0 miles to State HWY 134 at Toponas. Follow State HWY 134 East to the Rock Creek Road #250.
Roads are described by users as dirt roads, slightly rough or washboardy, but navigable by most vehicles including larger RVs. Seasonal closures may affect access.Nearby places
Yampa (10 miles), Toponas (null), other details not provided.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely found in Yampa or nearby towns such as Toponas, but specific stores or resources for groceries, camping supplies, or fuel are not listed.
Camper Reviews
4.6
12 reviews
Rock Creek Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, praising the beauty, seclusion, and tranquility of the campground. Complaints include mosquito infestations and the lack of cell service.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean vault toilets, quiet surroundings, spacious campsites, a creek running nearby, and suitability for trailers.
Based on 12 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues raised include no potable water, no cell service (specifically for Verizon), rough roads, and mosquito infestations.
Based on 12 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray or bug nets, pack in your own potable water, and be prepared for rough dirt roads.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are the most recommended for camping due to favorable weather and fewer crowds during weekdays. However, mosquitos are particularly prevalent during warmer months.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Great camping spots to be found along the road to camp site." - Les Hall
2. "Really great campground! The bathrooms were clean but like all pit toilets, smelly. There were A LOT of mosquitos so...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites are described as being along Rock Creek and near a creek. Specific site numbers are not mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews focused explicitly on accessibility features.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Several reviews mention bringing dogs, including one user citing their dog enjoyed the stream. Pets are clearly allowed, but no leash policies are specified.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025