Shepherds Rim Campground
4.6565 reviewsNORTH FORK CAMPGROUND,COUNTY RD 8, MEEKER, CO 81641, USA
Shepherds Rim Campground
$22.00 - $23.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$23.00
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
Standard Nonelectric sites cost $23 per night, while tent-only Nonelectric sites cost $22. Displayed rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Perched at a breathtaking 9,720 feet in the Colorado Rockies, Shepherds Rim Campground at Trappers Lake invites adventurers to experience high-altitude camping at its finest. This intimate mountain retreat features 15 carefully positioned campsites that welcome everything from cozy tents to full-sized RVs, each equipped with its own picnic table and campfire ring where stories are shared under star-studded skies. While you won't find electrical hookups here, the campground provides the essentials—clean vault toilets and fresh mountain drinking water—ensuring a comfortable yet authentic wilderness experience.
Shepherds Rim Campground offers multiple camping options including tent, RV, and one primitive site.
Historical SignificanceShepherds Rim tells a powerful story of nature's resilience and renewal. The campground sits within the footprint of the dramatic 2002 Big Fish Fire, which swept across more than 17,000 acres of pristine forest. Today, this landscape serves as a living classroom where visitors can witness firsthand how nature reclaims and transforms itself. The recovering forest offers unprecedented views across the Flat Tops that were once hidden by dense timber, creating a unique window into both the destructive power and regenerative spirit of wildfire in the Rocky Mountain ecosystem.
Weather and SeasonsAt nearly 10,000 feet, Shepherds Rim delivers a true alpine climate adventure. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures often hovering around 24°F during the day and plunging to a crisp 5°F at night—perfect for those seeking solitude and snow-covered serenity. But it's during the glorious summer months that the campground truly comes alive, as moderate temperatures and azure skies draw outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore the surrounding wilderness. The elevation ensures even the warmest summer days remain refreshingly cool, making it an ideal escape from lower-altitude heat.
ElevationAt 9,720 feet above sea level, Shepherds Rim Campground offers a true high-country experience where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and summer temperatures remain delightfully cool. This lofty perch provides campers with panoramic vistas across the Flat Tops Wilderness while serving as a natural air conditioner during warm summer months. The elevation creates perfect conditions for stargazing, with minimal light pollution and crystal-clear mountain air revealing constellations in stunning detail.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled in the heart of the legendary Flat Tops Wilderness, Shepherds Rim serves as your gateway to one of Colorado's most spectacular mountain ecosystems. The crystalline waters of Trappers Lake shimmer below, while the surrounding peaks create a dramatic amphitheater of stone and sky. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in frequent sightings of majestic bighorn sheep navigating rocky outcrops, bull elk bugling across meadows, and curious pika chirping from boulder fields. The distinctive landscape, shaped by the 2002 wildfire, offers a fascinating blend of recovering forest, open meadows bursting with wildflowers, and unobstructed views that stretch for miles across this pristine wilderness.
Geological RegionShepherds Rim Campground occupies a remarkable position within the Flat Tops Wilderness, a geological wonderland where ancient volcanic activity created the largest flat-top mountain in the world. This unique Rocky Mountain landscape combines pristine alpine lakes, diverse forest ecosystems, and the compelling story of fire and rebirth from the 2002 Big Fish Fire that transformed over 17,000 acres. As one visitor poignantly observed, 'The last time we had been in the area was before the fire, so it was amazing to see the long-term effects of the fire.' Today, the area showcases nature's incredible ability to heal and regenerate, offering campers a front-row seat to witness this ongoing transformation while enjoying unparalleled access to high-altitude lakes, meadows, and peaks.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information on accessibility features for individuals with disabilities is mentioned.
Sites SizeCampsite sizes vary, accommodating different setups. "We had two vehicles, two tents, two canopies and other camping stuff and had plenty of room." (User review by Kelly B).
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels differ among sites. Sites on the inner loop are less private, while others, like site #9, offer more seclusion.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Site #9 is the best for a tent." "Site #6 is ample for a 29' trailer." "Site #11 is on the interior loop, fairly private and flat."
Best CampsitesSite #9 is recommended for tents; Site #7 offers great views; Site #11 provides privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in by 12:00 PM on the day following the reservation start date.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM on departure date.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a single visit and up to 14 nights total within each month.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- One RV with tow per single site or one vehicle per tent site. "Most sites can accommodate one extra vehicle that is not included with the reservation fee
- extra vehicle will be charged a per night fee collected at the campground."
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of multiple loops with some sites along the edge (offering views) and others in the interior (offering privacy).
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 3 to November 2 (reservable start date June 23).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, through mobile apps, or by contacting the call center.
Walk-in AvailabilityReserved sites will be held until noon the day following your arrival date. Sites must be occupied by then to hold a reservation.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before the check-in date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 24 hours prior) subtract the first night's recreation use fee. Changes within the original stay dates are free to modify.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Shepherds Rim Campground provides access to outdoor recreation such as fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and interpretive programs. Trappers Lake, known as the Cradle of Wilderness, is nearby and offers serene fishing experiences.
Hiking
Several hiking trails are accessible directly from the campground, including sections of the Carhart Trail (#1815). "Several amazing day hikes within walking distance of your camp spot." (User review by Sara W). Trails vary in difficulty from easy to moderate.Fishing
Fishing at Trappers Lake is excellent, with native cutthroat trout available. Colorado Parks and Wildlife operates a spawn collection station at the Cabin Creek inlet during May and June.Biking
Biking is limited to roads; trails do not permit biking. "Don't bring your MTN bikes, none of the trails allow biking, we could only ride on the roads." (User review by Cody N).Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, with sightings of deer, elk, and even bull elk bugling at dusk. "Had some deer and elk traffic right through camp." (User review by Jordan P).Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive programs are available, providing insights into the area's unique wilderness characteristics.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are permitted at Trappers Lake, but boating restrictions apply due to wilderness area rules.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires and charcoal fires may be restricted during dry weather conditions. Firewood should be obtained locally to prevent spreading tree-killing organisms.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes and biting flies are described as "relentless." Wilderness area terrain demands preparedness for emergencies during longer hikes.
Active alertsMudslides have been noted during certain seasons (user reviews).
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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
The nearest emergency services are approximately one hour and a quarter drive to Meeker (hospital, police station).
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 3 - November 2
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash receptacles are provided to ensure proper waste disposal and prevent wildlife interaction.
Proximity to water featuresWalking distance to Trappers Lake (302 surface acres), known for its native cutthroat trout and serene alpine surroundings.
Common complaintsMosquitoes are "very annoying" during summer. Some sites lack detailed descriptions online to inform visitors about their suitability.
HostCamp hosts are frequently praised for their friendliness and attention to cleanliness. "Tim, the camp host, is a great guy and is very good at what he does."
Campground Map
NORTH FORK CAMPGROUND,COUNTY RD 8, MEEKER, CO 81641, USA
Driving directionsFrom Meeker, take Colorado Highway 13 east for 1 mile, then turn right on Rio Blanco County Road 8 and follow this for 39 miles to Trappers Lake Road #205. Turn south on Trappers Lake Road #205, and continue for 10 miles just past the Outlet Trailhead. The Shepherds Rim Campground is on the right.
Approximately 51 miles from Meeker, with 30 miles on asphalt and 20 miles on well-maintained dirt road. "The roads were inexplicably redone by two different counties and the forest service working together to provide a better experience to future campers" (user review).Nearby places
Buford (25.2 miles), Meeker (49.4 miles), Rifle (90.5 miles), New Castle (105 miles), Glenwood Springs (117 miles).
Nearby supplies
Meeker is the closest town with supplies. "Be prepared with your supplies and full gas tanks," as noted by a user review.
Camper Reviews
4.7
65 reviews
Shepherds Rim Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground’s clean facilities, accommodating hosts, and stunning natural surroundings. "This is one of the nicest campgrounds we’ve ever stayed at." (User review by Karissa H). However, complaints include relentless mosquitoes during summer and misleading location information.
Review Summaries
Based on 65 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms, well-maintained sites, friendly hosts, proximity to hiking trails and Trappers Lake, serene environment. "Very clean campground, cleaner bathrooms, friendly hosts." (User review by...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Mosquitoes are described as "relentless" in summer by multiple reviewers. Some users also found the online campsite descriptions misleading or unhelpful.
Based on 65 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring ample mosquito repellant and supplies as the campground is remote. "Take lots of bug repellant in the early summer months." (User review by Brooks O).
Based on 65 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews emphasize mosquito issues but also praise the hiking opportunities, wildlife viewing, and scenery. Winter reviews are sparse but highlight tranquility and clean facilities.
Based on 65 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The bathrooms were immaculate and the water pumps were prevalent." (User review by Gina H). "Quiet, serene and bathrooms kept exceptionally clean." (User review by Amy S). "The camp hosts were very...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #9 is consistently praised for privacy and suitability for tents. Site #15 is noted for proximity to restrooms, which may lead to odor issues depending on wind conditions. "Site #9 offers more...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but reviewers noted that leash rules are not strictly enforced. "The host kept a clean campground, but in some cases would not enforce rules like dogs having leashes." (User review...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025