Aspen (Co)
P.O. Box 74, Lake George, CO, 80827, USA
Aspen (Co)
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season rates for standard non-electric and tent-only non-electric sites are $24 per night. Additional $11 fee to enter Jefferson Lake Recreation...
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Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$24.00
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Recreation.gov
Provider(661) 702-1420tbolton@goexplorus.com
About this campground
Tucked away in Colorado's high country, Aspen Campground offers an intimate escape with just 12 thoughtfully spaced campsites arranged in a single loop. This hidden gem provides a serene basecamp where towering spruce trees mingle with shimmering aspen groves, creating a natural cathedral of green and gold. The gentle murmur of nearby Jefferson Creek provides a soothing soundtrack, while Jefferson Lake beckons with pristine waters perfect for paddling adventures and trophy trout fishing.
Aspen Campground provides options for tent camping and standard non-electric sites. RV camping is allowed, but there are no hookups available. Group sites, cabin lodging, and glamping options are not provided.
Historical SignificanceJust down the mountain, the historic mining town of Fairplay serves as a living time capsule of Colorado's gold rush era. The remarkable South Park City Museum brings the Old West to life with 34 meticulously preserved buildings housing over 60,000 authentic artifacts. Wander wooden boardwalks past the old saloon, blacksmith shop, and general store, where the ghosts of prospectors and pioneers seem to whisper their tales of fortune and frontier life.
Weather and SeasonsAt nearly 10,000 feet, Aspen Campground delivers that crisp mountain air that makes every breath feel refreshing. Summer nights invite cozy campfires as temperatures dip between 30°F and 50°F—perfect sleeping weather wrapped in your favorite blanket. While winter transforms the landscape into a snow-globe wonderland, the access roads become an adventure themselves, often requiring snowshoes or cross-country skis to reach this alpine sanctuary.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 9,900 feet above sea level, Aspen Campground sits in Colorado's alpine zone where the air is thin but the views are endless. This lofty elevation means your morning coffee might take a bit longer to brew, and that short hike might leave you breathless—literally. Take it slow your first day, drink plenty of water, and let your body adjust to life among the clouds where eagles soar at eye level.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry is on full display at Aspen Campground, where quaking aspens dance in the mountain breeze, their leaves creating a symphony of whispers. Majestic spruce sentinels stand guard over your campsite, their ancient branches providing welcome shade and shelter. Jefferson Creek tumbles past, its crystal-clear waters inviting quiet contemplation or playful exploration. Keep your camera ready—majestic moose often browse the willows at dawn, while black bears might lumber through in search of berries, reminding visitors they're guests in this wild mountain realm.
Geological RegionNestled in a protected valley at the foot of Jefferson Hill, Aspen Campground occupies a geological sweet spot where mountain meets meadow. The landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, carved by ancient glaciers and polished by countless seasons. Nearby Jefferson Lake, a stunning 182-acre alpine jewel, fills a natural basin surrounded by dramatic peaks that pierce the sky. This high-altitude ecosystem supports a delicate balance of life, from the smallest wildflowers pushing through rocky soil to the towering evergreens that have weathered centuries of mountain storms.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not explicitly mention accessibility features for disabled campers. Vault toilets are available and kept clean.
Sites SizeSites are generally spacious, allowing for multiple tents. Direct quote: "Very spacious campground which allows for a variety of size tents."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies between sites; some are close to neighbors. Direct quote: "Our site (5) was very close to neighbors at site 4."
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite-specific tips include avoiding site 9 due to proximity to the outhouse and choosing outer-loop spots for more shade.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight sites 1, 6, 8, and 9 for their space and proximity to natural features.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two vehicles or one RV per site is included in the camping fee. Additional third vehicle costs $11.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle-loop layout with 12 sites dispersed for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 to October 12 (reservable). First-come, first-served dates are June 20 to June 25. Closed for reservations outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites not reserved 5 days prior to arrival become first-come, first-served during specified dates.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to 2 days prior to arrival for a $10 fee. Late cancellations (within 1 day of arrival) incur a $10 service fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee. No-shows are charged a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Aspen Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Colorado Trail and West Jefferson Loop Trail provide opportunities for hiking and biking. Fishing is available in Jefferson Creek and Lake, with catches including rainbow, brown, mackinaw, and brook trout. No-wake boating is permitted on Jefferson Lake, and wildlife such as moose is frequently observed in the area.
Hiking
The campground offers access to the Colorado Trail, a 471-mile trail suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The West Jefferson Loop Trail is also nearby, providing an 11-mile loop with scenic views of the Continental Divide.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Aspen Campground, with Jefferson Creek and Lake providing opportunities to catch rainbow, brown, mackinaw, and brook trout. Some reviews mention spotty fishing at Jefferson Lake.Biking
The Colorado Trail near Aspen Campground supports biking activities, offering scenic views and varied terrain.Boating
No-wake boating is allowed on Jefferson Lake, which is accessible via a nearby boat ramp.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight of Aspen Campground. Moose sightings are common, and visitors have also reported hearing bears in the backdrop during early mornings.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited due to unmaintained roads during snow months. The lake freezes over in winter, and access becomes difficult.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are not explicitly mentioned but boating is available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires may be restricted during fire bans. Firewood available for $10 per bundle at host site.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent wildlife presence including bears and moose. High-altitude conditions may affect visitors not acclimated. Rough roads with deep ruts may pose challenges for low-clearance vehicles.
Weather forecast
44
°F
Oct 9
Thursday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Nearest hospital and emergency services are in Fairplay, CO, approximately 15 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to October 12.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresJefferson Creek runs nearby; Jefferson Lake is a short drive or hike away.
Common complaintsRough road conditions, fire bans, yellow jacket and mosquito presence, and occasional generator noise from hosts.
HostHosts Misty and Kevin are praised for their helpfulness, cleanliness of facilities, and responsiveness. Known for maintaining exceptionally clean pit toilets.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 74, Lake George, CO, 80827, USA
Driving directionsFrom Fairplay, take Highway 285 north to Jefferson, then turn left on County Road 35. Travel approximately 2 miles and turn right on County Road 37. Travel approximately 2.5 miles to the Aspen Campground.
Road out to Aspen Campground is mostly dirt road after you leave US285 and goes through open prairie. User reviews highlight rough road conditions within the campground area with deep ruts and soft wet ground, making it challenging for low-clearance cars.Nearby places
Fairplay, CO (15 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Jefferson, CO (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest groceries and camping supplies are in Fairplay, CO. Stores in Jefferson have reportedly closed, making Fairplay the most reliable supply point.
Camper Reviews
4.7
55 reviews

Aspen (Co) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Aspen Campground's natural beauty, cleanliness, and friendly camp hosts. Positive comments focus on the clean facilities, peaceful environment, and wildlife sightings, while complaints include poor road conditions and insect issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 55 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean vault toilets, friendly hosts, spacious campsites, abundant wildlife sightings such as moose, proximity to recreational activities.
Based on 55 reviewsCommon Concerns
Rough road conditions, insect issues like horseflies and mosquitoes, close proximity of certain campsites, occasional generator noise from camp hosts.
Based on 55 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring insect repellent due to horseflies and mosquitoes. Prepare for rough road conditions and limited cell service. Recommended for wildlife enthusiasts and hikers.
Based on 55 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that summer is the most popular season, with visitors enjoying fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Fall is noted for its beautiful foliage, while winter access is challenging due...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Cleanest pit toilets I have ever seen." "Hosts Misty & Kevin are warm & welcoming." "Very spacious campground which allows for a variety of size tents." "We had moose in the campground every day."...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #6: Beautiful and clean, but users reported insect issues. Site #5: Spacious but close to neighboring site #4. Site #9: Near outhouse with odor issues during windy conditions. Site #10: Located...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 55 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but must be tethered or leashed at all times, as per campground rules. No additional user feedback on pet-related experiences.
Based on 55 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025