Burning Bear Campground
4.3849 reviews19316 Goddard Ranch Court
Burning Bear Campground
$28.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
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
Peak season nightly rates are $28 for both standard nonelectric and tent-only nonelectric sites. Fees do not reflect discounts, taxes, or additional charges.
About this campground
Perched at a breathtaking 9,813 feet, Burning Bear Campground serves as your gateway to Colorado's high-altitude adventures. This mountain sanctuary, where summer temperatures offer a refreshing escape from valley heat, sits along the spectacular Guanella Pass Scenic Byway. Here, the boundaries of Mount Evans Wilderness beckon just beyond your tent flap, promising encounters with majestic wildlife and access to world-class hiking and mountain biking trails that wind through pristine alpine landscapes.
Burning Bear Campground accommodates RVs, trailers, and tents. The campground has 13 sites, including first-come, first-serve options, and offers a mix of standard nonelectric and tent-only nonelectric sites.
Historical SignificanceYour journey to Burning Bear follows the storied Guanella Pass Scenic Byway, a route so spectacular it earned designation as both a Scenic and Historic Byway. This mountain passage has witnessed centuries of travelers, from Native American hunting parties to prospectors seeking fortune in the surrounding peaks, and now serves as one of Colorado's most cherished scenic drives.
Weather and SeasonsAt nearly 10,000 feet, Burning Bear welcomes visitors with crisp mountain air and ever-changing weather that adds drama to your outdoor experience. Summer days bring cool, dry conditions perfect for hiking, though afternoon thunderstorms may roll through with refreshing rain showers. As seasons shift, light snow dustings transform the landscape into a wonderland. The thin air at this elevation reminds you that you're truly in the high country—take time to acclimate and let your body adjust to these lofty heights.
ElevationAt 9,813 feet above sea level, Burning Bear Campground offers a true high-altitude experience where the air is thin but the views are endless. This lofty perch provides natural air conditioning during summer months and positions you perfectly for spectacular sunrise views over the surrounding peaks. While the elevation creates an unforgettable mountain atmosphere, visitors should pace themselves and stay hydrated as their bodies adjust to the thinner air.
Natural Features and SceneryTucked into a secluded valley and embraced by towering ponderosa pines, Burning Bear offers an intimate connection with Colorado's wild heart. Each campsite enjoys natural privacy among the evergreens, while the mighty Mount Bierstadt towers at 14,060 feet nearby, challenging peak-baggers with its classic fourteener summit. Geneva Creek meanders through the area, its waters telling ancient stories of the mountains. This pristine habitat regularly rewards patient observers with glimpses of its wild residents—majestic moose browsing in meadows, mule deer picking their way through forests, bighorn sheep navigating rocky outcrops, playful marmots whistling warnings, and occasionally, the area's namesake black bears foraging in the distance.
Geological RegionBurning Bear Campground finds its home within the vast Pike and San Isabel National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary beauty. Nestled in a protective valley along the renowned Guanella Pass Scenic Byway, the campground is surrounded by aromatic ponderosa pine forests that have stood sentinel for generations. The towering presence of Mount Bierstadt dominates the skyline, while the protected wilderness of Mount Evans stretches beyond, creating a backdrop of raw mountain majesty that defines Colorado's Continental Divide region.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were mentioned in the source materials or user reviews.
Sites SizeSites are described as having varying sizes, with some being spacious and others notably small. Site 6 was reported as difficult to maneuver and not level.
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer a mix of privacy levels. Although somewhat open, the scattering of ponderosa pines provides some privacy. Outer sites back up to the woods and mountains.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOuter campsites offer privacy and are better for families. Sites near the entrance tend to be more level.
Best CampsitesSite 3, 7, 8, and 9 are highly recommended for views, space, and proximity to trails.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 12:00pm local time.
Check-out
Check-out time is at 12:00pm local time.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite accommodates varying numbers of guests, depending on its individual layout.
Groups
Group site details are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground layout includes dirt parking areas and sites dispersed in a loop configuration.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23, 2025, to August 31, 2025, for reservations. Closed outside of this window.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, by phone, or via app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites are available, but the best sites are typically reserved online.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's use fee and applicable service fees. A no-show visitor is charged a $20 service fee and forfeits the first night’s fees. Refund requests must be submitted within 7 days of the reservation’s end date.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Burning Bear Campground provides a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, wildlife viewing, biking, and fishing. With trails like the Burning Bear Trail and Abyss Trail nearby, campers have easy access to scenic routes. Wildlife viewing opportunities include moose, deer, elk, and birds. The area is also suitable for mountain biking.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are accessible, including the Abyss Trail and Burning Bear Trail. The trails vary in difficulty and proximity, with trailheads within a short walk from the campground. Scenic views and wilderness exploration are highlights.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in nearby streams and rivers. Geneva Creek is mentioned as a water source near the Burning Bear Trailhead.Biking
Mountain biking is permitted and popular on trails like the Burning Bear Trail, which offers a scenic and enjoyable ride.Wildlife viewing
The area is excellent for wildlife viewing, with possible sightings of moose, elk, deer, marmot, pika, and bear. Early mornings offer the best opportunities.Winter Activities
Winter activities were not detailed in the source materials.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports were not mentioned as available options.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings; visitors should ensure they are fully extinguished.
- Quiet hours are typically enforced from 10:00pm to 6:00am.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters (moose, bears), rough road conditions, and altitude sickness.
Active alertsNo current alerts, but visitors should be bear-aware and cautious of altitude effects.
Weather forecast
55
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 76%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 9.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Closest emergency services are in Georgetown (~25 miles away) and include hospitals, police stations, and fire departments.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available on-site, and users must take their garbage with them. One reviewer noted needing to ask a local business to dispose of trash.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Geneva Creek and Mount Bierstadt.
Common complaintsReviews mention poor water quality (rusty and yellow), limited cell service, and some campsites being uneven or small.
HostCamp host is available intermittently and offers firewood for sale. Some reviews mention the host being attentive and helpful, while others describe negative experiences.
Campground Map
19316 Goddard Ranch Court
Driving directionsTravel from Denver south on US Highway 285 toward Fairplay to the town of Grant. Turn north on Park County Road 62, towards Guanella Pass. Burning Bear Campground is 5 miles north on the right.
The road to the campground is accessible year-round but expect rough road conditions, including erosion, potholes, and washboarding.Nearby places
Grant (~5 miles), Georgetown (~25 miles), Bailey (~30 miles)
Nearby supplies
Limited supplies available at Grant (5 miles)
more options available in Bailey (~30 miles). Firewood is sold by the camp host or can be obtained near Grant.
Camper Reviews
4.4
49 reviews
Burning Bear Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Burning Bear Campground is praised for its cleanliness, scenic views, and proximity to trails. However, campers have reported issues with water quality, privacy levels, campsite sizes, and occasional concerns about host behavior. The average sentiment is positive, with a rating of approximately 4.31.
Review Summaries
Based on 49 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently mention the campground's cleanliness, particularly its bathrooms and grounds. The proximity to hiking trails and stunning views are constant highlights. Wildlife sightings, such as...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include concerns about water quality (rusty and brown), campsite sizes (small and uneven in some cases), issues with trash disposal, and occasional negative interactions with...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing filtered or bottled water due to the pump water quality, preparing for altitude sickness, and ensuring proper camping gear for uneven sites. Firewood can be purchased...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is most suitable during the summer months for wildlife viewing and hiking. Autumn camping is praised for its tranquility and colorful scenery. Winter trends are not detailed.
Based on 49 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bathrooms were kept super clean on a regular basis." - Russ Dale
"The water is by pump only and is yellow, so bring your own water or purification tablets." - Austin Waskey
"Clean bathrooms that...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 6: Described as small, difficult to back into, and not level. However, offers great views.
Site 8: Includes a climb up a hill leading to shelf rock; spacious and scenic.
Site 3: Large but not...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features were not reviewed by users.
Based on 49 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews related to pet policies or experiences from pet owners were noted.
Based on 49 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025