Elk Creek Campground (Rio Grande Nf)
4.6788 reviews23750 STATE HIGHWAY 17, ANTONITO, CO, 81120, USA
Elk Creek Campground (Rio Grande Nf)
$29.00 - $58.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$29.00
Hookup Site Fee$34.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $29 for standard non-electric sites to $58 for double non-electric sites. Additional fees include $2 for weekends or holidays. Discounts may apply for Interagency Pass holders.
About this campground
Nestled high in the Colorado Rockies at 8,500 feet, Elk Creek Campground offers an authentic mountain escape where the gentle murmur of Elk Creek mingles with the whisper of wind through towering pines. This pristine retreat in Conejos County has earned a devoted following among outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate its meticulously maintained facilities and the warm hospitality of its legendary campground hosts. Gateway to the untamed South San Juan Wilderness, this mountain sanctuary invites adventurers to explore ancient trails while enjoying the comforts of a thoughtfully designed basecamp.
Elk Creek Campground accommodates a range of camping preferences with options for RV and tent sites, as well as single and double-site configurations.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time with a journey aboard the legendary Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad, where steam engines still chug through 64 miles of spectacular mountain terrain, passing ghostly remnants of once-thriving mining towns. This living piece of history connects modern adventurers to the region's rich heritage of prospectors, pioneers, and railroad workers who carved civilization from these rugged mountains. The echoes of pickaxes and train whistles still resonate through these valleys, telling stories of Colorado's frontier past.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this high-altitude haven into a refreshing refuge from lowland heat, where crisp mountain air and comfortable temperatures create perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. While winter occasionally dusts the landscape with snow, the predominant dry climate ensures plenty of blue-sky days throughout the camping season. Nature's rhythm brings occasional challenges—mosquitoes and flies may make their presence known during wetter periods, reminding visitors to pack accordingly for these minor mountain companions.
ElevationPerched at 8,500 feet where the air grows thin and the views expand endlessly, this mountain aerie offers a natural air conditioning system and panoramic vistas that remind you why John Denver sang about Rocky Mountain highs. The elevation creates a unique microclimate where summer temperatures remain refreshingly cool, stars shine with exceptional brilliance, and every sunrise paints the surrounding peaks in shades of gold and rose.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of towering spruce and stately ponderosa pines creates a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns across the soft grass understory. Elk Creek weaves its silver thread through the campground, offering lucky campers waterfront sites where the creek's gentle melody provides nature's soundtrack for restful nights. This lightly wooded paradise strikes the perfect balance between forest shelter and open sky, creating intimate camping spaces that still capture the grandeur of the surrounding wilderness.
Geological RegionDeep within the majestic Conejos Canyon, where the Rio Grande National Forest showcases nature's architectural mastery, this campground serves as your personal gateway to the wild heart of Colorado. The South San Juan Wilderness beckons from just beyond the treeline, while Elk Creek carves its ancient path through a landscape dominated by evergreen sentinels. This geological wonderland, sculpted by millennia of water, wind, and ice, offers campers a front-row seat to the ongoing drama of mountain ecology and the raw beauty of the Southern Rockies.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible tables and vault toilets are highlighted. User reviews note picnic tables have cut-out areas for wheelchair access.
Sites SizeSites are described as large, spacious, and level, accommodating both single and double-site options.
Sites PrivacyReviews highlight well-spaced sites that provide a fair amount of privacy. One user noted, "Sites are spread out far enough to enjoy the solitude."
Total Campsites29 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 15 and creekside sites like 13 and 14 are noted for their beauty and solitude. Sites 27 and 28 are frequently praised for their spaciousness and cleanliness.
Best CampsitesSites 13 and 14 are creekside and highly recommended.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out ends at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights per rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Standard sites allow up to 8 guests, with a $10 per person fee for more than 6 guests. Double sites allow up to 16 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are well-spaced and include single and double options. Most are level and gravel-paved.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23, 2025, to August 31, 2025. Reservable starting June 25, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are reportedly available, but some reviews suggest inconsistency in availability due to questionable reservation practices by hosts.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations cost $10 and refund all fees except the first night's fee if canceled late. Modifications cost $10 for changing stay dates.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Elk Creek Campground offers diverse recreational opportunities, including fishing, hiking, scenic driving, and wildlife watching. The nearby Elk Creek and Duck Lake trailheads provide access to South San Juan Wilderness Area trails.
Hiking
Hiking options range from easy to intermediate, with nearby trails such as Duck Lake and Dipping Lakes. One user remarked, "Duck Lake and Red Lake Trails are fantastic!"Fishing
Fishing is available in nearby Elk Creek and Conejos River, with brown and rainbow trout being common catches. One review highlights it as "fantastic fly fishing within walking distance."Wildlife viewing
The area offers opportunities for observing local fauna. One review notes, "We loved the location and all the wildlife we got to see."Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specified, but the campground's high elevation may allow for snow-based recreation during the colder months.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed when bans are not in effect. Firewood is available for purchase from camp hosts.
- Quiet hours from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes and flies are commonly reported in wet seasons. Wildlife sightings and cold nights require preparedness.
Active alertsNo specific alerts but fire bans are common.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Light drizzle
Precipitation: 0.4%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 75%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (0.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Light drizzle
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 located in Antonito, CO, 23 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities appear to be well-maintained, though recycling options are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresElk Creek runs directly through the campground, and Conejos River is nearby. Fishing opportunities include brown and rainbow trout.
Common complaintsComplaints include mosquitoes, inconsistent first-come-first-served site availability, and noise from RV generators.
HostHosts are frequently praised as friendly and diligent in maintaining cleanliness. Hosts Jeff and Fran are noted for their helpfulness and local recommendations.
Campground Map
23750 STATE HIGHWAY 17, ANTONITO, CO, 81120, USA
Driving directionsFrom Antonito, CO, take US 285 south 0.3 miles to Hwy 17. Continue straight on Hwy 17 and go 22.6 miles to campground sign. Turn right onto dirt road and go 0.1 miles to a 'T' intersection. Turn left, go 0.4 miles to a 'Y' intersection. Bear right and turn into campground.
Accessible via a short dirt road off Highway 17. Roads are gravel and generally well-maintained, though some reviews mention challenging access for larger RVs on sites surrounded by trees.Nearby places
Antonito, CO - 23 miles (approx. 30 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Antonito, CO - 23 miles away, offers groceries, fuel, and other essentials. No supplies available within the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.7
88 reviews
Elk Creek Campground (Rio Grande Nf) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Elk Creek Campground is consistently praised for its cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and serene environment. Visitors frequently mention the high quality of the vault toilets, the spaciousness of the sites, and the helpfulness of camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 88 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and spacious campsites, exceptionally clean vault toilets, friendly and helpful camp hosts, beautiful and quiet surroundings.
Based on 88 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues with mosquitoes and flies during certain seasons, lack of cell phone service, and occasional confusion with reservation policies. Some users noted the proximity of RVs with generators as a...
Based on 88 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellant for early summer visits. Plan for no cell service and ensure adequate offline maps or directions. Consider reserving creekside sites such as 13 and 14 for their ideal...
Based on 88 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are described as busier with higher mosquito activity. Fall reviews highlight the quietness and pleasant weather. Winter reviews are scarce, possibly due to seasonal closures.
Based on 88 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The cleanest bathrooms of any national forest campground I've ever visited." "Sites are very large, vault toilets are the cleanest we have seen, and the views are amazing." "We loved the location...
Based on 88 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 13 and 14 are noted for being close to the creek and offering great views. Site 15 is mentioned for solitude, while site 8 is praised for its extra-long picnic tables and accessibility features.
Based on 88 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible features including wheelchair-friendly picnic tables are appreciated. Reviews note the campground is well-suited for those with mobility challenges.
Based on 88 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025